Depression Therapists Near Me in Richmond, VA

CBT for Depression & Anxiety

If you’re looking for therapy for depression in Richmond, VA, our licensed therapists are here to help. Almost all of our therapists offer treatment for depression in a variety of forms.

At Aspect Counseling and Psychiatry, our therapists work closely with our board-certified nurse practitioners to provide a continuity of care. This can include both therapeutic interventions alongside medication.

Mental health care should never be a one size fits all approach.
  • Our depression therapists are available for in-person sessions in Richmond, VA, as well as telehealth throughout Virginia
  • Almost all of our therapists & nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) work with clients struggling with depression
  • We never take a one-size-fits-all approach; every client is unique
  • Our PMHNPs work alongside our depression therapists to help diagnose conditions, run tests, and prescribe medication, if needed
  • Postpartum depression is real, and several of our therapists have experience working with new moms

If you’re still curious how a depression therapist might be able to help, let’s talk about the signs & symptoms of depression, specific types like postpartum depression, and the types of therapy we use to treat it.

What Is Depression?

Depression is more than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch; it’s a serious mental health condition that can affect every part of your life. People with depression may struggle with low energy, lack of motivation, and feelings of hopelessness. It can interfere with work, relationships, and daily responsibilities.

If you’re searching for “depression therapists near me” in Richmond, VA, you’re already taking the first step toward healing. With the right support and treatment, depression is highly manageable.

Depression & Anxiety: How They Are Linked

Depression and anxiety often occur together. In fact, many people experience overlapping symptoms:

  • Restlessness and irritability
  • Trouble sleeping or concentrating
  • Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless
  • Constant worry or racing thoughts

Understanding the link between depression and anxiety helps therapists create treatment plans that address both conditions. Effective therapy can target both sets of symptoms, leading to lasting relief.

Postpartum Depression & Therapy

Postpartum depression affects many new mothers and can appear weeks or months after childbirth. It’s not a sign of weakness. It’s a real medical condition that requires support and treatment.

Postpartum depression therapists can:

  • provide coping strategies to manage overwhelming feelings
  • help new mothers navigate changes in identity and relationships
  • offer practical tools to reduce guilt, shame, and isolation

With specifically tailored postpartum depression therapy, mothers can regain balance and enjoy time with their babies and families.

Learn more about our postpartum depression therapists in Richmond:

How Our Depression Therapists Can Help

Our team of depression therapists in Richmond, VA specializes in evidence-based treatments tailored to each client’s needs. We provide:

  • One-on-one counseling sessions focused on your goals
  • Holistic approaches that address mind, body, and lifestyle
  • A safe, non-judgmental space to process emotions
  • Support for families and loved ones, when needed

Our goal is not just to help you feel better, but to give you long-term tools for ongoing support.

Allison Ernest, PMHNP-BC, RN, MSN

Allison Ernest

PMHNP-BC, RN, MSN

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)DepressionEating DisordersGender DysphoriaGrief/LossMedication ManagementOCDPTSD
Amber Zarger, LCSW

Amber Zarger

LCSW

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDPTSD
Carla Crews, LCSW

Carla Crews

LCSW

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyEMDRERPGender DysphoriaOCDProlonged ExposurePTSD
Carlie Powers, LMFT, CST, CAADC

Carlie Powers

LMFT, CST, CAADC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyCouplesDepressionEating DisordersGender DysphoriaGrief/LossProlonged ExposurePTSDSex TherapySubstance Abuse
Gabby Scalzo, PhD, LCP

Gabby Scalzo

PhD, LCP

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyAutismBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyEating DisordersERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSD
Jennifer Peele, PMHNP, FNP-BC

Jennifer Peele

PMHNP, FNP-BC, APRN

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)DepressionEating DisordersGender DysphoriaGrief/LossMedication ManagementOCDPTSDSleep
Jonathan Yoder, PMHNP

Jonathan Yoder

PMHNP-BC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)DepressionEating DisordersGender DysphoriaGrief/LossMedication ManagementOCDPTSD
Joshua Barefoot, LPC

Josh Barefoot

LPC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyAutismBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionEating DisordersERPFamilyGrief/LossOCDPTSDSubstance Abuse
Kristina Gilbert, LPC

Kristina Gilbert

LPC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyAutismBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSD
Laurie Manns, LPC

Laurie Manns

LPC, CSAC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyEating DisordersERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSDSubstance Abuse
Michelle Kempf, LPC

Michelle Kempf

LPC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionERPOCDPTSD
Mikeyda Travers, LPC

Mikeyda Travers

LPC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSD
Molly Iracane, LCSW

Molly Iracane

LCSW

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyCouplesDepressionGrief/LossIFSPTSD
Paula Connolly, LCSW

Paula Connolly

LCSW

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyCouplesDepressionGender DysphoriaGrief/LossPTSD
Rachel Salinas, LPC

Rachel Salinas

LPC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderCognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionGrief/LossPTSD
Robyn D'Reaux-Rodgers, LCSW

Robyn D’Reaux-Rodgers

LCSW

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyEating DisordersERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSDSubstance Abuse
Ryan Ernest, PMHNP-BC

Ryan Ernest

PMHNP-BC

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)DepressionGender DysphoriaGrief/LossMedication ManagementOCDPTSD
Shenika Whitaker-Carlos, LCSW

Shenika Whitaker-Carlos

LCSW, CSOTP

AVAILABILITY
In-Person & Virtual (Telehealth)
Specialties
AnxietyBipolar DisorderBorderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyDepressionDialectical Behavior TherapyEMDRERPGender DysphoriaGrief/LossOCDProlonged ExposurePTSDSubstance Abuse

How We Use Therapy to Treat Depression

There are several effective forms of psychotherapy for depression. The most common include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Helps reframe negative thought patterns.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Focuses on emotional regulation and acceptance.

Interpersonal Therapy

Addresses relationship challenges that contribute to depression.

Group Therapy

Provides peer support and shared coping strategies.

Each person’s experience with depression is unique, so treatment is tailored to fit your individual needs.

CBT for Depression

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for depression is one of the most effective, research-backed methods available. CBT helps clients:

  • Identify negative thought patterns
  • Challenge self-critical beliefs
  • Build healthier coping mechanisms
  • Develop practical problem-solving skills

With practice, CBT empowers clients to break the cycle of depression and regain control over their lives.

DBT Therapy for Depression

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was originally developed for people with intense emotional struggles, but it is also highly effective for depression. DBT focuses on:

  • Mindfulness: Staying grounded in the present moment
  • Emotion Regulation: Learning to manage intense feelings
  • Distress Tolerance: Building resilience during difficult times
  • Interpersonal Effectiveness: Strengthening communication and relationships

By practicing these skills, our clients develop tools that reduce depressive symptoms and improve daily functioning.

How a PMHNP Can Help Treat Depression

Sometimes, therapy alone may not be enough. A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) can play an important role in treatment.

PMHNPs work closely with therapists to:

  • provide psychiatric evaluations
  • prescribe and manage medications, if needed
  • monitor progress and adjust treatment plans

This collaborative approach ensures clients receive comprehensive, well-rounded care.

What to Expect During a Depression Therapy Session

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but knowing what to expect helps ease anxiety. In your first session, your depression therapist will:

  • ask about your symptoms, history, and goals
  • create a personalized treatment plan
  • begin teaching coping skills you can use right away

As therapy continues, you’ll gain insights into your thought patterns, learn new strategies for managing emotions, and build confidence in your ability to handle challenges.

Depression Therapy FAQs

If you’re just learning about therapy for depression and want to learn more, here are a few questions that might help.

How do I know if I need therapy for depression?

If feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or fatigue are interfering with your daily life, it may be time to seek professional help.

Can therapy really help with depression?

Yes—research shows that psychotherapy, especially CBT and DBT, is highly effective for reducing depressive symptoms.

How long does depression therapy last?

Every client is different. Some people begin to feel better after a few months, while others benefit from ongoing support.

Do I need medication for depression?

Not always. Many clients improve significantly with therapy alone. If medication is recommended, our PMHNPs can guide you through the process.

Is depression therapy covered by insurance?

Yes. Our office accepts many forms of insurance, including medicare. Check our insurance page for a complete list of insurance providers.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, your privacy is fully protected. Sessions are confidential and provide a safe space for healing.

Our Therapy Office

Our therapy office is located in the heart of West End Richmond, in the Innsbrook business complex—at the crossroads of I-64, I-295, Hwy 288, and West Broad St. We share the Liberty Plaza I building with several law offices, financial services companies, and other Richmond-area businesses, at the corner of Cox Rd. & North Park Dr.

4801 Cox Road, Suite 205
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Directions →

Aspect Counseling and Psychiatry, Richmond office entrance
The front entrance to our therapy & counseling office in Innsbrook, in Richmond’s West End.

Get Started with Depression Therapy Today

If you’re searching for depression therapists near you in Richmond, know that help is available. Our team of specialists offer compassionate, evidence-based care designed to help you feel like yourself again.

Call us today or use the button below to schedule your first session.