Depression Therapists in Altadena, CA

Photo of Laura Arevalo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Arevalo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
She has worked extensively with clients managing trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Laura Arevalo is a marriage & family therapist who has been licensed since September 2002 and in private practice since that time. As a clinician, Laura is trained in the area of cognitive behavioral therapy and more specifically, DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). Laura is also trained in EMDR and has worked with many clients who have been victims of trauma. Laura has been trained in Functional Family Therapy and has worked closely with many different types of blended families, as well as families working on reunification. Laura is also trained in The Nurtured Heart Approach.
She has worked extensively with clients managing trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Laura Arevalo is a marriage & family therapist who has been licensed since September 2002 and in private practice since that time. As a clinician, Laura is trained in the area of cognitive behavioral therapy and more specifically, DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). Laura is also trained in EMDR and has worked with many clients who have been victims of trauma. Laura has been trained in Functional Family Therapy and has worked closely with many different types of blended families, as well as families working on reunification. Laura is also trained in The Nurtured Heart Approach.
(323) 622-7404 View (323) 622-7404
Photo of Brooke Porter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brooke Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
The populations of clients I enjoy working with include the following diagnoses: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
My name is Brooke Porter, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a passionate individual who strives to help others along their healing journeys. I focus on joining clients on their journeys and strengthening their sense of well-being, increase self-esteem, and achieve goals for themselves. I am a humanistic therapist, who is client centered, and I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship to assist in the healing process. I incorporate aspects from cognitive behavioral therapy as well as skills from dialectical behavioral therapy, such as mindfulness, meditation, and emotional regulation skills.
The populations of clients I enjoy working with include the following diagnoses: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
My name is Brooke Porter, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a passionate individual who strives to help others along their healing journeys. I focus on joining clients on their journeys and strengthening their sense of well-being, increase self-esteem, and achieve goals for themselves. I am a humanistic therapist, who is client centered, and I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship to assist in the healing process. I incorporate aspects from cognitive behavioral therapy as well as skills from dialectical behavioral therapy, such as mindfulness, meditation, and emotional regulation skills.
(510) 824-8547 View (510) 824-8547
Photo of Susie Ro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susie Ro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
Hello! My name is Susie Ro and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have over 20 years of experience. My primary areas of practice are mood disorders (Anxiety, grief, stress, and depression) and Trauma. My most common theoretical approaches include EMDR (I am trained in EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and also draw from psychoanalytical theory at times. I work with clients who have mood disorders and also those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or Complex Trauma issues that may also be affecting their moods as well.
Hello! My name is Susie Ro and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have over 20 years of experience. My primary areas of practice are mood disorders (Anxiety, grief, stress, and depression) and Trauma. My most common theoretical approaches include EMDR (I am trained in EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and also draw from psychoanalytical theory at times. I work with clients who have mood disorders and also those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or Complex Trauma issues that may also be affecting their moods as well.
(707) 374-8332 View (707) 374-8332
Photo of Guy Washington, LCP, Psychologist
Guy Washington
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
Guy E Washington, Psy.D. I prefer an integrative approach to treatment, as there is no one model technique that fits everyone. Therefore, it is imperative to connect and collaborate with clients to better understand their needs. I work with a variety of client types but not limited to those experiencing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, interpersonal difficulties, and relationship challenges, and those experiencing severe mental illness.
Guy E Washington, Psy.D. I prefer an integrative approach to treatment, as there is no one model technique that fits everyone. Therefore, it is imperative to connect and collaborate with clients to better understand their needs. I work with a variety of client types but not limited to those experiencing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, interpersonal difficulties, and relationship challenges, and those experiencing severe mental illness.
(619) 658-8964 View (619) 658-8964
Photo of Vanessa Fierstadt, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Fierstadt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Altadena, CA 91001
Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship stress, abuse, or major life adjustments and transitions you deserve a safe place to explore how these are impacting your life and how to integrate positive coping strategies that will assist you in finding relief from the chaos and pain.
I am glad you are here to receive the support you need. I provide my clients with a safe and nurturing environment to openly share your thoughts and feelings. To support you in making new patterns and positive change. Are you seeking healing after experiencing traumatic life events, stressful relationship patterns or emotional wounds from your past. After experiencing suffering, we can often feel numb and detached. Together we will incorporate healing strategies to support you in finding relief, having an abundant, healthy and safe future as you move forward in your life. Grief Groups at Kintsugi Grief Center : Kintsugigrief.com
Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship stress, abuse, or major life adjustments and transitions you deserve a safe place to explore how these are impacting your life and how to integrate positive coping strategies that will assist you in finding relief from the chaos and pain.
I am glad you are here to receive the support you need. I provide my clients with a safe and nurturing environment to openly share your thoughts and feelings. To support you in making new patterns and positive change. Are you seeking healing after experiencing traumatic life events, stressful relationship patterns or emotional wounds from your past. After experiencing suffering, we can often feel numb and detached. Together we will incorporate healing strategies to support you in finding relief, having an abundant, healthy and safe future as you move forward in your life. Grief Groups at Kintsugi Grief Center : Kintsugigrief.com
(626) 427-6956 View (626) 427-6956
Photo of Catherine Ridder, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Ridder
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
Thoughts, feelings and actions are all energetically connected. Conscious insight into all three of these is essential for changing patterns that no longer serve you. I provide support, tools and insight to help you find the resources within yourself and your life to help you deal with loss/grief, shift relationship patterns, heal personal struggles, and alleviate depression and anxiety. A good therapeutic connection can provide a different experience and perspective, and help you heal and thrive in your life. You do not need to be a prisoner of your past. You can transform your present and create your future.
Thoughts, feelings and actions are all energetically connected. Conscious insight into all three of these is essential for changing patterns that no longer serve you. I provide support, tools and insight to help you find the resources within yourself and your life to help you deal with loss/grief, shift relationship patterns, heal personal struggles, and alleviate depression and anxiety. A good therapeutic connection can provide a different experience and perspective, and help you heal and thrive in your life. You do not need to be a prisoner of your past. You can transform your present and create your future.
(626) 581-6946 View (626) 581-6946
Photo of Margaret (Meg) J. Bezucha, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margaret (Meg) J. Bezucha
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Altadena, CA 91001
Many of my clients come in with anxiety, depression, learning, relationship, identity and self-esteem issues, as well as issues around addiction.
Are you concerned about a child or adolescent that is struggling? Are they shutting down and sad? Worried or mad? Are they having trouble functioning at school or with friends? How about at home and with their family? Has something in their life changed? Maybe they need a little more support at this particular time... Therapy can help. I work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families.
Many of my clients come in with anxiety, depression, learning, relationship, identity and self-esteem issues, as well as issues around addiction.
Are you concerned about a child or adolescent that is struggling? Are they shutting down and sad? Worried or mad? Are they having trouble functioning at school or with friends? How about at home and with their family? Has something in their life changed? Maybe they need a little more support at this particular time... Therapy can help. I work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families.
(213) 481-5178 View (213) 481-5178
Photo of Sheila Traviss, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheila Traviss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
If you find yourself repeating patterns that you just can't seem to break, feel stuck, or unable to find meaning in your life, I'd like to help. The therapeutic relationship can be a powerful source of healing, change and liberation in your life. I offer compassion and authenticity and believe that healing, and change are possible for all people. I am committed to discovering what is best for you and offer guidance through the darkest moments. Together we can unravel what keeps you in grief, depression, fear or anxiety.
If you find yourself repeating patterns that you just can't seem to break, feel stuck, or unable to find meaning in your life, I'd like to help. The therapeutic relationship can be a powerful source of healing, change and liberation in your life. I offer compassion and authenticity and believe that healing, and change are possible for all people. I am committed to discovering what is best for you and offer guidance through the darkest moments. Together we can unravel what keeps you in grief, depression, fear or anxiety.
(323) 282-7354 View (323) 282-7354
Photo of Sepideh Hakimzadeh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sepideh Hakimzadeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Altadena, CA 91001
Sometimes we reach a point in our lives where we recognize that the way we've been living is not supportive of the type of life we want to create. Be it struggling with depression, anxiety, life-transition, parenting, relationships, pregnancy, or postpartum, we all need extra support to change, grow, and heal. I help you release old patterns and work through uncomfortable emotions to create more space in your life. By developing a healthier relationship with yourself you will be able to create healthier relationships with others. Together we create resources and tools that will support you as you embody new patterns and choices.
Sometimes we reach a point in our lives where we recognize that the way we've been living is not supportive of the type of life we want to create. Be it struggling with depression, anxiety, life-transition, parenting, relationships, pregnancy, or postpartum, we all need extra support to change, grow, and heal. I help you release old patterns and work through uncomfortable emotions to create more space in your life. By developing a healthier relationship with yourself you will be able to create healthier relationships with others. Together we create resources and tools that will support you as you embody new patterns and choices.
(323) 454-1966 View (323) 454-1966
Photo of Debi Luczywek, LPCC
Debi Luczywek
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
My name is Debi Luczywek and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), based in Southern California. I received my doctorate in 2007 in Psychology and I have been practicing ever since. My specialty is working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions and grief. I work with clients to help them obtain and develop practical strategies that foster greater balance in their everyday life. I will provide treatment to relieve symptoms leading to a greater sense of well-being and help build strength so you can reach their most important goals and aspirations.
My name is Debi Luczywek and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), based in Southern California. I received my doctorate in 2007 in Psychology and I have been practicing ever since. My specialty is working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions and grief. I work with clients to help them obtain and develop practical strategies that foster greater balance in their everyday life. I will provide treatment to relieve symptoms leading to a greater sense of well-being and help build strength so you can reach their most important goals and aspirations.
(530) 607-6139 View (530) 607-6139
Photo of Tiffany Avery, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Avery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
My name is Tiffany Marie Avery, and I am Clinical Licensed Social Worker. My approach to therapy is client centered, strength-based and solution focused to help individuals reach their highest potential. My experience is in residential and outpatient substance use treatment, in which I’ve worked with dual-diagnosed clients. My experience has provided me a strong foundation in working to address trauma, depression, anxiety, family issues, and substance use.
My name is Tiffany Marie Avery, and I am Clinical Licensed Social Worker. My approach to therapy is client centered, strength-based and solution focused to help individuals reach their highest potential. My experience is in residential and outpatient substance use treatment, in which I’ve worked with dual-diagnosed clients. My experience has provided me a strong foundation in working to address trauma, depression, anxiety, family issues, and substance use.
(619) 815-5484 View (619) 815-5484
Photo of Jose Ruvalcaba, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jose Ruvalcaba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
My name is Jose Ruvalcaba, and I am an LCSW practicing out of Los Angeles CA. My approach to therapy is very much focused on my client's strengths. Some of my main focus areas include depression, anxiety, grief, and stress management. My therapeutic approach is centered on the strengths and motivational factors of my clients. I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my sessions. Additionally, I incorporate motivational interviewing techniques in my practice. The majority of my work with clients is centered on symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, stress management, and developmental trauma.
My name is Jose Ruvalcaba, and I am an LCSW practicing out of Los Angeles CA. My approach to therapy is very much focused on my client's strengths. Some of my main focus areas include depression, anxiety, grief, and stress management. My therapeutic approach is centered on the strengths and motivational factors of my clients. I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my sessions. Additionally, I incorporate motivational interviewing techniques in my practice. The majority of my work with clients is centered on symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, stress management, and developmental trauma.
(657) 500-0966 View (657) 500-0966
Photo of Shenae Brown, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shenae Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
I have experience treating issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, bipolar, personality disorders, interpersonal violence, grief and loss, culture, cultural and systemic oppression, family or origin, and life purpose.
I am client-centered, compassionate, empathetic, hopeful and believe we all need help and support during life. I believe it's important to have a working and collaborative professional therapeutic relationship.
I have experience treating issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, bipolar, personality disorders, interpersonal violence, grief and loss, culture, cultural and systemic oppression, family or origin, and life purpose.
I am client-centered, compassionate, empathetic, hopeful and believe we all need help and support during life. I believe it's important to have a working and collaborative professional therapeutic relationship.
(323) 794-0939 View (323) 794-0939
Photo of You Her, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
You Her
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
Hi, my name are You Her. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I've worked in the mental health field for over 5 years and focus on helping others who with a variety of mental health challenges, especially challenges with Depression and Anxiety. Other areas I've helped individuals through include experiences with trauma, life changes, self-esteem, and cultural stress. Theoretical approaches I utilize include CBT, Solution Focused, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Hi, my name are You Her. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I've worked in the mental health field for over 5 years and focus on helping others who with a variety of mental health challenges, especially challenges with Depression and Anxiety. Other areas I've helped individuals through include experiences with trauma, life changes, self-esteem, and cultural stress. Theoretical approaches I utilize include CBT, Solution Focused, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
(707) 985-7259 View (707) 985-7259
Photo of Lisette Medina, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lisette Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Altadena, CA 91001
Waitlist for new clients
So many of us feel stuck while facing challenges within important relationships, career, or when questioning our identity and authenticity. My specialization lies in helping you decrease the influence of anxiety, stress, and depression in your daily life, which often stem from complex relationships and/or traumatic experiences. I'm here to provide the assistance you need on this journey. I'm fluent in both English and Spanish, and I'm deeply committed to inclusivity. My therapeutic approach is comprehensive, delving into the intricate connections between your thoughts, emotions, and body.
So many of us feel stuck while facing challenges within important relationships, career, or when questioning our identity and authenticity. My specialization lies in helping you decrease the influence of anxiety, stress, and depression in your daily life, which often stem from complex relationships and/or traumatic experiences. I'm here to provide the assistance you need on this journey. I'm fluent in both English and Spanish, and I'm deeply committed to inclusivity. My therapeutic approach is comprehensive, delving into the intricate connections between your thoughts, emotions, and body.
(213) 674-4158 View (213) 674-4158
Photo of Rebecca Bruno, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Bruno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Altadena, CA 91001
I specialize in depth and somatic psychotherapies that support anxiety, persistent depression, complex trauma, self esteem issues, relationship issues, dream tending, adoption issues, attachment wounds, grief, religious trauma, life transitions, and spiritual growth.
It's natural to feel lost sometimes. When you are overwhelmed, lonely, fearful, or disconnected, a space to express yourself genuinely with a witness can be a gentle haven. Many people I see seek relief, change, growth, connection, and betterment in their lives. They are interested in tending to what has been holding them back and gaining the tools needed to heal wounded parts. Finding a trusted ally is an important step in receiving the help that you need to live fully, as you truly are. I believe in the medicinal properties of the therapeutic relationship and it is my honor to be a supportive companion along my clients’ journeys.
I specialize in depth and somatic psychotherapies that support anxiety, persistent depression, complex trauma, self esteem issues, relationship issues, dream tending, adoption issues, attachment wounds, grief, religious trauma, life transitions, and spiritual growth.
It's natural to feel lost sometimes. When you are overwhelmed, lonely, fearful, or disconnected, a space to express yourself genuinely with a witness can be a gentle haven. Many people I see seek relief, change, growth, connection, and betterment in their lives. They are interested in tending to what has been holding them back and gaining the tools needed to heal wounded parts. Finding a trusted ally is an important step in receiving the help that you need to live fully, as you truly are. I believe in the medicinal properties of the therapeutic relationship and it is my honor to be a supportive companion along my clients’ journeys.
(323) 615-1426 View (323) 615-1426
Photo of Claudia Owens Shields, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Claudia Owens Shields
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
Waitlist for new clients
I will give you a space to think out loud and speak freely so that together we can explore your thoughts and feelings and identify ways to relieve anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, so that you can find strength and courage to live your best life.
I listen deeply and without assumptions or judgment, seeking to fully understand your concerns, feelings and life experiences. My first goal is for you to feel accurately seen and heard, so that you feel safe, understood and valued. Together we will create a healing relationship, that is completely confidential.
I will give you a space to think out loud and speak freely so that together we can explore your thoughts and feelings and identify ways to relieve anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, so that you can find strength and courage to live your best life.
I listen deeply and without assumptions or judgment, seeking to fully understand your concerns, feelings and life experiences. My first goal is for you to feel accurately seen and heard, so that you feel safe, understood and valued. Together we will create a healing relationship, that is completely confidential.
(626) 507-2452 View (626) 507-2452
Photo of Raquel Acosta, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Raquel Acosta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
Throughout my years in practice, I have provided individual therapy to a diverse adult clientele diagnosed with or experiencing, Social Phobia, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Stress, Abuse, Low Self Esteem, Relationship Issues, Family Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Workplace Challenges, and Court Mandated Cases, and other issues.
My name is Raquel Acosta, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use a therapeutic approach that is warm, supportive, engaging, and collaborative. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, empathic, and non-judgmental space where you can work through any life challenges you are experiencing.
Throughout my years in practice, I have provided individual therapy to a diverse adult clientele diagnosed with or experiencing, Social Phobia, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Stress, Abuse, Low Self Esteem, Relationship Issues, Family Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Workplace Challenges, and Court Mandated Cases, and other issues.
My name is Raquel Acosta, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use a therapeutic approach that is warm, supportive, engaging, and collaborative. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, empathic, and non-judgmental space where you can work through any life challenges you are experiencing.
(805) 790-7603 View (805) 790-7603
Photo of Alan Richardson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alan Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
Alan Richardson-LCSW I am primarily interested in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist individuals who are struggling with issues of anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience working with older adults and issues of aging. I also have experience with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and challenges faced by families of persons on the Autism Spectrum. I am primarily interested in working with adults. I am interested in assisting clients to address issues of anxiety, depression and low self esteem.
Alan Richardson-LCSW I am primarily interested in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist individuals who are struggling with issues of anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience working with older adults and issues of aging. I also have experience with individuals on the Autism Spectrum and challenges faced by families of persons on the Autism Spectrum. I am primarily interested in working with adults. I am interested in assisting clients to address issues of anxiety, depression and low self esteem.
(760) 289-3397 View (760) 289-3397
Photo of Mashallah Shakur, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mashallah Shakur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Altadena, CA 91001
My name is Mashallah "Marsha" Shakur. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, based in in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults of all ages, with a particular focus on seniors and younger adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression and grief and loss, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy to address the concerns presented by my clients and assist them in progressing towards their goals.
My name is Mashallah "Marsha" Shakur. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, based in in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults of all ages, with a particular focus on seniors and younger adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression and grief and loss, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy to address the concerns presented by my clients and assist them in progressing towards their goals.
(661) 384-6056 View (661) 384-6056
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.