Photo of Counseling Services Inc. - Counseling Services, Inc., LMFT, PhD, MFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Counseling Services, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230
We offer Individual, Child, Couple, and Family psychotherapy treatment for anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, as well as many other mental and emotional challenges.
At Counseling Services/LA Peace of Mind.com, we guide people to the light and empower themselves to heal. We help people who seek trust and freedom to be expressive, address life challenges, and barriers that interfere with growth and achieving life's goals.
We offer Individual, Child, Couple, and Family psychotherapy treatment for anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, as well as many other mental and emotional challenges.
At Counseling Services/LA Peace of Mind.com, we guide people to the light and empower themselves to heal. We help people who seek trust and freedom to be expressive, address life challenges, and barriers that interfere with growth and achieving life's goals.
(424) 353-4257 View (424) 353-4257
Photo of Tracy R Zemansky, PhD, CSAT-S, MFT, Psychologist
Tracy R Zemansky
Psychologist, PhD, CSAT-S, MFT
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90066
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Sex Addiction Therapist - Supervisor, and licensed MFT with a private practice in Santa Monica, California since 1994. I offer interpersonal psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups as well as psychological testing and assessment. My areas of expertise include: substance and process addictions, trauma/abuse, positive psychology, impaired professionals and first-responders, as well as grief/loss, disfigurement, and cross-cultural issues. I provide traditional, forensic, and pre-employment psychological assessment as well as Collaborative/Therapeutic evaluations.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Sex Addiction Therapist - Supervisor, and licensed MFT with a private practice in Santa Monica, California since 1994. I offer interpersonal psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups as well as psychological testing and assessment. My areas of expertise include: substance and process addictions, trauma/abuse, positive psychology, impaired professionals and first-responders, as well as grief/loss, disfigurement, and cross-cultural issues. I provide traditional, forensic, and pre-employment psychological assessment as well as Collaborative/Therapeutic evaluations.
(424) 396-0349 View (424) 396-0349

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Pezeshkifar, LMFT, CPC, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Pezeshkifar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CPC, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Therapy builds resilience, promotes wellbeing & self-awareness in the midst of various challenges one may face in life; Anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, communication, stress, etc.
My work enables the client to become aware of emotions and resources as they learn techniques for self-management, communication & resourcefulness. Building emotional resilience is key towards achieving a balanced life. I work with the conscious & subconscious mind, while helping gain self-awareness to understand that self-limiting behaviors are caused by thoughts, feelings & beliefs of which you may be unaware. I help build awareness & empowerment during your journey. The motivations and process of therapy are unique to each individual. My practice includes work with individuals, couples, families, children, geriatrics, & groups.
Therapy builds resilience, promotes wellbeing & self-awareness in the midst of various challenges one may face in life; Anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, communication, stress, etc.
My work enables the client to become aware of emotions and resources as they learn techniques for self-management, communication & resourcefulness. Building emotional resilience is key towards achieving a balanced life. I work with the conscious & subconscious mind, while helping gain self-awareness to understand that self-limiting behaviors are caused by thoughts, feelings & beliefs of which you may be unaware. I help build awareness & empowerment during your journey. The motivations and process of therapy are unique to each individual. My practice includes work with individuals, couples, families, children, geriatrics, & groups.
(424) 369-6133 View (424) 369-6133
Photo of Ronald Kaufman - Family Time Centers, PsyD, Psychologist
Family Time Centers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
The Centers are welcoming and accessible to families of all ages because in some way or another trauma, anxiety, and depression can be helped.
Family Time centers are community hubs where everyone can get the help or support they need. They can tap into community resources, learn new parenting skills, and/or get individualized support. We provide a location where challenges can be explored and personal relationships can be strengthened. If you or someone in your family is struggling, we have expert therapists who can help a parent or a child receive the counseling they need. We provide an inclusive location that is welcoming, handicap accessible, and reflective of the core values of healing your inner self.
The Centers are welcoming and accessible to families of all ages because in some way or another trauma, anxiety, and depression can be helped.
Family Time centers are community hubs where everyone can get the help or support they need. They can tap into community resources, learn new parenting skills, and/or get individualized support. We provide a location where challenges can be explored and personal relationships can be strengthened. If you or someone in your family is struggling, we have expert therapists who can help a parent or a child receive the counseling they need. We provide an inclusive location that is welcoming, handicap accessible, and reflective of the core values of healing your inner self.
(818) 572-9799 View (818) 572-9799
Photo of Tanya Jacob, PhD, Psychologist
Tanya Jacob
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
I work with adults and adolescents struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD, usually without the use of medication. Intrusive and upsetting thoughts can be so frightening that we feel trapped inside our own minds. It is my goal to help you to regain comfort within yourself. I help many clients manage withdrawal effects from drugs, alcohol, and prescription medication, including antidepressants.
I work with adults and adolescents struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD, usually without the use of medication. Intrusive and upsetting thoughts can be so frightening that we feel trapped inside our own minds. It is my goal to help you to regain comfort within yourself. I help many clients manage withdrawal effects from drugs, alcohol, and prescription medication, including antidepressants.
(310) 422-4132 View (310) 422-4132
Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Los Angeles, CA 90025
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734
Photo of Tricia Doud, PsyD, Psychologist
Tricia Doud
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
My specialties include but are not limited to attachment issues, mood, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Thank you for considering a new therapeutic relationship. These are unique times that have brought many different stressors to an already chaotic world. Please value your self-care at this time and feel free to reach out if you need psychological support or guidance. My clients typically include those who are seeking a long-term therapeutic relationship, as well as those who are hoping to address a specific issue in a limited time. I utilize an integrated, tailored approach. Always kind, supportive and non-judgmental, I will also provide direct feedback needed to facilitate change.
My specialties include but are not limited to attachment issues, mood, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Thank you for considering a new therapeutic relationship. These are unique times that have brought many different stressors to an already chaotic world. Please value your self-care at this time and feel free to reach out if you need psychological support or guidance. My clients typically include those who are seeking a long-term therapeutic relationship, as well as those who are hoping to address a specific issue in a limited time. I utilize an integrated, tailored approach. Always kind, supportive and non-judgmental, I will also provide direct feedback needed to facilitate change.
(424) 209-8190 View (424) 209-8190
Photo of Glenn L Farr - A Guided Journey Counseling       (Glenn L. Farr), MSW, LCSW, Individ, Relatio, Family, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Individ, Relatio, Family
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I assist in overcoming all social/emotional issues, however, most of my clients have struggled with relationship issues, depression, and anxiety.
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
I assist in overcoming all social/emotional issues, however, most of my clients have struggled with relationship issues, depression, and anxiety.
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
(442) 244-9159 View (442) 244-9159
Photo of Ashley Gharibian, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ashley Gharibian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I am passionate about helping individuals gain greater insight, self-awareness, and ultimately find their way toward healthy living. This can be done by exploring and understanding behavioral and relational patterns, as well as past experiences, while highlighting areas where changes can be made, resulting in more life-satisfaction. My experience is working with children, adolescents, adults who battle an array of mental health issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, challenging life transitions, relational issues, body image issues, maladaptive thought processes, and low self-esteem.
I am passionate about helping individuals gain greater insight, self-awareness, and ultimately find their way toward healthy living. This can be done by exploring and understanding behavioral and relational patterns, as well as past experiences, while highlighting areas where changes can be made, resulting in more life-satisfaction. My experience is working with children, adolescents, adults who battle an array of mental health issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, challenging life transitions, relational issues, body image issues, maladaptive thought processes, and low self-esteem.
(323) 970-2951 View (323) 970-2951
Photo of Christine Campbell, ATR, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
Silver Lake, CA 90026
Many of us haven't had much experience with the kind of truly supportive relationships that make healing possible. A good therapeutic relationship - one that allows us to be fully ourselves while recognizing our unique potential - creates the optimal conditions for healing. I provide a place where you can feel safe to explore your most difficult feelings, to work through grief and loss, heal childhood wounds, relieve depression and anxiety, improve communication, increase self-esteem and develop more satisfying relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and groups, and I'm available for both in-person and virtual sessions.
Many of us haven't had much experience with the kind of truly supportive relationships that make healing possible. A good therapeutic relationship - one that allows us to be fully ourselves while recognizing our unique potential - creates the optimal conditions for healing. I provide a place where you can feel safe to explore your most difficult feelings, to work through grief and loss, heal childhood wounds, relieve depression and anxiety, improve communication, increase self-esteem and develop more satisfying relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and groups, and I'm available for both in-person and virtual sessions.
(323) 601-5406 View (323) 601-5406
Photo of Samantha Laurie, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Laurie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90005
However, most of my experience is with anxiety, depression, and I worked at a non-profit for many years working with youth with behavioral issues/anxiety so that is the population I have worked with most.
I have been in practice for 10 years and have experience with a very wide variety of populations and mental health issues clients have had. Most of my experience is with youth of all ages and their families but I also meet with adult individuals and couples as well. My main goal and philosophy are to be a compassionate support person who is family centered, strength-based, implement helpful interventions all in order to validate as well as support you through your individualized challenges and reach your future goals.
However, most of my experience is with anxiety, depression, and I worked at a non-profit for many years working with youth with behavioral issues/anxiety so that is the population I have worked with most.
I have been in practice for 10 years and have experience with a very wide variety of populations and mental health issues clients have had. Most of my experience is with youth of all ages and their families but I also meet with adult individuals and couples as well. My main goal and philosophy are to be a compassionate support person who is family centered, strength-based, implement helpful interventions all in order to validate as well as support you through your individualized challenges and reach your future goals.
(559) 314-6657 View (559) 314-6657
Photo of Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90002
My specialty includes working with disorders such as Bipolar spectrum, schizophrenia, anxiety, phobias, borderline personality, and depression.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
My specialty includes working with disorders such as Bipolar spectrum, schizophrenia, anxiety, phobias, borderline personality, and depression.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
(619) 304-3617 View (619) 304-3617
Photo of Dr. Vicki D. Coleman, EdD, LCPC, CCMHC, MAC/DAC, SAP/BCC
Dr. Vicki D. Coleman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, CCMHC, MAC/DAC, SAP/BCC
Verified Verified
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Telehealth Offered! WHY ARE YOU SO ANGRY? In the 21st century global economy, Anger is a major challenge! Although a valid emotion, unmonitored, it can lead to stress, inappropriate behavior, and violence. A former Tenured Professor at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, I earned a Doctorate in Psychology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Publications include books (Amazon Bestsellers), 9 chapters, and refereed journal articles. Anger is frequently the antecedent to a myriad of issues. My goal is to facilitate the identification of viable solutions. I have 6 Full Clinical Licenses in 5 Jurisdictions.
Telehealth Offered! WHY ARE YOU SO ANGRY? In the 21st century global economy, Anger is a major challenge! Although a valid emotion, unmonitored, it can lead to stress, inappropriate behavior, and violence. A former Tenured Professor at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, I earned a Doctorate in Psychology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Publications include books (Amazon Bestsellers), 9 chapters, and refereed journal articles. Anger is frequently the antecedent to a myriad of issues. My goal is to facilitate the identification of viable solutions. I have 6 Full Clinical Licenses in 5 Jurisdictions.
(310) 591-8249 View (310) 591-8249
Photo of Jonathan H Kruger, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan H Kruger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Change starts with the first step. Insight paired with action drives lasting change. However taking the step to foster change in one's emotional life can be frightening and overwhelming. With me you will find a safe, caring environment, where together we travel a path of emotional discovery that will lead you to a better life. Based in West Hollywood, my practice is designed to help you understand yourself at a fundamental level, to give you tools and craft an approach that is healing and meets your specific needs. Building trust in the therapeutic journey, in an atmosphere that supports emotional growth and lasting change.
Change starts with the first step. Insight paired with action drives lasting change. However taking the step to foster change in one's emotional life can be frightening and overwhelming. With me you will find a safe, caring environment, where together we travel a path of emotional discovery that will lead you to a better life. Based in West Hollywood, my practice is designed to help you understand yourself at a fundamental level, to give you tools and craft an approach that is healing and meets your specific needs. Building trust in the therapeutic journey, in an atmosphere that supports emotional growth and lasting change.
(310) 729-9062 View (310) 729-9062
Photo of Andrea Milwidsky, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Milwidsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Through establishing a genuine therapeutic connection in a compassionate environment we can collaboratively unpack difficulties and challenges you may be experiencing and look at possibilities towards overcoming these towards living a more manageable and satisfying life. I utilize various methods and approaches towards this end and work with a diverse population of children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, elders, couples, families and groups. I treat a wide variety of issues with ease in a present and nonjudgmental manner.
Through establishing a genuine therapeutic connection in a compassionate environment we can collaboratively unpack difficulties and challenges you may be experiencing and look at possibilities towards overcoming these towards living a more manageable and satisfying life. I utilize various methods and approaches towards this end and work with a diverse population of children, adolescents, teenagers, adults, elders, couples, families and groups. I treat a wide variety of issues with ease in a present and nonjudgmental manner.
(424) 232-0579 View (424) 232-0579
Photo of Aviva Euripides, LMFT, lacana, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aviva Euripides
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, lacana
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028  (Online Only)
I am an experienced clinician and gage our work by the progress you are making towards your treatment goals. I have extensive experience as a clinical consultant and provide consultation for clinicians. I have supervised clinicians in treatment settings ranging from the counselor's office to acute mental health facilities. I have a professional background in the arts and work with self defined meaning, identity and creative processes. My work specifically is in Lacanalysis and I am in ongoing formation as such with Dr. Jacques Siboni at Lutecium Paris, www.lutecium.org.
I am an experienced clinician and gage our work by the progress you are making towards your treatment goals. I have extensive experience as a clinical consultant and provide consultation for clinicians. I have supervised clinicians in treatment settings ranging from the counselor's office to acute mental health facilities. I have a professional background in the arts and work with self defined meaning, identity and creative processes. My work specifically is in Lacanalysis and I am in ongoing formation as such with Dr. Jacques Siboni at Lutecium Paris, www.lutecium.org.
(415) 301-5219 View (415) 301-5219
Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling for Couples & Families, PsyD, MFCC, CHT, Psychologist
Counseling for Couples & Families
Psychologist, PsyD, MFCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
(310) 543-1824 View (310) 543-1824
Photo of Dr. Reena Becerra, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Reena Becerra
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
You are looking to ease the pain. You have been through so much that it's hard to continue to be strong in this moment. You long to feel understood, have peaceful and easy relationships and to leave toxic people and behaviors behind. It would be so nice to feel whole again.. to smile and feel like you are living your truth. You want to have meaning in your life and respectful relationships and to let go of all that is holding you back. It is possible to have the life you desire, complete with healthy communication, self care and the happiness and empowerment that you deserve. Let me help you feel like life makes more sense.
You are looking to ease the pain. You have been through so much that it's hard to continue to be strong in this moment. You long to feel understood, have peaceful and easy relationships and to leave toxic people and behaviors behind. It would be so nice to feel whole again.. to smile and feel like you are living your truth. You want to have meaning in your life and respectful relationships and to let go of all that is holding you back. It is possible to have the life you desire, complete with healthy communication, self care and the happiness and empowerment that you deserve. Let me help you feel like life makes more sense.
(805) 222-4639 View (805) 222-4639
Photo of Kana Nootenboom, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kana Nootenboom
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a therapist and Clinical Director at Healing with Grace Counseling Center. We have a team of therapists, Neurofeedback & Brain Mapping specialist, Mindfulness Coach, Nutritionist, and a ABA Clinician to help you. As for me, I work with clients who are struggling with individual, family or relationship challenges. If you feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed, therapy can provide an opportunity for relief and change. I provide a caring and safe place and will help you learn tools and skills to lead a more meaningful life. Throughout the therapy process, we will work together to understand your unresolved issues, thoughts, feeling
I am a therapist and Clinical Director at Healing with Grace Counseling Center. We have a team of therapists, Neurofeedback & Brain Mapping specialist, Mindfulness Coach, Nutritionist, and a ABA Clinician to help you. As for me, I work with clients who are struggling with individual, family or relationship challenges. If you feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed, therapy can provide an opportunity for relief and change. I provide a caring and safe place and will help you learn tools and skills to lead a more meaningful life. Throughout the therapy process, we will work together to understand your unresolved issues, thoughts, feeling
(702) 716-0908 View (702) 716-0908
Photo of Dr. Keiko Y. Miller, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist
Dr. Keiko Y. Miller
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Dr. Keiko Miller is a neuropsychologist located in Walnut Creek and is the founder of Aspire Neuropsychological Services. She has worked in the field of Autism since 2003 and has worked in the field of neuropsychology since 2009. She conducts a variety of evaluations of adults and children ages 12 months+. She earned her Psy.D. degree in 2011 and Masters of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP) in 2019 from California School of Professional Psychology. She holds an active license in California. Aspire has clinicians from a variety of specialities in an effort to meet our patient's needs.
Dr. Keiko Miller is a neuropsychologist located in Walnut Creek and is the founder of Aspire Neuropsychological Services. She has worked in the field of Autism since 2003 and has worked in the field of neuropsychology since 2009. She conducts a variety of evaluations of adults and children ages 12 months+. She earned her Psy.D. degree in 2011 and Masters of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP) in 2019 from California School of Professional Psychology. She holds an active license in California. Aspire has clinicians from a variety of specialities in an effort to meet our patient's needs.
(925) 406-3262 View (925) 406-3262

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.