Depression Therapists in El Segundo, CA

Photo of Sarah Raike, PA-C
Sarah Raike
PA-C
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and panic attacks.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS FOR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT ONLY-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. You enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and panic attacks.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS FOR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT ONLY-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. You enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(310) 929-6394 View (310) 929-6394
Photo of Alina Sgattoni, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alina Sgattoni
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245
I have extensive experience in helping people with anxiety, depression, relational and life transitions issues, and symptoms due to their history of trauma.
As a therapist, I am committed to empowering clients to live their best life, have meaningful and loving relationships, and most importantly, in the words of Virginia Satir, "help them have stars in their eyes and truly feel their own value." At times, as we move through the different stages of our life, we find ourselves stuck due to our unproductive internal dialogue of shame and guilt, the need to be perfect, and the daily attempts to be who the rest of the world wants us to be. This leads us to feeling broken and unable to love ourselves or truly connect with others.
I have extensive experience in helping people with anxiety, depression, relational and life transitions issues, and symptoms due to their history of trauma.
As a therapist, I am committed to empowering clients to live their best life, have meaningful and loving relationships, and most importantly, in the words of Virginia Satir, "help them have stars in their eyes and truly feel their own value." At times, as we move through the different stages of our life, we find ourselves stuck due to our unproductive internal dialogue of shame and guilt, the need to be perfect, and the daily attempts to be who the rest of the world wants us to be. This leads us to feeling broken and unable to love ourselves or truly connect with others.
(424) 321-7414 View (424) 321-7414
Photo of Yahaira Howard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yahaira Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with depression, relationship difficulties or just need a safe space to process your feelings with life transitions reach out and let's set up a time to meet and connect and see how I can assist you in your process.
I am committed to helping individuals learn how to develop healthier relationships with others, increase self-esteem, and work through past traumas that continue to resurface in their current relationships. My approach to therapy is strength based, solution focused, and trauma informed.
If you are struggling with depression, relationship difficulties or just need a safe space to process your feelings with life transitions reach out and let's set up a time to meet and connect and see how I can assist you in your process.
I am committed to helping individuals learn how to develop healthier relationships with others, increase self-esteem, and work through past traumas that continue to resurface in their current relationships. My approach to therapy is strength based, solution focused, and trauma informed.
(424) 347-6717 View (424) 347-6717
Photo of LaTanya Tolan - Soul Care for Black Clinicians® Academy, LCSW, MAEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Soul Care for Black Clinicians® Academy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAEd
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245  (Online Only)
Soul Care For Black Clinicians® is specifically dedicated to support the mental health and functioning of Black clinical professionals and ultimately improving the trajectories of Black families and Black communities! We provide individual therapy, family, and couples therapy. Our specialties include primarily the following: depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, career situations, identifying patterns of self-sabotage, coping with grief and loss, working through relationship/family issues, as well as other issues impeding healthy functioning in Black clinical professionals
Soul Care For Black Clinicians® is specifically dedicated to support the mental health and functioning of Black clinical professionals and ultimately improving the trajectories of Black families and Black communities! We provide individual therapy, family, and couples therapy. Our specialties include primarily the following: depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, career situations, identifying patterns of self-sabotage, coping with grief and loss, working through relationship/family issues, as well as other issues impeding healthy functioning in Black clinical professionals
(310) 846-8420 View (310) 846-8420
Photo of Shayne Ann Vitemb, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shayne Ann Vitemb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245
Yes, change is possible. In my practice, I work with issues ranging from problematic relationships with friends, families, or partners to anxiety and depression. I also help with difficulties on the job, basic meaning of life issues such as identity, personal growth, and coping with success and failure. My style is engaged and lively, with an overall intention of allowing you the freedom to explore all aspects of your life in a safe and confidential environment.
Yes, change is possible. In my practice, I work with issues ranging from problematic relationships with friends, families, or partners to anxiety and depression. I also help with difficulties on the job, basic meaning of life issues such as identity, personal growth, and coping with success and failure. My style is engaged and lively, with an overall intention of allowing you the freedom to explore all aspects of your life in a safe and confidential environment.
(323) 428-9436 View (323) 428-9436
Photo of Teri Arana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teri Arana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(310) 905-6849 View (310) 905-6849
Photo of Margena Carter - Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245
If you're experiencing depression, low self-esteem, isolation, stress, anxiety, grief & loss, substance abuse, internet addiction, childhood trauma, PTSD, codependency, relational difficulties, abusive relationships, divorce, domestic violence, anger issues, a child with behavioral problems, LBGTQ issues, or you work in entertainment, we're here for you.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
If you're experiencing depression, low self-esteem, isolation, stress, anxiety, grief & loss, substance abuse, internet addiction, childhood trauma, PTSD, codependency, relational difficulties, abusive relationships, divorce, domestic violence, anger issues, a child with behavioral problems, LBGTQ issues, or you work in entertainment, we're here for you.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
(415) 319-9641 View (415) 319-9641
Photo of Racheal Marie Ennis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Racheal Marie Ennis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245
Although I am not limited to a certain demographic, most of my experience is with clients battling depression, anxiety, transitions and life challenges.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, anxiety ridden? I believe a healthy therapeutic experience can foster a genuine, honest and authentic relationship that can help us become aware of ourselves in the world, heal from our past, cope with our present, and foster a healthy future. My process is focused on helping you heal and learn more constructive ways to deal with stress and life challenges. I have an eclectic approach with each individual client based on your needs. Life presents us with many challenges and obstacles often leading to anxiety, depression, panic and loss of self. You do not have to battle this alone.
Although I am not limited to a certain demographic, most of my experience is with clients battling depression, anxiety, transitions and life challenges.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, anxiety ridden? I believe a healthy therapeutic experience can foster a genuine, honest and authentic relationship that can help us become aware of ourselves in the world, heal from our past, cope with our present, and foster a healthy future. My process is focused on helping you heal and learn more constructive ways to deal with stress and life challenges. I have an eclectic approach with each individual client based on your needs. Life presents us with many challenges and obstacles often leading to anxiety, depression, panic and loss of self. You do not have to battle this alone.
(310) 773-5893 View (310) 773-5893
Photo of Angela L. Mull, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela L. Mull
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245
Through a mindfulness and psychodynamic approach I connect with clients who suffer and need support with anxiety, depression,and those who have recently experienced and survived a traumatic encounter.
Life does not come with an instruction manual. I believe that sometimes we just need a safe place where we can share and be heard until we're able to assemble our thoughts and put the pieces together. I provide a client centered environment, offering empathy, a non-judgmental, reassuring hopeful atmosphere. I work together with my clients to support and establish their goals so that they will ultimately discover and develop their inner strengths.
Through a mindfulness and psychodynamic approach I connect with clients who suffer and need support with anxiety, depression,and those who have recently experienced and survived a traumatic encounter.
Life does not come with an instruction manual. I believe that sometimes we just need a safe place where we can share and be heard until we're able to assemble our thoughts and put the pieces together. I provide a client centered environment, offering empathy, a non-judgmental, reassuring hopeful atmosphere. I work together with my clients to support and establish their goals so that they will ultimately discover and develop their inner strengths.
(310) 957-9069 View (310) 957-9069
CBT Treatment Center, A Psychological Corporation
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245
At CBT Treatment Center, we specialize in evidence based treatments for children and adults who suffer with anxiety, depression, OCD, trichotillomania, and other disorders.
Seeing your child struggle is such a helpless feeling. You wish you could find the right words that would fix it all, but nothing that you say, and no amount of logic that you use seems to help. Perhaps you have even tried therapy before, with little progress or success, and you're not sure if this is even a fixable problem. Your child's struggles have become the focus of the entire family. You just want your happy little boy or girl back and to have normalcy restored at home.
At CBT Treatment Center, we specialize in evidence based treatments for children and adults who suffer with anxiety, depression, OCD, trichotillomania, and other disorders.
Seeing your child struggle is such a helpless feeling. You wish you could find the right words that would fix it all, but nothing that you say, and no amount of logic that you use seems to help. Perhaps you have even tried therapy before, with little progress or success, and you're not sure if this is even a fixable problem. Your child's struggles have become the focus of the entire family. You just want your happy little boy or girl back and to have normalcy restored at home.
(424) 835-7372 View (424) 835-7372
Photo of Cynara Allison, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynara Allison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245
Are you looking for a Professional Christian Therapist? If you are looking for a Professional Christian Therapist, I'd be glad to help you with your concerns about anxiety, depression, relationships, or your Faith. I am a Licensed Marriage, Family and Individual Therapist and have been practicing in my same office in Manhattan Beach for over 20 years. For more information please feel free to call me. I'd be happy to talk with you!
Are you looking for a Professional Christian Therapist? If you are looking for a Professional Christian Therapist, I'd be glad to help you with your concerns about anxiety, depression, relationships, or your Faith. I am a Licensed Marriage, Family and Individual Therapist and have been practicing in my same office in Manhattan Beach for over 20 years. For more information please feel free to call me. I'd be happy to talk with you!
(310) 740-9068 View (310) 740-9068
Photo of Patrick Brian Dickey, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Brian Dickey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Segundo, CA 90245  (Online Only)
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
(310) 929-6157 View (310) 929-6157
Photo of Michelle Y. Urizar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Y. Urizar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245  (Online Only)
Achieving peace of mind is a worthwhile goal. When was the last time you put yourself first in the daily grind of taking care of, or doing things for, others? I personally tailor therapeutic strategies to your individual unique needs. I work from a trauma-responsive, strengths-based, and client-centered approach while balancing practical strategies you can walk away with. I can help you navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief and loss, family and relationship issues, as well as employment and student stressors. I support in areas of maternal MH, foster care and adoption, and in an LGBTQ+ -affirming environment.
Achieving peace of mind is a worthwhile goal. When was the last time you put yourself first in the daily grind of taking care of, or doing things for, others? I personally tailor therapeutic strategies to your individual unique needs. I work from a trauma-responsive, strengths-based, and client-centered approach while balancing practical strategies you can walk away with. I can help you navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief and loss, family and relationship issues, as well as employment and student stressors. I support in areas of maternal MH, foster care and adoption, and in an LGBTQ+ -affirming environment.
(424) 433-4496 View (424) 433-4496
Photo of Andrea Jablonski, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Andrea Jablonski
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Segundo, CA 90245  (Online Only)
I can help clients experiencing loss or other significant life changes, depression and loneliness, anxiety, as well as OCD, ADHD, and more.
Are you looking for some support and comforting validation? Would you like to better understand the problems you encounter in your day-to-day living as well as have a clearer view of the "bigger picture" issues and themes that arise in your life? Do you struggle with moderate to crippling anxiety or fear, and have trouble being fully present or accomplishing some of life's everyday tasks? Are you lonely or feeling down, or beginning to feel as though you'll never find peace or contentment? If any of these questions resonate with you, I welcome the opportunity to be in your service, help you find relief, and get your life back.
I can help clients experiencing loss or other significant life changes, depression and loneliness, anxiety, as well as OCD, ADHD, and more.
Are you looking for some support and comforting validation? Would you like to better understand the problems you encounter in your day-to-day living as well as have a clearer view of the "bigger picture" issues and themes that arise in your life? Do you struggle with moderate to crippling anxiety or fear, and have trouble being fully present or accomplishing some of life's everyday tasks? Are you lonely or feeling down, or beginning to feel as though you'll never find peace or contentment? If any of these questions resonate with you, I welcome the opportunity to be in your service, help you find relief, and get your life back.
(424) 380-7396 View (424) 380-7396
Photo of Kristin B Andersson, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kristin B Andersson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns that flip our world upside down. It can be overwhelming and confusing to take these problems on ourselves. That's where I come in to lend a helping hand. If you're struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, attention issues, or conflict in your relationships, let's collaborate together to face these challenges head-on. My approach revolves around delving into the values that matter most to you and leveraging them to help you achieve the fulfilling life you truly deserve.
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns that flip our world upside down. It can be overwhelming and confusing to take these problems on ourselves. That's where I come in to lend a helping hand. If you're struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, attention issues, or conflict in your relationships, let's collaborate together to face these challenges head-on. My approach revolves around delving into the values that matter most to you and leveraging them to help you achieve the fulfilling life you truly deserve.
(323) 510-6912 View (323) 510-6912
Photo of Tanisha Tatum, MS, LEP, BCBA, Psychologist
Tanisha Tatum
Psychologist, MS, LEP, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Segundo, CA 90245
My speciality is neurodiverse clients & clients with mild/moderate Anxiety & Depression.
Have you or your child ever talked about feeling "different" or "out of place"? Maybe you struggle to identify with the people & world around you. Perhaps, as a young adult, you feel unprepared for "adulting", frustrated, and overwhelmed. These are common thoughts of my clients; pre-teens, teens & young(ish) adults who want support whether struggling with school, work stress, socializing, self-esteem, and want to learn more about themselves. My services include mental health counseling (ages 13+) and private psychoeducational evaluations (ages 7+) with an emphasis on Learning Disabilities, ADHD, and Autism.
My speciality is neurodiverse clients & clients with mild/moderate Anxiety & Depression.
Have you or your child ever talked about feeling "different" or "out of place"? Maybe you struggle to identify with the people & world around you. Perhaps, as a young adult, you feel unprepared for "adulting", frustrated, and overwhelmed. These are common thoughts of my clients; pre-teens, teens & young(ish) adults who want support whether struggling with school, work stress, socializing, self-esteem, and want to learn more about themselves. My services include mental health counseling (ages 13+) and private psychoeducational evaluations (ages 7+) with an emphasis on Learning Disabilities, ADHD, and Autism.
(424) 396-0021 View (424) 396-0021
Photo of Elizabeth Danielle Mead, LCSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Danielle Mead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Segundo, CA 90245
Do you find yourself struggling with Anxiety, Depression, gender or sexual identity, grief/loss, or acute/chronic medical illness? The desire to feel better about ourselves is a part of our intrinsic being. I can be there as a support and sounding board for you, your loved ones & family. With the goal of accepting your perfectly imperfect self, we can work effectively with each other to find your joy, or at the very least, how to make it through each day to the next. Discovering that you are deserving and important can be life changing and attainable.
Do you find yourself struggling with Anxiety, Depression, gender or sexual identity, grief/loss, or acute/chronic medical illness? The desire to feel better about ourselves is a part of our intrinsic being. I can be there as a support and sounding board for you, your loved ones & family. With the goal of accepting your perfectly imperfect self, we can work effectively with each other to find your joy, or at the very least, how to make it through each day to the next. Discovering that you are deserving and important can be life changing and attainable.
(424) 349-4574 View (424) 349-4574
Photo of Deborah L. Kitay, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah L. Kitay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
El Segundo, CA 90245
I have worked with people dealing with body image/eating issues, anxiety, depression, failure and low self-esteem, grief, parenting challenges, substance use problems, and conflictual relationships.
There are times all of us need a bit of extra support to handle the problems and stressors life throws our way. Problems can sometimes be relentless and seep into every aspect of our life. Problems such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, worry and conflict can make it hard to live the life we desire. My aim is to help people take their lives back from problems. Through exploration of what values and preferences are most important to you, we can find ways to reclaim your life from the problems that are harassing you and your relationships in order to promote new possibilities and ways of being.
I have worked with people dealing with body image/eating issues, anxiety, depression, failure and low self-esteem, grief, parenting challenges, substance use problems, and conflictual relationships.
There are times all of us need a bit of extra support to handle the problems and stressors life throws our way. Problems can sometimes be relentless and seep into every aspect of our life. Problems such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, worry and conflict can make it hard to live the life we desire. My aim is to help people take their lives back from problems. Through exploration of what values and preferences are most important to you, we can find ways to reclaim your life from the problems that are harassing you and your relationships in order to promote new possibilities and ways of being.
(424) 414-0365 View (424) 414-0365
Photo of Maria Cappetta, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Cappetta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Segundo, CA 90245
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression due to family and work stressors, personal relationships, stage of life transitions, or trauma? Life is filled with challenges and there are many reasons you may find yourself looking for support. Researching therapists is an important first step towards actualizing your highest and best self. Isn't it time to step into your power? Using somatic interventions and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, I will work collaboratively with you to implement easily practiced wellness skills into your everyday life that promote a sense of connection and well-being.
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression due to family and work stressors, personal relationships, stage of life transitions, or trauma? Life is filled with challenges and there are many reasons you may find yourself looking for support. Researching therapists is an important first step towards actualizing your highest and best self. Isn't it time to step into your power? Using somatic interventions and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, I will work collaboratively with you to implement easily practiced wellness skills into your everyday life that promote a sense of connection and well-being.
(424) 532-8573 View (424) 532-8573
Photo of Amy Ruffolo Quinn, LCSW, LSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Ruffolo Quinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Segundo, CA 90245
Life is an amazing gift. It brings excitement and adventure but also can be quite frustrating and overwhelming. My approach to therapy is transparent, curious, and compassionate. I specialize in treating eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, relational issues, and pre/postnatal maternal mental health. I use a combination of different therapeutic approaches which depends on needs. If you are struggling with an eating disorder/or unhealthy relationship with food or exercise, anxiety, substance abuse, low self-esteem, restricting, binging, purging, and/or other destructive patterns, you have come to the right place.
Life is an amazing gift. It brings excitement and adventure but also can be quite frustrating and overwhelming. My approach to therapy is transparent, curious, and compassionate. I specialize in treating eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, relational issues, and pre/postnatal maternal mental health. I use a combination of different therapeutic approaches which depends on needs. If you are struggling with an eating disorder/or unhealthy relationship with food or exercise, anxiety, substance abuse, low self-esteem, restricting, binging, purging, and/or other destructive patterns, you have come to the right place.
(310) 494-7836 View (310) 494-7836
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.