Depression Therapists in Mountain View, CA

Photo of Dr. Erik Wilkerson, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Dr. Erik Wilkerson
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94040
The poet Rumi wrote, “The wound is where the light enters you.” These words invite us to view suffering as essential to our personal evolution. Having navigated to this webpage, it is likely that you or someone you care about is currently suffering from depression, anxiety, or interpersonal conflicts. Regardless of the source of your current difficulties, you deserve an empathic, well-trained psychologist who can walk with you through this period of your life as you turn your challenges into catalysts for growth.
The poet Rumi wrote, “The wound is where the light enters you.” These words invite us to view suffering as essential to our personal evolution. Having navigated to this webpage, it is likely that you or someone you care about is currently suffering from depression, anxiety, or interpersonal conflicts. Regardless of the source of your current difficulties, you deserve an empathic, well-trained psychologist who can walk with you through this period of your life as you turn your challenges into catalysts for growth.
(650) 547-7408 View (650) 547-7408
Photo of Keren Shemesh, PhD, Psychologist
Keren Shemesh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94040
Are you ready for a change? Do you need a better way to address personal challenges, like depression and anxiety? I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for anxiety and depression. I have powerful tools to help you gain control over your mood, help you feel better, and get rid of your anxiety. I care about my clients and believe that teaching them tools and coping skills is an empowering and effective way to help them reach their goals.
Are you ready for a change? Do you need a better way to address personal challenges, like depression and anxiety? I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for anxiety and depression. I have powerful tools to help you gain control over your mood, help you feel better, and get rid of your anxiety. I care about my clients and believe that teaching them tools and coping skills is an empowering and effective way to help them reach their goals.
(650) 727-1598 View (650) 727-1598
Photo of Lynaire Mcgovern, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynaire Mcgovern
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mountain View, CA 94040
Lynaire McGovern, California LMFT. I would like to help you with your problems, especially depression and anxiety. I have an eclectic approach to the therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Rogerian Therapy. I am most comfortable treating depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I love to help adults, seniors and people with disabilities. Unfortunately, I don't work with families or do Marriage Counseling. I have an eclectic approach to therapy. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rogerian Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy as well as my training as a life coach.
Lynaire McGovern, California LMFT. I would like to help you with your problems, especially depression and anxiety. I have an eclectic approach to the therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Rogerian Therapy. I am most comfortable treating depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I love to help adults, seniors and people with disabilities. Unfortunately, I don't work with families or do Marriage Counseling. I have an eclectic approach to therapy. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rogerian Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy as well as my training as a life coach.
(650) 860-4902 View (650) 860-4902
Photo of Sean Odwyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sean Odwyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mountain View, CA 94040
My name is Sean O'Dwyer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and relational and intersubjective approaches. I work primarily with adults and specialize in treating anxiety, attachment concerns, life transitions, grief and loss, self-esteem, co-dependency, depression, and relationships. My approach is holistic and compassionate while utilizing cognitive, somatic, and mindfulness interventions to help you meet your goals.
My name is Sean O'Dwyer, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and relational and intersubjective approaches. I work primarily with adults and specialize in treating anxiety, attachment concerns, life transitions, grief and loss, self-esteem, co-dependency, depression, and relationships. My approach is holistic and compassionate while utilizing cognitive, somatic, and mindfulness interventions to help you meet your goals.
(650) 684-1862 View (650) 684-1862
Photo of Molly A Walsh, PhD, Psychologist
Molly A Walsh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94043  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist and help individuals overcome problems related to bipolar disorder, depression, emotion dysregulation, anxiety, stress management, and relationship difficulties. I completed postdoctoral training at Stanford University focused on evidence-based approaches to therapy that are supported by research. I utilize these approaches in my work, incorporating techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing (MI) depending on client need.
I am a licensed psychologist and help individuals overcome problems related to bipolar disorder, depression, emotion dysregulation, anxiety, stress management, and relationship difficulties. I completed postdoctoral training at Stanford University focused on evidence-based approaches to therapy that are supported by research. I utilize these approaches in my work, incorporating techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing (MI) depending on client need.
(650) 830-3087 View (650) 830-3087
Photo of Shiveta Gandotra Phd., PhD, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shiveta Gandotra Phd.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94040
I specialize in evidence-based CBT, addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, habits and addictions, stress, and panic disorders.
In today’s busy world, taking care of your mental health is important. I believe that while challenges are part of life, you can overcome them with the right support. I provide caring and effective therapy for children, adults, and couples, focusing on healing, growth, and strength. Together, we can work through life’s struggles and improve your well-being. Let’s start this journey toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
I specialize in evidence-based CBT, addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, habits and addictions, stress, and panic disorders.
In today’s busy world, taking care of your mental health is important. I believe that while challenges are part of life, you can overcome them with the right support. I provide caring and effective therapy for children, adults, and couples, focusing on healing, growth, and strength. Together, we can work through life’s struggles and improve your well-being. Let’s start this journey toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
(650) 539-6989 View (650) 539-6989
Photo of Angela Krumm, PhD, Psychologist
Angela Krumm
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94040
Concerns I most often work with include anxiety (panic, fears, phobias, general worries), sleep difficulties, dating concerns, social skills, depression, low self-esteem, and communication struggles.
Ineffective therapy can feel like an endless routine of talking without a plan for change. Are you ready to make true life changes, move beyond just talking and do the work that will help you move past your challenges? Together we can create change. First, we will take time to learn about your unique situation, complex identities, and life circumstances. Then, we will develop a plan. Next, you will learn a replicable process: identify achievable goals, overcome barriers to change, learn and master new skills. I believe you can learn the skills needed to overcome your challenges.
Concerns I most often work with include anxiety (panic, fears, phobias, general worries), sleep difficulties, dating concerns, social skills, depression, low self-esteem, and communication struggles.
Ineffective therapy can feel like an endless routine of talking without a plan for change. Are you ready to make true life changes, move beyond just talking and do the work that will help you move past your challenges? Together we can create change. First, we will take time to learn about your unique situation, complex identities, and life circumstances. Then, we will develop a plan. Next, you will learn a replicable process: identify achievable goals, overcome barriers to change, learn and master new skills. I believe you can learn the skills needed to overcome your challenges.
(650) 646-2170 View (650) 646-2170
Photo of Kevin Cornelius, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kevin Cornelius
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94040
I have advanced training in evidence-based, highly effective treatment of Depression, Insomnia, Anxiety, Habits/Addictions and Relationship Problems.
Are you suffering and struggling in the living nightmare of an anxiety problem? Perhaps you are avoiding people, places or activities because of fear, panic or obsessive worrying. Maybe you have been suffering from a lack of sleep and feeling stressed and tired most of the time. Sleep medications and advice from friends or the internet might just make the problems worse. Maybe you're stuck in the never-ending rut of a bad habit or addiction that you can't seem to stop turning to for relief from your problems. Maybe you're unsatisfied in your relationships, overwhelmed by conflicts and a lack of closeness with people you care about.
I have advanced training in evidence-based, highly effective treatment of Depression, Insomnia, Anxiety, Habits/Addictions and Relationship Problems.
Are you suffering and struggling in the living nightmare of an anxiety problem? Perhaps you are avoiding people, places or activities because of fear, panic or obsessive worrying. Maybe you have been suffering from a lack of sleep and feeling stressed and tired most of the time. Sleep medications and advice from friends or the internet might just make the problems worse. Maybe you're stuck in the never-ending rut of a bad habit or addiction that you can't seem to stop turning to for relief from your problems. Maybe you're unsatisfied in your relationships, overwhelmed by conflicts and a lack of closeness with people you care about.
(650) 603-5472 View (650) 603-5472
Photo of Monica Ng - Dr. Monica Ng, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Monica Ng, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mountain View, CA 94040  (Online Only)
Some of my areas of specialty include: depression, anxiety, identity issues, ethnic identity/acculturation issues, life transition challenges, LGBTQIA+ populations.
I am a bilingual (Cantonese), bicultural (1st generation Asian-American) Licensed Clinical Psychologist in CA, CO, WA, TX & HI for over 26 years. I have worked with clients coming from all walks of life, diverse backgrounds and cultures. I believe that we all have within us the resiliency and strengths to handle life's challenges, and my goal is to help you rediscover them and walk together with you through those harder moments in life. I believe that it is through these tough moments that we grow and become the better, stronger persons that we are meant to be. I accept Lyra (EAP), Aetna, HMSA and any PPO insurance (superbill).
Some of my areas of specialty include: depression, anxiety, identity issues, ethnic identity/acculturation issues, life transition challenges, LGBTQIA+ populations.
I am a bilingual (Cantonese), bicultural (1st generation Asian-American) Licensed Clinical Psychologist in CA, CO, WA, TX & HI for over 26 years. I have worked with clients coming from all walks of life, diverse backgrounds and cultures. I believe that we all have within us the resiliency and strengths to handle life's challenges, and my goal is to help you rediscover them and walk together with you through those harder moments in life. I believe that it is through these tough moments that we grow and become the better, stronger persons that we are meant to be. I accept Lyra (EAP), Aetna, HMSA and any PPO insurance (superbill).
(650) 229-6505 View (650) 229-6505
Photo of Jana Emerson, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jana Emerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94043
Are you seeking clarity, connection, and confidence in your life and relationships? With over 15 years of experience as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am here to guide you through the complexities and challenges you may be facing. Life can be overwhelming, and it's natural to encounter difficulties along the way. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, communication problems within the family, families of divorce, academic stress, body image issues, or social anxiety, you are not alone. These challenges can significantly impact your well-being and relationships, but they are also opportunities for growth.
Are you seeking clarity, connection, and confidence in your life and relationships? With over 15 years of experience as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am here to guide you through the complexities and challenges you may be facing. Life can be overwhelming, and it's natural to encounter difficulties along the way. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, communication problems within the family, families of divorce, academic stress, body image issues, or social anxiety, you are not alone. These challenges can significantly impact your well-being and relationships, but they are also opportunities for growth.
(650) 750-0769 View (650) 750-0769
Photo of Jesse Moon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jesse Moon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mountain View, CA 94040
I offer effective treatments for anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, relationship difficulties, a general sense of dissatisfaction with your life.
Are you currently experiencing anxiety, depression, loneliness, low self esteem, conflicts in a significant relationship, couples counseling? Do you need assistance in overcoming an addiction? or someone you care about is struggling with addiction? I believe that I can help you to feel better! Together we will collaborate on a meaningful,symptom reducing treatment.You can achieve an increased sense of well being And esteem.Your relationships can improve, I offer empathetic and individualized counseling tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. I believe in focencouraging your particular strengths. I offer online and telephone counseling and anxiety coaching.
I offer effective treatments for anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, relationship difficulties, a general sense of dissatisfaction with your life.
Are you currently experiencing anxiety, depression, loneliness, low self esteem, conflicts in a significant relationship, couples counseling? Do you need assistance in overcoming an addiction? or someone you care about is struggling with addiction? I believe that I can help you to feel better! Together we will collaborate on a meaningful,symptom reducing treatment.You can achieve an increased sense of well being And esteem.Your relationships can improve, I offer empathetic and individualized counseling tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. I believe in focencouraging your particular strengths. I offer online and telephone counseling and anxiety coaching.
(650) 273-9813 View (650) 273-9813
Photo of Jonnetta Thomas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonnetta Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mountain View, CA 94043
Hello! I am Jonnetta Appianing, a Licensed Marriage & Child Family Therapist with 5 years of postgraduate experience. Being a Licensed Mental Health Therapist has given me the opportunity to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and diagnoses from all cultures facing many life stressors including, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, trauma, PTSD, OCD, substance abuse, interpersonal relationship, addictions and eating disorders. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with children, teens adults, and couples.
Hello! I am Jonnetta Appianing, a Licensed Marriage & Child Family Therapist with 5 years of postgraduate experience. Being a Licensed Mental Health Therapist has given me the opportunity to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and diagnoses from all cultures facing many life stressors including, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, trauma, PTSD, OCD, substance abuse, interpersonal relationship, addictions and eating disorders. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with children, teens adults, and couples.
(650) 297-8412 View (650) 297-8412
Photo of Jill T Levitt, PhD, Psychologist
Jill T Levitt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94040
In my practice, I assist adults and adolescents who seek help in overcoming anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship problems using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Are you struggling with anxiety, worry, or stress? Do you feel down, unsatisfied with yourself or your life? Are anxiety or panic attacks keeping you from being successful? Would you like to feel happy, content, satisfied, and less worried all the time? I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and I can help you learn cutting edge tools to manage your stress, reduce your anxiety, and live a happier and more connected life. Often people experience significant relief from symptoms and meaningful improvements in the quality of their lives in just a few months.
In my practice, I assist adults and adolescents who seek help in overcoming anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship problems using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Are you struggling with anxiety, worry, or stress? Do you feel down, unsatisfied with yourself or your life? Are anxiety or panic attacks keeping you from being successful? Would you like to feel happy, content, satisfied, and less worried all the time? I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and I can help you learn cutting edge tools to manage your stress, reduce your anxiety, and live a happier and more connected life. Often people experience significant relief from symptoms and meaningful improvements in the quality of their lives in just a few months.
(650) 779-5293 View (650) 779-5293
Photo of Maryanne McKowen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maryanne McKowen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94040  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Maryanne! I know how taking the first step to seek help can be tough. You might feel overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious, like things will never get better. My goal is to listen and provide a judgment-free space where you can talk about all that is going on with you. It can be much harder to open up to friends or family, so as an impartial advisor, I can offer the outside perspective you need.
Hi! I'm Maryanne! I know how taking the first step to seek help can be tough. You might feel overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious, like things will never get better. My goal is to listen and provide a judgment-free space where you can talk about all that is going on with you. It can be much harder to open up to friends or family, so as an impartial advisor, I can offer the outside perspective you need.
(650) 753-7452 View (650) 753-7452
Photo of Richard Lam, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richard Lam
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94040
The following are common concerns of clients with whom I have worked effectively: Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Concerns, Shyness, Low Self-esteem, Grief, and Cultural Identities.
Are you having difficulty controlling your anxiety, worry, or stress? Do you feel sad, lonely, or inadequate? Are you wanting to improve your relationships? Would you like to feel happy and good about yourself? I use powerful Cognitive Behavioral Therapy methods that will have you feeling calm, confident, and happy. My passion is in helping people accomplish their goals by carefully and empathetically guiding them towards change but maintain the parts of them they want to keep. It would be an honor to work with you to achieve your goals and to start feeling good about your life.
The following are common concerns of clients with whom I have worked effectively: Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Concerns, Shyness, Low Self-esteem, Grief, and Cultural Identities.
Are you having difficulty controlling your anxiety, worry, or stress? Do you feel sad, lonely, or inadequate? Are you wanting to improve your relationships? Would you like to feel happy and good about yourself? I use powerful Cognitive Behavioral Therapy methods that will have you feeling calm, confident, and happy. My passion is in helping people accomplish their goals by carefully and empathetically guiding them towards change but maintain the parts of them they want to keep. It would be an honor to work with you to achieve your goals and to start feeling good about your life.
(650) 729-9617 View (650) 729-9617
Photo of Steven James Curley, PhD, Psychologist
Steven James Curley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mountain View, CA 94043
The world is really challenging right now; it makes sense that you would feel anxious, depressed or not yourself. No part of our lives has gone untouched. I find that having someone to listen, remind you of your strengths, and help you discover new parts of yourself and new ways to feel better are what make a difference. I help adults with depression, anxiety, loss of meaning, phase of life issues, unresolved life events, and transitions.
The world is really challenging right now; it makes sense that you would feel anxious, depressed or not yourself. No part of our lives has gone untouched. I find that having someone to listen, remind you of your strengths, and help you discover new parts of yourself and new ways to feel better are what make a difference. I help adults with depression, anxiety, loss of meaning, phase of life issues, unresolved life events, and transitions.
(408) 763-8647 View (408) 763-8647
Photo of Munn Saechao, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, PPSC, Psychologist
Munn Saechao
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Mountain View, CA 94040  (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 Valerie Anne Goss, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie Anne Goss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Mountain View, CA 94040
Hello and congratulations on taking the first step toward finding a therapist, which can be a confusing task. Are you searching for someone who can help you figure out the answers to some of your most critically important questions like, should you stay in your current relationship? Is your current job the right one for you? Are you interested in becoming a parent? Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety and depression? Our work together will allow you to find the answers to many of these concerns that will allow you to establish a more satisfying and fulfilling life.
Hello and congratulations on taking the first step toward finding a therapist, which can be a confusing task. Are you searching for someone who can help you figure out the answers to some of your most critically important questions like, should you stay in your current relationship? Is your current job the right one for you? Are you interested in becoming a parent? Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety and depression? Our work together will allow you to find the answers to many of these concerns that will allow you to establish a more satisfying and fulfilling life.
(650) 385-8797 View (650) 385-8797
Photo of Todd Steven Daly, LMFT, LEP, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Todd Steven Daly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94040
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression? Do these overwhelming emotions seem to be holding you back from living your life to the fullest? If you've tried therapy before without getting the results you were hoping for, I'm here to offer a new path forward. I specialize in a highly effective form of therapy called TEAM-CBT, rooted in evidence-based treatment methods. My goal is to empower you or your child to overcome anxiety, conquer depression, tackle procrastination, and improve relationships.
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression? Do these overwhelming emotions seem to be holding you back from living your life to the fullest? If you've tried therapy before without getting the results you were hoping for, I'm here to offer a new path forward. I specialize in a highly effective form of therapy called TEAM-CBT, rooted in evidence-based treatment methods. My goal is to empower you or your child to overcome anxiety, conquer depression, tackle procrastination, and improve relationships.
(650) 451-3314 View (650) 451-3314
Photo of Sarangan 'Saru' Sivanesan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarangan 'Saru' Sivanesan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94043
I have experience helping people with anxiety, depression, stress, anger issues, addiction, relationship issues, low self-esteem, PTSD, grief/loss, life-transitions, career problems and ADHD/ADD.
*** NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS *** Do you wish you had tools to deal with stress and anxiety? Are stress and anxiety affecting you work and relationships? Do you long for stress free joyful life? I would like to support you on this journey. In our work you can learn to: manage stress and anxiety, gain insight into its root cause, heal past wounds, improve communication, develop empathic understanding, deepen intimacy and tap into your inherent inner wisdom. I believe by reducing stress and anxiety we have more time and energy to experience and enjoy life in a much more profound way.
I have experience helping people with anxiety, depression, stress, anger issues, addiction, relationship issues, low self-esteem, PTSD, grief/loss, life-transitions, career problems and ADHD/ADD.
*** NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS *** Do you wish you had tools to deal with stress and anxiety? Are stress and anxiety affecting you work and relationships? Do you long for stress free joyful life? I would like to support you on this journey. In our work you can learn to: manage stress and anxiety, gain insight into its root cause, heal past wounds, improve communication, develop empathic understanding, deepen intimacy and tap into your inherent inner wisdom. I believe by reducing stress and anxiety we have more time and energy to experience and enjoy life in a much more profound way.
(650) 557-4483 View (650) 557-4483
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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.