Depression Therapists in Leimert Park, CA
![Photo of Alessandra Rizzotti, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49a4bcd7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alessandra Rizzotti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Leimert Park, CA 90008
Waitlist for new clients
Have you found yourself emotionally, mentally, or physically dysregulated after a crisis, trauma, or change? If you have found difficulty managing OCD, anxiety, depression, grief, BPD, or chronic illness, I can help using therapeutic tools customized to your recovery. Whether you are looking for short-term or long-term therapy to transform your narrative from helplessness to self-efficacy, I offer treatment plans utilizing culturally aware care, as well as evidence-based practices such as Exposure Response Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and EMDR.
Have you found yourself emotionally, mentally, or physically dysregulated after a crisis, trauma, or change? If you have found difficulty managing OCD, anxiety, depression, grief, BPD, or chronic illness, I can help using therapeutic tools customized to your recovery. Whether you are looking for short-term or long-term therapy to transform your narrative from helplessness to self-efficacy, I offer treatment plans utilizing culturally aware care, as well as evidence-based practices such as Exposure Response Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and EMDR.
![Photo of Jamie N Johnson - Sense Of Self, MS, LPCC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5388b974-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling services are provided to help couples, families, and individuals who experience issues dealing with life transitions, divorce, marital issues, self-fulfillment, personal growth, anxiety, depression and other discomforts that can cause major issues in their day to day lives. I will help clients to understand themselves, set goals, think positively, and gain independence in their thoughts and abilities. I find that most of my clients are looking to find a decrease in stress, acceptance, love, and strength to move on to the next part in their life.
Counseling services are provided to help couples, families, and individuals who experience issues dealing with life transitions, divorce, marital issues, self-fulfillment, personal growth, anxiety, depression and other discomforts that can cause major issues in their day to day lives. I will help clients to understand themselves, set goals, think positively, and gain independence in their thoughts and abilities. I find that most of my clients are looking to find a decrease in stress, acceptance, love, and strength to move on to the next part in their life.
![Photo of Angela Mason, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dc5af1e-971e-4fad-b3d8-7ad95a8871e2/3/320x400.jpeg)
I help adults manage and overcome social problems, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, family and relationship issues, trauma, abuse, divorce, and loss.
Using EMDR and Integrative Body Psychotherapy, I help clients take charge of their lives, increase confidence, energy, and well-being. By focusing on the mind and body, clients are able to get to the root of their problems faster while achieving deeper, long-lasting success in their relationships and careers. Resourcing and grounding techniques help clients reduce stress, develop self-love and empathy, transform and achieve life goals. Beautiful outdoor garden setting. Scheduling is flexible, including evenings and weekends.
I help adults manage and overcome social problems, ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, family and relationship issues, trauma, abuse, divorce, and loss.
Using EMDR and Integrative Body Psychotherapy, I help clients take charge of their lives, increase confidence, energy, and well-being. By focusing on the mind and body, clients are able to get to the root of their problems faster while achieving deeper, long-lasting success in their relationships and careers. Resourcing and grounding techniques help clients reduce stress, develop self-love and empathy, transform and achieve life goals. Beautiful outdoor garden setting. Scheduling is flexible, including evenings and weekends.
![Photo of Bipoc And Lgbtqia2S+ Identifying Johanna Padilla, MS, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b6c4b7f-6046-44ca-8adf-4d7b32e33c7a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bipoc And Lgbtqia2S+ Identifying Johanna Padilla
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leimert Park, CA 90008 (Online Only)
As a member of BIPOC & LGBTQIA2+, I specialize in supporting the healing of these communities as well as that of activists & health providers. My typical clients struggle with: sexuality, acculturation stress, land back/indigenous sovereignty, racial trauma, reclaiming/redefining identity, 1st gen stressors, transgender stressors, life transitions, generational stressors/pressures, communication, non-conforming struggles, anxiety, intersectionality, situational depression, self-esteem, cultural dissonance, relationships (monogamous & CNM), kink/alternative lifestyles, self-advocacy, boundaries, and interpersonal issues.
As a member of BIPOC & LGBTQIA2+, I specialize in supporting the healing of these communities as well as that of activists & health providers. My typical clients struggle with: sexuality, acculturation stress, land back/indigenous sovereignty, racial trauma, reclaiming/redefining identity, 1st gen stressors, transgender stressors, life transitions, generational stressors/pressures, communication, non-conforming struggles, anxiety, intersectionality, situational depression, self-esteem, cultural dissonance, relationships (monogamous & CNM), kink/alternative lifestyles, self-advocacy, boundaries, and interpersonal issues.
![Photo of Wendy Herrera Martinez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/259f2b36-7f1f-4c6b-a79e-80c08099f3e1/2/320x400.png)
Wendy Herrera Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leimert Park, CA 90008 (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is that of a partner. I am your partner in sorting through programs, beliefs, and expectations that were imposed on you. I am passionate about helping you understand what no longer serves you and get to what is true to who you are and want to be. I believe all the answers are within you. I challenge you to look within, gain insight and connect with your true self to take control of your life.
My approach to therapy is that of a partner. I am your partner in sorting through programs, beliefs, and expectations that were imposed on you. I am passionate about helping you understand what no longer serves you and get to what is true to who you are and want to be. I believe all the answers are within you. I challenge you to look within, gain insight and connect with your true self to take control of your life.
![Photo of Claudius Johnson - Sankofa Holistic Counseling Services, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02d65751-de1c-4999-a949-51646ac605e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sankofa Holistic Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leimert Park, CA 90008 (Online Only)
Congratulations, you found a compassionate and affirming therapist. As you're reading this I understand it maybe with some degree of ambivalence. To that end, my immediate goal is to connect and reflect with you in ways that are safe, respectful and trusting. Only then can we have a meaningful, therapeutic-relationship that's open to collaboration, exploration, and revelation. This is where we "Make the road as we walk it", and I champion your journey, where ever it leads. I value the creative and growth potential of every human being. How can I best support you?
Congratulations, you found a compassionate and affirming therapist. As you're reading this I understand it maybe with some degree of ambivalence. To that end, my immediate goal is to connect and reflect with you in ways that are safe, respectful and trusting. Only then can we have a meaningful, therapeutic-relationship that's open to collaboration, exploration, and revelation. This is where we "Make the road as we walk it", and I champion your journey, where ever it leads. I value the creative and growth potential of every human being. How can I best support you?
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of John Casey - John Casey, LCSW, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff6041c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
John Casey, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90018 (Online Only)
As an experienced licensed professional, I believe that in order to experience growth and development one must commit to the process by being open minded and consistent. I specialize in working with individuals (adolescents and adults) who are experiencing anger, depression, anxiety, family issues, and conflicts at home and at the workplace. We will work together through the process and rest assured, you will be doing this in a non-judgmental environment with ample support. While none of us can change the past, we can learn from it and make thoughtful, positive decisions that will shape our future.
As an experienced licensed professional, I believe that in order to experience growth and development one must commit to the process by being open minded and consistent. I specialize in working with individuals (adolescents and adults) who are experiencing anger, depression, anxiety, family issues, and conflicts at home and at the workplace. We will work together through the process and rest assured, you will be doing this in a non-judgmental environment with ample support. While none of us can change the past, we can learn from it and make thoughtful, positive decisions that will shape our future.
![Photo of Vivian Vasquez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20675a98-ec86-4a45-96e4-17de458ef90e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Vivian. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 24+ years of experience working as a psychotherapist and a Military Family Life Counselor. My clientele consists of those 18+ years of age. All of my therapy sessions are TeleHealth videos. I am skilled in most areas. However, I prefer to work with clients who are in need of assistance with anger management, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, divorce, domestic violence, career changes, job burnout, and stress. At this time, I do not offer couples counseling or family therapy. I also do not speak Spanish.
Hi, I'm Vivian. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 24+ years of experience working as a psychotherapist and a Military Family Life Counselor. My clientele consists of those 18+ years of age. All of my therapy sessions are TeleHealth videos. I am skilled in most areas. However, I prefer to work with clients who are in need of assistance with anger management, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, divorce, domestic violence, career changes, job burnout, and stress. At this time, I do not offer couples counseling or family therapy. I also do not speak Spanish.
![Photo of Anne D. Panofsky, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc6e4b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
HOW I WORK:
During the first consultation, I learn about my client's primary concerns. If he or she wants to learn practical tools to cope better, I use cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, such as relaxation and assertiveness training. If the client wants to work more deeply on issues that interfere with living a happier, more fulfilling life, I use psychodynamic psychotherapy.
STRENGTHS AND INTERESTS:
I often work with people who have health problems because anxiety and depression cause or exacerbate many physical disabilities. Relaxation techniques and hypnosis can help minimize pain and anxiety.
HOW I WORK:
During the first consultation, I learn about my client's primary concerns. If he or she wants to learn practical tools to cope better, I use cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, such as relaxation and assertiveness training. If the client wants to work more deeply on issues that interfere with living a happier, more fulfilling life, I use psychodynamic psychotherapy.
STRENGTHS AND INTERESTS:
I often work with people who have health problems because anxiety and depression cause or exacerbate many physical disabilities. Relaxation techniques and hypnosis can help minimize pain and anxiety.
![Photo of Elizabeth Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5be9141-8ac4-4792-80fa-ab6e74026ba1/1/320x400.png)
HI there; My name is Elizabeth Clark, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Redlands, California and working with clients via telehealth throughout the state of California. I work with individuals and specialize in anxiety, depression, life changes and stressors as well as coaching and goal setting. I am so happy you are here and taking the first step towards change in your life. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths Based, Coaching and Solution Focused to help my clients make programs, reach their goals and overall feel better about themselves and their situations.
HI there; My name is Elizabeth Clark, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Redlands, California and working with clients via telehealth throughout the state of California. I work with individuals and specialize in anxiety, depression, life changes and stressors as well as coaching and goal setting. I am so happy you are here and taking the first step towards change in your life. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths Based, Coaching and Solution Focused to help my clients make programs, reach their goals and overall feel better about themselves and their situations.
![Photo of Alyssa Balli, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54ca9067-7820-4f72-b9e0-500d4fd8bbce/2/320x400.png)
With numerous years of experience in these areas which can manifest as anxiety, depression, trauma or codependency, I am confident together we can create a plan for you to build your ideal life.
Hello there! I'm Alyssa Balli, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based out of Southern California and providing telehealth therapy services statewide. I I'm passionate about working with individuals, adolescents and young adults and couples seeking to deepen their bonds, relationships and connections with others as well as themselves. I appreciate the opportunity to walk alongside others in their journey toward growth! I have a deep passion for working with trauma survivors and people looking to increase connection in relationships.
With numerous years of experience in these areas which can manifest as anxiety, depression, trauma or codependency, I am confident together we can create a plan for you to build your ideal life.
Hello there! I'm Alyssa Balli, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based out of Southern California and providing telehealth therapy services statewide. I I'm passionate about working with individuals, adolescents and young adults and couples seeking to deepen their bonds, relationships and connections with others as well as themselves. I appreciate the opportunity to walk alongside others in their journey toward growth! I have a deep passion for working with trauma survivors and people looking to increase connection in relationships.
![Photo of Tabitha Taylor, PsyD, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5d036d-279c-4d09-bafc-e50161719054/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tabitha Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90008
Along with individuals facing depression, anxiety, and trauma by providing healthy coping methods mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Are you tired of living each day on an emotional roller coaster, not knowing how you'll feel from one moment to the next? Do you wonder if you’re living your best Christian and/or spiritual life. Has life become so stressful that you wonder how you'll make it to the next day? Do you feel sad, tired, and anxious often? Are you giving yourself grace and embracing your spiritual beliefs to live your best life. Just know that you are not alone. Healing mentally, emotionally, and spiritually is the first step. Living and healing from the inside out is a journey of healing from old wounds. It’s a choice and takes practice.
Along with individuals facing depression, anxiety, and trauma by providing healthy coping methods mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Are you tired of living each day on an emotional roller coaster, not knowing how you'll feel from one moment to the next? Do you wonder if you’re living your best Christian and/or spiritual life. Has life become so stressful that you wonder how you'll make it to the next day? Do you feel sad, tired, and anxious often? Are you giving yourself grace and embracing your spiritual beliefs to live your best life. Just know that you are not alone. Healing mentally, emotionally, and spiritually is the first step. Living and healing from the inside out is a journey of healing from old wounds. It’s a choice and takes practice.
![Photo of Ashley Paculba, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fb6d6fa-5542-4def-b6e2-7eec9d54e69d/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Ashley Paculba, LMFT. I am passionate about helping others become the best version of themselves, find resilience, and overcome. I typically work with clients who are struggling with adjustment, anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, grief and loss, and relationship issues.
My name is Ashley Paculba, LMFT. I am passionate about helping others become the best version of themselves, find resilience, and overcome. I typically work with clients who are struggling with adjustment, anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, grief and loss, and relationship issues.
![Photo of Dr. Candace Girod, PsyD, LMFT, 122560, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69d3af8f-cdc7-400b-90e8-18d46a589478/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Candace Girod
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, 122560
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90043 (Online Only)
During these uncertain times in our lives, we have all had to face challenges. If you are experiencing depression and anxiety due to the stressors of everyday life, role transitions, relationship/family issues... I am here for you. I am here to provide you with coping strategies that will help you improve your mood while also giving you the space you need to share your thoughts and feelings to help you cope with life’s uncertainties.
During these uncertain times in our lives, we have all had to face challenges. If you are experiencing depression and anxiety due to the stressors of everyday life, role transitions, relationship/family issues... I am here for you. I am here to provide you with coping strategies that will help you improve your mood while also giving you the space you need to share your thoughts and feelings to help you cope with life’s uncertainties.
![Photo of Jason Edward Bernardo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cfe669b-5bf9-47fb-beb0-517802f1afc2/2/320x400.png)
The types of clients I work with tend to have challenges with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, relational conflicts, life transitional changes, and if helping a person use the keys, they have to free themselves from the invisible cage preventing them from living life, my work would be related to that too.
Greetings! My name is Jason Bernardo, LMFT142300 and would like to support you on your journey. It is possible for you to win at life alone, but I do not think it was meant for it to be that way. If you are ready to work through the naysayers with those around you and those within you, maybe I can help play a part in this period of your life.
The types of clients I work with tend to have challenges with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, relational conflicts, life transitional changes, and if helping a person use the keys, they have to free themselves from the invisible cage preventing them from living life, my work would be related to that too.
Greetings! My name is Jason Bernardo, LMFT142300 and would like to support you on your journey. It is possible for you to win at life alone, but I do not think it was meant for it to be that way. If you are ready to work through the naysayers with those around you and those within you, maybe I can help play a part in this period of your life.
![Photo of Stan Wayne Kemp, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21454e05-ba00-4615-a39f-bdab49ed6961/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am Stan Kemp. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. My license number is LMFT51919. I work with those struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, identity disorders and more. I work with individuals and couples. I work with clients aging from 18 to 99. I have not met a disorder I was uncomfortable treating. I enjoy working with military and law enforcement. I use a various modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, person centered, solution focused, family systems, and EMDR. I meet the client where they are at without judgement.
Hi! I am Stan Kemp. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. My license number is LMFT51919. I work with those struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, identity disorders and more. I work with individuals and couples. I work with clients aging from 18 to 99. I have not met a disorder I was uncomfortable treating. I enjoy working with military and law enforcement. I use a various modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, person centered, solution focused, family systems, and EMDR. I meet the client where they are at without judgement.
![Photo of Earline Glover, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9b563d-1dfa-4e8c-b41f-00d072081a35/1/320x400.png)
Earline Glover
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008 (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, anxiety and relationship/couples counseling.
As a therapist, my goal is to support and empower my clients in their journey towards overcoming the challenges in their life. I believe in a holistic and compassionate approach, where each person’s unique experiences and strengths are honored. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported. Through a combination of evidence-based therapies and personalized approaches, I work collaboratively with each client to uncover their strengths and build resilience. I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship, trust and understanding.
I specialize in depression, anxiety and relationship/couples counseling.
As a therapist, my goal is to support and empower my clients in their journey towards overcoming the challenges in their life. I believe in a holistic and compassionate approach, where each person’s unique experiences and strengths are honored. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported. Through a combination of evidence-based therapies and personalized approaches, I work collaboratively with each client to uncover their strengths and build resilience. I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship, trust and understanding.
![Photo of Jeanette Buller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24924b90-8609-4d61-86db-448ee26396ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patients with symptoms/diagnoses of Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence, Anger Management, Psychotic Disorders, Mood Disorders, Family/Marital Stressors, Forensic (criminal history, or involvement with authorities).
Hi there, I'm Jeanette Buller, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Jeanette's approach to therapy includes seeing you as a whole person, taking into account who you are now and the version of yourself you wish to achieve. Together, we will work on strategies to address the root causes of your difficulties and build meaningful connections to what is most important for you. I look forward to hearing your story and connecting with you in our therapy session.
Patients with symptoms/diagnoses of Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence, Anger Management, Psychotic Disorders, Mood Disorders, Family/Marital Stressors, Forensic (criminal history, or involvement with authorities).
Hi there, I'm Jeanette Buller, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Jeanette's approach to therapy includes seeing you as a whole person, taking into account who you are now and the version of yourself you wish to achieve. Together, we will work on strategies to address the root causes of your difficulties and build meaningful connections to what is most important for you. I look forward to hearing your story and connecting with you in our therapy session.
![Photo of Sara Abadie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b3320a-65dd-45b3-87de-8a070f7c5db5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Abadie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90231 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you ready for a happier, more satisfying life? It is possible and I can help. Whether you are troubled by depression, anxiety, addictive behavior, relationship issues, or other problems, you will discover that how you feel can improve. Your path to well-being depends on your ability to feel good about yourself and I work with people to make their lives, and their relationship with themselves, easier and happier. My therapy involves releasing painful feelings while working to foster understanding of self-sabotaging behavior in order to bring more self-respect and a sense of inner peace into your life.
Are you ready for a happier, more satisfying life? It is possible and I can help. Whether you are troubled by depression, anxiety, addictive behavior, relationship issues, or other problems, you will discover that how you feel can improve. Your path to well-being depends on your ability to feel good about yourself and I work with people to make their lives, and their relationship with themselves, easier and happier. My therapy involves releasing painful feelings while working to foster understanding of self-sabotaging behavior in order to bring more self-respect and a sense of inner peace into your life.
![Photo of April K Adams Edwards, LPC, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6245ea86-449e-4860-b048-d17a6e81ee85/1/320x400.jpeg)
April K Adams Edwards
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90016 (Online Only)
Greetings, my name is April Adams Edwards a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Missouri. I have over 15 years of experience providing direct care to youth, families, and communities. I established my private practice in 2012 and have been working with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety relationships and family of origin conflicts.
Greetings, my name is April Adams Edwards a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Missouri. I have over 15 years of experience providing direct care to youth, families, and communities. I established my private practice in 2012 and have been working with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety relationships and family of origin conflicts.
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Leimert Park
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- Rancho Park
- View Park
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- Windsor Hills
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.