Photo of Thoughts & Emotions, LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Thoughts & Emotions, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Major diagnosis' that I have experience with include Depression, Anxiety, Conduct Disorder, Attachment Disorder, Mood Disorders & ADHD.
It is my hope that in working with individuals to better meet their own goals, I am able to help them to live happier and more fulfilled lives. I look forward to meeting with you and exploring the different options to improving your life. Over the past 24 years I have worked extensively with adults struggling with depression & anxiety as well as adolescents, and their families. My practice, Thoughts & Emotions, LLC works with adults, adolescents, preteens and children. Please take a look at my website for more information regarding my experience and practice.
Major diagnosis' that I have experience with include Depression, Anxiety, Conduct Disorder, Attachment Disorder, Mood Disorders & ADHD.
It is my hope that in working with individuals to better meet their own goals, I am able to help them to live happier and more fulfilled lives. I look forward to meeting with you and exploring the different options to improving your life. Over the past 24 years I have worked extensively with adults struggling with depression & anxiety as well as adolescents, and their families. My practice, Thoughts & Emotions, LLC works with adults, adolescents, preteens and children. Please take a look at my website for more information regarding my experience and practice.
(301) 450-7436 View (301) 450-7436
Photo of Ashley Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Ashley Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I enjoy working with clients seeking healing, peace and understanding in the face of various mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, mood instability and/or trauma. I realize that many of us may not know where to begin when we feel stuck or hopeless. If you are willing to take the chance and even consider what a "light at the end of the tunnel" might look like, I know we could work together to get you to a place where you feel you have the tools and knowledge to move forward on a path of wellness.
I enjoy working with clients seeking healing, peace and understanding in the face of various mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, mood instability and/or trauma. I realize that many of us may not know where to begin when we feel stuck or hopeless. If you are willing to take the chance and even consider what a "light at the end of the tunnel" might look like, I know we could work together to get you to a place where you feel you have the tools and knowledge to move forward on a path of wellness.
(240) 410-6874 View (240) 410-6874
Photo of Maurine K Kelly, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Maurine K Kelly
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am trained as a psychoanalyst and see many patients up to five times a week with a focus on relationships, intimacy, fears and anxieties, depression, work and parenting issues, and most of all enriching one's life, achieving life goals and a sense of balance in one's life.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
I am trained as a psychoanalyst and see many patients up to five times a week with a focus on relationships, intimacy, fears and anxieties, depression, work and parenting issues, and most of all enriching one's life, achieving life goals and a sense of balance in one's life.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
(240) 242-9949 View (240) 242-9949
Photo of Becky Granatstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Becky Granatstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20906
I help people who are depressed.
My clients tell me that I am a down to earth, shock proof therapist who genuinely cares... I have been doing therapy for many years so I can tailor therapy to your individual needs.... I help reduce depression, anxiety, social isolation and teach skills to better handle life's stresses. We may take a cognitive behavioral approach or an arts based approach to improving the quality of your life.... Help is on the way! Please go to my website: www. ACaringPlace. info to see what clients are saying.
I help people who are depressed.
My clients tell me that I am a down to earth, shock proof therapist who genuinely cares... I have been doing therapy for many years so I can tailor therapy to your individual needs.... I help reduce depression, anxiety, social isolation and teach skills to better handle life's stresses. We may take a cognitive behavioral approach or an arts based approach to improving the quality of your life.... Help is on the way! Please go to my website: www. ACaringPlace. info to see what clients are saying.
(301) 747-3647 View (301) 747-3647
Photo of The Barker Adoption Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
The Barker Adoption Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20901
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
(240) 245-2720 View (240) 245-2720
Photo of Barry M Wagner, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Barry M Wagner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
My areas of expertise include: (1) Adolescents and adults having difficulties managing stress, anxiety and worries, depression, and interpersonal problems. (2) Adolescents with challenges in their social relationships, academic motivation, and behavioral adjustment. Depending on the situation, I may address such problems with individual therapy, family therapy, or parenting work. (3) Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in youth and adults: providing useful skills and techniques for living a more productive and satisfying life with ADHD. (4) Couple therapy: Helping couples to improve communication, rebuild or deepen trust or intimacy, or understand and re-shape unsatisfying or distressing patterns of interaction.
My areas of expertise include: (1) Adolescents and adults having difficulties managing stress, anxiety and worries, depression, and interpersonal problems. (2) Adolescents with challenges in their social relationships, academic motivation, and behavioral adjustment. Depending on the situation, I may address such problems with individual therapy, family therapy, or parenting work. (3) Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in youth and adults: providing useful skills and techniques for living a more productive and satisfying life with ADHD. (4) Couple therapy: Helping couples to improve communication, rebuild or deepen trust or intimacy, or understand and re-shape unsatisfying or distressing patterns of interaction.
(202) 759-8558 View (202) 759-8558
Photo of Phoenix Healing, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Phoenix Healing, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
With nine years of experience in various settings, such as in-home, medical and outpatient treatment, I have experience working with depression, anxiety, grief, interpersonal problems and addictive behaviors.
Only accepting Carefirst & Self-Pay in MD/DC. Life is a journey, full of ups and downs. Sometimes, in our down moments, we may feel alone, powerless and unsure of which turn to take next. As a licensed clinical social worker, I am here to empower the skills you have, in order to walk your path. As you have taken the courage to work through challenges, I use a relaxed approach with a variety of practical therapeutic techniques to help you feel comfortable and equipped for life’s challenges.
With nine years of experience in various settings, such as in-home, medical and outpatient treatment, I have experience working with depression, anxiety, grief, interpersonal problems and addictive behaviors.
Only accepting Carefirst & Self-Pay in MD/DC. Life is a journey, full of ups and downs. Sometimes, in our down moments, we may feel alone, powerless and unsure of which turn to take next. As a licensed clinical social worker, I am here to empower the skills you have, in order to walk your path. As you have taken the courage to work through challenges, I use a relaxed approach with a variety of practical therapeutic techniques to help you feel comfortable and equipped for life’s challenges.
(959) 666-6276 View (959) 666-6276
Photo of Brenda Burruss Chavis, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Brenda Burruss Chavis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, M A, LCPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
I believe in the integration of various therapeutic approaches including Rapid Transformation Therapy - RTT, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and am person-centered as well as solution-focused in my delivery. I counsel clients across the spectrum who are dealing with challenges that include: depression; anxiety; suicidal thoughts and self-harming; low self-esteem; adjustment; and grief/loss. I believe one can change their behavior as they transform their thinking. My goal is to address the entire person holistically, mentally, physically and emotionally in guiding toward peace and wellness.
I believe in the integration of various therapeutic approaches including Rapid Transformation Therapy - RTT, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and am person-centered as well as solution-focused in my delivery. I counsel clients across the spectrum who are dealing with challenges that include: depression; anxiety; suicidal thoughts and self-harming; low self-esteem; adjustment; and grief/loss. I believe one can change their behavior as they transform their thinking. My goal is to address the entire person holistically, mentally, physically and emotionally in guiding toward peace and wellness.
(301) 264-6369 View (301) 264-6369
Photo of Sarah Dreher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Sarah Dreher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Searching for a counselor is the first step towards building the life you want. I believe therapy is best when it is a collaborative process targeted to help you achieve your goals in an effective and practical way, and I’ve seen first-hand how rewarding and empowering this journey can be – regardless of how challenging one’s circumstances may seem. Working together I can help you resolve unwanted symptoms, establish healthy coping skills, develop self-compassion, and achieve your personal goals. I look forward to exploring how I can support you through this process.
Searching for a counselor is the first step towards building the life you want. I believe therapy is best when it is a collaborative process targeted to help you achieve your goals in an effective and practical way, and I’ve seen first-hand how rewarding and empowering this journey can be – regardless of how challenging one’s circumstances may seem. Working together I can help you resolve unwanted symptoms, establish healthy coping skills, develop self-compassion, and achieve your personal goals. I look forward to exploring how I can support you through this process.
(301) 900-6914 View (301) 900-6914
Photo of Natalie Osoria, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Natalie Osoria
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20906
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Natalie Osoria, LCSW-C, is a Licensed Clinical Social worker passionate about empowering her clients to overcome life’s challenges and achieve the goals they envision for themselves. Natalie has extensive experience working with clients from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds from various treatment settings, including inpatient residential and outpatient mental healthcare. She works with adults and adolescents (ages 14 and up) and specializes in issues such as anxiety, depression, addictions, substance use, relationship issues, and life transitions.
***CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Natalie Osoria, LCSW-C, is a Licensed Clinical Social worker passionate about empowering her clients to overcome life’s challenges and achieve the goals they envision for themselves. Natalie has extensive experience working with clients from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds from various treatment settings, including inpatient residential and outpatient mental healthcare. She works with adults and adolescents (ages 14 and up) and specializes in issues such as anxiety, depression, addictions, substance use, relationship issues, and life transitions.
(240) 213-9206 View (240) 213-9206
Photo of Pulchery J Thelusma, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Pulchery J Thelusma
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
TELETHERAPY Ideally, I want to create an environment that allows my clients to find their way, learn about themselves, and grow to be leaders in their treatment. The approaches I use give clients the ability to take the initiative, evaluate and then make a plan of action. Making the decision to enter into therapy is a challenge in itself. But in the end I want to meet the client where they are at and go from there. Where applicable I use Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, play therapy, career/coaching and other modalities in practice.
TELETHERAPY Ideally, I want to create an environment that allows my clients to find their way, learn about themselves, and grow to be leaders in their treatment. The approaches I use give clients the ability to take the initiative, evaluate and then make a plan of action. Making the decision to enter into therapy is a challenge in itself. But in the end I want to meet the client where they are at and go from there. Where applicable I use Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, play therapy, career/coaching and other modalities in practice.
(301) 329-6751 View (301) 329-6751
Photo of The Mindful Heart LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
The Mindful Heart LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
We work with individuals, couples, families, and children. We specialize in addiction, eating disorders, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict and grief. Our greatest intention is to help clients understand themselves better and improve their quality of life and relationships. We cater our approach to each client, responding to their own unique problems and personality style. This is not a "one-size-fits-all" practice.
We work with individuals, couples, families, and children. We specialize in addiction, eating disorders, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict and grief. Our greatest intention is to help clients understand themselves better and improve their quality of life and relationships. We cater our approach to each client, responding to their own unique problems and personality style. This is not a "one-size-fits-all" practice.
(240) 258-2870 View (240) 258-2870
Photo of Emily Cox, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Emily Cox
Counselor, MA, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
My specialties are focused around trauma, suicidal ideation, self harm, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life changes and transitions, sexuality exploration and identity, as well as gender expression.
I believe that each individual is a unique being and that throughout different times in our lives we may feel uncomfortable. This feeling is our mind and body’s way of telling us that growth is within our reach. There are some essential necessities that we all need to feel safe, but once those are met, we can all learn to grow in new ways. If you can trust me in the safe space that we will create together, I will do my best to provide you with the guidance you need. I am flexible in my approach, adjusting to meet you where you at so growth is obtainable and achievable.
My specialties are focused around trauma, suicidal ideation, self harm, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life changes and transitions, sexuality exploration and identity, as well as gender expression.
I believe that each individual is a unique being and that throughout different times in our lives we may feel uncomfortable. This feeling is our mind and body’s way of telling us that growth is within our reach. There are some essential necessities that we all need to feel safe, but once those are met, we can all learn to grow in new ways. If you can trust me in the safe space that we will create together, I will do my best to provide you with the guidance you need. I am flexible in my approach, adjusting to meet you where you at so growth is obtainable and achievable.
(240) 202-3771 View (240) 202-3771
Photo of Zoe Zollinger, Pre-Licensed Professional in Silver Spring, MD
Zoe Zollinger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I offer treatment for people suffering from anxiety, depression, BPD, anger management, self esteem, trauma, peer relationships and early childhood struggles, and college related struggles.
Hi! I'm Zoe. I believe that we as humans are always searching for something; may that be the ability to heal from past trauma, new hobbies, or to all around feel better about ourselves. My passion is to provide therapy for all; all the while creating an emotionally safe, supportive, and open environment. As we explore a range of thoughts and emotions through your journey of self discovery, we can open up new doors and perspectives; together. Overall, I hope to provide care for individuals who have suffered in invalidating environments that hope to build a life worth living.
I offer treatment for people suffering from anxiety, depression, BPD, anger management, self esteem, trauma, peer relationships and early childhood struggles, and college related struggles.
Hi! I'm Zoe. I believe that we as humans are always searching for something; may that be the ability to heal from past trauma, new hobbies, or to all around feel better about ourselves. My passion is to provide therapy for all; all the while creating an emotionally safe, supportive, and open environment. As we explore a range of thoughts and emotions through your journey of self discovery, we can open up new doors and perspectives; together. Overall, I hope to provide care for individuals who have suffered in invalidating environments that hope to build a life worth living.
(301) 450-8434 View (301) 450-8434
Photo of Dennis O'Brien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Dennis O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am best described as a general practitioner for young adult and adult men and women's issues such as anxiety, stress, depression and mood difficulties, either ongoing or brought on by situational factors such as work place problems, family and couples issues, illness, accident, death in the family or other unforeseen life changes. I see young adult males with depression, anxiety, relationship, substance abuse or alcohol problems.
I am best described as a general practitioner for young adult and adult men and women's issues such as anxiety, stress, depression and mood difficulties, either ongoing or brought on by situational factors such as work place problems, family and couples issues, illness, accident, death in the family or other unforeseen life changes. I see young adult males with depression, anxiety, relationship, substance abuse or alcohol problems.
(301) 608-3764 View (301) 608-3764
Photo of Rebecca Peffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Rebecca Peffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Whether it’s anxiety, depression, stress, or your own self-doubt that you feel is holding you back in life, I am here to help you navigate it. My goal is to offer a safe, judgment-free environment for individuals to explore their authentic selves and discover their own strength and resiliency. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and change, and I am passionate about helping people learn tools to overcome barriers and reach their highest potential.
Whether it’s anxiety, depression, stress, or your own self-doubt that you feel is holding you back in life, I am here to help you navigate it. My goal is to offer a safe, judgment-free environment for individuals to explore their authentic selves and discover their own strength and resiliency. I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and change, and I am passionate about helping people learn tools to overcome barriers and reach their highest potential.
(301) 273-7419 View (301) 273-7419
Photo of Chris Farley, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Chris Farley
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am Chris Farley, though not the former Saturday Night Live comedian famous for saying you could end up "living in a van down by the river." I still think I'm funny, but I'm actually a therapist trained in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) with 20+ years of experience working with adults, teens & families. In recent years, I have begun focusing more on using gaming and nerd culture to connect with and help clients feel accepted, developing Dungeons & Dragons Social Skills/Therapy Groups for adults and teens. If you are interested in learning more about how gaming can be used in therapy, give me a call or shoot me an email.
I am Chris Farley, though not the former Saturday Night Live comedian famous for saying you could end up "living in a van down by the river." I still think I'm funny, but I'm actually a therapist trained in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) with 20+ years of experience working with adults, teens & families. In recent years, I have begun focusing more on using gaming and nerd culture to connect with and help clients feel accepted, developing Dungeons & Dragons Social Skills/Therapy Groups for adults and teens. If you are interested in learning more about how gaming can be used in therapy, give me a call or shoot me an email.
(202) 688-0865 View (202) 688-0865
Photo of Mechelle Armstead, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Mechelle Armstead
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
Are you facing a challenge/hurdle that is hindering your career goals, affecting relationships, or your general ability to function? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or a recent event that has occurred in your life? Are you at a transitional point in your life or in your career? If so, I would love to work with you, assist you in building self-confidence, in processing the root cause of the challenge, and in making your way to the other side where success awaits you!
Are you facing a challenge/hurdle that is hindering your career goals, affecting relationships, or your general ability to function? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or a recent event that has occurred in your life? Are you at a transitional point in your life or in your career? If so, I would love to work with you, assist you in building self-confidence, in processing the root cause of the challenge, and in making your way to the other side where success awaits you!
(240) 616-4793 View (240) 616-4793
Photo of Naeem Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Naeem Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
In my years of practice as a therapist, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, each with their unique stories and struggles. However, when envisioning an ideal client, it's not so much about perfection as it is about the qualities and characteristics that create a harmonious and productive therapeutic relationship.
In my years of practice as a therapist, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, each with their unique stories and struggles. However, when envisioning an ideal client, it's not so much about perfection as it is about the qualities and characteristics that create a harmonious and productive therapeutic relationship.
(301) 381-5604 View (301) 381-5604
Photo of Lynn Lynes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Lynn Lynes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20906  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Lynn Lynes and I am a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. I have experience working with all ages, but my passion is working with teens and young adults; lots of young folks are experiencing Depression and suicide thoughts, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and/or Trauma. Most of us are resilient and can work through distressing events and overwhelming stress; however sometimes symptoms interfere with our ability to function to our full potential. That’s when it’s time to seek out an expert who can teach coping skills and provide a safe place to talk about stuff.
Hello! My name is Lynn Lynes and I am a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. I have experience working with all ages, but my passion is working with teens and young adults; lots of young folks are experiencing Depression and suicide thoughts, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and/or Trauma. Most of us are resilient and can work through distressing events and overwhelming stress; however sometimes symptoms interfere with our ability to function to our full potential. That’s when it’s time to seek out an expert who can teach coping skills and provide a safe place to talk about stuff.
(703) 348-9734 View (703) 348-9734

See more therapy options for Silver Spring

Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.