Depression Therapists in Glendale, CA

Photo of Lilia Sandoval, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lilia Sandoval
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
Dr. Lilia Sandoval is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 1992. Dr. Sandoval has worked in both Outpatient and Inpatient Clinical/Hospital settings using CBT, CPT, DBT, and NET. She has provided both long-term and short-term therapy for patients suffering from Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Spectrum Disorders, Depression, and Grief. Her experience has also been working with adults and children in crisis and going through unexpected stages of trauma or daily life transition.
Dr. Lilia Sandoval is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 1992. Dr. Sandoval has worked in both Outpatient and Inpatient Clinical/Hospital settings using CBT, CPT, DBT, and NET. She has provided both long-term and short-term therapy for patients suffering from Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, Spectrum Disorders, Depression, and Grief. Her experience has also been working with adults and children in crisis and going through unexpected stages of trauma or daily life transition.
(323) 991-7248 View (323) 991-7248
Photo of Efren Urbina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Efren Urbina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203  (Online Only)
Not feeling like yourself lately? Struggling with managing life’s day-to-day challenges? You are not alone! Millions of people, from all walks of life, struggle with managing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, insomnia, and many other common mental health issues. Acknowledging that you need professional help is the first step towards getting your life back. Working together, I can help you identify the root of the problem, develop a client-centered treatment plan, and start implementing evidence-based practices to meet your individualized treatment goals.
Not feeling like yourself lately? Struggling with managing life’s day-to-day challenges? You are not alone! Millions of people, from all walks of life, struggle with managing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, insomnia, and many other common mental health issues. Acknowledging that you need professional help is the first step towards getting your life back. Working together, I can help you identify the root of the problem, develop a client-centered treatment plan, and start implementing evidence-based practices to meet your individualized treatment goals.
(510) 455-7898 View (510) 455-7898
Photo of Mike H Tamassian, PhD, Psychologist
Mike H Tamassian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91202
I am a licensed psychologist and a graduate of APA approved, Alliant/CSPP University in California. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and have been licensed and practicing for over 19 years. I work with adults who present with depression, bipolar disorder, Anxiety, as well as many other mental health issues. I employ an eclectic array of therapeutic styles but predominantly utilize techniques derived from Cognitive Behavioral.Therapy (CBT), as well as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am a licensed psychologist and a graduate of APA approved, Alliant/CSPP University in California. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and have been licensed and practicing for over 19 years. I work with adults who present with depression, bipolar disorder, Anxiety, as well as many other mental health issues. I employ an eclectic array of therapeutic styles but predominantly utilize techniques derived from Cognitive Behavioral.Therapy (CBT), as well as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(818) 731-4053 View (818) 731-4053
Photo of Paytsar Patty Nagapetyan, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paytsar Patty Nagapetyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203  (Online Only)
I specialize and I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral therapy which helps with depression, anxiety and other life stressors.
My approach to working with individuals is meeting each person where they are and identifying goals. I do believe that change can occur with a good therapeutic relationship, a safe and non-judgmental environment that allows individuals to share. As a therapist, who has worked in community mental health, I understand that each person is unique.
I specialize and I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral therapy which helps with depression, anxiety and other life stressors.
My approach to working with individuals is meeting each person where they are and identifying goals. I do believe that change can occur with a good therapeutic relationship, a safe and non-judgmental environment that allows individuals to share. As a therapist, who has worked in community mental health, I understand that each person is unique.
(323) 970-4095 View (323) 970-4095
Photo of Stella L Petros - Stella Petros, LCSW, Inc., MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stella Petros, LCSW, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
My name is Stella Petros. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Los Angeles, California. I have been in practice since 2005, and I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma, and related issues. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, and Solution-focused Therapy approaches in treatment to assist my clients in meeting their treatment objectives. My primary goal in treatment is to create greater trust and safety in the therapeutic setting so that I can facilitate the free communication and expression of thoughts and feelings.
My name is Stella Petros. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Los Angeles, California. I have been in practice since 2005, and I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma, and related issues. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic, and Solution-focused Therapy approaches in treatment to assist my clients in meeting their treatment objectives. My primary goal in treatment is to create greater trust and safety in the therapeutic setting so that I can facilitate the free communication and expression of thoughts and feelings.
(323) 431-9467 View (323) 431-9467
Photo of April Mack, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
April Mack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
April Mack is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 8 years of experience treating anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. April spent the past two years working with individuals struggling with psychosis in the forensic population. She is passionate about underserved populations and would love to provide services to the queer and kink communities, helping to support their members as they navigate nontraditional relationships and lifestyles. April has experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy techniques.
April Mack is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 8 years of experience treating anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. April spent the past two years working with individuals struggling with psychosis in the forensic population. She is passionate about underserved populations and would love to provide services to the queer and kink communities, helping to support their members as they navigate nontraditional relationships and lifestyles. April has experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy techniques.
(323) 996-2165 View (323) 996-2165
Photo of Brooke Stewart-Hardin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brooke Stewart-Hardin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91205
My name is Brooke Stewart-Hardin, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Licensed in the state of California. I work with clients statewide via Telehealth. I have over ten years of experience working as a Psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, issues with grief, and life transitions. I also have helped parents with children with behavioral issues.
My name is Brooke Stewart-Hardin, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Licensed in the state of California. I work with clients statewide via Telehealth. I have over ten years of experience working as a Psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, issues with grief, and life transitions. I also have helped parents with children with behavioral issues.
(323) 798-9918 View (323) 798-9918
Photo of Denise Urtarte, FNP-C
Denise Urtarte
FNP-C
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203  (Online Only)
Specialties include: ADHD, Insomnia, Depression, Female Psychiatry, Psychiatry, Trauma and PTSD.
Denise graduated with a Master's in Nursing Degree with a specialty in Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 12 years of experience in the medical field and currently owns her own practice Now MedClinic and My IV Cocktails in Woodland Hills, California. Through compassion and strong active listening skills, she is able to provide care that addresses the needs of her patients in a holistic manner. She has the ability to connect and understand the needs of patients and work with them to ensure they reach their optimal health. Denise believes in empowering patients to taking control back of their health.
Specialties include: ADHD, Insomnia, Depression, Female Psychiatry, Psychiatry, Trauma and PTSD.
Denise graduated with a Master's in Nursing Degree with a specialty in Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 12 years of experience in the medical field and currently owns her own practice Now MedClinic and My IV Cocktails in Woodland Hills, California. Through compassion and strong active listening skills, she is able to provide care that addresses the needs of her patients in a holistic manner. She has the ability to connect and understand the needs of patients and work with them to ensure they reach their optimal health. Denise believes in empowering patients to taking control back of their health.
(323) 576-4327 View (323) 576-4327
Photo of Madlen Pashinian Foroughmand, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Madlen Pashinian Foroughmand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
With specialized trainings in working with couples, working with individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, and trauma, my goal is to provide tailored care to each client's unique needs.
Are you tired of the endless cycle of arguments with your partner, stuck in a loop where the same issues keep resurfacing? Are you feeling like your communication with your partner is hitting a brick wall, leaving you frustrated and unheard? Allow me to be the compassionate mediator between you both, offering invaluable guidance and teaching new communication techniques to reignite the connection and trust that may have faltered. Alternatively, if you're struggling after a breakup or a traumatic experience, grappling with a loss of identity, anxiety, or depression, I'm here to support you in reclaiming yourself back!
With specialized trainings in working with couples, working with individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, and trauma, my goal is to provide tailored care to each client's unique needs.
Are you tired of the endless cycle of arguments with your partner, stuck in a loop where the same issues keep resurfacing? Are you feeling like your communication with your partner is hitting a brick wall, leaving you frustrated and unheard? Allow me to be the compassionate mediator between you both, offering invaluable guidance and teaching new communication techniques to reignite the connection and trust that may have faltered. Alternatively, if you're struggling after a breakup or a traumatic experience, grappling with a loss of identity, anxiety, or depression, I'm here to support you in reclaiming yourself back!
(323) 736-4131 View (323) 736-4131
Photo of Hripsime Ripa Harutyunyan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hripsime Ripa Harutyunyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of experience in the field of psychology working with people of different age groups, different nationalities and different backgrounds struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, self-esteem issues, stress management, adjustment issues and just every day challenges.
I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a great passion to bring healing and comfort for those in need. I have Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy. I am a clinical member of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) and Armenian American Mental Health Association (AANHA) .
I have over 10 years of experience in the field of psychology working with people of different age groups, different nationalities and different backgrounds struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, self-esteem issues, stress management, adjustment issues and just every day challenges.
I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a great passion to bring healing and comfort for those in need. I have Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy. I am a clinical member of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) and Armenian American Mental Health Association (AANHA) .
(747) 207-4448 View (747) 207-4448
Photo of Viken Yacoubian, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Viken Yacoubian
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91205
With over 20 years of experience in the field, I work with individuals, couples, and families, who are encountering a variety of issues, including marital, relationship, self-esteem, identity, anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
At different points of our lives, we may find ourselves facing obstacles that seem to be very difficult to overcome. Strategies that used to help us move forward no longer seem to work. As overbearing as such periods in our lives may seem, they also present an opportunity for growth, for important changes that offer hope and possibilities for a better and reimagined future. As a therapist, I see my role as a facilitator, as someone who has the expertise to guide and support clients to achieve a space in their lives where they feel fulfilled and whole.
With over 20 years of experience in the field, I work with individuals, couples, and families, who are encountering a variety of issues, including marital, relationship, self-esteem, identity, anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
At different points of our lives, we may find ourselves facing obstacles that seem to be very difficult to overcome. Strategies that used to help us move forward no longer seem to work. As overbearing as such periods in our lives may seem, they also present an opportunity for growth, for important changes that offer hope and possibilities for a better and reimagined future. As a therapist, I see my role as a facilitator, as someone who has the expertise to guide and support clients to achieve a space in their lives where they feel fulfilled and whole.
(323) 403-0957 View (323) 403-0957
Photo of Peggy Daglian - Fertility Family Services, Peggy Daglian, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fertility Family Services, Peggy Daglian, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I strive to help people uncover their strengths, while also learning how to adapt and adjust to difficult situations. I'm an interactive therapist who believes that the most effective therapy offers a balance of non-judgmental support with concrete tools and direction that will help you live a more fulfilling life. I work with people dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and other psychological issues.
If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I strive to help people uncover their strengths, while also learning how to adapt and adjust to difficult situations. I'm an interactive therapist who believes that the most effective therapy offers a balance of non-judgmental support with concrete tools and direction that will help you live a more fulfilling life. I work with people dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and other psychological issues.
(818) 824-6829 View (818) 824-6829
Photo of Sona Topalian, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sona Topalian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91204  (Online Only)
Sona has extensive experience working with trauma, substance use, abuse, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and self-harm.
Sona is not only a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist but also a dedicated Doctoral Candidate, passionately committed to expanding her expertise and enhancing her ability to support her clients. Her presence in the therapy room embodies a nurturing and transformative relationship, fostering trust and deepening the therapeutic bond with her clients. Through her exemplary modeling of healthy interactions, Sona cultivates an environment conducive to insight, tangible progress, and profound healing. She emphasizes the importance of clarifying the therapeutic journey, assuring steadfast support throughout the process of personal grow
Sona has extensive experience working with trauma, substance use, abuse, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and self-harm.
Sona is not only a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist but also a dedicated Doctoral Candidate, passionately committed to expanding her expertise and enhancing her ability to support her clients. Her presence in the therapy room embodies a nurturing and transformative relationship, fostering trust and deepening the therapeutic bond with her clients. Through her exemplary modeling of healthy interactions, Sona cultivates an environment conducive to insight, tangible progress, and profound healing. She emphasizes the importance of clarifying the therapeutic journey, assuring steadfast support throughout the process of personal grow
(747) 281-4053 View (747) 281-4053
Maryam Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91206
Maryam Smith is a Psychologist in California who has a Doctorate and Master's in clinical psychology from California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco. Maryam has provided psychotherapy to a diverse population of clients ranging from adolescents to elder adults. Maryam has worked in different settings such as schools, community health centers, substance abuse clinics and correctional facilities. Maryam's specialties include depression, anxiety, personality disorders, stress management, spiritual explorations, and cultural issues.
Maryam Smith is a Psychologist in California who has a Doctorate and Master's in clinical psychology from California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco. Maryam has provided psychotherapy to a diverse population of clients ranging from adolescents to elder adults. Maryam has worked in different settings such as schools, community health centers, substance abuse clinics and correctional facilities. Maryam's specialties include depression, anxiety, personality disorders, stress management, spiritual explorations, and cultural issues.
(323) 736-5097 View (323) 736-5097
Photo of Nansi Manokian, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nansi Manokian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91206
I want you to imagine that it's very possible that what you are going through right now can be managed and that you will overcome this struggle. It's not easy going through difficulties without seeking professional help and at times we may look for guidance from friends and loved ones and other times we need someone else to step in and guide us. Throughout the past 10 years, I have worked with individuals, children, adolescents and couples struggling from a vast variety of issues such as difficulties with social skills, depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma and relationship issues.
I want you to imagine that it's very possible that what you are going through right now can be managed and that you will overcome this struggle. It's not easy going through difficulties without seeking professional help and at times we may look for guidance from friends and loved ones and other times we need someone else to step in and guide us. Throughout the past 10 years, I have worked with individuals, children, adolescents and couples struggling from a vast variety of issues such as difficulties with social skills, depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma and relationship issues.
(818) 276-9820 View (818) 276-9820
Photo of Charles Pilavian, PsyD, Psychologist
Charles Pilavian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
I specialize in the treatment of depression & anxiety, relationship issues, personality disorders, and problems related to the workplace.
It takes courage to understand the need for healing. My mission in psychotherapy is to help you learn how to help yourself. It should be emphasized that psychotherapy is far from "one size fit all." Therefore, the art of change in psychotherapy is achieved through a thorough psychological assessment in order to apply the precise remedies to your specific challenges. As a result, healing is often achieved by re-conceptualizing your past and presence, but most importantly is to improve your outlook on the future. I have been practicing as a psychologist for 26 years, on three continents.
I specialize in the treatment of depression & anxiety, relationship issues, personality disorders, and problems related to the workplace.
It takes courage to understand the need for healing. My mission in psychotherapy is to help you learn how to help yourself. It should be emphasized that psychotherapy is far from "one size fit all." Therefore, the art of change in psychotherapy is achieved through a thorough psychological assessment in order to apply the precise remedies to your specific challenges. As a result, healing is often achieved by re-conceptualizing your past and presence, but most importantly is to improve your outlook on the future. I have been practicing as a psychologist for 26 years, on three continents.
(818) 696-2704 View (818) 696-2704
Photo of Mike Chang, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mike Chang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
I provide psychotherapy for individuals who are experiencing issues such as: depression; anxiety; childhood/adult trauma (I am an EMDR Therapist); stress management; relationship difficulties; life transitions and challenges.
If you are ready to take that first step towards change let’s connect. Therapy is a process of self-exploration which can lead to positive transformation and to a happier life. My goal as a therapist is to provide a therapeutic environment that is safe and comfortable to facilitate progress and resolution of different issues in life that can be difficult.
I provide psychotherapy for individuals who are experiencing issues such as: depression; anxiety; childhood/adult trauma (I am an EMDR Therapist); stress management; relationship difficulties; life transitions and challenges.
If you are ready to take that first step towards change let’s connect. Therapy is a process of self-exploration which can lead to positive transformation and to a happier life. My goal as a therapist is to provide a therapeutic environment that is safe and comfortable to facilitate progress and resolution of different issues in life that can be difficult.
(213) 817-5124 View (213) 817-5124
Photo of James J De Santis, PhD, Psychologist
James J De Santis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203  (Online Only)
A life issues consultant and therapist, I have expertise in dealing with anxiety, depression, stress & burn-out, relationship formation difficulties, parenting skills, learning disabilities, attention deficits, trauma, grief & loss, relationship & career transitions, chemical dependency & codependency.
I tend to be most helpful to intense, high-functioning adults struggling with mood or anxiety symptoms or significant life transitions who are striving toward personal achievement, balance between work and relationships, and a sense of well-being. I may draw on various approaches according to the problem you are dealing with and my experience with what may benefit you. These include cognitive, psychodynamic, interpersonal, and psychoeducational approaches. I may propose different ways of looking at or handling situations. I may suggest in-between session reading or homework assignments.
A life issues consultant and therapist, I have expertise in dealing with anxiety, depression, stress & burn-out, relationship formation difficulties, parenting skills, learning disabilities, attention deficits, trauma, grief & loss, relationship & career transitions, chemical dependency & codependency.
I tend to be most helpful to intense, high-functioning adults struggling with mood or anxiety symptoms or significant life transitions who are striving toward personal achievement, balance between work and relationships, and a sense of well-being. I may draw on various approaches according to the problem you are dealing with and my experience with what may benefit you. These include cognitive, psychodynamic, interpersonal, and psychoeducational approaches. I may propose different ways of looking at or handling situations. I may suggest in-between session reading or homework assignments.
(818) 551-1714 View (818) 551-1714
Photo of Shant Boyadjian, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shant Boyadjian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
My experience includes working with adults who struggle with various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, self- esteem, addiction, and relationship issues.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I have found that the type of therapy I provide allows opportunity for people to experience insight, hope, and change. While in treatment with me, clients will develop an understanding as to what has contributed to their style of thinking, behaviors, and decision making process. I assist my clients in feeling comfortable in their own skin and helping them identify their strengths. Upon having an awareness of what strengths are within you, my goal will be to help you utilize these strengths towards overcoming the challenges and issues in your lives.
My experience includes working with adults who struggle with various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, self- esteem, addiction, and relationship issues.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I have found that the type of therapy I provide allows opportunity for people to experience insight, hope, and change. While in treatment with me, clients will develop an understanding as to what has contributed to their style of thinking, behaviors, and decision making process. I assist my clients in feeling comfortable in their own skin and helping them identify their strengths. Upon having an awareness of what strengths are within you, my goal will be to help you utilize these strengths towards overcoming the challenges and issues in your lives.
(818) 877-4905 View (818) 877-4905
Photo of Jasmine Hasmig Tolmajian, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jasmine Hasmig Tolmajian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
Some of the services I provide include: Therapy for Depression and Anxiety, Couples Counseling, Family Counseling, Parenting Support, Grief Counseling, Work and Career issues, Stress Management, Addiction & Recovery, and Conflict Resolution.
My goal is to help you live the best life you can. I want to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have graduated from Pepperdine University in 2008. Its important for a client to be able to find the right therapist. You are welcome to give me a call for a free 10-15 minute telephone consultation. My direct number is 8184292820. I look forward to hearing from you.
Some of the services I provide include: Therapy for Depression and Anxiety, Couples Counseling, Family Counseling, Parenting Support, Grief Counseling, Work and Career issues, Stress Management, Addiction & Recovery, and Conflict Resolution.
My goal is to help you live the best life you can. I want to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have graduated from Pepperdine University in 2008. Its important for a client to be able to find the right therapist. You are welcome to give me a call for a free 10-15 minute telephone consultation. My direct number is 8184292820. I look forward to hearing from you.
(818) 429-2820 View (818) 429-2820
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Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.