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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sally Castillo - Alta Loma Counseling, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alta Loma Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Beaumont, CA 92223
Specialties: Depression/Anxiety Family Issues/Relationship Issues Couples/Marital Therapy Phase of life transitions Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Crisis Intervention Grief and Bereavement Sexual Abuse Gay/Lesbian Issues Provider for Victim Witness Program.
As a highly skilled therapist,Iam dedicated in assisting my clients in developing coping skills,providing support and insight that will enable them to manage life's difficult challenges. As an interactive,insight-oriented therapist,I join with my clients in exploring options that will bring resolution to a wide range of problems and traumatic events.I offer a non-judgmental environment where clients can feel safe in discussing thier innermost concerns.Together we will recognize and work through uncomfortable and dysfunctional patterns of behavior,and replace them with new healthier alternatives.
Specialties: Depression/Anxiety Family Issues/Relationship Issues Couples/Marital Therapy Phase of life transitions Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Crisis Intervention Grief and Bereavement Sexual Abuse Gay/Lesbian Issues Provider for Victim Witness Program.
As a highly skilled therapist,Iam dedicated in assisting my clients in developing coping skills,providing support and insight that will enable them to manage life's difficult challenges. As an interactive,insight-oriented therapist,I join with my clients in exploring options that will bring resolution to a wide range of problems and traumatic events.I offer a non-judgmental environment where clients can feel safe in discussing thier innermost concerns.Together we will recognize and work through uncomfortable and dysfunctional patterns of behavior,and replace them with new healthier alternatives.
(909) 638-2759 View (909) 638-2759

Online Therapists

Photo of Tara Fairbanks, PhD, Psychologist
Tara Fairbanks
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I have specialized training in couples therapy, as well as in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, issues related to life transitions, parenting, and body image disturbances.
My aim is to help you live with a feeling of wholeness and sturdiness, even when life is difficult. You need no longer feel tired, never enough, and at the mercy of your own performance. I encourage my clients to dream bravely about the changes they hope to see in their lives. We work to get there by identifying and shifting the patterns keeping them stuck, with the goal of cultivating more meaningful relationships, as well as greater freedom and joy. I am passionate about working with people on relationship issues, whether you are single or in a relationship.
I have specialized training in couples therapy, as well as in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, issues related to life transitions, parenting, and body image disturbances.
My aim is to help you live with a feeling of wholeness and sturdiness, even when life is difficult. You need no longer feel tired, never enough, and at the mercy of your own performance. I encourage my clients to dream bravely about the changes they hope to see in their lives. We work to get there by identifying and shifting the patterns keeping them stuck, with the goal of cultivating more meaningful relationships, as well as greater freedom and joy. I am passionate about working with people on relationship issues, whether you are single or in a relationship.
(323) 843-6202 View (323) 843-6202
Photo of Valerie Rock, PsyD, Psychologist
Valerie Rock
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and adolescent difficulties.
I believe in providing a collaborative and supportive environment to maximize the therapeutic experience. I help clients cope with negative thoughts and behaviors that may hinder relationships and overall quality of life. Therapy is focused on building and nurturing interpersonal relationships and decreasing daily stress, by assisting clients in capitalizing on strengths and defining goals.
I have extensive experience in treating depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and adolescent difficulties.
I believe in providing a collaborative and supportive environment to maximize the therapeutic experience. I help clients cope with negative thoughts and behaviors that may hinder relationships and overall quality of life. Therapy is focused on building and nurturing interpersonal relationships and decreasing daily stress, by assisting clients in capitalizing on strengths and defining goals.
(619) 405-9898 View (619) 405-9898
Photo of Tara Vatankhah, MA, LMFT, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tara Vatankhah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049
My areas of focus include relationship issues, female mental health, self-esteem, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
The natural ebb & flow of life can at times make us feel disconnected, lost or confused. Therapy can facilitate in building self-awareness & help put the pieces back together. I would feel honored to be part of your healing journey. The suffering we experience can become a gift if we work through it. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on the idea that wisdom lives within all of us. My hope is to help you tap into & live from that place of connection to your own unique inner compass. I utilize mindfulness, somatic, narrative, CBT & family systems theoretical frameworks to help you create & lead a more fulfilling life.
My areas of focus include relationship issues, female mental health, self-esteem, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
The natural ebb & flow of life can at times make us feel disconnected, lost or confused. Therapy can facilitate in building self-awareness & help put the pieces back together. I would feel honored to be part of your healing journey. The suffering we experience can become a gift if we work through it. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on the idea that wisdom lives within all of us. My hope is to help you tap into & live from that place of connection to your own unique inner compass. I utilize mindfulness, somatic, narrative, CBT & family systems theoretical frameworks to help you create & lead a more fulfilling life.
(213) 376-3065 View (213) 376-3065
Photo of Alexandria 'sasha' Taylor, MS, LMFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandria 'sasha' Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Claremont, CA 91711
These approaches can help transform trauma, anxiety, and depression by rewiring the brain and calming the body.
Are you struggling with your relationship with food, body image or anxiety? You might find yourself binging, emotionally eating, or obsessing about food and weight. Food and feelings become deeply intertwined to survive overwhelming events, which may start in childhood. You might have crippling anxiety, feel the need to be perfect, feel sad, overthink, and feel desperate for help. I help women heal from trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. You don’t have to suffer alone, healing is possible.
These approaches can help transform trauma, anxiety, and depression by rewiring the brain and calming the body.
Are you struggling with your relationship with food, body image or anxiety? You might find yourself binging, emotionally eating, or obsessing about food and weight. Food and feelings become deeply intertwined to survive overwhelming events, which may start in childhood. You might have crippling anxiety, feel the need to be perfect, feel sad, overthink, and feel desperate for help. I help women heal from trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. You don’t have to suffer alone, healing is possible.
(909) 473-4945 View (909) 473-4945
Photo of Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
My specialty includes working with disorders such as Bipolar spectrum, schizophrenia, anxiety, phobias, borderline personality, and depression.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
My specialty includes working with disorders such as Bipolar spectrum, schizophrenia, anxiety, phobias, borderline personality, and depression.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
(619) 304-3617 View (619) 304-3617
Photo of Jennifer Cruz, LMFT, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults currently facing emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, and mood instability.
I work with individuals adult, children, and families to help them develop healthy, growing relationships with one another, addressing struggles in family dynamics and helping individuals deal with relationship problems, as well as depression and anxiety. My therapeutic approach, developed over 15 years of working with children and families in varying capacities is a collaborative one, aiming to enhance self-understanding, and promotions of personal growth. I am committed to working with you toward a positive solution to the situation causing distress.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults currently facing emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, and mood instability.
I work with individuals adult, children, and families to help them develop healthy, growing relationships with one another, addressing struggles in family dynamics and helping individuals deal with relationship problems, as well as depression and anxiety. My therapeutic approach, developed over 15 years of working with children and families in varying capacities is a collaborative one, aiming to enhance self-understanding, and promotions of personal growth. I am committed to working with you toward a positive solution to the situation causing distress.
(530) 882-3169 View (530) 882-3169
Photo of Michelle Lalouche-Kadden, PhD, Psychologist
Michelle Lalouche-Kadden
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Psychotherapy is a process of exploration, discovery and growth. I work with patients who want to learn about themselves in a safe and caring environment. Whether you are in crisis, have overwhelming stress, have family of origin issues, depression/anxiety or just need support for the many issues people face today; call my office to see how I might be of help and support to you. I work from a relational and contemporary psychodynamic model of therapy, meeting the needs of each person as an individual. I use modalties such as insight/relationally oriented psychotherapy, and psychoanalysis.
Psychotherapy is a process of exploration, discovery and growth. I work with patients who want to learn about themselves in a safe and caring environment. Whether you are in crisis, have overwhelming stress, have family of origin issues, depression/anxiety or just need support for the many issues people face today; call my office to see how I might be of help and support to you. I work from a relational and contemporary psychodynamic model of therapy, meeting the needs of each person as an individual. I use modalties such as insight/relationally oriented psychotherapy, and psychoanalysis.
(858) 367-3961 View (858) 367-3961
Photo of Amy Sobelman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Sobelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Do you feel stuck in a cycle of dysfunctional relationships and self-destructive patterns in your life? Are symptoms of anxiety and depression diminishing your quality of life? Do painful memories of the past continue to bother you? Have you tried to resolve these problems on your own or through traditional talk therapy with little success? Most treatment models fail to identify and address the trauma that underlies so many of the problems that people seek help for. A trauma-informed approach to treatment is necessary in order to fully resolve the root of the issues and create meaningful and lasting change.
Do you feel stuck in a cycle of dysfunctional relationships and self-destructive patterns in your life? Are symptoms of anxiety and depression diminishing your quality of life? Do painful memories of the past continue to bother you? Have you tried to resolve these problems on your own or through traditional talk therapy with little success? Most treatment models fail to identify and address the trauma that underlies so many of the problems that people seek help for. A trauma-informed approach to treatment is necessary in order to fully resolve the root of the issues and create meaningful and lasting change.
(424) 323-4083 View (424) 323-4083
Photo of Melissa F. Pedersen Ma Mft Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa F. Pedersen Ma Mft Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Pedro, CA 90732
My team treats a number of different populations such as children, teens, families, adults, senior citizens, couples and people of all ages who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties.
Hello and welcome! My name is Melissa Pedersen and I am a local therapist in the San Pedro area. The goal of my team is to provide all clients with a comfortable, confidential, and non-judgmental setting where concerns can be explored and addressed. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is an effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and other issues.
My team treats a number of different populations such as children, teens, families, adults, senior citizens, couples and people of all ages who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties.
Hello and welcome! My name is Melissa Pedersen and I am a local therapist in the San Pedro area. The goal of my team is to provide all clients with a comfortable, confidential, and non-judgmental setting where concerns can be explored and addressed. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is an effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and other issues.
(424) 258-5115 View (424) 258-5115
Photo of Rachel Negar Partiali, PhD, Psychologist
Rachel Negar Partiali
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I have worked with individuals who have experienced trauma, eating disorders, acculturation issues, self-destructive behaviors, anxiety, depression, loss, identity issues, and life transitions.
Taking the first step toward your healing requires courage and I acknowledge the effort you have put forth. Perhaps you have reached a point where you need more awareness in order to deal with your present circumstances. I am a clinical psychologist with several years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and couples. I provide in-depth therapy where we both can begin to explore the underlying causes of your emotional symptoms. I view my role as a psychologist as one who guides you through the healing process. I believe that in order for this to occur, respect, safety, understanding and awareness must be present.
I have worked with individuals who have experienced trauma, eating disorders, acculturation issues, self-destructive behaviors, anxiety, depression, loss, identity issues, and life transitions.
Taking the first step toward your healing requires courage and I acknowledge the effort you have put forth. Perhaps you have reached a point where you need more awareness in order to deal with your present circumstances. I am a clinical psychologist with several years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and couples. I provide in-depth therapy where we both can begin to explore the underlying causes of your emotional symptoms. I view my role as a psychologist as one who guides you through the healing process. I believe that in order for this to occur, respect, safety, understanding and awareness must be present.
(310) 896-5932 View (310) 896-5932
Photo of Lisa Waldman - Lisa Waldman, LCSW, MPH, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Waldman, LCSW, MPH
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I work with all ages, backgrounds & orientations, treating pain, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss, food issues, career dilemmas, parenting, couples, etc.
Seeking help is a sign of self-awareness & readiness for change. Perhaps you're feeling out control with emotional pain, behavior, or relationships. You may be dealing with chronic health issues involving physical pain & psychological symptoms. As a therapist, health educator, pain specialist for 30 + yrs, I offer compassion & collaboration to help you overcome unhealthy patterns, depression, anxiety, somatic (pain) symptoms, poor self-image, or grief in a safe and nonjudgmental space. Together we will explore the root causes of symptoms, help you identify counterproductive patterns and develop healthy new healthy coping strategies.
I work with all ages, backgrounds & orientations, treating pain, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss, food issues, career dilemmas, parenting, couples, etc.
Seeking help is a sign of self-awareness & readiness for change. Perhaps you're feeling out control with emotional pain, behavior, or relationships. You may be dealing with chronic health issues involving physical pain & psychological symptoms. As a therapist, health educator, pain specialist for 30 + yrs, I offer compassion & collaboration to help you overcome unhealthy patterns, depression, anxiety, somatic (pain) symptoms, poor self-image, or grief in a safe and nonjudgmental space. Together we will explore the root causes of symptoms, help you identify counterproductive patterns and develop healthy new healthy coping strategies.
(424) 888-7826 View (424) 888-7826
Photo of Emily Poulos, LCPC, Counselor
Emily Poulos
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Huntington Park, CA 90255
I have the most experience working with clients dealing with the following issues: anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, women's issues, relationship distress, panic/ panic attacks, adjustment, stress, eating disorders, and many others.
Hi there, I'm Emily Poulos! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I believe that all clients have the power to make changes in their life within them. As a therapist, my job is to just come alongside the client to support in that change and transformation. Understanding why people suffer, how they change, and how to help them live more satisfying and gratifying lives is a fascinating, huge, and important undertaking. -Sommers-Flanagan & Sommers-Flanagan.
I have the most experience working with clients dealing with the following issues: anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, women's issues, relationship distress, panic/ panic attacks, adjustment, stress, eating disorders, and many others.
Hi there, I'm Emily Poulos! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I believe that all clients have the power to make changes in their life within them. As a therapist, my job is to just come alongside the client to support in that change and transformation. Understanding why people suffer, how they change, and how to help them live more satisfying and gratifying lives is a fascinating, huge, and important undertaking. -Sommers-Flanagan & Sommers-Flanagan.
(323) 940-5263 View (323) 940-5263
Photo of Jennifer Koch - LifeStance Health, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LifeStance Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Marcos, CA 92069
Our team of psychiatrists, therapists, psychologists, and advanced practice nurses specializes in treating in a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and more.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Our team of psychiatrists, therapists, psychologists, and advanced practice nurses specializes in treating in a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and more.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 701-0498 View (844) 701-0498
Photo of Pear Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pear Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
Seeking therapy is a brave and meaningful step forward! I have been a practicing mental health clinician for the past decade. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and mood disorders. Working together is an exciting journey inwards, where we can name and reshape patterns which drain your energy and really get under the symptoms which hold you back.
Seeking therapy is a brave and meaningful step forward! I have been a practicing mental health clinician for the past decade. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and mood disorders. Working together is an exciting journey inwards, where we can name and reshape patterns which drain your energy and really get under the symptoms which hold you back.
(310) 314-5036 View (310) 314-5036
Photo of Shawnnell Pugh - Enerje Wellness Therapy , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Enerje Wellness Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92504
Our therapists specialize in a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relations.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or struggling with your mental health? Our Riverside Mental Health Therapy Clinic is here to help you find the support and guidance you need. Our team of experienced therapists is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy services to individuals of all ages. Life has many challenges. Navigating those challenges is even harder. Do you find it hard to live life fully and authentically? Are you experiencing poor boundaries in your relationships at home or work? Are you constantly frustrated or engaging in negative thinking? Let us help! You are not alone!
Our therapists specialize in a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relations.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or struggling with your mental health? Our Riverside Mental Health Therapy Clinic is here to help you find the support and guidance you need. Our team of experienced therapists is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy services to individuals of all ages. Life has many challenges. Navigating those challenges is even harder. Do you find it hard to live life fully and authentically? Are you experiencing poor boundaries in your relationships at home or work? Are you constantly frustrated or engaging in negative thinking? Let us help! You are not alone!
(951) 420-7779 View (951) 420-7779
Photo of Caroline Paltin, PhD, Psychologist
Caroline Paltin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92866
I have over 20 years experience as a Licensed Psychologist in private practice currently in Orange, specializing in treating complex trauma, abuse and PTSD, as well as depression, anxiety, grief/loss and life transition issues. I am a Gestalt practitioner and work with experiential and existential approaches with influences of Jungian and intersubjective relational theory. I incorporate art and imagery in creative healing work with adults, adolescents and children, including those living with Asperger's. I am passionate in exploring the unique and extraordinary qualities hidden within my clients, and guiding them toward a life of fascination curiosity and excitement.
I have over 20 years experience as a Licensed Psychologist in private practice currently in Orange, specializing in treating complex trauma, abuse and PTSD, as well as depression, anxiety, grief/loss and life transition issues. I am a Gestalt practitioner and work with experiential and existential approaches with influences of Jungian and intersubjective relational theory. I incorporate art and imagery in creative healing work with adults, adolescents and children, including those living with Asperger's. I am passionate in exploring the unique and extraordinary qualities hidden within my clients, and guiding them toward a life of fascination curiosity and excitement.
(657) 220-8578 View (657) 220-8578
Photo of Nancy Le, LMFT, EdD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Le
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
(424) 239-5995 View (424) 239-5995
Photo of Jennifer Schneider, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Schneider
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607
My areas of specialty include treating individuals with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction and chemical dependency, and eating disorders.
In my therapy practice, I nurture a trusting relationship; one in which clients can feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. I work collaboratively and am interactive in my approach to therapy. I believe it is the relationship between a client and therapist that is paramount in creating lasting change and personal healing. Developing trust, understanding and authenticity is essential before any meaningful healing can take place. I work with my patients to help them achieve an awareness of themselves and their personal histories in order to broaden and deepen their sense of self-efficacy and self-esteem.
My areas of specialty include treating individuals with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction and chemical dependency, and eating disorders.
In my therapy practice, I nurture a trusting relationship; one in which clients can feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. I work collaboratively and am interactive in my approach to therapy. I believe it is the relationship between a client and therapist that is paramount in creating lasting change and personal healing. Developing trust, understanding and authenticity is essential before any meaningful healing can take place. I work with my patients to help them achieve an awareness of themselves and their personal histories in order to broaden and deepen their sense of self-efficacy and self-esteem.
(310) 402-0621 View (310) 402-0621
Photo of Nancy Lee, LMFT, EdD, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nancy Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
(818) 600-6480 View (818) 600-6480
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.