Photo of Danielle Conforti, Licensed Professional Counselor in 65201, MO
Danielle Conforti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
I am an LPC (MO) and LCPC (KS) who specializes in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, military and first responder trauma, and LGBTQIA-related issues. Throughout my years as a clinician, I have learned that the best therapy is done when a positive connection and therapeutic trust can be built and maintained. I work to make therapy a safe place for clients to open up and feel supported and valued. Therapy can be intense and hard at times, I work to keep a positive balance between seriousness and humor. I am a person-centered therapist and I believe in encouraging and challenging my clients to grow.
I am an LPC (MO) and LCPC (KS) who specializes in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, military and first responder trauma, and LGBTQIA-related issues. Throughout my years as a clinician, I have learned that the best therapy is done when a positive connection and therapeutic trust can be built and maintained. I work to make therapy a safe place for clients to open up and feel supported and valued. Therapy can be intense and hard at times, I work to keep a positive balance between seriousness and humor. I am a person-centered therapist and I believe in encouraging and challenging my clients to grow.
(816) 306-0937 View (816) 306-0937
Photo of Lisa Anne Sanderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 65201, MO
Lisa Anne Sanderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing a crisis and feel alone in the world. I can help you find hope for your future. I believe in the power of change through building a trusting relationship with someone who meets you where you are and leads you where you want to go.
If you are experiencing a crisis and feel alone in the world. I can help you find hope for your future. I believe in the power of change through building a trusting relationship with someone who meets you where you are and leads you where you want to go.
(573) 577-2803 View (573) 577-2803
Photo of Cheryl Arens, Licensed Professional Counselor in 65201, MO
Cheryl Arens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201
I offer individual and couples counseling and trauma related issues such as grief, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Hi, I'm Cheryl. In the counseling journey, I hope to come alongside you as you wrestle with the inherent difficulties and struggles associated with life. Damaged relationships, disappointments, insecurities, hurt, trauma, and anxieties... it all can be overwhelming and debilitating as times. But I believe healing is possible! I also bring my Christian faith to our work together for those desiring to include their Christian faith.
I offer individual and couples counseling and trauma related issues such as grief, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Hi, I'm Cheryl. In the counseling journey, I hope to come alongside you as you wrestle with the inherent difficulties and struggles associated with life. Damaged relationships, disappointments, insecurities, hurt, trauma, and anxieties... it all can be overwhelming and debilitating as times. But I believe healing is possible! I also bring my Christian faith to our work together for those desiring to include their Christian faith.
(573) 608-1306 View (573) 608-1306
Photo of Elizabeth Hocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in 65201, MO
Elizabeth Hocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
Do you desire a life of meaning, connection, and joy? As a therapist, I specialize in helping you overcome ADHD/ADD, anxiety, and depression. If you're experiencing these symptoms, chances are you're dealing with exhaustion/overwhelm, low self-esteem, and relationship issues. I'm here to help you. Life is imperfect, messy, and complicated. There's no roadmap. Along the way, you have faced many challenges and painful experiences. You don't have to go through this alone. We all desire to improve our lives and our relationships. We crave understanding, support, connection, growth, and when necessary change.
Do you desire a life of meaning, connection, and joy? As a therapist, I specialize in helping you overcome ADHD/ADD, anxiety, and depression. If you're experiencing these symptoms, chances are you're dealing with exhaustion/overwhelm, low self-esteem, and relationship issues. I'm here to help you. Life is imperfect, messy, and complicated. There's no roadmap. Along the way, you have faced many challenges and painful experiences. You don't have to go through this alone. We all desire to improve our lives and our relationships. We crave understanding, support, connection, growth, and when necessary change.
(573) 284-3385 View (573) 284-3385
Photo of Amanda Tompkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 65201, MO
Amanda Tompkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
My name is Amanda Tompkins. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing in-patient, outpatient and telehealth individual and group therapy throughout my career. I am formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. The are the primary therapy modalities that I utilize but am also well versed in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems therapy, and others. Our first session will typically consist of you and I getting to know each other and exploring what it is that you would like to achieve in therapy, so that we can create a treatment plan with goals.
My name is Amanda Tompkins. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing in-patient, outpatient and telehealth individual and group therapy throughout my career. I am formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. The are the primary therapy modalities that I utilize but am also well versed in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems therapy, and others. Our first session will typically consist of you and I getting to know each other and exploring what it is that you would like to achieve in therapy, so that we can create a treatment plan with goals.
(816) 542-6777 View (816) 542-6777
Photo of Kelly F Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 65201, MO
Kelly F Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
I have dedicated decades to helping others in one capacity or another and started my career as a nurse. I have training in numerous therapeutic interventions and strive for excellence in my work. I will work to provide you, your child and/or your family with the highest quality service in order to help you achieve your goals in therapy and in life. I will work with you in a way that builds on your strengths and potential, and challenges you to take your life to the next level.
I have dedicated decades to helping others in one capacity or another and started my career as a nurse. I have training in numerous therapeutic interventions and strive for excellence in my work. I will work to provide you, your child and/or your family with the highest quality service in order to help you achieve your goals in therapy and in life. I will work with you in a way that builds on your strengths and potential, and challenges you to take your life to the next level.
(573) 880-4468 View (573) 880-4468
Photo of Megan Shultz, Licensed Professional Counselor in 65201, MO
Megan Shultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
Are you often told that you "need to relax," that you're "Type A," or that "you should slow down"? Do you feel stuck in an endless cycle of worry, stress, or depression? Are you ready to make your mental health a priority but don't know where or how to start? If being able to just relax seems unachievable and hopeless; I want you to know that change is possible. My practice is exclusively online, allowing you to engage in therapy from the comfort of your own home. Together we can help you develop healthier coping skills, establish appropriate boundaries, and gain new insights about yourself and your life situation.
Are you often told that you "need to relax," that you're "Type A," or that "you should slow down"? Do you feel stuck in an endless cycle of worry, stress, or depression? Are you ready to make your mental health a priority but don't know where or how to start? If being able to just relax seems unachievable and hopeless; I want you to know that change is possible. My practice is exclusively online, allowing you to engage in therapy from the comfort of your own home. Together we can help you develop healthier coping skills, establish appropriate boundaries, and gain new insights about yourself and your life situation.
(314) 916-8651 View (314) 916-8651
Photo of Lutheran Family & Children's Services of MO, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 65201, MO
Lutheran Family & Children's Services of MO
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201
We have experience helping with: Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief & Loss, Behavioral Problems, Separation & Divorce, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Family Disruption and Foster Care/Adoption, Self-Harm, and much more.
We know how hard it is to ask for help. It is easy to become overwhelmed by struggles. Life can seem unmanageable. Lutheran Family & Children's Services of Missouri (LFCS) can help you find hope and discover solutions. LFCS provides outpatient therapy throughout the state in one of our convenient locations and provides telehealth through a virtual platform. LFCS has offices in: St. Louis (Olivette), St. Peters, Union, Columbia, Cape Girardeau, and satellite offices throughout the Greater St. Louis Region. Coming soon in Kansas City, Springfield, and Joplin!
We have experience helping with: Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief & Loss, Behavioral Problems, Separation & Divorce, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Family Disruption and Foster Care/Adoption, Self-Harm, and much more.
We know how hard it is to ask for help. It is easy to become overwhelmed by struggles. Life can seem unmanageable. Lutheran Family & Children's Services of Missouri (LFCS) can help you find hope and discover solutions. LFCS provides outpatient therapy throughout the state in one of our convenient locations and provides telehealth through a virtual platform. LFCS has offices in: St. Louis (Olivette), St. Peters, Union, Columbia, Cape Girardeau, and satellite offices throughout the Greater St. Louis Region. Coming soon in Kansas City, Springfield, and Joplin!
(314) 819-9852 View (314) 819-9852
Photo of Dr. Jamie Meadows Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in 65201, MO
Dr. Jamie Meadows Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a licensed psychologist whose training and experience are in the area of Clinical Psychology. My work with individuals grows out of the perspective that people have innate abilities and unique experiences in life that combine to shape the ways in which they view themselves and others. I seek to help individuals understand the issues that may be preventing them from reaching life goals. I work with clients to help them create and maintain an understanding of themselves and the world around them. This kind of therapeutic work can result in a reduction of distress and an increase in positive interactions with others.
I’m a licensed psychologist whose training and experience are in the area of Clinical Psychology. My work with individuals grows out of the perspective that people have innate abilities and unique experiences in life that combine to shape the ways in which they view themselves and others. I seek to help individuals understand the issues that may be preventing them from reaching life goals. I work with clients to help them create and maintain an understanding of themselves and the world around them. This kind of therapeutic work can result in a reduction of distress and an increase in positive interactions with others.
(573) 444-1906 View (573) 444-1906
Photo of David Salazar Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 65201, MO
David Salazar Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
I live in Missouri but only work with clients in Washington State due to being licensed there. A therapy session with me is more of a conversation and a collaborative effort between myself and the client. Each person is the expert of their own life and has the ability to recognize tools that may help improve their situation. In therapy, you will receive support and assistance in gaining insight into the issues you are facing. Whether it’s ongoing issues or a recent event; together we'll work to achieve your goals.
I live in Missouri but only work with clients in Washington State due to being licensed there. A therapy session with me is more of a conversation and a collaborative effort between myself and the client. Each person is the expert of their own life and has the ability to recognize tools that may help improve their situation. In therapy, you will receive support and assistance in gaining insight into the issues you are facing. Whether it’s ongoing issues or a recent event; together we'll work to achieve your goals.
(425) 389-4114 View (425) 389-4114
Photo of Damaris Karanja, Licensed Professional Counselor in 65201, MO
Damaris Karanja
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, RDN
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201
Are you struggling with depression, fear, anxiety, overwhelmed by all the life’s demands or simply feel stuck? Are you haunted by wounds of past abuse or trauma, asking yourself how you can make this pain stop? Are you struggling in relationships and no longer experiencing joy? Are you using food or other unhelpful habits as coping mechanisms? You can recover. I have helped numerous people work through their pain and find relief from similar challenges when they take the first step to seek professional help. You will bring joy back into your life through inner child work, mindfulness and EMDR therapy including EMDR Intensives.
Are you struggling with depression, fear, anxiety, overwhelmed by all the life’s demands or simply feel stuck? Are you haunted by wounds of past abuse or trauma, asking yourself how you can make this pain stop? Are you struggling in relationships and no longer experiencing joy? Are you using food or other unhelpful habits as coping mechanisms? You can recover. I have helped numerous people work through their pain and find relief from similar challenges when they take the first step to seek professional help. You will bring joy back into your life through inner child work, mindfulness and EMDR therapy including EMDR Intensives.
(314) 736-3575 View (314) 736-3575
Photo of Amber Liponoga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 65201, MO
Amber Liponoga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
As a Social Worker, I am interested in helping clients achieve optimal mental health and wellness through helping clients recognize and use their strengths while finding ways to tackle barriers and create lasting change. I love working with people who are motivated or just motivated to find their motivation.
As a Social Worker, I am interested in helping clients achieve optimal mental health and wellness through helping clients recognize and use their strengths while finding ways to tackle barriers and create lasting change. I love working with people who are motivated or just motivated to find their motivation.
(573) 591-3167 View (573) 591-3167
Photo of Amber McCartney, Licensed Professional Counselor in 65201, MO
Amber McCartney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
I specialize in treating adults with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and related issues using a combination of evidence-based modalities like EMDR, IFS, and DBT. My goal is to provide you with the tools and resources needed to navigate life's challenges with greater ease, compassion, acceptance, and a renewed sense of self. Together, we will create a safe and supportive environment to explore the effects of past experiences on your mental health and address the underlying causes of symptoms rather than just treating the symptoms themselves. This approach allows for deeper healing and lasting change, leading to a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in treating adults with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and related issues using a combination of evidence-based modalities like EMDR, IFS, and DBT. My goal is to provide you with the tools and resources needed to navigate life's challenges with greater ease, compassion, acceptance, and a renewed sense of self. Together, we will create a safe and supportive environment to explore the effects of past experiences on your mental health and address the underlying causes of symptoms rather than just treating the symptoms themselves. This approach allows for deeper healing and lasting change, leading to a more fulfilling life.
(573) 455-3104 View (573) 455-3104
Photo of Leslee Fray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 65201, MO
Leslee Fray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
I can help with adjustment and life transitions, anxiety and stress, depression, PTSD caused by a single incident, historical, or combat trauma, medical provider stress, grief, death and loss, men’s issues, childhood sexual and emotional abuse, anger management, and relationships with family and peers.
Sometimes the hardest part of the journey to healing and self-growth, is deciding to reach out for help. It can be daunting to find the right therapist with whom you feel supported, non-judged, and safe. I think a sense of humor is always important. Here is a little about me so you can decide if we might be a good match.
I can help with adjustment and life transitions, anxiety and stress, depression, PTSD caused by a single incident, historical, or combat trauma, medical provider stress, grief, death and loss, men’s issues, childhood sexual and emotional abuse, anger management, and relationships with family and peers.
Sometimes the hardest part of the journey to healing and self-growth, is deciding to reach out for help. It can be daunting to find the right therapist with whom you feel supported, non-judged, and safe. I think a sense of humor is always important. Here is a little about me so you can decide if we might be a good match.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Jane Henke, Licensed Professional Counselor in 65201, MO
Jane Henke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Jane, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience providing care to clients who come with a wide variety of life's difficulties and struggles. I have a proven track record of helping clients reach their therapy goals. I specialize in the treatment of grief, trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, and Religious Trauma, but also enjoy helping clients work through depression, anxiety and various life transitions. I am trained in Mindfulness, EMDR and DBT.
Hello! I'm Jane, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience providing care to clients who come with a wide variety of life's difficulties and struggles. I have a proven track record of helping clients reach their therapy goals. I specialize in the treatment of grief, trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, and Religious Trauma, but also enjoy helping clients work through depression, anxiety and various life transitions. I am trained in Mindfulness, EMDR and DBT.
(816) 327-9985 View (816) 327-9985
Photo of Ozzie Dinwiddie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 65201, MO
Ozzie Dinwiddie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
Trauma work is my main interest, but I also work with those with depression, anxiety, identity issues, neurodivergency, intimate partner violence, sexuality, and gender dysphoria.
My ideal clients are those who have experienced stressful, traumatic events and want to take control over their lives again. I love verbal processors, but have no issue with asking questions to facilitate productive conversations. I work best with adolescents and young adults, and want to be someone knowledgeable and professional, yet relatable and open, in order to create a comfortable environment. I love working with those in the LGBTQ+ community and using my lived experience in that identity to foster a genuine connection and make sure your voice is heard.
Trauma work is my main interest, but I also work with those with depression, anxiety, identity issues, neurodivergency, intimate partner violence, sexuality, and gender dysphoria.
My ideal clients are those who have experienced stressful, traumatic events and want to take control over their lives again. I love verbal processors, but have no issue with asking questions to facilitate productive conversations. I work best with adolescents and young adults, and want to be someone knowledgeable and professional, yet relatable and open, in order to create a comfortable environment. I love working with those in the LGBTQ+ community and using my lived experience in that identity to foster a genuine connection and make sure your voice is heard.
(573) 307-6854 View (573) 307-6854
Photo of Sharon Cantrell-Brush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 65201, MO
Sharon Cantrell-Brush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
The core of my practice is assisting individuals and families to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with success and purpose. To provide guidance on supporting those with mental health symptoms, behavioral and emotional disorders and trauma to be able to thrive. To help identify negative communication patterns and strengthen communication with others. I provide an assortment of parenting ideas to help families live together with a better understanding and appreciation of each other. I draw from Dr. Garry Landreth, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, Dr. Fay & Dr. Cline, Love & Logic, and Dr. Phelan with 1-2-3 Magic.
The core of my practice is assisting individuals and families to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with success and purpose. To provide guidance on supporting those with mental health symptoms, behavioral and emotional disorders and trauma to be able to thrive. To help identify negative communication patterns and strengthen communication with others. I provide an assortment of parenting ideas to help families live together with a better understanding and appreciation of each other. I draw from Dr. Garry Landreth, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, Dr. Fay & Dr. Cline, Love & Logic, and Dr. Phelan with 1-2-3 Magic.
(573) 919-0785 View (573) 919-0785
Photo of Shamon Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in 65201, MO
Shamon Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201
You don't have to struggle to get through the day! Learn skills to work through feelings of not being enough, and develop strategies that diminish anxiety and depression symptoms. Trauma and dysregulation do not have to control your life, you get to be in control of your journey! Don't let your past or unresolved family issues keep you feeling worthless. Let's work through these challenges together, you don't have to figure this out alone! If you find yourself frequently needing to please others or just unsure of who you are I may be the counselor for you! -Now providing Couples Counseling as well!
You don't have to struggle to get through the day! Learn skills to work through feelings of not being enough, and develop strategies that diminish anxiety and depression symptoms. Trauma and dysregulation do not have to control your life, you get to be in control of your journey! Don't let your past or unresolved family issues keep you feeling worthless. Let's work through these challenges together, you don't have to figure this out alone! If you find yourself frequently needing to please others or just unsure of who you are I may be the counselor for you! -Now providing Couples Counseling as well!
(573) 262-8436 View (573) 262-8436
Photo of Haley Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor in 65201, MO
Haley Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the stressors of everyday life? Anxiety making it hard to do day to day tasks? Experiencing life transitions? I am here to help. Taking the initiative to invest in yourself is a major step and you should feel proud of that. We can work together to establish goals to create the life you want to live. I am experienced in treating anxiety in adolescents, teens and young adults. I am fully trained in perinatal mental health and have a passion for helping pregnant women, new moms, fathers and couples adjust to their new life as parents. I am also certified in EMDR for trauma treatment.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the stressors of everyday life? Anxiety making it hard to do day to day tasks? Experiencing life transitions? I am here to help. Taking the initiative to invest in yourself is a major step and you should feel proud of that. We can work together to establish goals to create the life you want to live. I am experienced in treating anxiety in adolescents, teens and young adults. I am fully trained in perinatal mental health and have a passion for helping pregnant women, new moms, fathers and couples adjust to their new life as parents. I am also certified in EMDR for trauma treatment.
(573) 787-4938 View (573) 787-4938
Photo of Hailee Bradshaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 65201, MO
Hailee Bradshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Hailee, a licensed clinical social worker at Small Victories. I work with adults and have experience working with people with anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar, suicidal ideation, body image and self esteem issues. I aim to provide a safe environment where we can talk about anything you want to bring to the table. I want to support you and encourage you through the healing journey. I use a person centered approach in my therapy sessions and incorporate both CBT and DBT. I will meet you where you are and start the growing journey there.
Hi, I’m Hailee, a licensed clinical social worker at Small Victories. I work with adults and have experience working with people with anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar, suicidal ideation, body image and self esteem issues. I aim to provide a safe environment where we can talk about anything you want to bring to the table. I want to support you and encourage you through the healing journey. I use a person centered approach in my therapy sessions and incorporate both CBT and DBT. I will meet you where you are and start the growing journey there.
(816) 934-5599 View (816) 934-5599
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.