Depression Therapists in Los Altos Hills, CA

Photo of Dr. Kimberly Diorio, EdD, AMFT, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Kimberly Diorio
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdD, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022  (Online Only)
Specializing in supporting adults & teens with anxiety & depression, trauma/PTSD, life transitions, & psychedelic integration, I also offer walk-and-talk therapy in the hills above Silicon Valley.
Are you feeling trapped in an endless cycle of stress and worry? Is your relationship or career causing you distress? Maybe you feel stuck, lonely, sad, or overwhelmed by choices. Imagine having a compassionate guide to help you navigate these struggles. A therapist is not here to tell you what to do but to help you uncover the hidden barriers that keep you immobilized and explore new perspectives and possibilities. Together, we can work through your challenges and find a path to healing and growth. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
Specializing in supporting adults & teens with anxiety & depression, trauma/PTSD, life transitions, & psychedelic integration, I also offer walk-and-talk therapy in the hills above Silicon Valley.
Are you feeling trapped in an endless cycle of stress and worry? Is your relationship or career causing you distress? Maybe you feel stuck, lonely, sad, or overwhelmed by choices. Imagine having a compassionate guide to help you navigate these struggles. A therapist is not here to tell you what to do but to help you uncover the hidden barriers that keep you immobilized and explore new perspectives and possibilities. Together, we can work through your challenges and find a path to healing and growth. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
(650) 487-1667 View (650) 487-1667
Photo of Erin Todhunter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Todhunter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94024  (Online Only)
Our lives—and the lives of our family and friends—are often challenged by issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, anger, loss and grief. And we are often so pressured by the demands of everyday life that we struggle to simply get through each day. While our relationships with others can be sources of great love and support, they are often sources of our deepest pain. Through the process of therapy, we can come to better understand the roots of our suffering, heal emotional wounds and strengthen our relationships with ourselves and others.
Our lives—and the lives of our family and friends—are often challenged by issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, anger, loss and grief. And we are often so pressured by the demands of everyday life that we struggle to simply get through each day. While our relationships with others can be sources of great love and support, they are often sources of our deepest pain. Through the process of therapy, we can come to better understand the roots of our suffering, heal emotional wounds and strengthen our relationships with ourselves and others.
(650) 770-8823 View (650) 770-8823
Photo of Maria Young, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos Hills, CA 94024
Maria specializes in providing support to individuals experiencing stress, anxiety (including panic attacks), childhood trauma, PTSD, and depression. Her approach involves working with their reptilian brain to alleviate the fight, flight, or freeze response and help them imagine and create a healthier life. She also helps them learn from their past experiences, enabling them to strengthen themselves. Maria's expertise extends to couples and families from diverse backgrounds, including those who are multicultural, multiracial, and multi-generational.
Maria specializes in providing support to individuals experiencing stress, anxiety (including panic attacks), childhood trauma, PTSD, and depression. Her approach involves working with their reptilian brain to alleviate the fight, flight, or freeze response and help them imagine and create a healthier life. She also helps them learn from their past experiences, enabling them to strengthen themselves. Maria's expertise extends to couples and families from diverse backgrounds, including those who are multicultural, multiracial, and multi-generational.
(650) 995-5283 View (650) 995-5283
Photo of Ashley Azra Tucic, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ashley Azra Tucic
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
I work with teens, adults, families, and couples at Ellie Mental Health. I am committed to empowering my clients, especially teens facing various challenges, and approach treatment with compassion and understanding. I have worked with individuals diagnosed with Autism, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, medication compliance challenges, and chronic medical health conditions. To facilitate a seamless continuum of care, I collaborate closely with external providers and parents when working with minors.
I work with teens, adults, families, and couples at Ellie Mental Health. I am committed to empowering my clients, especially teens facing various challenges, and approach treatment with compassion and understanding. I have worked with individuals diagnosed with Autism, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, medication compliance challenges, and chronic medical health conditions. To facilitate a seamless continuum of care, I collaborate closely with external providers and parents when working with minors.
(650) 414-4305 View (650) 414-4305
Photo of Dr. Sandra Konja, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Dr. Sandra Konja
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022  (Online Only)
I'm a Clinical Psychologist and I'm certified in Perinatal Mental Health and specialize in working with women and mothers experiencing depression, anxiety, marital/relationship struggles, grief, infertility, pregnancy loss, prenatal and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, as well as other adjustments and challenges experienced in motherhood and womanhood.
You’re here today because you’re likely struggling with some aspect of womanhood or motherhood and are looking to begin your journey towards healing. Maybe you’re a new mother that’s having a difficult time adjusting to your new “normal”, which has you feeling sad and/or anxious in your role. Perhaps you’re struggling to cope with challenges in your relationship/marriage. You may be having a difficult time feeling present and connected with both yourself and the people around you. Or maybe you’re ready to begin processing and working through the difficult experiences that have been holding you captive for so long.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist and I'm certified in Perinatal Mental Health and specialize in working with women and mothers experiencing depression, anxiety, marital/relationship struggles, grief, infertility, pregnancy loss, prenatal and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, as well as other adjustments and challenges experienced in motherhood and womanhood.
You’re here today because you’re likely struggling with some aspect of womanhood or motherhood and are looking to begin your journey towards healing. Maybe you’re a new mother that’s having a difficult time adjusting to your new “normal”, which has you feeling sad and/or anxious in your role. Perhaps you’re struggling to cope with challenges in your relationship/marriage. You may be having a difficult time feeling present and connected with both yourself and the people around you. Or maybe you’re ready to begin processing and working through the difficult experiences that have been holding you captive for so long.
(619) 332-4950 View (619) 332-4950
Photo of Canzi Wang, PhD, Psychologist
Canzi Wang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
My specialties are providing Mandarin-English bilingual therapy, working with internationals, immigrants, and Asian/Asian Americans, and treating relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, women’s issues, and attachment (family-of-origin) issues.
I’m glad you are here! Looking for a therapist means you’ve taken the initiative to ask for help and seek for change. Many people say that they already start to feel better after making their first appointment. Whether you are feeling stuck or blocked to achieve your goals, losing self-confidence and motivation; or having difficulty coping with a recent loss, a big life change; or finding yourself feeling more anxious, sad, angry, or having more arguments and feeling unsatisfied in your significant relationships; or you are interested in figuring out who you are and feel more connected with yourself; I am here for you.
My specialties are providing Mandarin-English bilingual therapy, working with internationals, immigrants, and Asian/Asian Americans, and treating relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, women’s issues, and attachment (family-of-origin) issues.
I’m glad you are here! Looking for a therapist means you’ve taken the initiative to ask for help and seek for change. Many people say that they already start to feel better after making their first appointment. Whether you are feeling stuck or blocked to achieve your goals, losing self-confidence and motivation; or having difficulty coping with a recent loss, a big life change; or finding yourself feeling more anxious, sad, angry, or having more arguments and feeling unsatisfied in your significant relationships; or you are interested in figuring out who you are and feel more connected with yourself; I am here for you.
(626) 317-6947 View (626) 317-6947
Photo of Munn Saechao, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, PPSC, Psychologist
Munn Saechao
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Los Altos Hills, CA 94024  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience providing short- and long-term evidence based treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression and trauma.
I am very passionate about working with girls and women with imposter syndrome, perfectionism, performance anxiety, paralysis, fear of failure, self-doubt, stress and burnout. The individuals I support, often struggle with navigating their academic and professional spaces because of internal and external pressures rooted in sociocultural issues. Many girls and women encounter these issues and work through them with support. Together, we can help you or your child become more confident, brave, focused and empowered.
I have many years of experience providing short- and long-term evidence based treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression and trauma.
I am very passionate about working with girls and women with imposter syndrome, perfectionism, performance anxiety, paralysis, fear of failure, self-doubt, stress and burnout. The individuals I support, often struggle with navigating their academic and professional spaces because of internal and external pressures rooted in sociocultural issues. Many girls and women encounter these issues and work through them with support. Together, we can help you or your child become more confident, brave, focused and empowered.
(650) 396-3681 View (650) 396-3681
Photo of Susan M Lindblade - Susan Lindblade, LMFT-AT, LMFT, AT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Lindblade, LMFT-AT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AT
Verified Verified
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
Previous experience includes working with adults challenged with life transitions and stressors, marital conflict and divorce, parenting, depression, anxiety, and mental illness.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Art Therapist, I offer a genuine and non judgmental approach to helping individuals who are seeking to improve their relational and emotional well being. My experience includes working with adults, couples, adolescents, and school aged children.
Previous experience includes working with adults challenged with life transitions and stressors, marital conflict and divorce, parenting, depression, anxiety, and mental illness.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Art Therapist, I offer a genuine and non judgmental approach to helping individuals who are seeking to improve their relational and emotional well being. My experience includes working with adults, couples, adolescents, and school aged children.
(415) 856-9726 View (415) 856-9726
Photo of Melanie J Cauble, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melanie J Cauble
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94024  (Online Only)
I work with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, couples relationships, and communication.
If you're feeling the weight of life's challenges, experiencing a general sense of dissatisfaction or struggling to find a balance in your life, I'd like to offer my support. Creating a time and space to focus on you is a great first step to increasing satisfaction and happiness. With a holistic based training, I will work with you to see with new perspectives and new possibilities. Everyone's path in life is unique, and together we can explore what is right for you, to improve your connections both with others and with yourself.
I work with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, couples relationships, and communication.
If you're feeling the weight of life's challenges, experiencing a general sense of dissatisfaction or struggling to find a balance in your life, I'd like to offer my support. Creating a time and space to focus on you is a great first step to increasing satisfaction and happiness. With a holistic based training, I will work with you to see with new perspectives and new possibilities. Everyone's path in life is unique, and together we can explore what is right for you, to improve your connections both with others and with yourself.
(408) 560-2735 View (408) 560-2735
Photo of Dr. Eric Taggart, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Eric Taggart
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
That said, I have special interest in creativity and the arts, fatherhood and men's issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and attachment-related/relational issues.
Searching for a therapist can feel daunting, but finding the right one is worth the effort. My practice is informed by evidence-based psychodynamic principles and I approach my work with curiosity and care. Research indicates that the best predictor of effective therapy is not the particular method, but rather the "fit" between the therapist and patient. I always suggest that folks talk to a few therapists before making a decision about how to proceed. I love the work I do and would be happy to chat with you about how I might be able to help.
That said, I have special interest in creativity and the arts, fatherhood and men's issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and attachment-related/relational issues.
Searching for a therapist can feel daunting, but finding the right one is worth the effort. My practice is informed by evidence-based psychodynamic principles and I approach my work with curiosity and care. Research indicates that the best predictor of effective therapy is not the particular method, but rather the "fit" between the therapist and patient. I always suggest that folks talk to a few therapists before making a decision about how to proceed. I love the work I do and would be happy to chat with you about how I might be able to help.
(650) 796-2807 View (650) 796-2807
Photo of Shari Grande, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shari Grande
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94024  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about supporting adults through times of life transitions. These life shifts can be full of both excitement or dread and tremendous adjustment. I offer multimodal strategies for adult clients struggling with career optimization, in many cases due to (undiagnosed) ADHD based performance issues. Clinical specialties include: adult ADHD and Executive Functioning Coaching, perfectionism and shame resilience, codependency, imposter syndrome, relationship issues, communication problems, low self-esteem, grief and loss, parent coaching, self-regulation, anger management and treatment of anxiety and depression.
I am passionate about supporting adults through times of life transitions. These life shifts can be full of both excitement or dread and tremendous adjustment. I offer multimodal strategies for adult clients struggling with career optimization, in many cases due to (undiagnosed) ADHD based performance issues. Clinical specialties include: adult ADHD and Executive Functioning Coaching, perfectionism and shame resilience, codependency, imposter syndrome, relationship issues, communication problems, low self-esteem, grief and loss, parent coaching, self-regulation, anger management and treatment of anxiety and depression.
(408) 418-2572 View (408) 418-2572
Photo of Jenny Pepper, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenny Pepper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
Working with a therapist who you feel safe with and connected to will make all the difference in your healing journey. I am a warm therapist, who will also be directive for the sake of your growth. I am sincerely dedicated to your healing journey. And, I can teach you practical tools to live a balanced and more fulfilling life. I would love to guide you towards better understanding yourself. I am highly trained in CBT, DBT and ACT. My approach is integrative, adapting to fit each person’s unique needs. I’ve worked extensively and closely with people struggling with anxiety, BPD, addiction, depression, and low self-worth.
Working with a therapist who you feel safe with and connected to will make all the difference in your healing journey. I am a warm therapist, who will also be directive for the sake of your growth. I am sincerely dedicated to your healing journey. And, I can teach you practical tools to live a balanced and more fulfilling life. I would love to guide you towards better understanding yourself. I am highly trained in CBT, DBT and ACT. My approach is integrative, adapting to fit each person’s unique needs. I’ve worked extensively and closely with people struggling with anxiety, BPD, addiction, depression, and low self-worth.
(310) 359-1863 View (310) 359-1863
Photo of Breathe Again Therapy - Psychotherapy And Sex Therapy, LMHC, LPCC, LMFT
Breathe Again Therapy - Psychotherapy And Sex Therapy
LMHC, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022  (Online Only)
I appreciate you taking the time to see how I can assist with your journey. As a sex therapist, I help clients to understand themselves, their relationship(s), and the world around them. My clients are adults, individuals, and relationships seeking support. Focus areas are desire and arousal, gender identity, exploration, acceptance, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma recovery. Many clients are living and learning in kink, ethical non-monogamy, and poly lifestyles. I provide care to clients who are cis-gender, transgender, queer, BIPOC, non-binary, and non-conformists, and a Sex Worker - Affirmative Therapist.
I appreciate you taking the time to see how I can assist with your journey. As a sex therapist, I help clients to understand themselves, their relationship(s), and the world around them. My clients are adults, individuals, and relationships seeking support. Focus areas are desire and arousal, gender identity, exploration, acceptance, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma recovery. Many clients are living and learning in kink, ethical non-monogamy, and poly lifestyles. I provide care to clients who are cis-gender, transgender, queer, BIPOC, non-binary, and non-conformists, and a Sex Worker - Affirmative Therapist.
(408) 217-0486 View (408) 217-0486
Photo of Affie Ghani, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Affie Ghani
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94024  (Online Only)
We all juggle many elements in everyday life which can become challenging and overwhelming in ways that lead to hardships or ailments in the form of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have years of experience helping couples, families, adolescents, and adults find strength within and build upon their own resilience and overcome emotional, mental, and relationship challenges. I'm also experienced working with cultural awareness, first and second generational children of immigrant parents.
We all juggle many elements in everyday life which can become challenging and overwhelming in ways that lead to hardships or ailments in the form of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have years of experience helping couples, families, adolescents, and adults find strength within and build upon their own resilience and overcome emotional, mental, and relationship challenges. I'm also experienced working with cultural awareness, first and second generational children of immigrant parents.
(626) 788-5093 View (626) 788-5093
Photo of Julia Leavitt, MSW,  , LCSW, OSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Leavitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, , LCSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022  (Online Only)
My name is Julia Leavitt and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I want to applaud you for taking the brave step of seeking support. For over a decade I have supported individuals and families navigate the distress and challenges of a cancer diagnosis or major life transition. I view therapy as a partnership. I endeavor to meet my clients where they are and provide a safe environment for them to process their emotions as they embark on their unique path of self-discovery.I have extensive experience working on issues of self-esteem, anxiety,depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, anticipatory grief,and women’s health.
My name is Julia Leavitt and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I want to applaud you for taking the brave step of seeking support. For over a decade I have supported individuals and families navigate the distress and challenges of a cancer diagnosis or major life transition. I view therapy as a partnership. I endeavor to meet my clients where they are and provide a safe environment for them to process their emotions as they embark on their unique path of self-discovery.I have extensive experience working on issues of self-esteem, anxiety,depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, anticipatory grief,and women’s health.
(323) 768-0350 View (323) 768-0350
Photo of Mary Ellen Lemieux - Mary Ellen Lemieux, JD, LCSW, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ellen Lemieux, JD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94024
I also specialize in assisting complicated families with teens or young adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, school or employment, substance abuse or have become "un-parentable".
I enjoy working with adults and families who desire change, but aren't sure how to make it happen. For some, it means a change in relationship dynamics or parenting style. For others, it means collaborating on complicated life issues, such as difficult teenagers, substance abuse, or co-parenting. If you are looking to leave a long marriage, I can help you navigate that process. I also enjoy working with individuals in their 20's and 30's trying to figure out this thing called adulting. I split my time between Steamboat Springs,CO and northern California, and am licensed to see clients in California, Colorado and Utah.
I also specialize in assisting complicated families with teens or young adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, school or employment, substance abuse or have become "un-parentable".
I enjoy working with adults and families who desire change, but aren't sure how to make it happen. For some, it means a change in relationship dynamics or parenting style. For others, it means collaborating on complicated life issues, such as difficult teenagers, substance abuse, or co-parenting. If you are looking to leave a long marriage, I can help you navigate that process. I also enjoy working with individuals in their 20's and 30's trying to figure out this thing called adulting. I split my time between Steamboat Springs,CO and northern California, and am licensed to see clients in California, Colorado and Utah.
(650) 346-7698 View (650) 346-7698
Photo of Araceli Pimentel, MSW, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Araceli Pimentel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their feelings, communicate effectively, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, and marital/pre-marital issues.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their feelings, communicate effectively, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, and marital/pre-marital issues.
(323) 312-3401 View (323) 312-3401
Photo of Ashley 'ashton' Bernal - Renewed Hope Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renewed Hope Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94024  (Online Only)
Life feels like shit. You wake up each morning feeling stuck and unsure. There is no clear path to feeling better. Past experiences keep showing up when you least expect them, and your emotions get the better of you. It's lonely dealing with these feelings on your own, but you don't know where to turn. Hiding behind your mask is no longer possible. You've thought about asking for help but keep putting it off. Asking for help is on your mind and you are ready to take those first steps. The thought of confronting your past is scary, but you know that these old patterns are no longer serving you, and it's time for a change.
Life feels like shit. You wake up each morning feeling stuck and unsure. There is no clear path to feeling better. Past experiences keep showing up when you least expect them, and your emotions get the better of you. It's lonely dealing with these feelings on your own, but you don't know where to turn. Hiding behind your mask is no longer possible. You've thought about asking for help but keep putting it off. Asking for help is on your mind and you are ready to take those first steps. The thought of confronting your past is scary, but you know that these old patterns are no longer serving you, and it's time for a change.
(559) 934-5917 View (559) 934-5917
Photo of Ellen A Sande, LPCC, MA
Ellen A Sande
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
I am an LPCC, who works with adolescents (age 14+), young adults, and adults. I am committed to helping individuals realize their full potential by assisting them in identifying problems in their lives, and how these problems are keeping them from attaining their goals. I work in a collaborative, solution-focused manner, using CBT and other empirically sound techniques, for dealing with life stressors. My techniques are based upon the needs of each individual. In addition to being a psychotherapist, I am a certified yoga and meditation instructor, and I find that this discipline enhances my psychotherapy practice.
I am an LPCC, who works with adolescents (age 14+), young adults, and adults. I am committed to helping individuals realize their full potential by assisting them in identifying problems in their lives, and how these problems are keeping them from attaining their goals. I work in a collaborative, solution-focused manner, using CBT and other empirically sound techniques, for dealing with life stressors. My techniques are based upon the needs of each individual. In addition to being a psychotherapist, I am a certified yoga and meditation instructor, and I find that this discipline enhances my psychotherapy practice.
(408) 868-5682 View (408) 868-5682
Photo of Amanda E Fargo, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Amanda E Fargo
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022  (Online Only)
I am currently exclusively practicing tele-health services. I am a licensed psychologist and interpersonal leadership coach committed to guiding individuals towards emotional well-being, personal and professional growth. For over 20 years I have worked successfully with a wide range of clients including business owners, educators, engineers, entrepreneurs, executives, medical professionals, scientists, start-up founders, students and venture capitalists from organizations such as AirBnB, Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Google, Intel, Netflix, Oracle, Salesforce, Stanford University, UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Santa Cruz and USC.
I am currently exclusively practicing tele-health services. I am a licensed psychologist and interpersonal leadership coach committed to guiding individuals towards emotional well-being, personal and professional growth. For over 20 years I have worked successfully with a wide range of clients including business owners, educators, engineers, entrepreneurs, executives, medical professionals, scientists, start-up founders, students and venture capitalists from organizations such as AirBnB, Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Google, Intel, Netflix, Oracle, Salesforce, Stanford University, UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Santa Cruz and USC.
(831) 278-4141 View (831) 278-4141
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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.