Mental health conditions
Learn about the different types of therapy for depression
With so many therapy approaches available, it can be tough to understand their differences and how they support people with depression. Headway breaks it down.
March 6, 2026
By Savanah Harvey, AMFT • Clinically reviewed by Michael Heckendorn, LPC, NCC
6 min read
By Savanah Harvey, AMFT • Clinically reviewed by Michael Heckendorn, LPC, NCC
If you're struggling with depression, the smallest task can feel incredibly overwhelming. Even when you want to get help, researching therapy types may seem like an impossible task. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, especially when you’re trying to educate yourself on a topic filled with acronyms that are unfamiliar. We’ve created this guide to help simplify the process so you can get the help you’re looking for.
Key insights
1
Evidence-based modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) offer their own unique sets of tools to treat symptoms and root causes of depression.
2
Headway helps connect you with an in-network provider who specializes in depression, making high-quality care both accessible and affordable.
How therapy treats depression
When done correctly, therapy is much more than an opportunity to talk about your feelings. It is a structured, evidence-based practice that positively impacts your brain, physically and chemically. A 2023 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that the positive effects of therapy often outlast medication, as the skills learned during sessions prevent relapse long after treatment ends. As uncovered in neuroimaging research from 2025, when therapy is consistent, gray matter volume in the amygdala and hippocampus increases and “rewires” the brain areas responsible for emotional regulation.
This “rewiring” can help you shift your perspective. When you work to communicate with your negative voices through therapy, you're improving your emotional regulation. Therapy helps you take control of these conversations and regain a sense of control and agency of your internal space.
What therapy approaches are best for depression?
While it’s common for therapists to use one modality — along with its set of tools and techniques — throughout treatment, each approach is rooted in a few core philosophies. When working with depression, here are the most common therapeutic lenses you'll see therapists working within.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
One of the most well-known and common approaches used for depression, CBT focuses on the link between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. When guided to identify, challenge, and grow beyond negative thought patterns, a change in emotional response is able to be made. Those who appreciate “homework” and are looking for a practical, goal-oriented approach will benefit from this type of therapy.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
With an emphasis on mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotional regulation, DBT is widely used as the go-to modality for treatment-resistant depression. This modality works best for those who are struggling with depression while experiencing intense, overwhelming emotions or struggling with thoughts of self-harm.
Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
Focusing on your relationships and social roles, IPT is rooted in the idea that depression is often triggered by major life events such as grief, relationship conflicts, or major transitions. This approach works best for those whose depression is closely linked to their relationships, interactions with others, or recent major life changes.
Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT)
Rather than focusing on problems of the past, SFBT is future-oriented and focuses on your strengths to find immediate solutions to improve your life. This modality works best for those looking for a shorter treatment plan that is still effective, positive, and forward-moving.
Which approach to treating depression is right for you?
When thinking about what works best for you, think about your personality and how you learn, rather than putting pressure on yourself to choose the right modality. Are you someone who appreciates structure, worksheets, and “homework” assignments? If so, CBT may be best for you. Are you looking to meet for a few sessions and gain skills to bring into everyday life? If that sounds like you, then SFBT may be the best fit.
How to find the right therapist for you
The most important part of therapy is not the model, but the therapeutic alliance. The bond you create with your therapist plays a significant role in your treatment as the more comfortable you feel, the more authentic the work will be.
When searching for a therapist, you’ll want to ensure depression is a top specialization for them. It should not only be a checked box on their therapist profile, but they should call out depression as a primary specialty in their description of themselves. They should note that they offer the types of therapy you are interested in.
Other important questions to ask can include: Does their demographic profile (race, gender, age, etc.) match what you would feel comfortable with? Do they accept your insurance? Do they offer a convenient location (virtual or in person) and times that you are looking for?
We understand it can be difficult to find a provider, which is why Headway’s directory makes it easy for you to find an in-network therapist who specializes in depression. From there, you can start building a strong therapeutic alliance.
Find the right depression-treating therapist for you
Beginning to look for a therapist is the hardest step, so let us help you. Headway’s goal is to make finding a therapist as easy as it can be, which is why our directory is full of thousands of licensed professionals who are ready to work with you. Headway’s directory uses filters (like insurance type, state, gender, clinical focus, and beyond) to make it easy for you to find your next therapist. Let us focus on the details like billing and insurance so you can focus on doing the work that matters most.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute clinical, legal, financial, or professional advice. All decisions should be made at the discretion of the individual or organization, in consultation with qualified clinical, legal, or other appropriate professionals.
© 2025 Therapymatch, Inc. dba Headway. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission.
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