Depression Therapists in Williamsburg, VA

Photo of Dr. Rip McAdams Is Not Accepting New Clients, Licensed Professional Counselor in Williamsburg, VA
Dr. Rip McAdams Is Not Accepting New Clients
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23185
We live in challenging times that can lead to a variety of individual and relational problems such as anxiety, depression, anger, and marital/family discord. Helping individuals, couples, and families to address and resolve such problems has been the focus of my clinical work and research over the years. Earlier in my career I specialized in work in the area of anger and aggression management, and I continue to have a strong interest in that work. As a Naval Special Warfare (UDT/SEAL) veteran, I am also interested in addressing the special needs of military service members, veterans, and their families.
We live in challenging times that can lead to a variety of individual and relational problems such as anxiety, depression, anger, and marital/family discord. Helping individuals, couples, and families to address and resolve such problems has been the focus of my clinical work and research over the years. Earlier in my career I specialized in work in the area of anger and aggression management, and I continue to have a strong interest in that work. As a Naval Special Warfare (UDT/SEAL) veteran, I am also interested in addressing the special needs of military service members, veterans, and their families.
(757) 210-6049 View (757) 210-6049
Photo of Kathy Verano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Williamsburg, VA
Kathy Verano
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185  (Online Only)
*WILLIAM AND MARY STUDENT AND STAFF experienced. I provide a positive, supportive and nurturing environment for exploration of challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions and adjustment issues, relationship problems, grief, trauma, academic and job performance and chronic illness. I am experienced in many approaches including mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, family systems and creative and alternative therapies such as expressive arts.
*WILLIAM AND MARY STUDENT AND STAFF experienced. I provide a positive, supportive and nurturing environment for exploration of challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions and adjustment issues, relationship problems, grief, trauma, academic and job performance and chronic illness. I am experienced in many approaches including mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, family systems and creative and alternative therapies such as expressive arts.
(804) 255-9718 View (804) 255-9718
Photo of Donna Cruz, Resident in Counseling in Williamsburg, VA
Donna Cruz
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23188  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with both adolescents and adults who have mood disorders such as anxiety or depression, communication struggles, interpersonal relationship difficulties, and anger issues.
Seeking therapy can be a challenging time and clients may often feel nervous to take that first step. I am here to help you overcome this and get the help you need. I focus my sessions on wonderful two-way conversations that are tailored exactly to my client’s needs. I ensure that my therapeutic space is both safe and engaging for my clients, moving at whatever pace they may need. I take an approach of challenging love with my clients, working with a kind and nurturing spirit while also holding my clients accountable to their goals. My overall aim is client success with goals and helping clients grow into their best selves!
I specialize in working with both adolescents and adults who have mood disorders such as anxiety or depression, communication struggles, interpersonal relationship difficulties, and anger issues.
Seeking therapy can be a challenging time and clients may often feel nervous to take that first step. I am here to help you overcome this and get the help you need. I focus my sessions on wonderful two-way conversations that are tailored exactly to my client’s needs. I ensure that my therapeutic space is both safe and engaging for my clients, moving at whatever pace they may need. I take an approach of challenging love with my clients, working with a kind and nurturing spirit while also holding my clients accountable to their goals. My overall aim is client success with goals and helping clients grow into their best selves!
(757) 702-5022 View (757) 702-5022
Photo of Caitlin Gendron Experienced Resident Accepting New Clients!, Pre-Licensed Professional in Williamsburg, VA
Caitlin Gendron Experienced Resident Accepting New Clients!
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Hi! I work with adolescents and adults on matters that include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life changes, and relationship concerns. My main goal is to create a relaxed environment that allows my clients to feel comfortable and safe. The therapeutic bond is very important as I strive to create a personable, casual, yet effective environment for change for each unique person and their needs. I aim to be the bridge for my clients as we work through change and growth goals together.
Hi! I work with adolescents and adults on matters that include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life changes, and relationship concerns. My main goal is to create a relaxed environment that allows my clients to feel comfortable and safe. The therapeutic bond is very important as I strive to create a personable, casual, yet effective environment for change for each unique person and their needs. I aim to be the bridge for my clients as we work through change and growth goals together.
(757) 909-5292 View (757) 909-5292
Photo of Penny R. Brockman, Resident in Counseling in Williamsburg, VA
Penny R. Brockman
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Everyone could use a little help getting through life. It's unpredictable, ever-changing, and sometimes very difficult. Whether you are experiencing present day relationship issues, grief, depression, or anxiety or you are reliving trauma from years ago, there is help available through a variety of approaches. I have experience with children, adolescents, adults, and couples and enjoy my time with each of them.
Everyone could use a little help getting through life. It's unpredictable, ever-changing, and sometimes very difficult. Whether you are experiencing present day relationship issues, grief, depression, or anxiety or you are reliving trauma from years ago, there is help available through a variety of approaches. I have experience with children, adolescents, adults, and couples and enjoy my time with each of them.
(757) 231-3286 View (757) 231-3286
Photo of Jana Brultz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Williamsburg, VA
Jana Brultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23185
I work with adolescents, adults and families who have diagnosable conditions such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression or other mood disorders, and substance abuse as well as people struggling with everyday problems that cause anxiety, self esteem/identity issues, coping difficulties, stress management, relationship difficulties, and other issues that may be effecting your well being. I believe that when you are looking for help, talking with someone really can make a difference. Let me help you work through the issues that are important to you!
I work with adolescents, adults and families who have diagnosable conditions such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression or other mood disorders, and substance abuse as well as people struggling with everyday problems that cause anxiety, self esteem/identity issues, coping difficulties, stress management, relationship difficulties, and other issues that may be effecting your well being. I believe that when you are looking for help, talking with someone really can make a difference. Let me help you work through the issues that are important to you!
(757) 644-3223 View (757) 644-3223
Photo of Grace Delk Shortt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsburg, VA
Grace Delk Shortt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23185
I work with adults of all ages who find themselves struggling with emotional pain due to depression, anxiety, PTSD, life transition issues, aging, relationship issues, chronic illness, and disability.
TELEHEALTH IS AVAILABLE USING A HIPAA COMPLIANT PLATFORM. CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We all face challenges from time to time in our lives where we may feel alone, confused, and hurting. Realizing that we don’t have to go it alone can be the first step in seeking support. Reaching out for help and sharing your story may not be comfortable, but that is the best place to start. Caring for yourself and your loved ones is an important step in your journey toward deeper understanding of yourself and healing. My passion is meeting people where they are along their individual journey and strive to create an inviting and safe place.
I work with adults of all ages who find themselves struggling with emotional pain due to depression, anxiety, PTSD, life transition issues, aging, relationship issues, chronic illness, and disability.
TELEHEALTH IS AVAILABLE USING A HIPAA COMPLIANT PLATFORM. CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We all face challenges from time to time in our lives where we may feel alone, confused, and hurting. Realizing that we don’t have to go it alone can be the first step in seeking support. Reaching out for help and sharing your story may not be comfortable, but that is the best place to start. Caring for yourself and your loved ones is an important step in your journey toward deeper understanding of yourself and healing. My passion is meeting people where they are along their individual journey and strive to create an inviting and safe place.
(757) 210-7510 View (757) 210-7510
Photo of Lauren Darling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsburg, VA
Lauren Darling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Lauren Darling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience in the mental health field. Lauren has worked closely with couples, families, and individuals of all ages. She has worked with a wide variety of diagnoses and challenges including trauma, eating disorders, parenting, psychosis and dissociative disorders, addiction, self-harm, suicidal ideation, gender dysphoria, LGBTQ+ issues, personality and mood disorders, anxiety, and depression, with particular attention to complex childhood trauma including sexual abuse.
Lauren Darling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience in the mental health field. Lauren has worked closely with couples, families, and individuals of all ages. She has worked with a wide variety of diagnoses and challenges including trauma, eating disorders, parenting, psychosis and dissociative disorders, addiction, self-harm, suicidal ideation, gender dysphoria, LGBTQ+ issues, personality and mood disorders, anxiety, and depression, with particular attention to complex childhood trauma including sexual abuse.
(757) 780-8925 View (757) 780-8925
Photo of Queen Village Therapy Group, Counselor in Williamsburg, VA
Queen Village Therapy Group
Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185  (Online Only)
With specialized expertise in various areas such as anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, and more, our therapists are here to provide you with the compassionate support you need.
At Queen Village Therapy Group, we understand the importance of mental health and wellness. Our team of experienced therapists are dedicated to providing personalized and high-quality services to help you feel your best. We offer a variety of therapy services, including individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We work together with our patients to identify the best treatment plan for their individual needs
With specialized expertise in various areas such as anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, and more, our therapists are here to provide you with the compassionate support you need.
At Queen Village Therapy Group, we understand the importance of mental health and wellness. Our team of experienced therapists are dedicated to providing personalized and high-quality services to help you feel your best. We offer a variety of therapy services, including individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We work together with our patients to identify the best treatment plan for their individual needs
(757) 859-9531 View (757) 859-9531
Photo of Prosperity Behavioral Healthcare, PLLC, Psychologist in Williamsburg, VA
Prosperity Behavioral Healthcare, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185  (Online Only)
My focus is to help individuals heal, become aware of their inner strengths, and prosper. Though I work with all, I specialize in the treatment of BIPOC adults with issues related to perinatal mental health, trauma, adjustment, anxiety, depression, and suicide. I have a passion for enhancing the psychological wellbeing and functioning of historically underserved, stigmatized, and oppressed groups. My therapeutic style is direct but empathic, inclusive, and professional. I strive for a safe, strength-based and collaborative treatment setting where cultural components are integrated and respected, and treatment is tailored to fit.
My focus is to help individuals heal, become aware of their inner strengths, and prosper. Though I work with all, I specialize in the treatment of BIPOC adults with issues related to perinatal mental health, trauma, adjustment, anxiety, depression, and suicide. I have a passion for enhancing the psychological wellbeing and functioning of historically underserved, stigmatized, and oppressed groups. My therapeutic style is direct but empathic, inclusive, and professional. I strive for a safe, strength-based and collaborative treatment setting where cultural components are integrated and respected, and treatment is tailored to fit.
(757) 210-7172 View (757) 210-7172
Photo of Jocelyn Scott, Pre-Licensed Professional in Williamsburg, VA
Jocelyn Scott
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23185
It’s very easy to feel alone when you live with anxiety and depression in your everyday life. I take an approach of empathy, understanding, and acceptance while providing you with clinical tips and resources for managing behavior that is no longer working well for you. I bring with me a sincere desire to help others heal, and believe therapy should be tailored to your specific culture, background, and needs. I offer individual therapy using a blended approach of Cognitive-Behavioral, Person-Centered, and Solution Focused techniques. I work earnestly to provide a supportive, safe and relaxed atmosphere.
It’s very easy to feel alone when you live with anxiety and depression in your everyday life. I take an approach of empathy, understanding, and acceptance while providing you with clinical tips and resources for managing behavior that is no longer working well for you. I bring with me a sincere desire to help others heal, and believe therapy should be tailored to your specific culture, background, and needs. I offer individual therapy using a blended approach of Cognitive-Behavioral, Person-Centered, and Solution Focused techniques. I work earnestly to provide a supportive, safe and relaxed atmosphere.
(757) 709-6628 View (757) 709-6628
Photo of Brian Browning, Licensed Professional Counselor in Williamsburg, VA
Brian Browning
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23188
My clinical focus has included working with depression, anxiety, behavioral disorders, and substance use.
I strongly believe that everyone has a story to tell. Sometimes, life and circumstances outside of our control muddy that story, leaving us confused and stuck in the same chapter over and over again. I work with clients from a person-centered perspective to identify their current needs and strengths. Utilizing evidenced-based practices and interventions, I aim to work alongside clients to foster resiliency and personal agency in writing their own narrative.
My clinical focus has included working with depression, anxiety, behavioral disorders, and substance use.
I strongly believe that everyone has a story to tell. Sometimes, life and circumstances outside of our control muddy that story, leaving us confused and stuck in the same chapter over and over again. I work with clients from a person-centered perspective to identify their current needs and strengths. Utilizing evidenced-based practices and interventions, I aim to work alongside clients to foster resiliency and personal agency in writing their own narrative.
(757) 798-8219 View (757) 798-8219
Photo of Frederick Ruzanski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Williamsburg, VA
Frederick Ruzanski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185
I work primarily with adults. I have spent my career helping people to overcome depression, anxiety, transition, grief and loss and other life challenging issues. I am interested in working with people who are in recovery from substance use. So often during the recovery process, issues that have been long covered over by years of substance use begin to surface. We work together to root out and resolve some of the life-long concerns that may have been contributing factors to substance use.
I work primarily with adults. I have spent my career helping people to overcome depression, anxiety, transition, grief and loss and other life challenging issues. I am interested in working with people who are in recovery from substance use. So often during the recovery process, issues that have been long covered over by years of substance use begin to surface. We work together to root out and resolve some of the life-long concerns that may have been contributing factors to substance use.
(757) 610-9457 View (757) 610-9457
Photo of Coty Alan Mills, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsburg, VA
Coty Alan Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Waitlist for new clients
You can take a perfectly "normal" person and make them think about their past and you will create a depressed person and you can take a perfectly "normal" person and make them think about their future and you will create an anxious person.
"People only seriously consider change when they feel accepted for exactly who they are" -Carl Rogers I believe that if a person is given the appropriate environment and support they can become their best self. Together we can take a look inward and work toward developing and unlocking the best you. For years we often hold ourselves prisoner, allow me the privilege to assist with developing personal insight into past traumas and future successes. By developing the capacity to live in the moment, we tap into our 5 senses and allow ourselves to truly live in the moment free of our past or future.
You can take a perfectly "normal" person and make them think about their past and you will create a depressed person and you can take a perfectly "normal" person and make them think about their future and you will create an anxious person.
"People only seriously consider change when they feel accepted for exactly who they are" -Carl Rogers I believe that if a person is given the appropriate environment and support they can become their best self. Together we can take a look inward and work toward developing and unlocking the best you. For years we often hold ourselves prisoner, allow me the privilege to assist with developing personal insight into past traumas and future successes. By developing the capacity to live in the moment, we tap into our 5 senses and allow ourselves to truly live in the moment free of our past or future.
(757) 347-8763 View (757) 347-8763
Photo of Laura Caitlin Suders, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Williamsburg, VA
Laura Caitlin Suders
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185
I specifically work with adult populations focusing on: the LGBTQIA+ community, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, suicidal ideation, borderline personality disorder, childhood trauma, C-PSTD, PSTD, parenting skills, and divorce.
All who walk the journey of life come to hurdles, challenges, and moments of joy. It can become overwhelming when the hurdles and challenges appear to outweigh the moments of joy. Through working together, we can tackle the challenges of the past by allowing space to process what has occurred, learn from the past ,and move forward with increased awareness of the present moment.
I specifically work with adult populations focusing on: the LGBTQIA+ community, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, suicidal ideation, borderline personality disorder, childhood trauma, C-PSTD, PSTD, parenting skills, and divorce.
All who walk the journey of life come to hurdles, challenges, and moments of joy. It can become overwhelming when the hurdles and challenges appear to outweigh the moments of joy. Through working together, we can tackle the challenges of the past by allowing space to process what has occurred, learn from the past ,and move forward with increased awareness of the present moment.
(757) 280-4966 View (757) 280-4966
Photo of Cynthia Trower, Licensed Professional Counselor in Williamsburg, VA
Cynthia Trower
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Cynthia utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-centered and Mindfulness approaches as well as others to meet the needs of her clients. She has extensive training in Neurotherapy and Trauma. She has supported individuals working through ADHD, anxiety, attachment, autism, autoimmunity, chronic pain and illness, depression, development, gender, grief/loss, migraine, PTSD, relationships, self-esteem, sexuality, somatic issues, stress, suicide, transitions, trauma (emotional, physical, sexual) and women's issues.
Cynthia utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-centered and Mindfulness approaches as well as others to meet the needs of her clients. She has extensive training in Neurotherapy and Trauma. She has supported individuals working through ADHD, anxiety, attachment, autism, autoimmunity, chronic pain and illness, depression, development, gender, grief/loss, migraine, PTSD, relationships, self-esteem, sexuality, somatic issues, stress, suicide, transitions, trauma (emotional, physical, sexual) and women's issues.
(757) 300-0924 View (757) 300-0924
Photo of Carli C Papas-Pasco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsburg, VA
Carli C Papas-Pasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23187
I have worked with many different populations and with many different issues to include: adolescents, adults, families, couples, depression, anxiety, bipolar, life transitions, grief and loss and many more.
If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward and thrive. This quote by Martin Luther King is what I support my patients to achieve in life. Whatever mental health or situations that you are suffering with, you deserve the opportunity to thrive and find happiness, success, worth and meaning in your life. Let's connect and discuss how I could support what goals you are trying to achieve.
I have worked with many different populations and with many different issues to include: adolescents, adults, families, couples, depression, anxiety, bipolar, life transitions, grief and loss and many more.
If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward and thrive. This quote by Martin Luther King is what I support my patients to achieve in life. Whatever mental health or situations that you are suffering with, you deserve the opportunity to thrive and find happiness, success, worth and meaning in your life. Let's connect and discuss how I could support what goals you are trying to achieve.
(757) 250-4657 View (757) 250-4657
Photo of Amanda Wheeler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Williamsburg, VA
Amanda Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Amanda Wheeler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Masters in Social Work. Amanda partners with individuals to promote overall wellness using a variety of strategies, including cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused approaches. She has more than 15 years of experience working with families with young children. More recently, her work has been primarily with perinatal mothers and other individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, communication barriers, and social isolation.
Amanda Wheeler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Masters in Social Work. Amanda partners with individuals to promote overall wellness using a variety of strategies, including cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused approaches. She has more than 15 years of experience working with families with young children. More recently, her work has been primarily with perinatal mothers and other individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, communication barriers, and social isolation.
(757) 654-5436 View (757) 654-5436
Photo of Anna Carpenter, Pre-Licensed Professional in Williamsburg, VA
Anna Carpenter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23188  (Online Only)
I love helping people grow in their communication and relationship skills, learn how to handle stress, and gain strategies for facing issues like moral injury, trauma, depression, adjustment disorder, anxiety and MST.
You're amazing. Really. Consider your life - the draining demands of family, the relationships you hold on to, even by the barest of threads, a soul-crushing job, overwhelming thoughts and feelings that you “should” be on top of, that you're not "enough." As a military veteran, I see your lonely nights with sick kids, stressful deployments, difficulty adjusting to tumultuous family dynamics, multiple moves with constantly shifting community, and continual first and second-hand trauma as thanks for your service. It’s a lot! You realized something needed to change and here you are. Amazing!
I love helping people grow in their communication and relationship skills, learn how to handle stress, and gain strategies for facing issues like moral injury, trauma, depression, adjustment disorder, anxiety and MST.
You're amazing. Really. Consider your life - the draining demands of family, the relationships you hold on to, even by the barest of threads, a soul-crushing job, overwhelming thoughts and feelings that you “should” be on top of, that you're not "enough." As a military veteran, I see your lonely nights with sick kids, stressful deployments, difficulty adjusting to tumultuous family dynamics, multiple moves with constantly shifting community, and continual first and second-hand trauma as thanks for your service. It’s a lot! You realized something needed to change and here you are. Amazing!
(757) 704-5237 View (757) 704-5237
Photo of Anna Buck, Pre-Licensed Professional in Williamsburg, VA
Anna Buck
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23185
As a counseling intern, my goal is to help clients navigate topics such as trauma, anxiety, depression, coping strategies, emotional regulation, and perinatal mental health.
As a counseling intern, my goal is to help clients navigate topics such as trauma, anxiety, depression, coping strategies, emotional regulation, and perinatal mental health.
(757) 859-8853 View (757) 859-8853

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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.