Depression Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Barbara Duarte Esgalhado, PhD, MFA, Psychologist
Barbara Duarte Esgalhado
Psychologist, PhD, MFA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221  (Online Only)
I have extensive background with people suffering from depression, anxiety, childhood and adult onset trauma, chronic and terminal illnesses, loss and/or death of a loved one, sexual identity struggles, and people with other psychological and/or physical challenges.
I believe that it is really important for a person to feel that someone truly hears and understands them. My approach is to create a space where you can feel safe, valued, and understood. From that place, we work together at helping you explore the life you want to live, including understanding and changing the obstacles that are getting in the way of your sense of self fulfillment and relatedness to others and the world.
I have extensive background with people suffering from depression, anxiety, childhood and adult onset trauma, chronic and terminal illnesses, loss and/or death of a loved one, sexual identity struggles, and people with other psychological and/or physical challenges.
I believe that it is really important for a person to feel that someone truly hears and understands them. My approach is to create a space where you can feel safe, valued, and understood. From that place, we work together at helping you explore the life you want to live, including understanding and changing the obstacles that are getting in the way of your sense of self fulfillment and relatedness to others and the world.
(412) 415-7427 View (412) 415-7427
Photo of Ashley Tresky, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashley Tresky
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I have years of experience counseling people of all ages with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, grief, OCD, autism, substance use disorder & many others.
Please feel free to reach out to me if you’re interested in being one of my clients. I look forward to hearing from you soon!
I have years of experience counseling people of all ages with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, grief, OCD, autism, substance use disorder & many others.
Please feel free to reach out to me if you’re interested in being one of my clients. I look forward to hearing from you soon!
(412) 991-1331 View (412) 991-1331
Photo of Mikayla Weston, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mikayla Weston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
Mikayla Weston is a Master’s Level Clinician in the state of Pennsylvania. She has experience partnering with children, adolescents, and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and more. Mikayla utilizes a person-centered approach to counseling with techniques drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, reality therapy, and more that emphasize awareness, mindfulness, acceptance, responsibility, and life skills necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual.
Mikayla Weston is a Master’s Level Clinician in the state of Pennsylvania. She has experience partnering with children, adolescents, and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and more. Mikayla utilizes a person-centered approach to counseling with techniques drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, reality therapy, and more that emphasize awareness, mindfulness, acceptance, responsibility, and life skills necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual.
(412) 990-1670 View (412) 990-1670
Photo of Michelle Perna, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Perna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I am experienced in depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relational conflict, family systems, addiction, criminal justice, anger management, eating disorders/body image, and mood disorders. The ideal client actively wants to explore their behaviors and thinking patterns and identify the underlying causes of these behaviors. In addition, the ideal client will be willing to tackle goals inside & outside therapy sessions. My ideal client would be an individual who is internally and externally motivated to change their life. They show up to sessions on time consistently and make a conscious effort to engage in the therapeutic process.
I am experienced in depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relational conflict, family systems, addiction, criminal justice, anger management, eating disorders/body image, and mood disorders. The ideal client actively wants to explore their behaviors and thinking patterns and identify the underlying causes of these behaviors. In addition, the ideal client will be willing to tackle goals inside & outside therapy sessions. My ideal client would be an individual who is internally and externally motivated to change their life. They show up to sessions on time consistently and make a conscious effort to engage in the therapeutic process.
(412) 328-2700 View (412) 328-2700
Photo of Todd Schachter, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Todd Schachter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I can treat anyone from 10 to 65, but specialize in treating children and adolescents with impulse control and attention deficit issues, child and adult autism , child and adult anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, school related phobias, unhealthy habits / addictions, anger management, trauma, and family conflict.
You do not need a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety or depression to benefit from therapy. Life can be hard enough without barriers at every turn. Constant challenges within a child’s education system, adolescents unhealthy social media habits, difficult relationships, and even from time to time conflict within the family can cause stress. Stress can explode in detrimental ways and times when not fully treated. Together, we can help break down life’s barriers so you and your child can achieve their full potential.
I can treat anyone from 10 to 65, but specialize in treating children and adolescents with impulse control and attention deficit issues, child and adult autism , child and adult anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, school related phobias, unhealthy habits / addictions, anger management, trauma, and family conflict.
You do not need a diagnosis of ADHD, anxiety or depression to benefit from therapy. Life can be hard enough without barriers at every turn. Constant challenges within a child’s education system, adolescents unhealthy social media habits, difficult relationships, and even from time to time conflict within the family can cause stress. Stress can explode in detrimental ways and times when not fully treated. Together, we can help break down life’s barriers so you and your child can achieve their full potential.
(878) 645-3173 View (878) 645-3173
Photo of Tanisha Ramsey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tanisha Ramsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
I have experience with drug and alcohol abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and individuals who have experienced abuse and trauma.
Experiences and circumstances have a way of changing how we perceive and understand the world around us. They alter the way we act or behave, the way we think, and the way we respond to different events or challenges that may occur in life. Therapy is a way in which an individual is able to create room in their own life for reestablishment, growth, empowerment, and resolution. My goal is to facilitate a safe environment in which you are able to recover, refocus, reestablish, and grow. I hope that through this experience you can improve overall wellness and accomplish goals that will improve your lifestyle as an individual.
I have experience with drug and alcohol abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, and individuals who have experienced abuse and trauma.
Experiences and circumstances have a way of changing how we perceive and understand the world around us. They alter the way we act or behave, the way we think, and the way we respond to different events or challenges that may occur in life. Therapy is a way in which an individual is able to create room in their own life for reestablishment, growth, empowerment, and resolution. My goal is to facilitate a safe environment in which you are able to recover, refocus, reestablish, and grow. I hope that through this experience you can improve overall wellness and accomplish goals that will improve your lifestyle as an individual.
(412) 223-3184 View (412) 223-3184
Photo of Jennifer L Streeter, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer L Streeter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15223
Additionally, I also specialize in anxiety and depression and have experience working with folks 16 and over.
Each individual is universally unique which means our thoughts, feelings and perceptions are also unique. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I use a range of modalities including art, creativity, CBT, Mindfulness as well as many other approaches to meet your individual needs to help guide you toward and support your holistic wellness.
Additionally, I also specialize in anxiety and depression and have experience working with folks 16 and over.
Each individual is universally unique which means our thoughts, feelings and perceptions are also unique. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I use a range of modalities including art, creativity, CBT, Mindfulness as well as many other approaches to meet your individual needs to help guide you toward and support your holistic wellness.
(878) 206-6376 View (878) 206-6376
Photo of Cassandra Hartless, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassandra Hartless
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15220  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, issues with substance abuse, or relationship issues, I'm here to help.
I am a licensed professional counselor looking to help others find their full potential by using an eclectic approach to therapy. If you find yourself aimlessly scrolling through profiles in search of an authentic therapist, I may be a great fit for you. I find that being authentic with clients is what helps them build a foundation and feel safe enough to share their issues and concerns. I practice from a person-centered approach while mixing in elements of CBT to help clients guide their treatment while also holding them accountable.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, issues with substance abuse, or relationship issues, I'm here to help.
I am a licensed professional counselor looking to help others find their full potential by using an eclectic approach to therapy. If you find yourself aimlessly scrolling through profiles in search of an authentic therapist, I may be a great fit for you. I find that being authentic with clients is what helps them build a foundation and feel safe enough to share their issues and concerns. I practice from a person-centered approach while mixing in elements of CBT to help clients guide their treatment while also holding them accountable.
(412) 910-2723 View (412) 910-2723
Photo of Angela Illig, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Illig
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
Angela specializes in assisting clients with career or life transition, stress, anxiety, depression, coping, family dynamics, sexuality, relationships, confidence, identity, motivation, and codependency.
Angela Illig is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who possesses over 16 years of experience in the mental health field, serving youth and adults with individualized care. Angela is passionate about working with individuals and couples to manage obstacles, build confidence, strengthen relationships, and reach their full potential. She sees herself as a human potential enhancer, assisting clients in recognizing and capitalizing upon unique strengths in the counseling process.
Angela specializes in assisting clients with career or life transition, stress, anxiety, depression, coping, family dynamics, sexuality, relationships, confidence, identity, motivation, and codependency.
Angela Illig is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who possesses over 16 years of experience in the mental health field, serving youth and adults with individualized care. Angela is passionate about working with individuals and couples to manage obstacles, build confidence, strengthen relationships, and reach their full potential. She sees herself as a human potential enhancer, assisting clients in recognizing and capitalizing upon unique strengths in the counseling process.
(412) 990-1673 View (412) 990-1673
Photo of Ashlee Groover, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashlee Groover
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I have experience working with adults, college-aged adults, adolescents struggling with severe mental illness ( depression, anxiety, trauma) and substance use.
I currently have early morning openings for telehealth on Mon & Thurs! Understanding the unsettling feelings, emotions, and thoughts that you may be experiencing can be an incredibly complex task to grapple with on your own. It can feel even more daunting when you think of how to try and explain what is going on to someone else. I strive to provide a supportive and collaborative environment to assist you in taking the time to explore the things you seek to understand. My goal is to help you build your “mental tool box” with effective coping skills, confidence, and self-awareness to tackle any obstacle that is thrown your way.
I have experience working with adults, college-aged adults, adolescents struggling with severe mental illness ( depression, anxiety, trauma) and substance use.
I currently have early morning openings for telehealth on Mon & Thurs! Understanding the unsettling feelings, emotions, and thoughts that you may be experiencing can be an incredibly complex task to grapple with on your own. It can feel even more daunting when you think of how to try and explain what is going on to someone else. I strive to provide a supportive and collaborative environment to assist you in taking the time to explore the things you seek to understand. My goal is to help you build your “mental tool box” with effective coping skills, confidence, and self-awareness to tackle any obstacle that is thrown your way.
(412) 520-7741 View (412) 520-7741
Photo of Molly Maureen Alvord, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Maureen Alvord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
Molly Alvord is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania and Maryland with over 17 years of experience. Working in a variety of settings, Molly has had the pleasure of helping people of all ages and backgrounds by providing individual, couples, family, and group therapy. Her specialties include anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship issues. She earned her Masters of Social Work at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, School of Social Work.
Molly Alvord is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania and Maryland with over 17 years of experience. Working in a variety of settings, Molly has had the pleasure of helping people of all ages and backgrounds by providing individual, couples, family, and group therapy. Her specialties include anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship issues. She earned her Masters of Social Work at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, School of Social Work.
(412) 207-3627 View (412) 207-3627
Photo of Alexander Noel, MSCP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexander Noel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
You might be someone navigating the unique challenges of ASD, the whirlwind of ADHD, or the weight of anxiety and depression. Your needs come first to me as your therapist who understands what you’re going through. If your goal is to take back control of your life and discover lasting peace, I’m here for you. Let’s start this journey together—I’ll provide personalized support and practical strategies to help you succeed.
You might be someone navigating the unique challenges of ASD, the whirlwind of ADHD, or the weight of anxiety and depression. Your needs come first to me as your therapist who understands what you’re going through. If your goal is to take back control of your life and discover lasting peace, I’m here for you. Let’s start this journey together—I’ll provide personalized support and practical strategies to help you succeed.
(412) 744-3816 View (412) 744-3816
Photo of Emily Fairweather - Emily Fairweather, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Fairweather
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
Emily is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with children, adolescents and adults. Her approach utilizes your unique strengths and abilities to manage symptoms related to depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and a range of other diagnoses. Emily’s treatment sessions utilize evidence based practices derived from CBT, DBT, and person-centered approaches in order to help you develop and achieve your goals. Emily is also certified in PCIT and she is looking forward to helping you feel more empowered as a parent and more successful with management of difficult behaviors.
Emily is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with children, adolescents and adults. Her approach utilizes your unique strengths and abilities to manage symptoms related to depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and a range of other diagnoses. Emily’s treatment sessions utilize evidence based practices derived from CBT, DBT, and person-centered approaches in order to help you develop and achieve your goals. Emily is also certified in PCIT and she is looking forward to helping you feel more empowered as a parent and more successful with management of difficult behaviors.
(412) 991-2909 View (412) 991-2909
Photo of Chris Koska, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chris Koska
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, stress, and adjustment issues.
Do you feel depressed or overwhelmed by life? Do you feel like you need to make a change but don’t know how? You’re not alone; these feelings and situations are common things that we all experience at times. Life can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it on your own. Whether or not you’ve been to therapy before, acknowledging that you want help in your journey towards a happier and healthier life is an important step. Therapy can help you become more self-aware and develop a better understanding of who you are and what you need. My goal is to support you in this process and help you find the tools that work for you.
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, stress, and adjustment issues.
Do you feel depressed or overwhelmed by life? Do you feel like you need to make a change but don’t know how? You’re not alone; these feelings and situations are common things that we all experience at times. Life can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it on your own. Whether or not you’ve been to therapy before, acknowledging that you want help in your journey towards a happier and healthier life is an important step. Therapy can help you become more self-aware and develop a better understanding of who you are and what you need. My goal is to support you in this process and help you find the tools that work for you.
(412) 900-1540 View (412) 900-1540
Photo of Emily Zeller, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Zeller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with anxious & depressed moms, couples & families.
You feel anxious, alone and you don't know what to do. If these are supposed to be the "best years of your life," why doesn't it feel like that? You know time is precious, but it feels like it is creeping slowly along and moving at lightning speed at the same time. As a wife and mom of 3 girls (2 being identical twins), I understand how easy it can be to lose yourself in motherhood. You need a safe space where you can work out all those thoughts and feelings that send you spiraling. You're not just a mom or a partner—you're a multifaceted individual with dreams, aspirations, and a story all your own.
I specialize in working with anxious & depressed moms, couples & families.
You feel anxious, alone and you don't know what to do. If these are supposed to be the "best years of your life," why doesn't it feel like that? You know time is precious, but it feels like it is creeping slowly along and moving at lightning speed at the same time. As a wife and mom of 3 girls (2 being identical twins), I understand how easy it can be to lose yourself in motherhood. You need a safe space where you can work out all those thoughts and feelings that send you spiraling. You're not just a mom or a partner—you're a multifaceted individual with dreams, aspirations, and a story all your own.
(412) 501-9772 View (412) 501-9772
Photo of Chris Rostek, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Rostek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
Chris Rostek has 30 plus years of clinical experience and has worked in many different areas in the mental health field. She offers individual therapy and has experience in family therapy. Her treatment approach incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy, mindfulness and behavior modification. Assists clients with relaxation, stress management, improving communication skills, conflict resolution and identification of feelings to help clients overcome the difficulties they are experiencing. Chris' treatment interests are adolescents, young adult issues, women’s issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders.
Chris Rostek has 30 plus years of clinical experience and has worked in many different areas in the mental health field. She offers individual therapy and has experience in family therapy. Her treatment approach incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive therapy, mindfulness and behavior modification. Assists clients with relaxation, stress management, improving communication skills, conflict resolution and identification of feelings to help clients overcome the difficulties they are experiencing. Chris' treatment interests are adolescents, young adult issues, women’s issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders.
(412) 844-4803 View (412) 844-4803
Photo of Jamie Sloan, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Sloan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I believe in using a holistic, strength based approach that builds on your current assets to help you achieve your goals. I work collaboratively with you to focus on individual whole health, which includes identifying your aspirations and emphasizing empowerment and self care. I have experience creating a safe and warm environment in which to incorporate evidenced based interventions and coping strategies to help improve focus and manage anxiety, grief, and depression. I also utilize expressive arts to help identify unique, creative approaches to help you improve the quality of your life.
I believe in using a holistic, strength based approach that builds on your current assets to help you achieve your goals. I work collaboratively with you to focus on individual whole health, which includes identifying your aspirations and emphasizing empowerment and self care. I have experience creating a safe and warm environment in which to incorporate evidenced based interventions and coping strategies to help improve focus and manage anxiety, grief, and depression. I also utilize expressive arts to help identify unique, creative approaches to help you improve the quality of your life.
(412) 948-7509 View (412) 948-7509
Photo of Neena Nellori, PhD, Psychologist
Neena Nellori
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15233
I provide a supportive and confidential environment to deal with issues ranging from depression and mood instabilities to self-esteem and marital problems.
Welcome to my practice! My approach is to get to the heart of your situation and engage you in developing insight into your choices and patterns. I work collaboratively with you to examine your life choices, problem management and support you through the process of implementing effective change in your life I am an active-directive psychologist who not only listens to you but also provides valuable information on strategies on what is working for you and what isn't. I also help you get unstuck by focussing on a solution and action oriented model of change.
I provide a supportive and confidential environment to deal with issues ranging from depression and mood instabilities to self-esteem and marital problems.
Welcome to my practice! My approach is to get to the heart of your situation and engage you in developing insight into your choices and patterns. I work collaboratively with you to examine your life choices, problem management and support you through the process of implementing effective change in your life I am an active-directive psychologist who not only listens to you but also provides valuable information on strategies on what is working for you and what isn't. I also help you get unstuck by focussing on a solution and action oriented model of change.
(412) 413-9906 View (412) 413-9906
Photo of Kathleen Martinez, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
(412) 754-7510 View (412) 754-7510
Photo of Shannon Berncic, MS, CRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Berncic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Congratulations on taking the first step! It can be overwhelming to start something new, but remember that you have already made progress by acknowledging that you want to take action. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. As a therapist, it's essential to have a wide range of therapeutic tools and techniques to help clients navigate their challenges. Whether it's helping adolescents and teens manage stress and anxiety, assisting adults with depression or trauma, or supporting couples in strengthening their relationships, each client requires a customized approach.
Congratulations on taking the first step! It can be overwhelming to start something new, but remember that you have already made progress by acknowledging that you want to take action. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. As a therapist, it's essential to have a wide range of therapeutic tools and techniques to help clients navigate their challenges. Whether it's helping adolescents and teens manage stress and anxiety, assisting adults with depression or trauma, or supporting couples in strengthening their relationships, each client requires a customized approach.
(412) 775-2901 View (412) 775-2901
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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.