Depression Therapists in Montara, CA

Photo of Cori R Ford - Therapy with Cori, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Therapy with Cori
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Montara, CA 94037
Greetings! Welcome to Therapy with Cori! I help clients bravely journey toward living life as their most authentic Self. I work with adult individuals (18+), couples, and families (with kids old enough to participate in talk therapy). You may be looking for: conflict resolution, communication skills, ridding of resentments, learning to forgive self/others, finding motivation, or digging deeper to find out how and why you are the way you are. Perhaps you struggle with: anxiety, fear, depression, stagnation, confidence, parenting skills, T/trauma, or relationship issues with: spouse/partner, family, friend/s, coworker/s, boss, etc.
Greetings! Welcome to Therapy with Cori! I help clients bravely journey toward living life as their most authentic Self. I work with adult individuals (18+), couples, and families (with kids old enough to participate in talk therapy). You may be looking for: conflict resolution, communication skills, ridding of resentments, learning to forgive self/others, finding motivation, or digging deeper to find out how and why you are the way you are. Perhaps you struggle with: anxiety, fear, depression, stagnation, confidence, parenting skills, T/trauma, or relationship issues with: spouse/partner, family, friend/s, coworker/s, boss, etc.
(650) 420-2504 View (650) 420-2504
Photo of Cristina Giaquinto - BluOcean, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
BluOcean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montara, CA 94037
My approach helps people find their own way via self reflection, self care and self compassion. I have over 12 years of experience working with adults and youth dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, eating disorders, BPD. The modalities used include trauma informed CBT, EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, CBT and DBT. In my practice, I create a safe and trusting environment, providing people with the emotional support needed to overcome challenging times and make positive adjustments to be and feel your best.
My approach helps people find their own way via self reflection, self care and self compassion. I have over 12 years of experience working with adults and youth dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, eating disorders, BPD. The modalities used include trauma informed CBT, EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, CBT and DBT. In my practice, I create a safe and trusting environment, providing people with the emotional support needed to overcome challenging times and make positive adjustments to be and feel your best.
(650) 414-3250 View (650) 414-3250
Photo of Janet Weber, MA, LPCC
Janet Weber
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Montara, CA 94037  (Online Only)
There are so many things we dedicate ourselves to – a career path, an education, our significant other, or our children. A guitar riff, a wave, or a project or hobby. But something I see all the time with the most intelligent and curious people is that they forget to apply that same dedication to themselves. Most people come to therapy because they’re struggling with their emotions, a challenging relationship or a life transition. Beyond that, there’s always something deeper that shapes the way that we feel. And it’s only by delving into ourselves with professional guidance that we can find a way forward in truly changing our lives.
There are so many things we dedicate ourselves to – a career path, an education, our significant other, or our children. A guitar riff, a wave, or a project or hobby. But something I see all the time with the most intelligent and curious people is that they forget to apply that same dedication to themselves. Most people come to therapy because they’re struggling with their emotions, a challenging relationship or a life transition. Beyond that, there’s always something deeper that shapes the way that we feel. And it’s only by delving into ourselves with professional guidance that we can find a way forward in truly changing our lives.
(650) 540-9837 View (650) 540-9837
Photo of Michael Debellis, PsyD, ABN, FACPN, Psychologist
Michael Debellis
Psychologist, PsyD, ABN, FACPN
Verified Verified
Montara, CA 94037
Dr. DeBellis is a licensed clinical psychologist who is board certified in neuropsychology. He completed his internship at UC Davis Medical Center. He trains students at U.C. Davis Medical Center, Sonoma State University and the Wright Institute. He is also the educational chair for Sutter Mills Peninsula Department of Psychiatry. He specializes in treatment of patients with traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke and other acquired brain injury. His focus is on the relationship between brain changes and cognitive and emotional functioning.
Dr. DeBellis is a licensed clinical psychologist who is board certified in neuropsychology. He completed his internship at UC Davis Medical Center. He trains students at U.C. Davis Medical Center, Sonoma State University and the Wright Institute. He is also the educational chair for Sutter Mills Peninsula Department of Psychiatry. He specializes in treatment of patients with traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke and other acquired brain injury. His focus is on the relationship between brain changes and cognitive and emotional functioning.
(650) 597-7151 View (650) 597-7151

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carol Bernstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
My many years of experience includes working with individuals who are struggling with stresses related to: life transitions, illness, weight management, grief, sleeplessness, as well as depression and anxiety.
Carol Bernstein, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) My therapeutic approach is infused with a passion for creating and providing open and interactive dialogue, empowering adults of all ages to meet life's problems, transitions, and tough decisions with greater confidence and awareness. Utilizing techniques from evidence-based Cognitive-Behavioral, short-term problem-solving therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices.
My many years of experience includes working with individuals who are struggling with stresses related to: life transitions, illness, weight management, grief, sleeplessness, as well as depression and anxiety.
Carol Bernstein, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) My therapeutic approach is infused with a passion for creating and providing open and interactive dialogue, empowering adults of all ages to meet life's problems, transitions, and tough decisions with greater confidence and awareness. Utilizing techniques from evidence-based Cognitive-Behavioral, short-term problem-solving therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices.
(415) 993-6329 View (415) 993-6329
Photo of Gerry Anne Lenhart, PhD, ATM, Psychologist
Gerry Anne Lenhart
Psychologist, PhD, ATM
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
Special interests include the creative individual and depression.
I have a background and life long interest in art, literature and philosophy that contributes to a unique clinical psychological view. This view includes mainstream psychology and also goes beyond to embrace subjects not often included in psychology. I am especially interested and experienced with gifted and creative personalities and problems associated with giftedness.
Special interests include the creative individual and depression.
I have a background and life long interest in art, literature and philosophy that contributes to a unique clinical psychological view. This view includes mainstream psychology and also goes beyond to embrace subjects not often included in psychology. I am especially interested and experienced with gifted and creative personalities and problems associated with giftedness.
(650) 603-0705 View (650) 603-0705
Photo of LaKisha Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaKisha Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Millbrae, CA 94030
LaKisha L. Johnson, PPSC, LCSW is a therapist, consultant, and advocate who believes in building bridges and breaking barriers. She has been providing mental health services for over 16 years. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from UC Berkeley, before continuing to study mental health at the University of Southern California and earning her clinical license. LaKisha specializes in providing effective interventions for Depression, Co-Parenting Conflict, and Trauma across the lifespan and is committed to helping people recover from emotional injury and discover their purpose.
LaKisha L. Johnson, PPSC, LCSW is a therapist, consultant, and advocate who believes in building bridges and breaking barriers. She has been providing mental health services for over 16 years. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from UC Berkeley, before continuing to study mental health at the University of Southern California and earning her clinical license. LaKisha specializes in providing effective interventions for Depression, Co-Parenting Conflict, and Trauma across the lifespan and is committed to helping people recover from emotional injury and discover their purpose.
(209) 372-3115 View (209) 372-3115
Photo of Jennifer W Cortright, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer W Cortright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
My training is based in a combination of psychodynamic and experiential psychotherapy. My emphasis is to facilitate a therapeutic relationship where vulnerable feelings can be safely expressed. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction... can be seen as invitations from the psyche to explore our internal world with understanding and compassion. Psychotherapy provides a safe place for this internal exploration within a caring relationship of respect.
My training is based in a combination of psychodynamic and experiential psychotherapy. My emphasis is to facilitate a therapeutic relationship where vulnerable feelings can be safely expressed. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction... can be seen as invitations from the psyche to explore our internal world with understanding and compassion. Psychotherapy provides a safe place for this internal exploration within a caring relationship of respect.
(415) 800-4990 View (415) 800-4990
Photo of Holly Gordon, DMH, Psychologist
Holly Gordon
Psychologist, DMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94015
Talking to someone who understands the pain you feel- depression, anxiety, or feeling stuck-can relieve inner distress and give you a new perspective on your life. I am empathic and experienced at providing a safe setting where we can explore what is causing you to feel anxious, distressed or unfulfilled. In therapy we work together to clarify those emotions that have kept you from moving forward in your life. You will find new ways to see yourself and others, which leads to more meaningful relationships and a more fulfilling life.
Talking to someone who understands the pain you feel- depression, anxiety, or feeling stuck-can relieve inner distress and give you a new perspective on your life. I am empathic and experienced at providing a safe setting where we can explore what is causing you to feel anxious, distressed or unfulfilled. In therapy we work together to clarify those emotions that have kept you from moving forward in your life. You will find new ways to see yourself and others, which leads to more meaningful relationships and a more fulfilling life.
(415) 787-3993 View (415) 787-3993
Photo of Connelly Murphy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connelly Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94401
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT 78886) and have been practicing in the Bay Area since 2006. After completing my undergrad at Stanford University, I obtained my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. In the years following, I have worked with individuals, families and groups, across the lifespan. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues, parenting challenges, life transitions and personal growth/exploratory work. I provide affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community as well.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT 78886) and have been practicing in the Bay Area since 2006. After completing my undergrad at Stanford University, I obtained my Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University. In the years following, I have worked with individuals, families and groups, across the lifespan. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues, parenting challenges, life transitions and personal growth/exploratory work. I provide affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community as well.
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Photo of Tina Paxton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina Paxton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Bruno, CA 94066
I treat anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, parenting/co-parenting, adoption, divorce, domestic violence, work issues, and life transitions.
My name is Tina Paxton. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been providing therapy for the last 12 years in the State of California. I provide Problem-Solving Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal therapy, and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, divorce/separation, child custody/co-parenting, life transitions, peri-natal/post-partum depression, new parents, parenting issues, ADHD, and work issues.
I treat anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, parenting/co-parenting, adoption, divorce, domestic violence, work issues, and life transitions.
My name is Tina Paxton. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been providing therapy for the last 12 years in the State of California. I provide Problem-Solving Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal therapy, and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, divorce/separation, child custody/co-parenting, life transitions, peri-natal/post-partum depression, new parents, parenting issues, ADHD, and work issues.
(805) 973-0299 View (805) 973-0299
Photo of Madison Schmelz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Madison Schmelz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem and life transitions.
Hi I'm Maddi, and it is my hope to partner with you to help you break free from all the things holding you back from living the life you deserve. I’m the therapist that’s easy to talk to, with a bubbly personality and a seemingly endless supply of ideas. My approach to therapy focuses on creating a safe space where we can work together to make sense of the challenges we're experiencing and come up with solutions. Together we will talk, laugh, cry and celebrate every small victory as you prepare to move into your future feeling confident and empowered.
I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem and life transitions.
Hi I'm Maddi, and it is my hope to partner with you to help you break free from all the things holding you back from living the life you deserve. I’m the therapist that’s easy to talk to, with a bubbly personality and a seemingly endless supply of ideas. My approach to therapy focuses on creating a safe space where we can work together to make sense of the challenges we're experiencing and come up with solutions. Together we will talk, laugh, cry and celebrate every small victory as you prepare to move into your future feeling confident and empowered.
(650) 955-4029 View (650) 955-4029
Photo of Augusto Huerta-Minakata, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Augusto Huerta-Minakata
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Daly City, CA 94015
Augusto Huerta Minakata, LMFT Augusto is a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy. With over 10 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist, and as a graduate of the University of Phoenix specializing in Solution-Focused therapy, he is currently serving as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among his areas of expertise are the treatment of maternal mental health, trauma, depression, anxiety, survivors of domestic violence, physical abuse, sexual abuse, community violence, and adult children of alcoholic.
Augusto Huerta Minakata, LMFT Augusto is a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy. With over 10 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist, and as a graduate of the University of Phoenix specializing in Solution-Focused therapy, he is currently serving as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among his areas of expertise are the treatment of maternal mental health, trauma, depression, anxiety, survivors of domestic violence, physical abuse, sexual abuse, community violence, and adult children of alcoholic.
(805) 567-2971 View (805) 567-2971
Photo of Claudia Covarrubias, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia Covarrubias
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
I often work with clients who have anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship concerns.
My name is Claudia Covarrubias, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in San Diego, California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am passionate about working with adolescents, individuals, and families. Some of my specialties include depression, anxiety & stress, self-esteem, women's issues, communication & intimacy issues, difficult life transitions, acculturation, and college stressors. I am also bilingual and provide services in Spanish.
I often work with clients who have anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship concerns.
My name is Claudia Covarrubias, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in San Diego, California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I am passionate about working with adolescents, individuals, and families. Some of my specialties include depression, anxiety & stress, self-esteem, women's issues, communication & intimacy issues, difficult life transitions, acculturation, and college stressors. I am also bilingual and provide services in Spanish.
(650) 643-5904 View (650) 643-5904
Photo of Starr Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Starr Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
In my experience, my style and approach are a good fit for young adults and adults who may be dealing with challenges coping with trauma, grief and loss, social pressures, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
My name is Starr Lee, a licensed marriage family therapist (LMFT), working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy to help my clients to regain health, wholeness, and wellness. I work to help my clients to develop a more positive and adaptive way of thinking, feeling, behaving and to empower my clients to take an active role in their own lives. My communication style is calm, personable, and collaborative. I want my clients to know I am empathetic and genuine.
In my experience, my style and approach are a good fit for young adults and adults who may be dealing with challenges coping with trauma, grief and loss, social pressures, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
My name is Starr Lee, a licensed marriage family therapist (LMFT), working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy to help my clients to regain health, wholeness, and wellness. I work to help my clients to develop a more positive and adaptive way of thinking, feeling, behaving and to empower my clients to take an active role in their own lives. My communication style is calm, personable, and collaborative. I want my clients to know I am empathetic and genuine.
(714) 844-7985 View (714) 844-7985
Photo of Melody Hovsepian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melody Hovsepian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
My approach is a good fit for adult individuals and adolescents who may be dealing with emotional distress which often takes the form of depression, anxiety, grief, unprocessed trauma, life transitions and self-image issues, as well as for couples who struggle with trust, intimacy and communicating their emotions and needs to their partners.
Hi there! My name is Melody Hovsepian. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Glendale, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adult individuals, adolescents and couples and specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, adjustment and relational issues, using Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to help my clients reach their inner strengths, gain control over their struggles and live their lives to the fullest.
My approach is a good fit for adult individuals and adolescents who may be dealing with emotional distress which often takes the form of depression, anxiety, grief, unprocessed trauma, life transitions and self-image issues, as well as for couples who struggle with trust, intimacy and communicating their emotions and needs to their partners.
Hi there! My name is Melody Hovsepian. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Glendale, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adult individuals, adolescents and couples and specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, adjustment and relational issues, using Emotionally Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to help my clients reach their inner strengths, gain control over their struggles and live their lives to the fullest.
(858) 786-0504 View (858) 786-0504
Photo of Edgar Cervantes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Edgar Cervantes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
My name is Edgar Cervantes, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with diverse populations including 6 months old to 92 years old struggling with anxiety, depression, and drugs addiction. I have a multidimensional approach to work with my clients. However, I am more inclined to provide services from client center and DBT approach.
My name is Edgar Cervantes, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with diverse populations including 6 months old to 92 years old struggling with anxiety, depression, and drugs addiction. I have a multidimensional approach to work with my clients. However, I am more inclined to provide services from client center and DBT approach.
(916) 735-4608 View (916) 735-4608
Photo of Ana Dubey, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Ana Dubey
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94015
I offer you 24+ years of client experience and, diverse life experience (6 countries, 3 languages). I am a good listener, and will work hard to help you achieve a happier, healthier balance. My clients have spanned different ages (child/family, students, adults, elders), incomes (homeless, professionals), sexual orientations (Hetero, LGBT), and different backgrounds ("American", Asian, Latino, African American). My client's issues have included trauma, depression, chronic mental illness, anxiety, grief, relationships, life transitions, dissatisfaction, adjustment challenges, and creative block.
I offer you 24+ years of client experience and, diverse life experience (6 countries, 3 languages). I am a good listener, and will work hard to help you achieve a happier, healthier balance. My clients have spanned different ages (child/family, students, adults, elders), incomes (homeless, professionals), sexual orientations (Hetero, LGBT), and different backgrounds ("American", Asian, Latino, African American). My client's issues have included trauma, depression, chronic mental illness, anxiety, grief, relationships, life transitions, dissatisfaction, adjustment challenges, and creative block.
(415) 877-4792 View (415) 877-4792
Photo of Lisa Frampton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Frampton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
I typically work with adults of all ages going through mild to moderate depression and anxiety due to life changes, trauma, and grief and loss issues.
Hello, I am Lisa Frampton, LCSW based in Fresno, California, and providing telehealth services statewide. I work with adults of all ages. I specialize in working with anxiety and depressive disorders using Talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, and Strength-based approaches. I view each client as having unique and individual needs and develop treatment goals around this. I find that utilizing a strength-based and person-centered approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy works well together to target increasing overall wellness emotional healing and create changes in thoughts and behaviors.
I typically work with adults of all ages going through mild to moderate depression and anxiety due to life changes, trauma, and grief and loss issues.
Hello, I am Lisa Frampton, LCSW based in Fresno, California, and providing telehealth services statewide. I work with adults of all ages. I specialize in working with anxiety and depressive disorders using Talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, and Strength-based approaches. I view each client as having unique and individual needs and develop treatment goals around this. I find that utilizing a strength-based and person-centered approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy works well together to target increasing overall wellness emotional healing and create changes in thoughts and behaviors.
(747) 269-1392 View (747) 269-1392
Photo of Erika Garcia Rangel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Garcia Rangel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94015
I support individuals struggling with difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues utilizing evidence-based approaches: EMDR, CBT, DBT and internal family systems (IFS).
Finding a therapist you trust is a challenge and scheduling your first session takes courage. You’ve taken the first step toward healing and personal growth. I’m offering you a safe, nurturing and accepting place to freely express your feelings, thoughts and experiences. My vocation is to guide and support individuals like yourself to better understand themselves at a deeper level through the transformative power of compassion and empathy. With commitment to therapy, we will explore your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others, addressing behavioral and emotional issues that are potentially holding you back.
I support individuals struggling with difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues utilizing evidence-based approaches: EMDR, CBT, DBT and internal family systems (IFS).
Finding a therapist you trust is a challenge and scheduling your first session takes courage. You’ve taken the first step toward healing and personal growth. I’m offering you a safe, nurturing and accepting place to freely express your feelings, thoughts and experiences. My vocation is to guide and support individuals like yourself to better understand themselves at a deeper level through the transformative power of compassion and empathy. With commitment to therapy, we will explore your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others, addressing behavioral and emotional issues that are potentially holding you back.
(650) 679-7286 View (650) 679-7286

See more therapy options for Montara

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.