Depression Therapists in Burbank, CA

Photo of Meredith Heckler, MA, LMFT, JD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meredith Heckler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, JD
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I provide mental health support services for adults and adolescents. Additionally, I provide behavioral intervention services for children with special needs and their families based on ABA principles. My specialties include eating disorders, depression, anxiety issues, self esteem, life transitions, and existential support. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to assist you improve your quality of life in the here and now. No two people are alike. Therefore, my approach is individual-specific and combines a number of theoretical approaches to address each person's needs. My clients are people and not a diagnosis.
I provide mental health support services for adults and adolescents. Additionally, I provide behavioral intervention services for children with special needs and their families based on ABA principles. My specialties include eating disorders, depression, anxiety issues, self esteem, life transitions, and existential support. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to assist you improve your quality of life in the here and now. No two people are alike. Therefore, my approach is individual-specific and combines a number of theoretical approaches to address each person's needs. My clients are people and not a diagnosis.
(818) 651-8249 View (818) 651-8249
Photo of Veronica Zarate, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Veronica Zarate
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
Veronica Zarate is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA from Cal State University of Los Angeles and an MFT from University of Phoenix. Veronica has worked with clients ages from 5 to 63 years old and is bilingual in Spanish and English. She has experience with working with clients with depression, anxiety, adjustment, and behavioral problems. Veronica provides individual and family sessions. Outside of work, Veronica likes to work out, implement self-care, and mindfulness. She loves to dance and spend time with family.
Veronica Zarate is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA from Cal State University of Los Angeles and an MFT from University of Phoenix. Veronica has worked with clients ages from 5 to 63 years old and is bilingual in Spanish and English. She has experience with working with clients with depression, anxiety, adjustment, and behavioral problems. Veronica provides individual and family sessions. Outside of work, Veronica likes to work out, implement self-care, and mindfulness. She loves to dance and spend time with family.
(747) 302-3469 View (747) 302-3469
Photo of Michael Porco, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Porco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91506
Therapy for COMEDIANS dealing with anxiety and depression. Being a comedian isn't easy. While your friends are getting married, having children and buying mansions back home, you’re schlepping yourself to open mic nights and chasing your dream, well at least before the pandemic. You’re emotionally vulnerable on stage and worry about going viral for the wrong reasons. It’s hard to share these fears with others. Comics get it but they’re too busy doing shtick rather than listening to you. And if you’re a female comic, it's worse because you’re mostly surrounded by male comics and battling lame societal stereotypes. I can help.
Therapy for COMEDIANS dealing with anxiety and depression. Being a comedian isn't easy. While your friends are getting married, having children and buying mansions back home, you’re schlepping yourself to open mic nights and chasing your dream, well at least before the pandemic. You’re emotionally vulnerable on stage and worry about going viral for the wrong reasons. It’s hard to share these fears with others. Comics get it but they’re too busy doing shtick rather than listening to you. And if you’re a female comic, it's worse because you’re mostly surrounded by male comics and battling lame societal stereotypes. I can help.
(310) 307-3961 View (310) 307-3961
Photo of Narineh Hartoonian - Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine, Psychologist
Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine
Psychologist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91501
At the Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine, we help people reach their full potential by transforming their healthcare experience. We use evidence-based psychological practices and partner with other health professionals for seamless and integrated care. Our clinical psychologists provide therapy for concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress-management, relationship problems, and phase-of-life issues. In addition, we specialize in health and rehabilitation psychology, providing assistance to patients with medical illnesses and disabilities and sensorimotor psychotherapy, providing trauma-informed, somatic, “body-based” therapy.
At the Rowan Center for Behavioral Medicine, we help people reach their full potential by transforming their healthcare experience. We use evidence-based psychological practices and partner with other health professionals for seamless and integrated care. Our clinical psychologists provide therapy for concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress-management, relationship problems, and phase-of-life issues. In addition, we specialize in health and rehabilitation psychology, providing assistance to patients with medical illnesses and disabilities and sensorimotor psychotherapy, providing trauma-informed, somatic, “body-based” therapy.
(818) 485-4519 x1002 View (818) 485-4519 x1002
Photo of Amy Hart, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Hart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
My interests and experience include treating anxiety disorders, phobias, depression, addiction and relationship issues.
Many of us are often waiting to feel good....waiting for the weekend, waiting for a better job, waiting for a relationship, waiting for a problem to resolve itself. So much of life is missed out on during these waiting periods. I can help you uncover what's getting in the way of reaching your goals, whatever it may be. On this journey, you will develop more of a capacity to experience joy, improve your relationships and above all, change the relationship you have with yourself.
My interests and experience include treating anxiety disorders, phobias, depression, addiction and relationship issues.
Many of us are often waiting to feel good....waiting for the weekend, waiting for a better job, waiting for a relationship, waiting for a problem to resolve itself. So much of life is missed out on during these waiting periods. I can help you uncover what's getting in the way of reaching your goals, whatever it may be. On this journey, you will develop more of a capacity to experience joy, improve your relationships and above all, change the relationship you have with yourself.
(818) 462-8124 View (818) 462-8124
Photo of Brian Keligian, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brian Keligian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
You've tried everything and nothing seems to be working. You're depressed and anxious all the time. You're afraid it will never get better. It's been so long. You really want to live a life full of joy. You're tired of feeling negative, struggling with negative thinking, fearful thoughts, and dreams. Your life feels like one big failure. You haven't reached your goals, you wonder if you have a purpose, sometimes you wonder why you're even here.
You've tried everything and nothing seems to be working. You're depressed and anxious all the time. You're afraid it will never get better. It's been so long. You really want to live a life full of joy. You're tired of feeling negative, struggling with negative thinking, fearful thoughts, and dreams. Your life feels like one big failure. You haven't reached your goals, you wonder if you have a purpose, sometimes you wonder why you're even here.
(424) 294-8900 View (424) 294-8900
Photo of Leora Sallis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leora Sallis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I have over 20 years of experience supporting folks dealing with anxiety, depression and major life transitions. My approach is client centered, strengths based and trauma informed. Theoretical frameworks include CBT, IFS, family systems and EMDR. I am a staunch believer in human resilience. My approach is a collaborative one built on mutual respect, openness and curiosity. Through our work together I partner with clients on their journey toward greater clarity, self awareness and healing.
I have over 20 years of experience supporting folks dealing with anxiety, depression and major life transitions. My approach is client centered, strengths based and trauma informed. Theoretical frameworks include CBT, IFS, family systems and EMDR. I am a staunch believer in human resilience. My approach is a collaborative one built on mutual respect, openness and curiosity. Through our work together I partner with clients on their journey toward greater clarity, self awareness and healing.
(818) 431-2560 View (818) 431-2560
Photo of Shannon M Ho, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon M Ho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502  (Online Only)
I've worked with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, and grief among other areas.
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist and have been working in mental health since 2017. If you are looking for a Therapist who is Compassionate and Knowledgeable, please keep reading. Many Therapists feel the need to curate their ideal client, but I am confident I can help you regardless of your background. My extensive experience has introduced me to clients with wonderfully diverse backgrounds, who have trusted me with their most vulnerable moments in life. When you work with me, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of an Experienced and Capable Therapist.
I've worked with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, and grief among other areas.
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist and have been working in mental health since 2017. If you are looking for a Therapist who is Compassionate and Knowledgeable, please keep reading. Many Therapists feel the need to curate their ideal client, but I am confident I can help you regardless of your background. My extensive experience has introduced me to clients with wonderfully diverse backgrounds, who have trusted me with their most vulnerable moments in life. When you work with me, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of an Experienced and Capable Therapist.
(747) 319-4705 View (747) 319-4705
Photo of Mary Clark, MS, LMFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91506
I work with: Teens, adults, couples and families coping with anxiety, depression, loss, trauma, self-esteem, identity, marginalization, relationship challenges, challenges w/ career/academic/creative goals, and life transitions.
I am a culturally sensitive therapist who welcomes clients of diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. During times of uncertainty, coping tools may need to be bolstered, or you may notice patterns in your ways of responding that you want to address. Patterns give us information about feelings we carry, and needs we attempt to fulfill. By forming a strong alliance with my clients, grounded in a stance of empathy and unconditional positive regard, I work to foster the skills, trust, and esteem for you to bravely overcome challenges, and acknowledge and act upon your most authentic self.
I work with: Teens, adults, couples and families coping with anxiety, depression, loss, trauma, self-esteem, identity, marginalization, relationship challenges, challenges w/ career/academic/creative goals, and life transitions.
I am a culturally sensitive therapist who welcomes clients of diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. During times of uncertainty, coping tools may need to be bolstered, or you may notice patterns in your ways of responding that you want to address. Patterns give us information about feelings we carry, and needs we attempt to fulfill. By forming a strong alliance with my clients, grounded in a stance of empathy and unconditional positive regard, I work to foster the skills, trust, and esteem for you to bravely overcome challenges, and acknowledge and act upon your most authentic self.
(747) 227-7511 View (747) 227-7511
Photo of Katrina Wood - Wilshire Valley Therapy Centers, Psychologist
Wilshire Valley Therapy Centers
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
Our therapists at Wilshire Valley Therapy Center offer a wide range of treatment modalities addressing a range of issues including but not limited to Depression, Panic, Anxiety, & Trauma, Co-parenting, Divorce , Addictions & relationship issues.
Wilshire Valley Therapy offers state-of-the-art mental health services in person or via Telemedicine in LA, Burbank, Santa Clarita, Encino & Ventura, & Telemed in both SoCal & Northern Calif. Our highly qualified therapists engage & collaborate with clients whose goals & treatment directions seek to achieve more authentic, productive lives. A safe space created where clients personal & professional relationships are strengthened & a range of phase of life issues are explored in a supportive setting. We assist clients in discovering their unique value & strengths, creating a solid foundation, for a better life & a hopeful future.
Our therapists at Wilshire Valley Therapy Center offer a wide range of treatment modalities addressing a range of issues including but not limited to Depression, Panic, Anxiety, & Trauma, Co-parenting, Divorce , Addictions & relationship issues.
Wilshire Valley Therapy offers state-of-the-art mental health services in person or via Telemedicine in LA, Burbank, Santa Clarita, Encino & Ventura, & Telemed in both SoCal & Northern Calif. Our highly qualified therapists engage & collaborate with clients whose goals & treatment directions seek to achieve more authentic, productive lives. A safe space created where clients personal & professional relationships are strengthened & a range of phase of life issues are explored in a supportive setting. We assist clients in discovering their unique value & strengths, creating a solid foundation, for a better life & a hopeful future.
(747) 207-4245 View (747) 207-4245
Photo of Gregory Walston, PhD, MFT, CPRP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gregory Walston
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, CPRP
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in issues important to LGBTQI individuals/couples/families, like substance use recovery, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coming out process, acceptance/family issues, HIV adjustment issues, men's issues, grief/loss, men and trauma, other gender issues, and psychological recovery from trauma. I enjoy helping LGBT people resolve early child/family issues that continue to block happiness. Also, I am experienced in helping teens. Whether you feel lost, stuck, or empty, let's work together to help you build a happier foundation, resolving any issues that hold you back so you can move forward and reclaim your life!
I specialize in issues important to LGBTQI individuals/couples/families, like substance use recovery, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, coming out process, acceptance/family issues, HIV adjustment issues, men's issues, grief/loss, men and trauma, other gender issues, and psychological recovery from trauma. I enjoy helping LGBT people resolve early child/family issues that continue to block happiness. Also, I am experienced in helping teens. Whether you feel lost, stuck, or empty, let's work together to help you build a happier foundation, resolving any issues that hold you back so you can move forward and reclaim your life!
(818) 351-7109 View (818) 351-7109
Photo of Elisabeth Abbott, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elisabeth Abbott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
Stress, self-consciousness, sadness, fear: they're part of being human. But if feelings like these are becoming so overwhelming that they're affecting your well-being, I can be a supportive ally on your way toward healing and balance. In working with clients facing anxiety or panic, traumatic experiences, depression, body image issues, or creative or relationship struggles, I provide insight, tools, and support. We'll explore your core beliefs, improve communication, boost your self-compassion, figure out what's holding you back, and brainstorm strategies.
Stress, self-consciousness, sadness, fear: they're part of being human. But if feelings like these are becoming so overwhelming that they're affecting your well-being, I can be a supportive ally on your way toward healing and balance. In working with clients facing anxiety or panic, traumatic experiences, depression, body image issues, or creative or relationship struggles, I provide insight, tools, and support. We'll explore your core beliefs, improve communication, boost your self-compassion, figure out what's holding you back, and brainstorm strategies.
(323) 769-5702 View (323) 769-5702
Photo of Christine Eghenian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Eghenian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
Experiencing depression, anxiety, grief or relationship problems is never easy, though in reality these can be an unavoidable part of life. When stressors and symptoms outweigh our personal resources, or when they provoke unresolved feelings that interfere with our functioning, a strong support system can be invaluable. Therapy provides a nonjudgmental setting in which to examine issues that we might not readily share with others. It can help us better understand ourselves, our circumstances, and our possibilities. In fact, what benefits us most is to receive kind and keen attention. Within that context, we often find the guidance we need.
Experiencing depression, anxiety, grief or relationship problems is never easy, though in reality these can be an unavoidable part of life. When stressors and symptoms outweigh our personal resources, or when they provoke unresolved feelings that interfere with our functioning, a strong support system can be invaluable. Therapy provides a nonjudgmental setting in which to examine issues that we might not readily share with others. It can help us better understand ourselves, our circumstances, and our possibilities. In fact, what benefits us most is to receive kind and keen attention. Within that context, we often find the guidance we need.
(213) 985-7985 View (213) 985-7985
Photo of DeAndrea Knight - The Center of Resiliency, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Center of Resiliency
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome. Our agency offers affordable telehealth therapy. We are dedicated to decreasing depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues while increasing happiness, love, and resiliency. We provide individual therapy, couples therapy and group therapy.
Hello and Welcome. Our agency offers affordable telehealth therapy. We are dedicated to decreasing depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues while increasing happiness, love, and resiliency. We provide individual therapy, couples therapy and group therapy.
(818) 293-1151 View (818) 293-1151
Photo of Brendan Clarke, LPCC, Counselor
Brendan Clarke
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91506  (Online Only)
With a Masters of Counseling Psychology and over twelve years of experience in outpatient, home-based, residential, and military settings, I have treated clients with with depression, anxiety, trauma and most major mental illnesses.
To change or not to change? One of the most frustratingly human experiences in life is wanting to change for the better only to find yourself repeating the same ineffective patterns and mistakes. This is where counseling can come into play. By understanding your own motivations and the internal barriers getting in the way of change, you can develop new strategies to know yourself better and develop tools to handle the challenges and stressors of life. My practice is strength-based, client-centered, motivational, and grounded in cognitive behavioral ideas.
With a Masters of Counseling Psychology and over twelve years of experience in outpatient, home-based, residential, and military settings, I have treated clients with with depression, anxiety, trauma and most major mental illnesses.
To change or not to change? One of the most frustratingly human experiences in life is wanting to change for the better only to find yourself repeating the same ineffective patterns and mistakes. This is where counseling can come into play. By understanding your own motivations and the internal barriers getting in the way of change, you can develop new strategies to know yourself better and develop tools to handle the challenges and stressors of life. My practice is strength-based, client-centered, motivational, and grounded in cognitive behavioral ideas.
(951) 944-1817 View (951) 944-1817
Photo of Adam Vogel, PsyD, Psychologist
Adam Vogel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
I specialize in adults with ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! My online practice is grounded in the belief that therapy is a journey built on collaboration and trust. I am a psychologist who specializes in the lifelong management of ADHD in adults. I also treat adults struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and flying phobias. I collaborate with clients to identify their most pressing concerns and pursue real changes in their interpersonal connections, professional lives, and personal feelings.
I specialize in adults with ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! My online practice is grounded in the belief that therapy is a journey built on collaboration and trust. I am a psychologist who specializes in the lifelong management of ADHD in adults. I also treat adults struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and flying phobias. I collaborate with clients to identify their most pressing concerns and pursue real changes in their interpersonal connections, professional lives, and personal feelings.
(818) 418-1646 View (818) 418-1646
Photo of Maria T McCoy - Healing Pathways Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Healing Pathways Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91502  (Online Only)
If you are seeking healing from difficult relationships and/or depression I may be your person! I work with creative folks, business professionals, and adults who are ready to feel better. I provide individual, couples and family sessions. My mindset is holistic and I tailor all sessions to fit your unique needs, including inner child work. I believe in the healing power of natural remedies such nutrition, nature, movement, engaging in hobbies, and meditation. I utilize Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
If you are seeking healing from difficult relationships and/or depression I may be your person! I work with creative folks, business professionals, and adults who are ready to feel better. I provide individual, couples and family sessions. My mindset is holistic and I tailor all sessions to fit your unique needs, including inner child work. I believe in the healing power of natural remedies such nutrition, nature, movement, engaging in hobbies, and meditation. I utilize Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
(818) 303-2413 View (818) 303-2413
Photo of Mindy Doan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mindy Doan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
I work with individuals managing anxiety, depression, trauma, and codependency.
“Why am I the way I am?” Have you found yourself asking this question more times than you’ve answered it? Sometimes finding yourself feels like an impossible task. Perhaps it’s become second nature to place your needs last. Your inner voice, which has been placed on the backburner one too many times, is calling out to you for attention. Welcome to the first of many steps in creating change. This path in self-exploration may bring feelings of excitement, hopefulness, fear, and uncertainty. Wherever you are in your journey, I am here to listen and support you.
I work with individuals managing anxiety, depression, trauma, and codependency.
“Why am I the way I am?” Have you found yourself asking this question more times than you’ve answered it? Sometimes finding yourself feels like an impossible task. Perhaps it’s become second nature to place your needs last. Your inner voice, which has been placed on the backburner one too many times, is calling out to you for attention. Welcome to the first of many steps in creating change. This path in self-exploration may bring feelings of excitement, hopefulness, fear, and uncertainty. Wherever you are in your journey, I am here to listen and support you.
(818) 722-9765 View (818) 722-9765
Photo of John Geirland, PhD, Psychologist
John Geirland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
While I work with a variety of individuals and age groups, one specialization is working with older adults (65+) who are experiencing depression, anxiety and cognitive changes.
WHAT WILL THERAPY BE LIKE? I strive to create an environment that is confidential and nonjudgmental. The therapy hour is a time and place where you can feel safe enough to do important work. I also believe that therapy can be enjoyable and life-affirming, even at times a FUN experience. WHAT CAN THERAPY ACCOMPLISH FOR ME? Engaging in psychotherapy provides the opportunity for a new start, an escape from ruminating, from feelings of helplessness and indecision. I will work with you to see and experience your situation in a new way - and take action to make important changes.
While I work with a variety of individuals and age groups, one specialization is working with older adults (65+) who are experiencing depression, anxiety and cognitive changes.
WHAT WILL THERAPY BE LIKE? I strive to create an environment that is confidential and nonjudgmental. The therapy hour is a time and place where you can feel safe enough to do important work. I also believe that therapy can be enjoyable and life-affirming, even at times a FUN experience. WHAT CAN THERAPY ACCOMPLISH FOR ME? Engaging in psychotherapy provides the opportunity for a new start, an escape from ruminating, from feelings of helplessness and indecision. I will work with you to see and experience your situation in a new way - and take action to make important changes.
(747) 200-4156 View (747) 200-4156
Photo of Jacey Milliner, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jacey Milliner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505  (Online Only)
She specializes in clients seeking help with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, and the BIPOC/LGBTQ+ community.
Jacey Milliner (AMFT 140322) is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in facilitating profound self-transformation. When working with individuals, couples, and families, her approach is firmly rooted in the belief that each person possesses inherent value and untapped potential. She is deeply committed to nurturing the therapeutic relationship, recognizing it as the cornerstone of the transformative journey with her clients. Within this dedicated space, her goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment, empowering clients to explore the depths of their emotions.
She specializes in clients seeking help with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, and the BIPOC/LGBTQ+ community.
Jacey Milliner (AMFT 140322) is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in facilitating profound self-transformation. When working with individuals, couples, and families, her approach is firmly rooted in the belief that each person possesses inherent value and untapped potential. She is deeply committed to nurturing the therapeutic relationship, recognizing it as the cornerstone of the transformative journey with her clients. Within this dedicated space, her goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment, empowering clients to explore the depths of their emotions.
(747) 239-4789 View (747) 239-4789
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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.