Photo of Vicki McDonald, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vicki McDonald
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Welcome. I am here to help you heal and grow in a safe, non judgmental environment. I work with people who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Trauma. I practice using personalized and evidence-based approaches. My unique style includes elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I have advanced training from the Beck Institute for CBT as well as advanced certifications from the EMDR International Association.
Welcome. I am here to help you heal and grow in a safe, non judgmental environment. I work with people who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Trauma. I practice using personalized and evidence-based approaches. My unique style includes elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I have advanced training from the Beck Institute for CBT as well as advanced certifications from the EMDR International Association.
(949) 710-5771 View (949) 710-5771
Photo of Stephanie Gebhard, ACSW, MPH, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stephanie Gebhard
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
As an Associate Clinical Social Worker, I work with adults and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction. Anxiety, depression and traumatic experiences can make us feel stuck in an unrelenting mental loop. Not only can traumatic experiences create anxiety and depression- but left untreated, trauma can manifest in different parts of the body.
As an Associate Clinical Social Worker, I work with adults and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction. Anxiety, depression and traumatic experiences can make us feel stuck in an unrelenting mental loop. Not only can traumatic experiences create anxiety and depression- but left untreated, trauma can manifest in different parts of the body.
(657) 213-3768 View (657) 213-3768
Photo of Lauren Armstrong - OC Teen Center- Adolescent and Teen Mental Health, PsyD, Psychologist
OC Teen Center- Adolescent and Teen Mental Health
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
If your child has depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, or trans/identity issues please call us.
Dr. Lauren Armstrong is a highly passionate licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director with a PsyD from Pepperdine University, and has been working with children and adolescents for the past ten years. She is an expert in working with challenging psychological presentations such as trauma, self harm, mood changes, aggression, and other unsafe or maladaptive coping mechanisms. Dr. Lauren always believes in her patients, even when everyone else has stopped believing in them. She never loses hope, and tirelessly works with patients and their families on improving their relationships, coping skills, and positive change.
If your child has depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, or trans/identity issues please call us.
Dr. Lauren Armstrong is a highly passionate licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director with a PsyD from Pepperdine University, and has been working with children and adolescents for the past ten years. She is an expert in working with challenging psychological presentations such as trauma, self harm, mood changes, aggression, and other unsafe or maladaptive coping mechanisms. Dr. Lauren always believes in her patients, even when everyone else has stopped believing in them. She never loses hope, and tirelessly works with patients and their families on improving their relationships, coping skills, and positive change.
(714) 646-1580 View (714) 646-1580
Photo of Claudia Eppele - TMS Health and Wellness, Dr. Claudia Eppele, MD, MD
TMS Health and Wellness, Dr. Claudia Eppele, MD
MD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a FDA approved non-invasive, non-systemic, cutting edge therapy system used for the treatment of depression.
At TMS Health and Wellness we specialize in the relief of symptoms caused by major depressive disorder, anxiety, grief, addiction and obsessive compulsive disorder through TMS Therapy. TMS is now covered by most Insurances and Medicare.
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a FDA approved non-invasive, non-systemic, cutting edge therapy system used for the treatment of depression.
At TMS Health and Wellness we specialize in the relief of symptoms caused by major depressive disorder, anxiety, grief, addiction and obsessive compulsive disorder through TMS Therapy. TMS is now covered by most Insurances and Medicare.
(855) 867-5551 View (855) 867-5551
Photo of Kai Lewis, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kai Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Perhaps you are brand new to therapy, or returning for better results. Maybe you are looking for a therapist that relates to the LGBTQ+ identities/experiences you have, and how those may affect other areas of your life. You're looking for a space to be authentic and explore complex parts of who you are in a safe, affirming space. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, confusion, or other barriers to your well-being. My priority is inviting you to share who you are so we can create positive outcomes. I combine evidence-based practices with real-world application, placing your experiences at the forefront of therapy.
Perhaps you are brand new to therapy, or returning for better results. Maybe you are looking for a therapist that relates to the LGBTQ+ identities/experiences you have, and how those may affect other areas of your life. You're looking for a space to be authentic and explore complex parts of who you are in a safe, affirming space. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, confusion, or other barriers to your well-being. My priority is inviting you to share who you are so we can create positive outcomes. I combine evidence-based practices with real-world application, placing your experiences at the forefront of therapy.
(657) 214-4460 View (657) 214-4460
Photo of Amber Kramer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amber Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Life can often feel overwhelming and isolating. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness, and/or relationship troubles, you don't have to do this journey alone. Together, we can navigate through challenging and uncomfortable roads in order to discover the meaningful path you wish to be on. I will walk alongside you to identify your values, strengths, and preferences in a collaborative and empowering way. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you.
Life can often feel overwhelming and isolating. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness, and/or relationship troubles, you don't have to do this journey alone. Together, we can navigate through challenging and uncomfortable roads in order to discover the meaningful path you wish to be on. I will walk alongside you to identify your values, strengths, and preferences in a collaborative and empowering way. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you.
(657) 216-6668 View (657) 216-6668
Photo of Lynn Talmon, LMFT, LAADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynn Talmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
Online zoom sessions, New Client Openings, No Waitlist. Individual therapy only. If life isn't how it should be, & what used to give you joy doesn't anymore, if it's exhausting always struggling, then therapy can be a powerful way to change things now that you're ready. It is an HONOR to listen & be present as you discover your truth, joy, satisfaction, peace & confidence! I treat individuals only. If you're overwhelmed, anxious, down or stuck, talking to someone helps. Specialties: depression, anxiety, coping w/ climate change & environmental grief, sober/recovery, autistic spectrum, ending a relationship, codependency, LGBTQ2+
Online zoom sessions, New Client Openings, No Waitlist. Individual therapy only. If life isn't how it should be, & what used to give you joy doesn't anymore, if it's exhausting always struggling, then therapy can be a powerful way to change things now that you're ready. It is an HONOR to listen & be present as you discover your truth, joy, satisfaction, peace & confidence! I treat individuals only. If you're overwhelmed, anxious, down or stuck, talking to someone helps. Specialties: depression, anxiety, coping w/ climate change & environmental grief, sober/recovery, autistic spectrum, ending a relationship, codependency, LGBTQ2+
(949) 612-2083 View (949) 612-2083
Photo of Katie Burgess, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Burgess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
Katie has experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, and trauma.
Katie is a licensed psychotherapist and has worked in mental health and social services since 2011. She provides compassionate, evidence based therapy that is individualized to each client and their specific needs, strengths and goals. She utilizes an eclectic approach that incorporates different evidenced based therapeutic frameworks. She is passionate about partnering with her clients to help them achieve their personal goals and reach their fullest potential.
Katie has experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, and trauma.
Katie is a licensed psychotherapist and has worked in mental health and social services since 2011. She provides compassionate, evidence based therapy that is individualized to each client and their specific needs, strengths and goals. She utilizes an eclectic approach that incorporates different evidenced based therapeutic frameworks. She is passionate about partnering with her clients to help them achieve their personal goals and reach their fullest potential.
(949) 649-8379 View (949) 649-8379
Photo of Evelyn E. Escobar, PsyD, Psychologist
Evelyn E. Escobar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
You have taken a very important step in seeking therapy. Your mental health is perhaps the most important investment you can make. If you are feeling depressed or anxious, please know that you are not alone. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you not only overcome your current distress but can also lead you to reach levels that you never imagined possible.
You have taken a very important step in seeking therapy. Your mental health is perhaps the most important investment you can make. If you are feeling depressed or anxious, please know that you are not alone. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you not only overcome your current distress but can also lead you to reach levels that you never imagined possible.
(657) 216-7229 View (657) 216-7229
Photo of Summer Witty, MS, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Summer Witty
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we can feel inadequate in dealing with life struggles that come our way. Sometimes we feel like we've tried everything, but for some reason we still feel stuck despite our best efforts. Although there are times in our lives when we feel great, there are also times in our lives when we feel hopeless, anxious, depressed, or even lost. Sometimes, we can pinpoint why we feel this way, and other times, these feelings seem to just come upon us for no apparent reason. Both can make life incredibly difficult.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we can feel inadequate in dealing with life struggles that come our way. Sometimes we feel like we've tried everything, but for some reason we still feel stuck despite our best efforts. Although there are times in our lives when we feel great, there are also times in our lives when we feel hopeless, anxious, depressed, or even lost. Sometimes, we can pinpoint why we feel this way, and other times, these feelings seem to just come upon us for no apparent reason. Both can make life incredibly difficult.
(949) 536-9770 View (949) 536-9770
Photo of Kelly Rice - Kelly Rice, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Rice, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627  (Online Only)
I have over fifteen years of experience working with clients who suffer from stress as a result of dating and relationship issues, trauma, depression and anxiety.
As a therapist, I know that sometimes, you may just need someone to listen and walk through a difficult season in life with you. You may find yourself in need of a safe place to explore your thoughts and feelings about dating, a significant relationship or a life transition. You may be coping with pain in ways that are self-destructive, or feeling "stuck", sad, and/or overwhelmed by worry. I offer understanding and caring, compassionate feedback. My goal is to help you tap into your own inner wisdom, so that you can heal, grow, and thrive- ultimately living a more fulfilling life.
I have over fifteen years of experience working with clients who suffer from stress as a result of dating and relationship issues, trauma, depression and anxiety.
As a therapist, I know that sometimes, you may just need someone to listen and walk through a difficult season in life with you. You may find yourself in need of a safe place to explore your thoughts and feelings about dating, a significant relationship or a life transition. You may be coping with pain in ways that are self-destructive, or feeling "stuck", sad, and/or overwhelmed by worry. I offer understanding and caring, compassionate feedback. My goal is to help you tap into your own inner wisdom, so that you can heal, grow, and thrive- ultimately living a more fulfilling life.
(949) 390-6056 View (949) 390-6056
Photo of Carlos Xavier Montaño Jr, PsyD, Psychologist
Carlos Xavier Montaño Jr
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Hi there! My name is Dr. Carlos. Way to take the first steps toward feeling better by looking for a good therapist! It's not always an easy search, but it's worth finding a therapist that's the right fit. Patients would probably say I have a personable, laid-back, and empathic style. I enjoy working with patients with diverse issues, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, ADHD, Dual Diagnosis, and Trauma. I'm transparent in letting you know if I treat what you need help with. I have enjoyed working with patients of diverse cultures and age groups. Setting up goals is important, so we can measure your progress!
Hi there! My name is Dr. Carlos. Way to take the first steps toward feeling better by looking for a good therapist! It's not always an easy search, but it's worth finding a therapist that's the right fit. Patients would probably say I have a personable, laid-back, and empathic style. I enjoy working with patients with diverse issues, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, ADHD, Dual Diagnosis, and Trauma. I'm transparent in letting you know if I treat what you need help with. I have enjoyed working with patients of diverse cultures and age groups. Setting up goals is important, so we can measure your progress!
(949) 647-4270 View (949) 647-4270
Photo of Ruya Urso, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ruya Urso
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering supportive, strength-based therapy to adults and families. I have a B.A. in Psychology from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia and an M.A. in Counseling with Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Webster University in Irvine, California. Throughout my carrier, I have worked with clients with a variety of issues and from all socio-economic, cultural and religious backgrounds. My experience in College Hospital, a mental health facility, trained me to understand how different mental health issues can be compounded by trauma and substance abuse, as well as preparing me for dealing with clients with variety of mental health problems. I have extensive experience with children, adolescents and adults who had experienced different traumas. Among my areas of experience are anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, women's issues, adolescents' issues and family problems. I utilize many different treatment modalities and treatment techniques depending on the client's needs.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering supportive, strength-based therapy to adults and families. I have a B.A. in Psychology from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia and an M.A. in Counseling with Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Webster University in Irvine, California. Throughout my carrier, I have worked with clients with a variety of issues and from all socio-economic, cultural and religious backgrounds. My experience in College Hospital, a mental health facility, trained me to understand how different mental health issues can be compounded by trauma and substance abuse, as well as preparing me for dealing with clients with variety of mental health problems. I have extensive experience with children, adolescents and adults who had experienced different traumas. Among my areas of experience are anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, women's issues, adolescents' issues and family problems. I utilize many different treatment modalities and treatment techniques depending on the client's needs.
(657) 295-7933 View (657) 295-7933
Photo of Mitra H Elmi, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mitra H Elmi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I have experience working with those who have a specific presenting issues such as: depression, bereavement, anxiety, elderly (Immigration), relationship problems, marital problems as well as premarital consultation.
Being in the helping field is where I belong, and helping others is my priority. I initially began my career as a teacher, and then decided to pursue a deeper role in helping others learn, grow, and become their best self. During the past 8 years of being a clinical therapist, I have worked in both a clinic and school setting. I've worked with a diverse population, including people of all ages, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I welcome anyone who is willing to work with me, together, to improve relationships, self, family, and/or overall well-being.
I have experience working with those who have a specific presenting issues such as: depression, bereavement, anxiety, elderly (Immigration), relationship problems, marital problems as well as premarital consultation.
Being in the helping field is where I belong, and helping others is my priority. I initially began my career as a teacher, and then decided to pursue a deeper role in helping others learn, grow, and become their best self. During the past 8 years of being a clinical therapist, I have worked in both a clinic and school setting. I've worked with a diverse population, including people of all ages, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I welcome anyone who is willing to work with me, together, to improve relationships, self, family, and/or overall well-being.
(949) 682-3843 View (949) 682-3843
Photo of James Seghers, MS, PhD, Psychologist
James Seghers
Psychologist, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Depression. Anxiety. Relationship and career problems. These very real difficulties of living represent potent opportunities for growth and transformation. In reality, this is not always easy to see. A key step is developing insight, combined with a willingness to accept increasing levels of personal responsibility. As a therapist and coach, my orientation is holistic. I incorporate a whole-person approach that emphasizes physical, mental, emotional, and interpersonal factors. I view human experience as an inherently creative process, and work to empower clients to harness their innate potential to create meaningful and fulfilling lives through committed action based on personal values.
Depression. Anxiety. Relationship and career problems. These very real difficulties of living represent potent opportunities for growth and transformation. In reality, this is not always easy to see. A key step is developing insight, combined with a willingness to accept increasing levels of personal responsibility. As a therapist and coach, my orientation is holistic. I incorporate a whole-person approach that emphasizes physical, mental, emotional, and interpersonal factors. I view human experience as an inherently creative process, and work to empower clients to harness their innate potential to create meaningful and fulfilling lives through committed action based on personal values.
(949) 482-4347 View (949) 482-4347
Photo of Stephanie (Sulea) Boone, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie (Sulea) Boone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
She enjoys working with people who suffer with the following issues: depression, anxiety, stage of life concerns, attachment issues, early childhood/developmental trauma, sexuality, spirituality, and relationship distress.
Stephanie is passionate about journeying alongside adults and adolescents as they experience the difficulties of life transitions and discover who they truly are. People often find themselves in painful relational patterns and spaces of internal suffering that hinder them from living the fulfilled life they desire. Stephanie believes that deeply exploring oneself from a holistic and creative posture is what allows people to authentically live in the freedom of who they truly are.
She enjoys working with people who suffer with the following issues: depression, anxiety, stage of life concerns, attachment issues, early childhood/developmental trauma, sexuality, spirituality, and relationship distress.
Stephanie is passionate about journeying alongside adults and adolescents as they experience the difficulties of life transitions and discover who they truly are. People often find themselves in painful relational patterns and spaces of internal suffering that hinder them from living the fulfilled life they desire. Stephanie believes that deeply exploring oneself from a holistic and creative posture is what allows people to authentically live in the freedom of who they truly are.
(714) 455-1904 View (714) 455-1904
Photo of Gina L Sickels, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gina L Sickels
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
If you can change your thoughts, you can change your world! I believe learning how to challenge negative thoughts can greatly impact your mood and subsequent behaviors. I am passionate about helping others live the life they deserve! Unfortunately, past traumas, experiences and life circumstances change our perception and view of the world. Fear, depression, anxiety and mistrust can interfere with our ability to pursue dreams, aspirations and healthy relationships. I provide an environment where you can feel safe, encouraged and validated. Together we can develop appropriate therapeutic goals to help you move at your pace toward healing and change.
If you can change your thoughts, you can change your world! I believe learning how to challenge negative thoughts can greatly impact your mood and subsequent behaviors. I am passionate about helping others live the life they deserve! Unfortunately, past traumas, experiences and life circumstances change our perception and view of the world. Fear, depression, anxiety and mistrust can interfere with our ability to pursue dreams, aspirations and healthy relationships. I provide an environment where you can feel safe, encouraged and validated. Together we can develop appropriate therapeutic goals to help you move at your pace toward healing and change.
(714) 804-0598 View (714) 804-0598
Photo of Yana Newberg, MA, LMFT, 100823, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yana Newberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, 100823
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
My professional interests and expertise are in the area of psychological trauma, sexual abuse, loss and dealing with chronic anxiety and depression.
Many of our experiences have come from a place of great suffering and fear. Often, this entails having survived harsh challenges and as a result, pieces of our personal stories may be missing, either because they are forgotten or too painful to talk about. Restoring one's personal history can prove to be invaluable in healing pain. It can our connect past, future and the present, forming continuity and reviving hope. My desire as a therapist is to provide assistance and encouragement for every one of my clients in exploring these personal stories as a way of coping with pain and finding meaning.
My professional interests and expertise are in the area of psychological trauma, sexual abuse, loss and dealing with chronic anxiety and depression.
Many of our experiences have come from a place of great suffering and fear. Often, this entails having survived harsh challenges and as a result, pieces of our personal stories may be missing, either because they are forgotten or too painful to talk about. Restoring one's personal history can prove to be invaluable in healing pain. It can our connect past, future and the present, forming continuity and reviving hope. My desire as a therapist is to provide assistance and encouragement for every one of my clients in exploring these personal stories as a way of coping with pain and finding meaning.
(949) 784-9553 View (949) 784-9553
Photo of Jennifer Lara, ASW
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
(949) 264-0502 View (949) 264-0502
Photo of Audrey Hu, ASW
Audrey Hu
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
(949) 393-7928 View (949) 393-7928
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.