Depression Therapists in Brea, CA

Photo of Cheryl D Casey, MS, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheryl D Casey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults providing individual, couples, group, and family therapy to those that are dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, PTSD, grief, divorce, identity issues, parenting, workplace challenges, and many other social and emotional challenges.
The journey of life can be a challenging one. We are often faced with situations and events that challenge us. Sometimes we feel alone, confused, uncertain, or afraid. We seek comfort and understanding. We want change, but are not sure how or what steps to take. We seek safety, security, and purpose. I will help you navigate through life challenges and help you gently face your deepest struggles.
I have extensive experience working with children, teens, and adults providing individual, couples, group, and family therapy to those that are dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, PTSD, grief, divorce, identity issues, parenting, workplace challenges, and many other social and emotional challenges.
The journey of life can be a challenging one. We are often faced with situations and events that challenge us. Sometimes we feel alone, confused, uncertain, or afraid. We seek comfort and understanding. We want change, but are not sure how or what steps to take. We seek safety, security, and purpose. I will help you navigate through life challenges and help you gently face your deepest struggles.
(714) 627-4897 View (714) 627-4897
Photo of Michele Senkbile, MS, LPCC, EMDR
Michele Senkbile
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
In a world that has been deeply affected by a global pandemic, many of us find ourselves overwhelmed, anxious and in need of extra support. Cura Counseling exists to provide that support. Whether you are looking for help with interpersonal relationships, tools for managing anxiety and depression, or help growing in deeper insight and awareness of self, we are here to come alongside you in your personal journey toward mental and emotional flourishing. Cura Counseling exists to help individuals and couples to explore the impact of life's challenges and provide partnership that can equip all with tools for navigating life's stressors.
In a world that has been deeply affected by a global pandemic, many of us find ourselves overwhelmed, anxious and in need of extra support. Cura Counseling exists to provide that support. Whether you are looking for help with interpersonal relationships, tools for managing anxiety and depression, or help growing in deeper insight and awareness of self, we are here to come alongside you in your personal journey toward mental and emotional flourishing. Cura Counseling exists to help individuals and couples to explore the impact of life's challenges and provide partnership that can equip all with tools for navigating life's stressors.
(657) 837-5426 View (657) 837-5426
Photo of Nicole Louise Payne - Clear Mind Counseling Nicole Payne, LMFT, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Clear Mind Counseling Nicole Payne, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
Mindfulness exercises may also help to enhance self awareness and gain more control over anxiety or depression.
My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. I treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, children, and couples. Parenting is not an easy road to navigate. I am effective in helping parents learn new skills to help them manage behavioral concerns with children and teens; as well as teaching new strategies to children and teens to help improve cohesiveness within the family system. Traumatic events can feel paralyzing. I am passionate in working through trauma to help an individual to find their inner strength, and happiness again.
Mindfulness exercises may also help to enhance self awareness and gain more control over anxiety or depression.
My experience enables me to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. I treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, children, and couples. Parenting is not an easy road to navigate. I am effective in helping parents learn new skills to help them manage behavioral concerns with children and teens; as well as teaching new strategies to children and teens to help improve cohesiveness within the family system. Traumatic events can feel paralyzing. I am passionate in working through trauma to help an individual to find their inner strength, and happiness again.
(562) 383-0493 View (562) 383-0493
Photo of Sinthia Serrato, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sinthia Serrato
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821  (Online Only)
I have worked in the mental health field for over 7 years. I have worked with young children, teens, adults, and older adults. I have experience treating trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting difficulties, and postpartum depression/anxiety. I utilize a combination of client centered therapy and Cognitive Behavioral therapy. I believe that in order to find the root of your symptoms, you need a safe place to do so. My main goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship with my patients. Patients will not allow themselves to go to a vulnerable place if they do not feel safe.
I have worked in the mental health field for over 7 years. I have worked with young children, teens, adults, and older adults. I have experience treating trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting difficulties, and postpartum depression/anxiety. I utilize a combination of client centered therapy and Cognitive Behavioral therapy. I believe that in order to find the root of your symptoms, you need a safe place to do so. My main goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship with my patients. Patients will not allow themselves to go to a vulnerable place if they do not feel safe.
(657) 837-6161 View (657) 837-6161
Photo of Christina Ching, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Ching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping clients who struggle with complex trauma (childhood, intergenerational, intimate partner violence), identity exploration, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and grief and loss.
Navigating therapy can often feel intimidating and confusing. Taking up space and speaking your truth is challenging, especially when problems and experiences that may be distressing or painful are involved. But this process isn’t one that has to be tackled alone nor are you meant to. My approach is empowering and encouraging, and I strive to provide a warm, safe, and judgment-free space that allows us to collaboratively uncover your inherent strengths and build the life you envision for yourself.
I specialize in helping clients who struggle with complex trauma (childhood, intergenerational, intimate partner violence), identity exploration, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and grief and loss.
Navigating therapy can often feel intimidating and confusing. Taking up space and speaking your truth is challenging, especially when problems and experiences that may be distressing or painful are involved. But this process isn’t one that has to be tackled alone nor are you meant to. My approach is empowering and encouraging, and I strive to provide a warm, safe, and judgment-free space that allows us to collaboratively uncover your inherent strengths and build the life you envision for yourself.
(626) 316-6659 View (626) 316-6659
Photo of Yolia Xiaoyin Zhong, AMF, Pre-Licensed Professional
Yolia Xiaoyin Zhong
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMF
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals who have history of depression, anxiety, trauma, and couple clients who struggle with their relationship, develop communication skills, rebuild trust.
It has been a while since you felt stuck, terrified, hopeless, or worthless. Yet, you have always been smiling to pretend you are okay. Or you are very used to distancing yourself because “nobody cares about me”. Life can be very challenging when you can hardly recognize the person next to you, more importantly, when you can’t even recognize yourself. Whether it has been years over the same issues and difficulties, or there has been a sudden tragic change to your life, believe it! You are already doing the best you can at any given moment!
I have experience working with individuals who have history of depression, anxiety, trauma, and couple clients who struggle with their relationship, develop communication skills, rebuild trust.
It has been a while since you felt stuck, terrified, hopeless, or worthless. Yet, you have always been smiling to pretend you are okay. Or you are very used to distancing yourself because “nobody cares about me”. Life can be very challenging when you can hardly recognize the person next to you, more importantly, when you can’t even recognize yourself. Whether it has been years over the same issues and difficulties, or there has been a sudden tragic change to your life, believe it! You are already doing the best you can at any given moment!
(657) 571-2606 View (657) 571-2606
Photo of Dana K White, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dana K White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma based treatment, addressing anxiety and depression.
It is my deep desire for therapy to be a meaningful and transformative experience. I believe this begins with authentic connection, being fully heard, understood and accepted. I seek to create a safe space where individuals can work through the overwhelming struggles of life. If you are confronting depression, anxiety, anger or any of the myriad of difficult emotions we experience, I would like to join you in your journey and provide support that can lead to healing, growth and freedom.
I specialize in trauma based treatment, addressing anxiety and depression.
It is my deep desire for therapy to be a meaningful and transformative experience. I believe this begins with authentic connection, being fully heard, understood and accepted. I seek to create a safe space where individuals can work through the overwhelming struggles of life. If you are confronting depression, anxiety, anger or any of the myriad of difficult emotions we experience, I would like to join you in your journey and provide support that can lead to healing, growth and freedom.
(657) 366-4954 View (657) 366-4954
Photo of Kristine Lisl Diaz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristine Lisl Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome, I'm Kristine! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. Do you feel like you haven't been enjoying your life the way you would like to - or even the way that you used to? Does it seem like there have been more worries than answers/solutions in your life? I empower high performers to manage depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship nuances.
Hello and welcome, I'm Kristine! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Orange County, California and I work with clients statewide via telehealth. Do you feel like you haven't been enjoying your life the way you would like to - or even the way that you used to? Does it seem like there have been more worries than answers/solutions in your life? I empower high performers to manage depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship nuances.
(657) 571-2835 View (657) 571-2835
Photo of Nothizile Ncube-Kearley, LPCC
Nothizile Ncube-Kearley
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
Hello, my name is Nothi Ncube-Kearley. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I provide services to clients of all ages including young adults and adults. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, and other adjustment-related issues. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and other theoretical approaches. I primarily work with young adults and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems, and work stress. My goal is to work with my clients to cope and deal with life stressors.
Hello, my name is Nothi Ncube-Kearley. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in California. I provide services to clients of all ages including young adults and adults. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, and other adjustment-related issues. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and other theoretical approaches. I primarily work with young adults and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems, and work stress. My goal is to work with my clients to cope and deal with life stressors.
(657) 300-6805 View (657) 300-6805
Photo of Lisa Eaton, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Eaton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder; adolescent & adult substance abuse issues; parent training & child behavior issues; family conflict & divorce; treating adult/childhood trauma, including PTSD; and working with clients on issues related to self-esteem, healthy relationships, identity development, & goal-setting.
:: CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS :: I believe that it takes courage to meet with a therapist, and I am sensitive to the journeys that lead people to my office. I utilize a friendly, collaborative approach in developing relationships with my clients. I feel that the most important change agent in the treatment process is the relationship between client and therapist. I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and safe, and help empower them to build skills to help manage stressors and overcome obstacles. I use a strengths-based approach to help my clients move from where they are to where they want to be.
My areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder; adolescent & adult substance abuse issues; parent training & child behavior issues; family conflict & divorce; treating adult/childhood trauma, including PTSD; and working with clients on issues related to self-esteem, healthy relationships, identity development, & goal-setting.
:: CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS :: I believe that it takes courage to meet with a therapist, and I am sensitive to the journeys that lead people to my office. I utilize a friendly, collaborative approach in developing relationships with my clients. I feel that the most important change agent in the treatment process is the relationship between client and therapist. I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and safe, and help empower them to build skills to help manage stressors and overcome obstacles. I use a strengths-based approach to help my clients move from where they are to where they want to be.
(562) 352-2120 View (562) 352-2120
Photo of Laura L. Steele - Laura L. Steele, PsyD and Associates, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura L. Steele, PsyD and Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
I know from my years of experience working with individuals, couples,​ and families that you have the resources to make big changes in your life. I am committed to helping people develop healthy relationships and live productive and satisfying lives. My specialties include treating trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. My team at Laura L. Steele, PSYD and Associates, have expertise in EMDR Therapy, health psychology, CBT, EFT, play therapy, assessment, and couples and children. We offer sessions in person and telehealth.
I know from my years of experience working with individuals, couples,​ and families that you have the resources to make big changes in your life. I am committed to helping people develop healthy relationships and live productive and satisfying lives. My specialties include treating trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. My team at Laura L. Steele, PSYD and Associates, have expertise in EMDR Therapy, health psychology, CBT, EFT, play therapy, assessment, and couples and children. We offer sessions in person and telehealth.
(657) 213-2765 View (657) 213-2765
Photo of Rhonda L Mason, PhD, Psychologist
Rhonda L Mason
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
Due to Covid-19, individuals are experiencing more stress, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse without the ability to cope.
Welcome to the next fulfilling chapter in your life! I understand we all want to be happy, healthy, have emotionally satisfyng relationships, and live prosperous lives! My approach to helping people is mulitfacted. Through providing a safe, collaborative, and supportive environement I help people understand and change their perceptions, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors within the context of their family of origin and current realtionships. I understand people having the courage and taking the time to invest in their personal growth and development expect results. I work tenaciously to meet their expectations and treatment goals!
Due to Covid-19, individuals are experiencing more stress, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse without the ability to cope.
Welcome to the next fulfilling chapter in your life! I understand we all want to be happy, healthy, have emotionally satisfyng relationships, and live prosperous lives! My approach to helping people is mulitfacted. Through providing a safe, collaborative, and supportive environement I help people understand and change their perceptions, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors within the context of their family of origin and current realtionships. I understand people having the courage and taking the time to invest in their personal growth and development expect results. I work tenaciously to meet their expectations and treatment goals!
(714) 752-3968 View (714) 752-3968
Photo of David A Jarvis, PhD, Psychologist
David A Jarvis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
I take an active approach to psychotherapy, shaping my input to the needs of my clients. I conceptualize mental health issues from a holistic perspective: emotional, social, medical/physical, and spiritual. I play a variety of different roles with people: listener, teacher, problem-solver, coach, encourager, and fellow-struggler with the complexities of life. I specialize in helping people overcome difficulties with depression, anxiety and stress, compulsive disorders, ADD/ADHD, relationship problems, work problems, and related spiritual concerns. I am familiar with psychotropic medications, am a supporter of recovery work, and have training in a variety of different psychotherapeutic modalities.
I take an active approach to psychotherapy, shaping my input to the needs of my clients. I conceptualize mental health issues from a holistic perspective: emotional, social, medical/physical, and spiritual. I play a variety of different roles with people: listener, teacher, problem-solver, coach, encourager, and fellow-struggler with the complexities of life. I specialize in helping people overcome difficulties with depression, anxiety and stress, compulsive disorders, ADD/ADHD, relationship problems, work problems, and related spiritual concerns. I am familiar with psychotropic medications, am a supporter of recovery work, and have training in a variety of different psychotherapeutic modalities.
(714) 684-6852 View (714) 684-6852
Photo of Temma Knight, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Temma Knight
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
I enjoy working with men, women, children, young adults, families, and foster youth with a broad range of presenting problems. She really enjoys collaborating with women and families in the perinatal process through postpartum, and all age demographics dealing with anxiety, depression, stage of life, LGBTQIA, trauma, and sleep problems, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices.
I enjoy working with men, women, children, young adults, families, and foster youth with a broad range of presenting problems. She really enjoys collaborating with women and families in the perinatal process through postpartum, and all age demographics dealing with anxiety, depression, stage of life, LGBTQIA, trauma, and sleep problems, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices.
(657) 530-6534 View (657) 530-6534
Photo of Gabrielle M. Aroz, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gabrielle M. Aroz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
I have worked with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, oppositional defiance, emotional regulation and autism.
I am happy you are here. The journey to becoming the healthiest version of you can often be frightening. My goal is to create a safe environment for you to explore and navigate your journey and to help you learn tools to help you manage your emotions when difficult situations come your way. If we are a good fit, I hope to share in your journey in a compassionate and authentic manner. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, including children, teens, and transitional youth. I also have experience working with parents, providing interventions and strategies to help build healthy relationships with their children.
I have worked with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, oppositional defiance, emotional regulation and autism.
I am happy you are here. The journey to becoming the healthiest version of you can often be frightening. My goal is to create a safe environment for you to explore and navigate your journey and to help you learn tools to help you manage your emotions when difficult situations come your way. If we are a good fit, I hope to share in your journey in a compassionate and authentic manner. I have experience working with individuals of all ages, including children, teens, and transitional youth. I also have experience working with parents, providing interventions and strategies to help build healthy relationships with their children.
(714) 699-9762 View (714) 699-9762
Photo of Pinkal Panchal, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Pinkal Panchal
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
Accepting New Client! Are you feeling “depressed”, "worried", and “anxious” navigating through life transitions? Do you feel stuck in the past? Is your emotional distress due to your relationship, trauma, grief, or sexual identity? Do you feel, I/We have tried everything, but nothing seems to work. Are you tired of giving explanations about your culture and immigration challenges? Are you looking for a non-judgmental and a safe place to unravel your life stories? If so, this is the therapist who wants to help individuals, couples, and families by meeting them where they are at, and instilling hope and positive resources within them.
Accepting New Client! Are you feeling “depressed”, "worried", and “anxious” navigating through life transitions? Do you feel stuck in the past? Is your emotional distress due to your relationship, trauma, grief, or sexual identity? Do you feel, I/We have tried everything, but nothing seems to work. Are you tired of giving explanations about your culture and immigration challenges? Are you looking for a non-judgmental and a safe place to unravel your life stories? If so, this is the therapist who wants to help individuals, couples, and families by meeting them where they are at, and instilling hope and positive resources within them.
(657) 837-5872 View (657) 837-5872
Photo of Roslyn Villalobos, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roslyn Villalobos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
Greetings- I feel that my role as a helper is strength-based & person-centered holistic approach. My strength as a helper in Anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting challenges, trauma, addiction, life transitions, family systems, relationships, burnout, self-esteem, cultural adjustment, LGBTQ+, grief/loss, coping skills, mindfulness, and self-care. I'm ready to support you through your healing. Roslyn Villalobos LMFT 23951. As a helper, my therapeutic approach is to be strength-based & person-centered as well using a holistic approach.
Greetings- I feel that my role as a helper is strength-based & person-centered holistic approach. My strength as a helper in Anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting challenges, trauma, addiction, life transitions, family systems, relationships, burnout, self-esteem, cultural adjustment, LGBTQ+, grief/loss, coping skills, mindfulness, and self-care. I'm ready to support you through your healing. Roslyn Villalobos LMFT 23951. As a helper, my therapeutic approach is to be strength-based & person-centered as well using a holistic approach.
(657) 837-5142 View (657) 837-5142
Photo of Heidi Renie Pena, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Heidi Renie Pena
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
I am currently welcoming new clients. My telehealth services are accessible to individuals located anywhere in California. As a therapist, I believe that everyone is in control of their own healing journey. I am here to provide guidance and support as we navigate through the challenges and fears that life may bring, including grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and body image concerns. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can freely express themselves and feel heard.
I am currently welcoming new clients. My telehealth services are accessible to individuals located anywhere in California. As a therapist, I believe that everyone is in control of their own healing journey. I am here to provide guidance and support as we navigate through the challenges and fears that life may bring, including grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and body image concerns. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can freely express themselves and feel heard.
(657) 298-4825 View (657) 298-4825
Photo of Dorothy Yeh, LMFT, EMDR, Gottman, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dorothy Yeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, Gottman
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
In my 18 years of practice, I've had the honor for helping many couples, as well as individuals with depression, anxiety and trauma. If you repeatedly fight over the similar things and feel disconnected in your relationship, I can help you! I am trained in Gottman's Method and love to work with couples to decrease disconnection and deepen intimacy. EMDR training gives me effective tools for treating depression, anxiety and trauma. I am also passionate to help second generation Asian Americans, bridging the cultural/generational gap between first and second generation. 我會說中文.
In my 18 years of practice, I've had the honor for helping many couples, as well as individuals with depression, anxiety and trauma. If you repeatedly fight over the similar things and feel disconnected in your relationship, I can help you! I am trained in Gottman's Method and love to work with couples to decrease disconnection and deepen intimacy. EMDR training gives me effective tools for treating depression, anxiety and trauma. I am also passionate to help second generation Asian Americans, bridging the cultural/generational gap between first and second generation. 我會說中文.
(657) 246-0003 View (657) 246-0003
Photo of Elizabeth Martinez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
Elizabeth Martinez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and has experience in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and adjustment disorders. She has a Master of Science in Counseling from California State University of Fullerton and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of California, Riverside. Elizabeth believes in creating a collaborative environment that supports each individual's unique path towards achieving personal well-being, and it is important to her to provide an environment where you feel both respected and supported in order to facilitate your journey towards healing and growth.
Elizabeth Martinez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and has experience in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and adjustment disorders. She has a Master of Science in Counseling from California State University of Fullerton and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of California, Riverside. Elizabeth believes in creating a collaborative environment that supports each individual's unique path towards achieving personal well-being, and it is important to her to provide an environment where you feel both respected and supported in order to facilitate your journey towards healing and growth.
(657) 837-5721 View (657) 837-5721
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.