How Talk Therapy Works for Depression

written by Michael Haggstrom, Doctor in Counselling, Calgary

Talk therapy, also referred to as psychotherapy, is a psychological treatment that helps those who suffer depression, anxiety, stress or other emotional problems. It is a recommended form of therapy by the American Psychological Association.

Talk therapy is about discussing the main problems and causes of depression. It’s also about developing strategies on how to cope and resolve those problems while dealing with the stressors.

Talk Therapy is Effective

Many studies have proven that talk therapy is an effective treatment for depression. Some studies have also found that those who didn’t respond to drug treatment worked better with talk therapy.

However, any therapy is really only as good as the therapist who is using it. Always seek out someone who is able to provide you with competent advice that comes from many years of experience.

3 Types

There are different types of talk therapy including but not limited to individual counselling, family counselling, and group counselling.

Here are the most common types of talk therapy:

1) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT focuses on how your thoughts and behaviour contribute to depression. The therapist will help you find ways to better respond to situations, while also helping make positive changes in your thoughts and mental processes.

2) Interpersonal Therapy

This therapy focuses on your relationships with other people. The therapist will help you identify problems with how you may be interacting with other people that are not benefitting your mental and relational wellbeing.

3) Psychodynamic Therapy

This therapy focuses on the roots of your depression. You and your therapist may explore earlier experiences, such as prior traumas, that could be the root cause of your current depression.

Various Applications

Talk therapy can help all sorts of people in many different situations. It can be a solution-focused therapy for working through simple to more complex issues.

Research shows that talk therapy works well with all ages. It is not only for those who are clinically depressed, but for anyone needing to work through a life situation that is problematic.

Talk therapy can help reduce stress in life, give you a new perspective on problems with family, friends or work and help you learn ways on how to improve your relationships.