Photo of Sarah Gold, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Gold
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705  (Online Only)
I then integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a proven method to treat depression, anxiety and interpersonal stress.
I take an engaged and collaborative approach in my work with clients. Many people have reported feeling more comfortable with this approach, especially after experiencing therapists who seem to offer little feedback. I am committed that my clients achieve the changes they want. Everyone is unique, and therefore I tailor our work together based on your needs. Some people see me for long periods and others do shorter pieces of work on specific issues. All of our meetings take place online so that you can receive therapy from the comfort of your own home. You can expect a warm, caring and safe space to explore your life and goals.
I then integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a proven method to treat depression, anxiety and interpersonal stress.
I take an engaged and collaborative approach in my work with clients. Many people have reported feeling more comfortable with this approach, especially after experiencing therapists who seem to offer little feedback. I am committed that my clients achieve the changes they want. Everyone is unique, and therefore I tailor our work together based on your needs. Some people see me for long periods and others do shorter pieces of work on specific issues. All of our meetings take place online so that you can receive therapy from the comfort of your own home. You can expect a warm, caring and safe space to explore your life and goals.
(341) 212-7673 View (341) 212-7673
Photo of Anna Guha, Anna Guha, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Guha
Marriage & Family Therapist, Anna Guha, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94709  (Online Only)
I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with six years of clinical counseling experience. I have worked closely with individuals struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, chronic illness and relationship issues. I’ve helped people ranging in age from eight to eighty-six feel better about themselves and learn how to adapt and thrive in change. My therapeutic approach blends CBT and humanistic therapies with a existential stance.
I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with six years of clinical counseling experience. I have worked closely with individuals struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, chronic illness and relationship issues. I’ve helped people ranging in age from eight to eighty-six feel better about themselves and learn how to adapt and thrive in change. My therapeutic approach blends CBT and humanistic therapies with a existential stance.
(510) 330-5386 View (510) 330-5386
Photo of Deanna (Dee) Watt, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deanna (Dee) Watt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707  (Online Only)
Hello! My general orientation is Jungian, which means to me that together we seek the kind of self-realization your own inner self will reveal. Whether you are anxious, depressed, suffering from relationship troubles or low self-esteem, I will see you as a whole person. We will discover together your own creative and powerful ability to find clarity about the kind of change needed to solve your personal problems. Some of these problems may come from past experience that needs to be healed. We will surely grow in this process...both of us!
Hello! My general orientation is Jungian, which means to me that together we seek the kind of self-realization your own inner self will reveal. Whether you are anxious, depressed, suffering from relationship troubles or low self-esteem, I will see you as a whole person. We will discover together your own creative and powerful ability to find clarity about the kind of change needed to solve your personal problems. Some of these problems may come from past experience that needs to be healed. We will surely grow in this process...both of us!
(707) 310-8443 View (707) 310-8443
Photo of Sheron Gershelis, ASW, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sheron Gershelis
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I also have worked with clients that have mood disorders, trauma, depression and anxiety.
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
I also have worked with clients that have mood disorders, trauma, depression and anxiety.
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
(415) 877-3405 View (415) 877-3405
Photo of Kiara Garcia, MA,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kiara Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702
Kiara M. Garcia is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2021. Starting therapy can be scary. Kiara’s intent is to create a welcoming, safe, and nurturing space for her clients to be vulnerable and authentic, in order to improve themselves. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse backgrounds dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Grief, Stress, and Trauma. Her initial approach is person centered.
Kiara M. Garcia is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2021. Starting therapy can be scary. Kiara’s intent is to create a welcoming, safe, and nurturing space for her clients to be vulnerable and authentic, in order to improve themselves. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse backgrounds dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Grief, Stress, and Trauma. Her initial approach is person centered.
(510) 650-1052 View (510) 650-1052
Photo of Laurel Salmon, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Laurel Salmon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I specialize in working with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship/family issues, identity, & self-esteem.
Experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma can be hard to navigate on one’s own. Through the use of integrative modalities, my goal is to help you find your way so that you can manage symptoms, feel your best, discover who you truly are, and move forward in the direction of your dreams whereby your past no longer holds you back. Using warmth and compassion, I also aim to provide trauma-informed care to discuss your struggles without judgment and safely process unresolved trauma and feelings.
I specialize in working with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship/family issues, identity, & self-esteem.
Experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma can be hard to navigate on one’s own. Through the use of integrative modalities, my goal is to help you find your way so that you can manage symptoms, feel your best, discover who you truly are, and move forward in the direction of your dreams whereby your past no longer holds you back. Using warmth and compassion, I also aim to provide trauma-informed care to discuss your struggles without judgment and safely process unresolved trauma and feelings.
(415) 223-8845 View (415) 223-8845
Photo of Liana Huang, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(415) 942-6964 View (415) 942-6964
Photo of Justine Gordon, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
By exploring and challenging these thoughts, the goal would be for you to overcome symptoms of depression and anxiety and begin to lead a life in which you feel more connected to yourself, others and the world.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
By exploring and challenging these thoughts, the goal would be for you to overcome symptoms of depression and anxiety and begin to lead a life in which you feel more connected to yourself, others and the world.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(213) 761-4246 View (213) 761-4246
Photo of Deanna Wong, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deanna Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94720  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am most passionate about helping young/emerging adults, college students, teens, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds because I believe these populations are often unseen and struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and multicultural intergenerational trauma. First Generation Asian Americans from immigrant families hits close to home! I believe therapy is for you if you are seeking support & personal growth, feeling lost and alone, or even if you have thought about trying therapy and you are unsure if you need it. I aim to help you improve your life and regain control over your mental health.
Hi there! I am most passionate about helping young/emerging adults, college students, teens, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds because I believe these populations are often unseen and struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and multicultural intergenerational trauma. First Generation Asian Americans from immigrant families hits close to home! I believe therapy is for you if you are seeking support & personal growth, feeling lost and alone, or even if you have thought about trying therapy and you are unsure if you need it. I aim to help you improve your life and regain control over your mental health.
(323) 817-0288 View (323) 817-0288
Photo of Luis Abbott, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Luis Abbott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94703
I assist clients on various issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, psychosis, anger management, mood regulation, grief, loss, personal recovery and growth, and transitional life stages.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has experience in the field of eating disorders at the partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient levels. I am specialized and trained in various trauma work modalities, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). Prior to specializing in eating disorder treatment, I worked in community mental health in the Juvenile Justice Department, working with children and teenagers in the Juvenile Probation and Social Services Department.
I assist clients on various issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, psychosis, anger management, mood regulation, grief, loss, personal recovery and growth, and transitional life stages.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has experience in the field of eating disorders at the partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient levels. I am specialized and trained in various trauma work modalities, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). Prior to specializing in eating disorder treatment, I worked in community mental health in the Juvenile Justice Department, working with children and teenagers in the Juvenile Probation and Social Services Department.
(323) 370-4853 View (323) 370-4853
Photo of Raul Gutierrez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raul Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I have been a practicing therapist for over 5 years now. I have worked with a diverse group of populations dealing with depression/anxiety all the way to psychosis diagnoses. I implement a lot of Trauma Focused CBT and Motivational Interviewing into my practice. My clients have often told me that I bring a genuine and compassionate atmosphere to sessions which helps them feel more at ease. I take a very nonjudgmental "at your own pace" type of approach. I want to ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way through your journey with mental health.
I have been a practicing therapist for over 5 years now. I have worked with a diverse group of populations dealing with depression/anxiety all the way to psychosis diagnoses. I implement a lot of Trauma Focused CBT and Motivational Interviewing into my practice. My clients have often told me that I bring a genuine and compassionate atmosphere to sessions which helps them feel more at ease. I take a very nonjudgmental "at your own pace" type of approach. I want to ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way through your journey with mental health.
(619) 393-9614 View (619) 393-9614
Photo of Jennie Nystrom, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennie Nystrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I specialize in issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma when working with individuals, couples, and families.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
I specialize in issues related to anxiety, depression, and trauma when working with individuals, couples, and families.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
(415) 915-3417 View (415) 915-3417
Photo of Ann Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(415) 341-9910 View (415) 341-9910
Photo of Patricia Jones, MSW, LCSW, CADC II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94720  (Online Only)
My practice specializes in helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, grief &loss, and other life stressors.
Congratulations on your first step of wanting to transform your life. Therapy can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I am here to help you overcome your fear of telling your story while helping you navigate your feelings. By emphasizing transparency and trust with each client, I’ve had great success in creating a safe space to share empathy, a sense of belonging, humor, and, most importantly, effective results. I believe in the importance of addressing one’s challenges by taking into account the whole person, their cultural identity, as well as recent and past life experiences that have led them to seek help. Let me help you heal!
My practice specializes in helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, grief &loss, and other life stressors.
Congratulations on your first step of wanting to transform your life. Therapy can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I am here to help you overcome your fear of telling your story while helping you navigate your feelings. By emphasizing transparency and trust with each client, I’ve had great success in creating a safe space to share empathy, a sense of belonging, humor, and, most importantly, effective results. I believe in the importance of addressing one’s challenges by taking into account the whole person, their cultural identity, as well as recent and past life experiences that have led them to seek help. Let me help you heal!
(951) 494-6089 View (951) 494-6089
Photo of T Joshua Tan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
T Joshua Tan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma holding you back from being your true self? Do you feel stuck in managing difficult life transitions? Now, every little thing becomes super overwhelming. Those negative experiences reopen old wounds and cause new ones. You tried burying your pain hoping it would go away. You feel lonely and tormented. You feel exhausted, stressed, and angry all the time. You wonder how much more you can take. You are unsure of who or where to turn for help. In the midst of this painful journey, you do not have to go through it alone.
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma holding you back from being your true self? Do you feel stuck in managing difficult life transitions? Now, every little thing becomes super overwhelming. Those negative experiences reopen old wounds and cause new ones. You tried burying your pain hoping it would go away. You feel lonely and tormented. You feel exhausted, stressed, and angry all the time. You wonder how much more you can take. You are unsure of who or where to turn for help. In the midst of this painful journey, you do not have to go through it alone.
(510) 256-7573 View (510) 256-7573
Photo of Audrey Hu, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Hu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
(415) 715-1673 View (415) 715-1673
Photo of Nicole Logan, LPC, EMDR
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(415) 704-6947 View (415) 704-6947
Photo of Jess Odom, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jess Odom
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing excess shame or negative self talk? Is anxiety or depression keeping you from experiencing what you value most? I will do my best to help you.
Do you long to feel greater self esteem and ease? My experience helping many people has shown me that effective and worthwhile therapy unfolds by sensitive attunement to each unique client or couple. Healing has many facets: emotional, somatic, cognitive, energetic, and relational are important elements. I work with you as your skilled guide within a healing professional therapeutic relationship. If you are seeking transpersonal (spiritually inclusive) therapy I could be a great fit for you. As a long time seeker and practitioner I know well the gifts that come from the spaces where psychology meets spirituality.
Are you experiencing excess shame or negative self talk? Is anxiety or depression keeping you from experiencing what you value most? I will do my best to help you.
Do you long to feel greater self esteem and ease? My experience helping many people has shown me that effective and worthwhile therapy unfolds by sensitive attunement to each unique client or couple. Healing has many facets: emotional, somatic, cognitive, energetic, and relational are important elements. I work with you as your skilled guide within a healing professional therapeutic relationship. If you are seeking transpersonal (spiritually inclusive) therapy I could be a great fit for you. As a long time seeker and practitioner I know well the gifts that come from the spaces where psychology meets spirituality.
(707) 271-7017 View (707) 271-7017
Photo of Erick Santos, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I utilize these approaches to help you manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
I utilize these approaches to help you manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(415) 324-4286 View (415) 324-4286
Photo of Andy Truong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy Truong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I have worked with individuals, families, and veterans on trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Seeking therapy takes courage and strength. Are you experiencing feeling stuck due to childhood trauma? I am here to provide you with unconditional support to process through your anxiety, depression, and other unresolved feelings at your pace. Sometimes we may need someone who is there for us and there are no problems in life that are too big or small. You have taken the first step to seek help, I can help you discover your inner strength to bounce back and deep inside you may be wishing for peace and equilibrium. As a therapist, I aim to help you reach those goals together to bring about inner peace.
I have worked with individuals, families, and veterans on trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Seeking therapy takes courage and strength. Are you experiencing feeling stuck due to childhood trauma? I am here to provide you with unconditional support to process through your anxiety, depression, and other unresolved feelings at your pace. Sometimes we may need someone who is there for us and there are no problems in life that are too big or small. You have taken the first step to seek help, I can help you discover your inner strength to bounce back and deep inside you may be wishing for peace and equilibrium. As a therapist, I aim to help you reach those goals together to bring about inner peace.
(402) 685-8629 View (402) 685-8629
1
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.