Depression Therapists in La Crescenta, CA

Photo of Sonia Kazandjian, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sonia Kazandjian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Are you dragging through each day in a repetitive and mind-numbing cycle? Have you traded merely surviving instead of thriving? Are you depressed, anxious, and wondering if life has more to offer? If so, therapy can help you achieve a more satisfying relationship and more rewarding work. I would be pleased to assist you on your journey to discover your full potential.
Are you dragging through each day in a repetitive and mind-numbing cycle? Have you traded merely surviving instead of thriving? Are you depressed, anxious, and wondering if life has more to offer? If so, therapy can help you achieve a more satisfying relationship and more rewarding work. I would be pleased to assist you on your journey to discover your full potential.
(818) 862-3841 View (818) 862-3841
Photo of Judith A Verduzco, LCSW, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith A Verduzco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Judith (Judy). I’m a bilingual mental health psychotherapist and founder of Monarchs Therapy, a virtual mental health therapy practice in California. I specialize in treating trauma-related disorders (everything from acute stress to complex PTSD) as well as anxiety, depression, and grief/loss. My other specialties include issues related to personal growth, life transitions, and interpersonal/ relationship conflict.
Hello! My name is Judith (Judy). I’m a bilingual mental health psychotherapist and founder of Monarchs Therapy, a virtual mental health therapy practice in California. I specialize in treating trauma-related disorders (everything from acute stress to complex PTSD) as well as anxiety, depression, and grief/loss. My other specialties include issues related to personal growth, life transitions, and interpersonal/ relationship conflict.
(818) 369-3348 View (818) 369-3348
Photo of Shannon Saltzman - Counseling and Wellness of the Foothills, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling and Wellness of the Foothills, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214  (Online Only)
I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, stress, stage-of-life transitions, poor social support, family system difficulties, end-of-life counseling, bereavement, and loss.
Welcome to Counseling and Wellness of the Foothills. My name is Shannon Saltzman and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. As a therapist, I provide a warm, supportive, empathetic, non-judgemental, safe space for healing and recovery. I help clients move through whatever it is they may be struggling with and help them develop coping tools that they can continue to use beyond our time together. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of clinical social work experience. I specialize in treating adults ages 18+. I provide individual therapy to clients residing in the state of California
I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, stress, stage-of-life transitions, poor social support, family system difficulties, end-of-life counseling, bereavement, and loss.
Welcome to Counseling and Wellness of the Foothills. My name is Shannon Saltzman and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. As a therapist, I provide a warm, supportive, empathetic, non-judgemental, safe space for healing and recovery. I help clients move through whatever it is they may be struggling with and help them develop coping tools that they can continue to use beyond our time together. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of clinical social work experience. I specialize in treating adults ages 18+. I provide individual therapy to clients residing in the state of California
(805) 954-9515 View (805) 954-9515
Photo of Desiree Ingram-Garcia, MA
Desiree Ingram-Garcia
Registered Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214
I specialize in working with clients dealing with the complexities of ADHD, anxiety, and depression. It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed or unsure about the path ahead. Please know that you are not alone in this journey. As a mixed-race, Mexican American therapist, I deeply appreciate the role that cultural identity plays in shaping our experiences. I bring this understanding into my practice, allowing me to connect with clients on a level that respects their unique backgrounds and perspectives. I believe that our identities are multifaceted, each part of who we are contributes to our healing process.
I specialize in working with clients dealing with the complexities of ADHD, anxiety, and depression. It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed or unsure about the path ahead. Please know that you are not alone in this journey. As a mixed-race, Mexican American therapist, I deeply appreciate the role that cultural identity plays in shaping our experiences. I bring this understanding into my practice, allowing me to connect with clients on a level that respects their unique backgrounds and perspectives. I believe that our identities are multifaceted, each part of who we are contributes to our healing process.
(818) 938-2128 View (818) 938-2128
Photo of Katie Enney - Thrive Therapy Collective, PsyD, Psychologist
Thrive Therapy Collective
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Our team of therapists specialize in treating individuals and couples with a variety of different concerns ranging from depression to anxiety, neurodivergency (e.
We all encounter experiences in our lives which will challenge us, and sometimes cause us pain. Sometimes we are challenged by our relationships, previous trauma, bad experiences, depression or anxiety. We can make the choice to work through these events and grow even when things are hard and confusing. Our goal at Thrive Therapy Collective (TTC) is not only to provide a safe place for you to explore your struggles, but also to give you objective feedback and guidance to help you improve your life. Our trained therapists will work with you to create an approach to help you with your unique situation.
Our team of therapists specialize in treating individuals and couples with a variety of different concerns ranging from depression to anxiety, neurodivergency (e.
We all encounter experiences in our lives which will challenge us, and sometimes cause us pain. Sometimes we are challenged by our relationships, previous trauma, bad experiences, depression or anxiety. We can make the choice to work through these events and grow even when things are hard and confusing. Our goal at Thrive Therapy Collective (TTC) is not only to provide a safe place for you to explore your struggles, but also to give you objective feedback and guidance to help you improve your life. Our trained therapists will work with you to create an approach to help you with your unique situation.
(818) 405-9110 View (818) 405-9110
Photo of Richard S. Lyon, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richard S. Lyon
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Are you unable to be honest and genuine in your relationships? Do you stand up for yourself, but drive others away? Are you stuck in patterns of thought and behavior that leave you feeling defeated? Do you feel overwhelmed by changes that seem to be beyond your control? Are you stuck in a career rut that drains your energy and hope? Is a tragic loss keeping you weighed down and unable to live freely and fully? Are you stressed, anxious or depressed without knowing why?
Are you unable to be honest and genuine in your relationships? Do you stand up for yourself, but drive others away? Are you stuck in patterns of thought and behavior that leave you feeling defeated? Do you feel overwhelmed by changes that seem to be beyond your control? Are you stuck in a career rut that drains your energy and hope? Is a tragic loss keeping you weighed down and unable to live freely and fully? Are you stressed, anxious or depressed without knowing why?
(323) 648-3465 View (323) 648-3465
Photo of David Jernazian, PsyD, Psychologist
David Jernazian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Supported by my training and experience with psychodynamic, attachment based, cognitive behavioral, and exposure based interventions, I specialize in the following areas: Depression, Grief & loss, Armenian speaking population, anxiety, trauma, relationship conflict, and adjustment issues amongst immigrants.
I practice from both a relational and an attachment based framework. It’s widely known that the main driver of successful outcome in psychotherapy is the quality of the relationship between the patient and the clinician. It is also acknowledged that the majority of mental health issues are either caused, maintained, or intensified by unhealthy relationships. For these reasons, I place a great deal of emphasis upon our relationship as a foundation for implementing any clinical interventions.
Supported by my training and experience with psychodynamic, attachment based, cognitive behavioral, and exposure based interventions, I specialize in the following areas: Depression, Grief & loss, Armenian speaking population, anxiety, trauma, relationship conflict, and adjustment issues amongst immigrants.
I practice from both a relational and an attachment based framework. It’s widely known that the main driver of successful outcome in psychotherapy is the quality of the relationship between the patient and the clinician. It is also acknowledged that the majority of mental health issues are either caused, maintained, or intensified by unhealthy relationships. For these reasons, I place a great deal of emphasis upon our relationship as a foundation for implementing any clinical interventions.
(818) 350-5748 View (818) 350-5748
Photo of Amelia Lugo, PsyD, Psychologist
Amelia Lugo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Waitlist for new clients
My specialization is in treating self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
Ready to stop holding yourself back? Let's make a change. Life can often feel overwhelming and the impact of past and present experiences can have ripple effects into our wellbeing, health, work and relationships. You don't have to navigate it alone and reaching out for a lifeline can be the best thing you can do for yourself. I am passionate about supporting people who want to make a change in their lives and have helped countless others to make lasting changes. Call to join my waitlist!
My specialization is in treating self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
Ready to stop holding yourself back? Let's make a change. Life can often feel overwhelming and the impact of past and present experiences can have ripple effects into our wellbeing, health, work and relationships. You don't have to navigate it alone and reaching out for a lifeline can be the best thing you can do for yourself. I am passionate about supporting people who want to make a change in their lives and have helped countless others to make lasting changes. Call to join my waitlist!
(747) 271-2101 View (747) 271-2101
Photo of Elisa Rosenblatt Pomerantz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elisa Rosenblatt Pomerantz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Whether you suffer from relationship conflicts, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, unresolved trauma, or lack of joy, therapy can be helpful and life transforming.
Hello, welcome to my page. If you are emotionally suffering and want to feel better about yourself and the possibilities ahead, I would like the opportunity to talk with you. I am dedicated and passionate about working collaboratively with individuals who desire personal growth and increased self awareness. Choosing to work on oneself in therapy is both a life affirming and courageous decision and I consider it a deep privilege to be a part of that journey. By participating in a supportive therapeutic process , you can begin to understand and honor your life experiences with a new perspective and an increased sense of vitality.
Whether you suffer from relationship conflicts, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, unresolved trauma, or lack of joy, therapy can be helpful and life transforming.
Hello, welcome to my page. If you are emotionally suffering and want to feel better about yourself and the possibilities ahead, I would like the opportunity to talk with you. I am dedicated and passionate about working collaboratively with individuals who desire personal growth and increased self awareness. Choosing to work on oneself in therapy is both a life affirming and courageous decision and I consider it a deep privilege to be a part of that journey. By participating in a supportive therapeutic process , you can begin to understand and honor your life experiences with a new perspective and an increased sense of vitality.
(818) 237-9589 View (818) 237-9589
Photo of Jessica Battaini, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Battaini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Some of the child/parenting issues I help with are: anxiety, depression, grief/loss, attachment difficulties, ADHD, OCD, trichotillomania, separation, tantrums, sleep, and sibling rivalry.
When adults and children alike build an understanding of their emotional worlds, they are better equipped to cope with life’s challenges. As your therapist, I will provide an empathic relationship in which we will explore the unique experiences and emotions, both past and present, that bring you to therapy today. Young clients may not yet be able to name their feelings, or have an awareness of what triggers challenging behaviors. Through Play Therapy, I will support your child to process feelings, increase emotional vocabulary, and develop positive coping skills. With older children, I often employ evidence-based CBT/Mindfulness.
Some of the child/parenting issues I help with are: anxiety, depression, grief/loss, attachment difficulties, ADHD, OCD, trichotillomania, separation, tantrums, sleep, and sibling rivalry.
When adults and children alike build an understanding of their emotional worlds, they are better equipped to cope with life’s challenges. As your therapist, I will provide an empathic relationship in which we will explore the unique experiences and emotions, both past and present, that bring you to therapy today. Young clients may not yet be able to name their feelings, or have an awareness of what triggers challenging behaviors. Through Play Therapy, I will support your child to process feelings, increase emotional vocabulary, and develop positive coping skills. With older children, I often employ evidence-based CBT/Mindfulness.
(818) 369-3559 View (818) 369-3559
Photo of Siouneh Shabandari, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Siouneh Shabandari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214
I work primarily with adolescents, young adults & adults experiencing a wide range of concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral/emotional disturbance, relationship/family dilemmas, and life transitions.
Psychotherapy is an investment in yourself, and it can provide you with the opportunity to gain clarity, perspective, and clinical guidance to overcome various challenges of daily life. In my practice, I emphasize on insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to promote growth and positive change. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your fears, along with your deepest thoughts and feelings. Through an alliance of trust and collaboration, we will work together to understand the meanings of symptoms, to get "un-stuck," and to rediscover your capacity to make the choices that are right for you
I work primarily with adolescents, young adults & adults experiencing a wide range of concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral/emotional disturbance, relationship/family dilemmas, and life transitions.
Psychotherapy is an investment in yourself, and it can provide you with the opportunity to gain clarity, perspective, and clinical guidance to overcome various challenges of daily life. In my practice, I emphasize on insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to promote growth and positive change. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your fears, along with your deepest thoughts and feelings. Through an alliance of trust and collaboration, we will work together to understand the meanings of symptoms, to get "un-stuck," and to rediscover your capacity to make the choices that are right for you
(818) 463-2258 View (818) 463-2258
Photo of Narine Jallatyan (Sister Dhammadinna), MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Narine Jallatyan (Sister Dhammadinna)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214  (Online Only)
I approach therapy with the spirit of recognizing the primary human need to find meaning and purpose in life’s situations and experiences, especially those that are painful. So, whether you are experiencing suffering that is the result of anger, depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, trauma, or relational distress, my focus (given my training and experience through the years) will be to give you the tools to reduce your suffering and for you to see that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
I approach therapy with the spirit of recognizing the primary human need to find meaning and purpose in life’s situations and experiences, especially those that are painful. So, whether you are experiencing suffering that is the result of anger, depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, trauma, or relational distress, my focus (given my training and experience through the years) will be to give you the tools to reduce your suffering and for you to see that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
(949) 216-7017 View (949) 216-7017
Photo of Dr. Erin Lynch, PsyD, CCTP-I, Psychologist
Dr. Erin Lynch
Psychologist, PsyD, CCTP-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214  (Online Only)
Sometimes, as much as we try, it’s hard to make the changes we need to improve the quality of our life. If you’re struggling with the effects of trauma, excessive worry, depression or bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or having trouble navigating the stress of life and want to make some changes, I am here to help.
Sometimes, as much as we try, it’s hard to make the changes we need to improve the quality of our life. If you’re struggling with the effects of trauma, excessive worry, depression or bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or having trouble navigating the stress of life and want to make some changes, I am here to help.
(747) 252-5784 View (747) 252-5784
Photo of Laura Marhevka, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Marhevka
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214
It's amazing how our life can affects us, sometimes good and sometimes bad. I believe that life is about taking small steps to help us achieve our overall goals. Unfortunately, challenges, stressors and doubts can get in our way, making our journey difficult, confusing, uncertain and sometimes scary. I am here to help and support you on your journey. After working in non profits organizations, I have over 9 years of experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, domestic violence, parenting issues, grief/loss, sexual assault, generational trauma, co parenting struggles, work related stressors and suicide.
It's amazing how our life can affects us, sometimes good and sometimes bad. I believe that life is about taking small steps to help us achieve our overall goals. Unfortunately, challenges, stressors and doubts can get in our way, making our journey difficult, confusing, uncertain and sometimes scary. I am here to help and support you on your journey. After working in non profits organizations, I have over 9 years of experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, domestic violence, parenting issues, grief/loss, sexual assault, generational trauma, co parenting struggles, work related stressors and suicide.
(323) 515-1959 View (323) 515-1959
Photo of Patrycja Anna Malinowska, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrycja Anna Malinowska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214
My clinical experience includes treatment of culturally and socio-economically diverse adult population with range of diagnosis in outpatient and inpatient settings. My treatment experience includes individuals, couples, family, and groups utilizing Brief Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Structural Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. Areas addressed in private practice consists of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, self esteem, body image, family conflicts, and bereavement.
My clinical experience includes treatment of culturally and socio-economically diverse adult population with range of diagnosis in outpatient and inpatient settings. My treatment experience includes individuals, couples, family, and groups utilizing Brief Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Structural Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. Areas addressed in private practice consists of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, self esteem, body image, family conflicts, and bereavement.
(323) 745-2451 View (323) 745-2451
Photo of Alina Antonyants, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alina Antonyants
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, trauma, relationship challenges, and more.
When life stressors lead to feelings of sadness, anger, irritability, confusion, or anxiousness, it might be time to seek professional help. These feelings are common and may impact our mood, energy, relationships, and overall daily functioning. But remember, you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m here to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space to process those feelings, explore and understand where those emotions might be coming from, and learn new skills to improve your overall quality of life.
I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, trauma, relationship challenges, and more.
When life stressors lead to feelings of sadness, anger, irritability, confusion, or anxiousness, it might be time to seek professional help. These feelings are common and may impact our mood, energy, relationships, and overall daily functioning. But remember, you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m here to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space to process those feelings, explore and understand where those emotions might be coming from, and learn new skills to improve your overall quality of life.
(818) 698-2495 View (818) 698-2495
Photo of Julie C. Moore, PsyD, Psychologist
Julie C. Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214
I am a licensed psychologist for adults. I'm aim to provide effective treatment for chronic and recurring mental health issues, as well as general mood disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression), life adjustments, emergent stressors, decision making, and insomnia. My approach is collaborative and evidenced-based. Past clients have described me as caring, insightful, and funny. I'll create a time and budget conscious treatment plan to help you manage your symptoms and reach your treatment goals. You'll leave the therapeutic experience able to apply skills you learned and practiced with me in future times of distress, transition, etc.
I am a licensed psychologist for adults. I'm aim to provide effective treatment for chronic and recurring mental health issues, as well as general mood disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression), life adjustments, emergent stressors, decision making, and insomnia. My approach is collaborative and evidenced-based. Past clients have described me as caring, insightful, and funny. I'll create a time and budget conscious treatment plan to help you manage your symptoms and reach your treatment goals. You'll leave the therapeutic experience able to apply skills you learned and practiced with me in future times of distress, transition, etc.
(213) 516-9725 View (213) 516-9725
Photo of Shoghair Mgrditchian - Neurotherapy Clinic, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Neurotherapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214
We offer personalized support tailored to address a range of mental health concerns. Whether dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or ADHD, our goal is to guide you toward greater self-awareness, resilience, and overall wellbeing. We also specialize in trauma/PTSD, anger management, issues related to divorce and domestic abuse, life coaching for personal development, relationship issues, and parenting challenges. We also treat adolescents, offering a safe and understanding space for them to navigate their unique challenges, including identity development, academic stress, and peer relationships.
We offer personalized support tailored to address a range of mental health concerns. Whether dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or ADHD, our goal is to guide you toward greater self-awareness, resilience, and overall wellbeing. We also specialize in trauma/PTSD, anger management, issues related to divorce and domestic abuse, life coaching for personal development, relationship issues, and parenting challenges. We also treat adolescents, offering a safe and understanding space for them to navigate their unique challenges, including identity development, academic stress, and peer relationships.
(747) 223-6051 View (747) 223-6051
Photo of James Anthony Lough, PhD, MFT, Psychologist
James Anthony Lough
Psychologist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
La Crescenta, CA 91214  (Online Only)
I am the founder & clinical director of ADAPT Therapy Centers, Inc. (c.1987). My specialties include a treatment of mood disorders ( depression, anxiety/panic, bi-polar disorder) & addiciton. Throughout my 30 year career, I have run hundreds of psychodrama, multi-family, & cognitive therapy groups at various SoCal hospitals . I have been a professor in the Psychology Dept. at Mount Saint Mary's College & a member of the Board of Directors for the National Council of Alcoholism & Drug Addiction, Los Angeles Chapter. I have also served as Clinical Director at The Pasadena Recovery Center & co-hosted "Shrink Wrap" on KCSN-FM.
I am the founder & clinical director of ADAPT Therapy Centers, Inc. (c.1987). My specialties include a treatment of mood disorders ( depression, anxiety/panic, bi-polar disorder) & addiciton. Throughout my 30 year career, I have run hundreds of psychodrama, multi-family, & cognitive therapy groups at various SoCal hospitals . I have been a professor in the Psychology Dept. at Mount Saint Mary's College & a member of the Board of Directors for the National Council of Alcoholism & Drug Addiction, Los Angeles Chapter. I have also served as Clinical Director at The Pasadena Recovery Center & co-hosted "Shrink Wrap" on KCSN-FM.
(747) 239-5353 View (747) 239-5353
Photo of Lauren Tominac, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lauren Tominac
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and am Level 1-certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, a research-based form of couples therapy. I work with individuals, couples, children, and families, and have worked with clients experiencing relationship stress, anxiety, depression, guilt and shame, childhood traumas, and more. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental and safe environment to help you better understand yourself, your emotions, and your needs. Creating a comfortable space for you to explore and untangle your most vulnerable thoughts, feelings, and insecurities is my top priority.
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and am Level 1-certified in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, a research-based form of couples therapy. I work with individuals, couples, children, and families, and have worked with clients experiencing relationship stress, anxiety, depression, guilt and shame, childhood traumas, and more. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental and safe environment to help you better understand yourself, your emotions, and your needs. Creating a comfortable space for you to explore and untangle your most vulnerable thoughts, feelings, and insecurities is my top priority.
(818) 960-7841 View (818) 960-7841
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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.