Depression Therapists in Colton, CA

Photo of Jonathan G. Beauregard, MS, LMFT, LAADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan G. Beauregard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LAADC
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
Beauregard is highly trained and experienced in evidence-based practices for depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, and substance use disorders.
In today's world, each day come with it's challenges. If we are not careful we can be easily consumed and overcome by stress, anxiety, and many other emotional barriers that diminish the quality of life. However, I'm a firm believer that every problem is born with a solution. Solutions may not be easy or feel good at times, but the journey of finding the solution comes with strength, endurance, and enlightenment. In my practice, individuals, couples, or families are provided with a safe environment to confront life's challenges by using evidenced based practices and interventions to assist you in moving from problem to solution.
Beauregard is highly trained and experienced in evidence-based practices for depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, and substance use disorders.
In today's world, each day come with it's challenges. If we are not careful we can be easily consumed and overcome by stress, anxiety, and many other emotional barriers that diminish the quality of life. However, I'm a firm believer that every problem is born with a solution. Solutions may not be easy or feel good at times, but the journey of finding the solution comes with strength, endurance, and enlightenment. In my practice, individuals, couples, or families are provided with a safe environment to confront life's challenges by using evidenced based practices and interventions to assist you in moving from problem to solution.
(909) 492-0573 View (909) 492-0573
Photo of Sindia Slack, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sindia Slack
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, self-esteem issues or deeper trauma wounds, I’d like to walk alongside your healing journey.
Hello, I’m Sindia Slack, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide individual and family therapy in both English and Spanish. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, culturally sensitive, systems and strength based.At my core I aim to serve individuals and families, however, being a mother myself I am dedicated to serving the women either transitioning into motherhood or the seasoned mommas who need some extra help. I sought out a specialty in perinatal mental health and am trained to work with mother’s experiencing grief, depression, stress or anxiety throughout the perinatal and postpartum period.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, self-esteem issues or deeper trauma wounds, I’d like to walk alongside your healing journey.
Hello, I’m Sindia Slack, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide individual and family therapy in both English and Spanish. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, culturally sensitive, systems and strength based.At my core I aim to serve individuals and families, however, being a mother myself I am dedicated to serving the women either transitioning into motherhood or the seasoned mommas who need some extra help. I sought out a specialty in perinatal mental health and am trained to work with mother’s experiencing grief, depression, stress or anxiety throughout the perinatal and postpartum period.
(909) 323-4101 x1 View (909) 323-4101 x1
Photo of Timothy Weesner, LPCC, LMHC, Counselor
Timothy Weesner
Counselor, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colton, CA 92324  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Masters of Counseling/Professional Clinical Counselor. I'm a general practitioner working with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety/Stress and its related issues, OCD, Trauma, Addictions (both substance and process) recovery and Spiritual Issues. I work with adult individuals 18+. I graduated from the Counseling program of Western Seminary in Portland Oregon and work from a Judeo-Christian faith perspective. I believe in joining you where you are at and in working towards your goals and helping to overcome your challenges and struggles; to begin to think and act in integrity toward the person you want to become.
Masters of Counseling/Professional Clinical Counselor. I'm a general practitioner working with PTSD, Depression, Anxiety/Stress and its related issues, OCD, Trauma, Addictions (both substance and process) recovery and Spiritual Issues. I work with adult individuals 18+. I graduated from the Counseling program of Western Seminary in Portland Oregon and work from a Judeo-Christian faith perspective. I believe in joining you where you are at and in working towards your goals and helping to overcome your challenges and struggles; to begin to think and act in integrity toward the person you want to become.
(909) 403-4235 View (909) 403-4235
Photo of Vanessa Mendoza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Mendoza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
Hi I am Vanessa Mendoza. I am an LCSW in practice since 2016. I currently specialize in working with people going through life transitions. I work with individuals struggling with adjustment disorder, depression, and anxiety. Work with immigrant population, in addition, I enjoy working with first-generation individuals. I adopt an eclectic therapeutic approach. Some of my most used approaches are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and strength-based.
Hi I am Vanessa Mendoza. I am an LCSW in practice since 2016. I currently specialize in working with people going through life transitions. I work with individuals struggling with adjustment disorder, depression, and anxiety. Work with immigrant population, in addition, I enjoy working with first-generation individuals. I adopt an eclectic therapeutic approach. Some of my most used approaches are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and strength-based.
(909) 588-1513 View (909) 588-1513
Photo of Adrian Carol McClellan - Adrian McClellan, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrian McClellan, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colton, CA 92324
Additional insurance services available right now. Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Cigna and Magellan. Telehealth also available. I have appointment times available in 1 to 2 WEEKS. I am available by appointment only. I am a licensed therapist working in the field of health/mental health since 1983. I have been licensed in California since 1988. I have extensive experience working with those burdened by depressed mood, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and more. Please see the list of specialties I work with. We can find a solution to your issues. Keep your hope. If others can recover, so can you.
Additional insurance services available right now. Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Cigna and Magellan. Telehealth also available. I have appointment times available in 1 to 2 WEEKS. I am available by appointment only. I am a licensed therapist working in the field of health/mental health since 1983. I have been licensed in California since 1988. I have extensive experience working with those burdened by depressed mood, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and more. Please see the list of specialties I work with. We can find a solution to your issues. Keep your hope. If others can recover, so can you.
(909) 351-3606 View (909) 351-3606
Photo of Hue Dang, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hue Dang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, anger and stress management, grief and loss, play therapy, relationship challenges, family systems, childhood trauma and abuse, parenting, and social skills.
My name is Hue Dang, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California. I graduated from Long Beach State with my Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have over 10 years of experience working with children, families, and individuals in the areas of case management, behavioral support, and mental health. I use a comprehensive approach tailored to the multifaceted needs of my clients. I have extensive experience as an agent of support and change in a variety of settings including foster care, hospice, and intensive care coordination.
My areas of expertise include but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, anger and stress management, grief and loss, play therapy, relationship challenges, family systems, childhood trauma and abuse, parenting, and social skills.
My name is Hue Dang, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California. I graduated from Long Beach State with my Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have over 10 years of experience working with children, families, and individuals in the areas of case management, behavioral support, and mental health. I use a comprehensive approach tailored to the multifaceted needs of my clients. I have extensive experience as an agent of support and change in a variety of settings including foster care, hospice, and intensive care coordination.
(909) 637-4819 View (909) 637-4819
Photo of Letrilla King, CP, Psychologist
Letrilla King
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
These challenges may include but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, co-occurring disorders, personality disorders, trauma, sexual abuse, and chronic pain.
Hello, my name is Dr. L. Chodi King and I am a licensed psychologist. I work with ages 18-99. I have worked with patients in integrated programs focusing on, but not limited to, co-occurring disorders, trauma, sexual abuse, and chronic pain helping them move past life's challenges into a bright future. My approach to therapy is person-centered. The modalities I use vary based on the individual needs of each patient as they are all unique individuals though I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral approaches.
These challenges may include but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, co-occurring disorders, personality disorders, trauma, sexual abuse, and chronic pain.
Hello, my name is Dr. L. Chodi King and I am a licensed psychologist. I work with ages 18-99. I have worked with patients in integrated programs focusing on, but not limited to, co-occurring disorders, trauma, sexual abuse, and chronic pain helping them move past life's challenges into a bright future. My approach to therapy is person-centered. The modalities I use vary based on the individual needs of each patient as they are all unique individuals though I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral approaches.
(707) 940-5459 View (707) 940-5459
Photo of Rachel Navarro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Navarro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
Hi! and welcome :) I am Rachel Navarro, a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California with over 15 years of experience in the social services sector. My areas of focus include: addictions, LGBT, grief, intimacy-related issues, career difficulties, depression, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, attachment Issues, blended Family Issues, body image, caregiver issues and stress, communication problems, divorce and separation, family problems, forgiveness, pregnancy and childbirth, self-love, women's issues and workplace challenges.
Hi! and welcome :) I am Rachel Navarro, a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California with over 15 years of experience in the social services sector. My areas of focus include: addictions, LGBT, grief, intimacy-related issues, career difficulties, depression, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, attachment Issues, blended Family Issues, body image, caregiver issues and stress, communication problems, divorce and separation, family problems, forgiveness, pregnancy and childbirth, self-love, women's issues and workplace challenges.
(916) 680-8478 View (916) 680-8478
Photo of Francesca Harper, MS, AMFT, APCC, PPSC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Francesca Harper
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC, PPSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colton, CA 92324  (Online Only)
If you’re seeking support for trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, or issues with self-worth, please know you don’t have to face them alone. I’m here to walk with you on your path to healing. You’ll have a safe space in counseling to process your experiences openly and to foster healing and growth. Together, we’ll face your challenges by exploring your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to uncover the roots of your concerns. I utilize strength-based treatment approaches like CBT and mindfulness. My role is to support, empower, and guide you each step of the way.
If you’re seeking support for trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, or issues with self-worth, please know you don’t have to face them alone. I’m here to walk with you on your path to healing. You’ll have a safe space in counseling to process your experiences openly and to foster healing and growth. Together, we’ll face your challenges by exploring your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to uncover the roots of your concerns. I utilize strength-based treatment approaches like CBT and mindfulness. My role is to support, empower, and guide you each step of the way.
(408) 549-8595 View (408) 549-8595
Photo of Ashley Jeffries, LPCC
Ashley Jeffries
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
My name is Ashley Jeffries and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Monterey, California and work with clients state-wide via telehealth. I specialize in working with individuals from a depth psychological orientation, exploring meaning-making, and purpose, and cultivating a sense of identity. I also have expertise in working with individuals with disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image concerns. For the last five years, I've specialized in working with clients with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and challenges around identity and body autonomy.
My name is Ashley Jeffries and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Monterey, California and work with clients state-wide via telehealth. I specialize in working with individuals from a depth psychological orientation, exploring meaning-making, and purpose, and cultivating a sense of identity. I also have expertise in working with individuals with disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image concerns. For the last five years, I've specialized in working with clients with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and challenges around identity and body autonomy.
(530) 654-1708 View (530) 654-1708
Photo of Fernando Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fernando Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
Hi, my name is Fernando Hernandez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Bakersfield, CA working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work primarily with adults with a specialty in anxiety, stress management, and depression utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support my clients in their journey towards recovery. I provide a listening ear, a calm demeanor, and accommodating. I strive to ensure my patients feel comfortable to share anything in therapy and ensure to provide active listening while in session with clients.
Hi, my name is Fernando Hernandez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Bakersfield, CA working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work primarily with adults with a specialty in anxiety, stress management, and depression utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support my clients in their journey towards recovery. I provide a listening ear, a calm demeanor, and accommodating. I strive to ensure my patients feel comfortable to share anything in therapy and ensure to provide active listening while in session with clients.
(858) 758-7716 View (858) 758-7716
Photo of Maral Arakelian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maral Arakelian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad or unsure of what's going on, I'm glad you are here. Change can be difficult, but there is hope. I am here to provide you with tools and coping skills to accomplish this change in a safe and compassionate environment set at a comfortable pace to ease the process that can be difficult. As my client you can expect a sensitive, flexible and interactive approach in my practice. My experience over the past 20 years includes treating children, adolescents, families and adults who have experienced childhood trauma, relationship and parenting issues, anxiety, depression and grief/loss.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad or unsure of what's going on, I'm glad you are here. Change can be difficult, but there is hope. I am here to provide you with tools and coping skills to accomplish this change in a safe and compassionate environment set at a comfortable pace to ease the process that can be difficult. As my client you can expect a sensitive, flexible and interactive approach in my practice. My experience over the past 20 years includes treating children, adolescents, families and adults who have experienced childhood trauma, relationship and parenting issues, anxiety, depression and grief/loss.
(562) 553-6719 View (562) 553-6719
Photo of Sarah Oh, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Oh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
I have helped clients journey through life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, postpartum depression/anxiety, among others.
I commend you for seeking help. You are not alone in your journey and relief can be found! I provide a non-judgmental, collaborative, and safe place for you to share your struggles. I believe in being honest and direct, while incorporating a sense of humor to approach life’s challenges.
I have helped clients journey through life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, postpartum depression/anxiety, among others.
I commend you for seeking help. You are not alone in your journey and relief can be found! I provide a non-judgmental, collaborative, and safe place for you to share your struggles. I believe in being honest and direct, while incorporating a sense of humor to approach life’s challenges.
(951) 463-5392 View (951) 463-5392
Photo of A. K. Parker, MS, LPCC, PPS
A. K. Parker
MS, LPCC, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colton, CA 92324  (Online Only)
Using various therapeutic models and evidenced based interventions I specialize in addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, family conflict, relational issues, behavioral issues with children/ teens, and various stressors that arise from having a marginalized identity (racial minority, LGBTQIA+, etc.
Sometimes we can start to feel overwhelmed by life. Various triggers such as identity stress, loss, life transitions, traumatic events, anxious feelings, and relational conflict can start to feel unbearable. This can make carrying on day to day activities very challenging. Whether or not you recognize these behaviors in yourself, your children, or your family as a collective, we can work collaboratively towards addressing your unique needs. You are not alone in this. Today you are one step closer to a more authentic you where you feel empowered and on a path to positive growth and well-being.
Using various therapeutic models and evidenced based interventions I specialize in addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, family conflict, relational issues, behavioral issues with children/ teens, and various stressors that arise from having a marginalized identity (racial minority, LGBTQIA+, etc.
Sometimes we can start to feel overwhelmed by life. Various triggers such as identity stress, loss, life transitions, traumatic events, anxious feelings, and relational conflict can start to feel unbearable. This can make carrying on day to day activities very challenging. Whether or not you recognize these behaviors in yourself, your children, or your family as a collective, we can work collaboratively towards addressing your unique needs. You are not alone in this. Today you are one step closer to a more authentic you where you feel empowered and on a path to positive growth and well-being.
(951) 783-3233 View (951) 783-3233
Photo of Deryl Taylor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deryl Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals navigate life transitions, cultural adjustments, and identity exploration while managing mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
My ideal client is someone navigating significant life transitions, such as moving to a new culture or exploring their identity, and dealing with mood disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. They often feel overwhelmed by emotional turbulence and struggle with feelings of isolation, uncertainty, and self-doubt. They need emotional support, effective coping strategies, assistance with cultural adjustment, and guidance in identity exploration. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, integrating into their new cultural context, gaining self-awareness, and improving their relationships.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate life transitions, cultural adjustments, and identity exploration while managing mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
My ideal client is someone navigating significant life transitions, such as moving to a new culture or exploring their identity, and dealing with mood disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. They often feel overwhelmed by emotional turbulence and struggle with feelings of isolation, uncertainty, and self-doubt. They need emotional support, effective coping strategies, assistance with cultural adjustment, and guidance in identity exploration. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, integrating into their new cultural context, gaining self-awareness, and improving their relationships.
(909) 245-8572 View (909) 245-8572
Photo of Deryl Taylor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deryl Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
I have been trained in a range of modalities with a particular expertise in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and approach to the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic pain and sex offenders.
My greatest reward as a therapist is helping my clients explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with that warm, nonjudgmental environment-a safe place to explore the issues that may be preventing you from living the life you want.
I have been trained in a range of modalities with a particular expertise in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and approach to the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic pain and sex offenders.
My greatest reward as a therapist is helping my clients explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with that warm, nonjudgmental environment-a safe place to explore the issues that may be preventing you from living the life you want.
(951) 499-3198 View (951) 499-3198
Photo of Wendy Del Cid, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Del Cid
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
Hi there, my name Is Wendy Del Cid. I have 20 years' experience as a licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I want to work with clients by making a genuine connection. This trust is valuable to me. I look forward working with you. This is your time to grow. I have experience with trauma clients and those with a diagnosis pf depression and anxiety. I also work with bipolar disorders as well. I am client centered when I work with clients. I meet you where you are, and we go on this journey together. I also have experience with Cognitive Behavioral therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as well.
Hi there, my name Is Wendy Del Cid. I have 20 years' experience as a licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I want to work with clients by making a genuine connection. This trust is valuable to me. I look forward working with you. This is your time to grow. I have experience with trauma clients and those with a diagnosis pf depression and anxiety. I also work with bipolar disorders as well. I am client centered when I work with clients. I meet you where you are, and we go on this journey together. I also have experience with Cognitive Behavioral therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as well.
(951) 524-6987 View (951) 524-6987
Photo of Dr. Frederick Lopez, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Frederick Lopez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
The ideal client seeks support for diverse emotional and relational challenges, including anxiety, stress, depression, and identity exploration. They crave understanding, validation, and empowerment in navigating life's complexities. Their goal is to achieve emotional resilience, authentic self-expression, and meaningful connections. They seek guidance to develop coping skills, enhance self-awareness, and cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Ultimately, they aspire to lead a balanced, fulfilling life aligned with their values and aspirations.
The ideal client seeks support for diverse emotional and relational challenges, including anxiety, stress, depression, and identity exploration. They crave understanding, validation, and empowerment in navigating life's complexities. Their goal is to achieve emotional resilience, authentic self-expression, and meaningful connections. They seek guidance to develop coping skills, enhance self-awareness, and cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Ultimately, they aspire to lead a balanced, fulfilling life aligned with their values and aspirations.
(909) 317-3701 View (909) 317-3701
Photo of Starla Hendrix, ACSW
Starla Hendrix
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
She has experience treating anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, mood disorders, relationship and family issues, etc.
Starla Hendrix is an associate social worker with 20+ years of experience working with children & families in a wide range of ages. With a Master' degree in Social Work from Cal Baptist University Starla has the work experience and educational training to support clients in a whole-person, strength-based way, combining insight with action.
She has experience treating anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, mood disorders, relationship and family issues, etc.
Starla Hendrix is an associate social worker with 20+ years of experience working with children & families in a wide range of ages. With a Master' degree in Social Work from Cal Baptist University Starla has the work experience and educational training to support clients in a whole-person, strength-based way, combining insight with action.
(909) 294-2303 View (909) 294-2303
Photo of Amanda Vann- Orellana, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Vann- Orellana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colton, CA 92324
Areas of expertise include but not limited to :  Play therapy  Children and adolescents with behavioral and sexual issues  Anxiety and depression (including postpartum depression)  Relationship challenges: families  Phase-of-life changes, grief, and loss  Life stresses and next steps  Childhood Trauma and Abuse  Adoption  Parenting Challenges.
Amanda Vann -Orellana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker within California. She has over 10 years of experience working with children, families and individuals as an agent of support and guidance. Amanda graduated from the University of Southern California with her Masters Degree in Social Work. She works with children, young adults, individuals and families using an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. She has over 10 years of experience in a variety of settings and with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief interventions.
Areas of expertise include but not limited to :  Play therapy  Children and adolescents with behavioral and sexual issues  Anxiety and depression (including postpartum depression)  Relationship challenges: families  Phase-of-life changes, grief, and loss  Life stresses and next steps  Childhood Trauma and Abuse  Adoption  Parenting Challenges.
Amanda Vann -Orellana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker within California. She has over 10 years of experience working with children, families and individuals as an agent of support and guidance. Amanda graduated from the University of Southern California with her Masters Degree in Social Work. She works with children, young adults, individuals and families using an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. She has over 10 years of experience in a variety of settings and with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief interventions.
(909) 736-3284 View (909) 736-3284
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.