Depression Therapists in Bellflower, CA
![Photo of Phil White, CP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d0f2331-716b-44b6-a3c3-a95f02300116/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety and both short and long term depression whether it is your first-time experiencing depression or you have struggled with it all your life, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in setting realistic, achievable goals then building on the success of having reached them. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety and both short and long term depression whether it is your first-time experiencing depression or you have struggled with it all your life, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in setting realistic, achievable goals then building on the success of having reached them. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
![Photo of Michael Brooks, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0afd31c-5d14-4516-b98a-c82a70b48939/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Michael Brooks, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I take a very direct compassionate approach to therapy. My main focus areas of practice are PTSD, anxiety, and depression. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches during my therapy work however, my most common theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, and Positive Psychology. The type of clients I typically work with are trauma survivors. I am most comfortable treating trauma of all sorts, depression, anxiety as well as couples working through infidelity and other problems in their relationships.
My name is Michael Brooks, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I take a very direct compassionate approach to therapy. My main focus areas of practice are PTSD, anxiety, and depression. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches during my therapy work however, my most common theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, and Positive Psychology. The type of clients I typically work with are trauma survivors. I am most comfortable treating trauma of all sorts, depression, anxiety as well as couples working through infidelity and other problems in their relationships.
![Photo of Zully Garcia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46d7aa71-ed0a-49d8-be6c-5b6e3296f5a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Zully Garcia and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based out of Southern California, but I provide therapy services statewide through telehealth. Are you happy with your life? How well are you coping with your stressors? What changes do you want to make? I work with women, teens and children. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, women's and children's issues using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy to help my clients feel better and obtain the results for their life they want. This is your time. Let's work together to so that you can make the changes you want in your life.
Hi! My name is Zully Garcia and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based out of Southern California, but I provide therapy services statewide through telehealth. Are you happy with your life? How well are you coping with your stressors? What changes do you want to make? I work with women, teens and children. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, women's and children's issues using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy to help my clients feel better and obtain the results for their life they want. This is your time. Let's work together to so that you can make the changes you want in your life.
![Photo of Jazmin Sepulveda, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c141c018-1b78-4645-a63d-77daa7159c6e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jazmin Sepulveda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellflower, CA 90706 (Online Only)
I have assisted clients dealing with trauma, anxiety, family issues, grief, adjusting to motherhood, and depression.
Greetings, I'm Jazmin Sepulveda, a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist (LCSW) with expertise in child, adolescent, and adult therapy. My aim is to assist clients in comprehending the origins of their mental health issues and discovering the transformative power of addressing trauma. I believe in a collaborative therapy method, where I accompany you on the path to healing. My initial aim is to establish a safe and comfortable counseling environment. Finding a therapist who resonates with you and with whom you feel comfortable is essential for achieving the best progress in your therapy journey.
I have assisted clients dealing with trauma, anxiety, family issues, grief, adjusting to motherhood, and depression.
Greetings, I'm Jazmin Sepulveda, a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist (LCSW) with expertise in child, adolescent, and adult therapy. My aim is to assist clients in comprehending the origins of their mental health issues and discovering the transformative power of addressing trauma. I believe in a collaborative therapy method, where I accompany you on the path to healing. My initial aim is to establish a safe and comfortable counseling environment. Finding a therapist who resonates with you and with whom you feel comfortable is essential for achieving the best progress in your therapy journey.
![Photo of Michelle Doucette, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b26ebb0-d121-498a-8a9a-d8432824150a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Michelle Doucette LMFT. I take a strengths based, motivational approach with my clients to meet them where they are at, and help them achieve their desired goals. I help my clients manage their moods, reduce anxiety and depression, and manage stress and adjustment. My modalities include Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and several others. I work with clients to assist them in exploring and identifying realistic and achievable goals along with helping them develop a clear path to achieving those goals.
Hi, my name is Michelle Doucette LMFT. I take a strengths based, motivational approach with my clients to meet them where they are at, and help them achieve their desired goals. I help my clients manage their moods, reduce anxiety and depression, and manage stress and adjustment. My modalities include Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and several others. I work with clients to assist them in exploring and identifying realistic and achievable goals along with helping them develop a clear path to achieving those goals.
![Photo of Janine Ochoa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b16f542-c36c-43c9-8fc1-d97d4adc29df/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Janine Ochoa, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have worked with adolescents in foster care, as well as currently working with adults in substance counseling, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, just to name a few. I have used many approaches, however, have enhanced my skills in cognitive behavioral therapy and attachment-based therapy, to assist my clients in learning coping skills and enhancing their own self-determination. I have seen how the approach I utilize has helped adolescents and adults who have been enduring challenges with belonging and self-acceptance.
My name is Janine Ochoa, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have worked with adolescents in foster care, as well as currently working with adults in substance counseling, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, just to name a few. I have used many approaches, however, have enhanced my skills in cognitive behavioral therapy and attachment-based therapy, to assist my clients in learning coping skills and enhancing their own self-determination. I have seen how the approach I utilize has helped adolescents and adults who have been enduring challenges with belonging and self-acceptance.
![Photo of Irene Leyva, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea4ac92f-e210-4441-b4ea-ab9986e8b5eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Most of my experience has been helping those that have experienced trauma, anxiety, and depression.
I am here to provide support and guidance for you by building on your strengths. We can explore your unique qualities and bring them to the forefront. I have extensive knowledge of principles, methods and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders. I have led clients through marital and family conflict resolution by assisting in the recognition of behavioral patterns.
Most of my experience has been helping those that have experienced trauma, anxiety, and depression.
I am here to provide support and guidance for you by building on your strengths. We can explore your unique qualities and bring them to the forefront. I have extensive knowledge of principles, methods and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders. I have led clients through marital and family conflict resolution by assisting in the recognition of behavioral patterns.
![Photo of Heather Gold, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc5a3a3c-521e-430e-b7f0-547527910dfe/1/320x400.png)
My name is Heather Gold, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Redding, California, and working with clients statewide via teletherapy. I work with adults and specialize in hoarding, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Grief/Loss Support. My approach to therapy is based on one of collaboration for I see each client as having their own expertise that I help.
My name is Heather Gold, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Redding, California, and working with clients statewide via teletherapy. I work with adults and specialize in hoarding, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Grief/Loss Support. My approach to therapy is based on one of collaboration for I see each client as having their own expertise that I help.
![Photo of Monique Hart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfe83408-6953-4464-b0a9-935b48833794/1/320x400.jpeg)
CA License 120795. Hello, I am Monique L Hart, MSW, LCSW, the Owner and President of 3Q’s & Hart Counseling, LLC. I am a single mother of three sons who represent the 3Q’s in 3Q’s & Hart Counseling. My vision for 3Q’s & Hart Counseling is that it is a safe haven for single mothers struggling with depression and anxiety. You will learn how to fully embrace the present moment, stress management techniques, and improve your self-care routine.
CA License 120795. Hello, I am Monique L Hart, MSW, LCSW, the Owner and President of 3Q’s & Hart Counseling, LLC. I am a single mother of three sons who represent the 3Q’s in 3Q’s & Hart Counseling. My vision for 3Q’s & Hart Counseling is that it is a safe haven for single mothers struggling with depression and anxiety. You will learn how to fully embrace the present moment, stress management techniques, and improve your self-care routine.
![Photo of Ziesha Waters-Carrico, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/646e73a7-e3fd-42f8-92a9-1b911bb720a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Ziesha Waters-Carrico, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Los Angeles, CA. I have spent my career working with people with symptoms of depression and anxiety that have become unmanageable. Using the Cognitive Behavior (CBT) approach, and other evidence-based practices, I assist clients with overcoming negative thinking and achieving personal growth. Typically, I work with adult professionals whose symptoms of depression and anxiety are not only affecting work and innovation but also impacting other areas of their lives (relationships, daily living, self-esteem, and social activities).
Hello, my name is Ziesha Waters-Carrico, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Los Angeles, CA. I have spent my career working with people with symptoms of depression and anxiety that have become unmanageable. Using the Cognitive Behavior (CBT) approach, and other evidence-based practices, I assist clients with overcoming negative thinking and achieving personal growth. Typically, I work with adult professionals whose symptoms of depression and anxiety are not only affecting work and innovation but also impacting other areas of their lives (relationships, daily living, self-esteem, and social activities).
![Photo of Rosalva Escanuela-Starkweather, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d6cd74f-dc29-4fd7-afd6-60d3dd1722a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rosalva Escanuela-Starkweather
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellflower, CA 90706
My approach is client-centered. I believe in meeting the needs of the client based on their level of functioning. I will work collaboratively with my clients to identify their strengths and/or concerns. Therapy for anxiety, Fear, and Stress. Therapy for Depression and Mood changes; therapy for Teens; Therapy for Trauma, Abuse and Neglect; Therapy for grief and loss; Adoption process.
My approach is client-centered. I believe in meeting the needs of the client based on their level of functioning. I will work collaboratively with my clients to identify their strengths and/or concerns. Therapy for anxiety, Fear, and Stress. Therapy for Depression and Mood changes; therapy for Teens; Therapy for Trauma, Abuse and Neglect; Therapy for grief and loss; Adoption process.
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![Photo of Julelisa Beltran, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66c12661-1ea9-46a5-8af9-23a6d8fc7f11/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Julelisa Beltran. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about supporting others through life's challenges. Together we will create goals to help you overcome internal struggles and to experience healing and growth in your life. I have experience working with children and adolescents who struggle with anxiety and depression, PTSD, victims of abuse (e.g., child abuse, witnessed a crime or domestic violence), behavioral concerns associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Conduct Disorder, and Emotional Disturbance.
Hi, my name is Julelisa Beltran. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about supporting others through life's challenges. Together we will create goals to help you overcome internal struggles and to experience healing and growth in your life. I have experience working with children and adolescents who struggle with anxiety and depression, PTSD, victims of abuse (e.g., child abuse, witnessed a crime or domestic violence), behavioral concerns associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Conduct Disorder, and Emotional Disturbance.
![Photo of Simone Elliott, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e9656e5-a805-4cb3-bc76-305b1bfac926/2/320x400.jpeg)
Simone Elliott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bellflower, CA 90706
Whatever you have been through, or are going through, you have a right to find peace, enjoy your relationships, and create a life you love. Making changes can be a difficult process, with obstacles like depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, lack of support, or difficulty communicating. Whether you are an adult who feels lost or stuck, a young person struggling to find your way, or a parent desperate to find help for your child, I am here to help you explore solutions and get back on track. My role is to be your mirror, guide, and anchor, as we clarify your goals and navigate your path toward them together.
Whatever you have been through, or are going through, you have a right to find peace, enjoy your relationships, and create a life you love. Making changes can be a difficult process, with obstacles like depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, lack of support, or difficulty communicating. Whether you are an adult who feels lost or stuck, a young person struggling to find your way, or a parent desperate to find help for your child, I am here to help you explore solutions and get back on track. My role is to be your mirror, guide, and anchor, as we clarify your goals and navigate your path toward them together.
![Photo of Linda Flores, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ec4d065-eb08-4d67-b47a-d54cf3b418aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Linda Flores and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm here to provide you with a judgement free zone in which you can reflect on how you want to live your life. I typically support young adults and adolescents who are struggling with depression, anxiety, family conflict, generational differences, or life dissatisfaction related to work or relationships. You can always expect me to be calm, friendly, flexible, and most of all empathic. I understand that it takes time to trust someone and that opening up about your thoughts and feelings may not come naturally, so I will meet you at your pace.
Hi, I'm Linda Flores and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm here to provide you with a judgement free zone in which you can reflect on how you want to live your life. I typically support young adults and adolescents who are struggling with depression, anxiety, family conflict, generational differences, or life dissatisfaction related to work or relationships. You can always expect me to be calm, friendly, flexible, and most of all empathic. I understand that it takes time to trust someone and that opening up about your thoughts and feelings may not come naturally, so I will meet you at your pace.
![Photo of Vivian Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1786e5f2-41f0-4d33-8cb0-e01141f42857/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma.
My name is Vivian E. Johnson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I predominately utilize the psychodynamic approach. I work with individuals, families, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I help clients recognize their recurring unhelpful thought, emotional and behavioral patterns, and the defense mechanisms they've developed to avoid distress and cope with stress. This insight may allow them to begin changing those patterns and develop more helpful and healthier ways to cope with life stressors.
I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma.
My name is Vivian E. Johnson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I predominately utilize the psychodynamic approach. I work with individuals, families, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I help clients recognize their recurring unhelpful thought, emotional and behavioral patterns, and the defense mechanisms they've developed to avoid distress and cope with stress. This insight may allow them to begin changing those patterns and develop more helpful and healthier ways to cope with life stressors.
![Photo of Jonathan Gomez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c98083f5-6ac7-419c-b8d9-c6d406b29760/2/320x400.png)
My name is Jonathan Gomez LMFT 135094. My Specialty areas include Depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, childhood trauma and past trauma, grief and loss, parenting issues, anger management and life transitions. My therapy approaches are mainly Gestalt although I was also trained in psychodynamic and trauma informed care. I Work with adults and teenagers. Bilingual: Spanish. I typically work with Adults and teenagers. I love seeing the change in the client. Once change happens, it is like a whirlwind. That drives me to continue to do this work.
My name is Jonathan Gomez LMFT 135094. My Specialty areas include Depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, childhood trauma and past trauma, grief and loss, parenting issues, anger management and life transitions. My therapy approaches are mainly Gestalt although I was also trained in psychodynamic and trauma informed care. I Work with adults and teenagers. Bilingual: Spanish. I typically work with Adults and teenagers. I love seeing the change in the client. Once change happens, it is like a whirlwind. That drives me to continue to do this work.
![Photo of Barbara Hernandez, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f66cb2c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellflower, CA 90706
I have been working in the field of social services for the past 20 years and as a therapist for the last 18 years. Now I have a group practice of over 15 Therapist helping me offer comprehensive services. I have been licensed as an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2008 and as an Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor since 2014. I currently work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents. I treat many issues, ranging from depression, anxiety, child behavioral problems and trauma. If you are looking for another treatment specialty, call the office and I can see which therapist can best server you,
I have been working in the field of social services for the past 20 years and as a therapist for the last 18 years. Now I have a group practice of over 15 Therapist helping me offer comprehensive services. I have been licensed as an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2008 and as an Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor since 2014. I currently work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents. I treat many issues, ranging from depression, anxiety, child behavioral problems and trauma. If you are looking for another treatment specialty, call the office and I can see which therapist can best server you,
![Photo of Marisela Adams, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/febc5e60-4ee9-4847-93be-7584d824de0d/1/320x400.png)
I specialize in treating trauma, loss and grief, OCD, panic disorder, mood dysregulation, anxiety, and depression.
Hello, my name is Marisela Adams, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 19 years of experience in the mental health field. My passion has always been to assist those in need and to provide the necessary tools for a healthier state of mind and well-being. I have experience in working with children (9-12 years old), teens, and adults. use screening measures to track and monitor progress throughout treatment. I use evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focus-CBT, and CBT-Insomnia.
I specialize in treating trauma, loss and grief, OCD, panic disorder, mood dysregulation, anxiety, and depression.
Hello, my name is Marisela Adams, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 19 years of experience in the mental health field. My passion has always been to assist those in need and to provide the necessary tools for a healthier state of mind and well-being. I have experience in working with children (9-12 years old), teens, and adults. use screening measures to track and monitor progress throughout treatment. I use evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focus-CBT, and CBT-Insomnia.
![Photo of Susette Abbas, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6789e611-728e-4092-838d-9b3f61bcefd0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Susette! I have been a therapist for the past 12 years and have worked with adolescents and adults, as well as children and families from diverse backgrounds. My focus has been primarily on depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, life transitions, and pregnancy/postpartum concerns. y approach to therapy is an integration of the psychodynamic approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as mind/body and mindfulness techniques. This essentially means that we would be collaboratively exploring thoughts, beliefs, and personal narratives and adjusting narratives that are false or faulty.
Hi there, I'm Susette! I have been a therapist for the past 12 years and have worked with adolescents and adults, as well as children and families from diverse backgrounds. My focus has been primarily on depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, life transitions, and pregnancy/postpartum concerns. y approach to therapy is an integration of the psychodynamic approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as mind/body and mindfulness techniques. This essentially means that we would be collaboratively exploring thoughts, beliefs, and personal narratives and adjusting narratives that are false or faulty.
![Photo of Laura Nelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e140d792-8bba-48af-93fb-6ad9917b8bc7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi; My name is Laura Nelson (I go by Lori). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have 24 years of experience. I worked in schools as a School Social Worker for 12 years and have worked in the prison system for the last 11 years. My approach to therapy is based on building a relationship of trust, warmth, and acceptance. I have expertise in the areas of autism, anger management, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and various issues concerning children. I have experience treating adults with depression, anxiety, anger management issues, relationship problems, parenting issues, and stress and time management.
Hi; My name is Laura Nelson (I go by Lori). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have 24 years of experience. I worked in schools as a School Social Worker for 12 years and have worked in the prison system for the last 11 years. My approach to therapy is based on building a relationship of trust, warmth, and acceptance. I have expertise in the areas of autism, anger management, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and various issues concerning children. I have experience treating adults with depression, anxiety, anger management issues, relationship problems, parenting issues, and stress and time management.
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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.