Depression Therapists in Mt Baldy, CA

Photo of Sandra Ibarra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Ibarra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mt Baldy, CA 91759
Sandra is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2011. She has a Bachelor of the Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Cal State Fullerton, and a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. Sandra has experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. She has been trained in a range of research-based practices including Managing and Adaptive Practice, Depression Treatment Quality Improvement, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Military Focus.
Sandra is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2011. She has a Bachelor of the Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Cal State Fullerton, and a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. Sandra has experience in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. She has been trained in a range of research-based practices including Managing and Adaptive Practice, Depression Treatment Quality Improvement, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Military Focus.
(626) 669-1837 View (626) 669-1837
Photo of Briana Brewster, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Briana Brewster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mt Baldy, CA 91759
Briana has a strong passion for treating anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complexities and challenges these conditions can present and works diligently to create personalized treatment plans. Using evidencebased approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy, she helps clients develop effective coping strategies and achieve meaningful progress. In addition to her focus on anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma, Briana also specializes in working with individuals dealing with depression, grief, and childhood behavior issues.
Briana has a strong passion for treating anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma. She understands the complexities and challenges these conditions can present and works diligently to create personalized treatment plans. Using evidencebased approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy, she helps clients develop effective coping strategies and achieve meaningful progress. In addition to her focus on anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD/trauma, Briana also specializes in working with individuals dealing with depression, grief, and childhood behavior issues.
(626) 667-2293 View (626) 667-2293
Photo of Jacqueline Moncada, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Moncada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mt Baldy, CA 91759
Jacqueline specializes in Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Marriage Counseling, CatholicChristian Counseling, Infertility, Miscarriages, PerinatalPostpartum Depression, Relationship Issues, Sexual/Intimacy Issues, Trauma, Anger Management, SelfEsteem/Growth and Early Child Treatment/Diagnosing ages 03.
Jacqueline Moncada is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2004. She received a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Biology from Cal State University Dominguez Hills and a Doctoral in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International. Jacqueline offers a holistic perspective that encompass the whole person and utilizing many theoretical orientations to fit the client's needs and stage of life.
Jacqueline specializes in Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Marriage Counseling, CatholicChristian Counseling, Infertility, Miscarriages, PerinatalPostpartum Depression, Relationship Issues, Sexual/Intimacy Issues, Trauma, Anger Management, SelfEsteem/Growth and Early Child Treatment/Diagnosing ages 03.
Jacqueline Moncada is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2004. She received a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Biology from Cal State University Dominguez Hills and a Doctoral in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International. Jacqueline offers a holistic perspective that encompass the whole person and utilizing many theoretical orientations to fit the client's needs and stage of life.
(626) 667-2041 View (626) 667-2041
Photo of Yolanda Medina, MS,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yolanda Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mt Baldy, CA 91759
Specializing in a broad range of mental health concerns, Yolanda is particularly passionate about working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Her expertise extends to supporting those with PTSD and trauma, where she provides a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore their experiences and begin healing. Additionally, Yolanda is skilled in helping couples and families improve their relationships, fostering healthier communication and stronger connections. She also works with clients navigating women’s issues, offering tailored support to empower them in overcoming life’s challenges.
Specializing in a broad range of mental health concerns, Yolanda is particularly passionate about working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Her expertise extends to supporting those with PTSD and trauma, where she provides a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore their experiences and begin healing. Additionally, Yolanda is skilled in helping couples and families improve their relationships, fostering healthier communication and stronger connections. She also works with clients navigating women’s issues, offering tailored support to empower them in overcoming life’s challenges.
(626) 779-8508 View (626) 779-8508
Photo of Tiffany Massia, Psychologist
Tiffany Massia
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Mt Baldy, CA 91759
I have extensive experience working with individuals, including military veterans, impacted by trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, issues of identity, life transitions, and those who feel adrift and are looking to find a direction once again.
I have expertise in a variety of treatments, and believe that as we are all individuals, therapy should be tailored to what works best for the individual. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and received my doctoral degree from Azusa Pacific University. My graduate degree placed an emphasis on Systemic Therapy, which means I have a great respect for the impact that cultural, spiritual, and generational factors can have on our lives, our sense of meaning and purpose, and our overall sense of well-being, and I take these things into consideration when engaging in therapy.
I have extensive experience working with individuals, including military veterans, impacted by trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, issues of identity, life transitions, and those who feel adrift and are looking to find a direction once again.
I have expertise in a variety of treatments, and believe that as we are all individuals, therapy should be tailored to what works best for the individual. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and received my doctoral degree from Azusa Pacific University. My graduate degree placed an emphasis on Systemic Therapy, which means I have a great respect for the impact that cultural, spiritual, and generational factors can have on our lives, our sense of meaning and purpose, and our overall sense of well-being, and I take these things into consideration when engaging in therapy.
(626) 790-7258 View (626) 790-7258
Photo of Michele Bourbonnais, LPCC
Michele Bourbonnais
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Mt Baldy, CA 91759
With this approach I have learned how to support individuals struggling with complex trauma, eating disorders, body image issues, self worth struggles, depression, and anxiety.
˜Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen. ' - Brené Brown. Taking the step to either start or continue therapy takes courage and vulnerability. I recognize this and strive to meet the people I support with compassion and empathy. I work alongside you to help you explore your story, develop insight into the barriers that led to unhealthy coping/cycles with yourself and relationships with others. I do this through various therapeutic modalities (ACT, EFT, CBT, DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic) that will help you explore your thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and connect to the choices impacting your behaviors.
With this approach I have learned how to support individuals struggling with complex trauma, eating disorders, body image issues, self worth struggles, depression, and anxiety.
˜Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen. ' - Brené Brown. Taking the step to either start or continue therapy takes courage and vulnerability. I recognize this and strive to meet the people I support with compassion and empathy. I work alongside you to help you explore your story, develop insight into the barriers that led to unhealthy coping/cycles with yourself and relationships with others. I do this through various therapeutic modalities (ACT, EFT, CBT, DBT, EMDR, psychodynamic) that will help you explore your thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and connect to the choices impacting your behaviors.
(626) 726-4306 View (626) 726-4306
Photo of Nekia Turner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nekia Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mt Baldy, CA 91759
Nekia Turner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2020. Nekia's approach to therapy is client-centered that meets you where you are at in life. Nekia views therapy as a guiding light along your life's journey and appreciates the opportunity to journey with you! Outside of work, Nekia enjoys exercising, clay molding, and reading.
Nekia Turner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2020. Nekia's approach to therapy is client-centered that meets you where you are at in life. Nekia views therapy as a guiding light along your life's journey and appreciates the opportunity to journey with you! Outside of work, Nekia enjoys exercising, clay molding, and reading.
(626) 605-2543 View (626) 605-2543
Photo of Vitus Onusuru, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vitus Onusuru
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mt Baldy, CA 91759
Vitus Onusuru is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2018. Vitus has unconditional regards for his clients and everyone. He is passionate about what he does and has compassion for people. Vitus is a culturally sensitive clinician and can understand people from where they are coming from and accord them respect. Outside of work, Vitus love travel, adventure, fashion and is family oriented.
Vitus Onusuru is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2018. Vitus has unconditional regards for his clients and everyone. He is passionate about what he does and has compassion for people. Vitus is a culturally sensitive clinician and can understand people from where they are coming from and accord them respect. Outside of work, Vitus love travel, adventure, fashion and is family oriented.
(626) 507-4201 View (626) 507-4201
Photo of Jan McNamara, PsyD, Psychologist
Jan McNamara
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mt Baldy, CA 91759
Dr. Jan McNamara is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 2001. She has a Doctorate Degree from Loman Linda University, a Master's Degree from Loma Linda University, and a Bachelor Degree from California State Polytechnic University. Dr. McNamara has an excellent ability to identify a client's personal strengths and assist them in solving their concerns and being the best version of themselves. Outside of work, Dr. McNamara has a love for Zumba and a license to instruct others. She enjoys soccer, volleyball, and yoga.
Dr. Jan McNamara is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 2001. She has a Doctorate Degree from Loman Linda University, a Master's Degree from Loma Linda University, and a Bachelor Degree from California State Polytechnic University. Dr. McNamara has an excellent ability to identify a client's personal strengths and assist them in solving their concerns and being the best version of themselves. Outside of work, Dr. McNamara has a love for Zumba and a license to instruct others. She enjoys soccer, volleyball, and yoga.
(626) 648-5774 View (626) 648-5774
Photo of Rachel Galindo, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Galindo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mt Baldy, CA 91759
Rachel is particularly passionate about treating anxiety, social anxiety, and relationship issues. She understands the profound impact these conditions can have on daily life and works diligently to equip her clients with the tools they need to manage and overcome these challenges. Additionally, Rachel has a strong commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community, providing specialized care that affirms and respects diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. Her approach is inclusive and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
Rachel is particularly passionate about treating anxiety, social anxiety, and relationship issues. She understands the profound impact these conditions can have on daily life and works diligently to equip her clients with the tools they need to manage and overcome these challenges. Additionally, Rachel has a strong commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community, providing specialized care that affirms and respects diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. Her approach is inclusive and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
(626) 635-3134 View (626) 635-3134

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Daniel R Villanueva, MA, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel R Villanueva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730  (Online Only)
I work with adults, individuals, families, and couples who may be experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, relationship/communication conflicts, parenting concerns, school/work stress, anger management & other impulse control disorders.
Are you experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, parenting anxiety, depression, relationship issues or creative block? I can help with these and many other concerns. I provide clinical individual therapy, family therapy and life coaching sessions virtually. Therapy and coaching help clients discover what makes them happy and what is holding them back. As a therapist I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients who are motivated to make changes in their lives. Together, we will work to help you achieve your personal and emotional goals.
I work with adults, individuals, families, and couples who may be experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, relationship/communication conflicts, parenting concerns, school/work stress, anger management & other impulse control disorders.
Are you experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, parenting anxiety, depression, relationship issues or creative block? I can help with these and many other concerns. I provide clinical individual therapy, family therapy and life coaching sessions virtually. Therapy and coaching help clients discover what makes them happy and what is holding them back. As a therapist I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients who are motivated to make changes in their lives. Together, we will work to help you achieve your personal and emotional goals.
(562) 203-1414 View (562) 203-1414
Photo of Gina Tarango, MFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gina Tarango
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PPS
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91784  (Online Only)
[Now accepting credit cards and evening appointments] In my 15+ year career as a therapist I've worked with clients from 3-83 years old and I see women, men, children, adolescents, couples and families. The issues that I work with most commonly are: anxiety, depression, marital problems, gambling, adolescents acting out, couples therapy and trauma work. My clients also enjoy that I am empathetic and humorous. Before we choose to work together, we will discuss your situation over the phone and make sure our therapeutic relationship is a "good fit" :-)
[Now accepting credit cards and evening appointments] In my 15+ year career as a therapist I've worked with clients from 3-83 years old and I see women, men, children, adolescents, couples and families. The issues that I work with most commonly are: anxiety, depression, marital problems, gambling, adolescents acting out, couples therapy and trauma work. My clients also enjoy that I am empathetic and humorous. Before we choose to work together, we will discuss your situation over the phone and make sure our therapeutic relationship is a "good fit" :-)
(909) 833-4238 View (909) 833-4238
Photo of Denise Quiroz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Quiroz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
If you are facing fears, relationship, marital or family conflict, depression, trauma, anxiety, self-esteem, parenting problems, emotional disturbance, codependency, or other personal concerns, please contact me today!.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH AND OFFICE CLIENTS* Perhaps you are feeling depressed or anxious, maybe you are unsure about the future of a relationship, maybe trauma from childhood or other experiences keeps lingering or you just feel that you are not living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support and guidance. Through our therapeutic process, I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook, self-awareness and the adoption of new attitudes, patterns, mindsets, and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you become a better YOU.
If you are facing fears, relationship, marital or family conflict, depression, trauma, anxiety, self-esteem, parenting problems, emotional disturbance, codependency, or other personal concerns, please contact me today!.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH AND OFFICE CLIENTS* Perhaps you are feeling depressed or anxious, maybe you are unsure about the future of a relationship, maybe trauma from childhood or other experiences keeps lingering or you just feel that you are not living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support and guidance. Through our therapeutic process, I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook, self-awareness and the adoption of new attitudes, patterns, mindsets, and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you become a better YOU.
(442) 200-2149 View (442) 200-2149
Photo of Phil White, CP, Psychologist
Phil White
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety and both short and long term depression whether it is your first-time experiencing depression or you have struggled with it all your life, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in setting realistic, achievable goals then building on the success of having reached them. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety and both short and long term depression whether it is your first-time experiencing depression or you have struggled with it all your life, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in setting realistic, achievable goals then building on the success of having reached them. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
(562) 669-3732 View (562) 669-3732
Photo of Aaron Baker, PhD, Psychologist
Aaron Baker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
I am a psychologist specializing in behavioral interventions for anxiety, trauma, and depression. I obtained my PhD from UCLA in 2012 after working in the Anxiety Disorders Research Center. I then completed my clinical internship and a postdoctoral research fellowship at the National Center for PTSD in the VA Boston Healthcare system while a fellow at Harvard Medical School and the Boston University School of Medicine. In addition to my practice, I am currently an Associate Professor in the Psychology Department at the University of La Verne.
I am a psychologist specializing in behavioral interventions for anxiety, trauma, and depression. I obtained my PhD from UCLA in 2012 after working in the Anxiety Disorders Research Center. I then completed my clinical internship and a postdoctoral research fellowship at the National Center for PTSD in the VA Boston Healthcare system while a fellow at Harvard Medical School and the Boston University School of Medicine. In addition to my practice, I am currently an Associate Professor in the Psychology Department at the University of La Verne.
(909) 254-5865 View (909) 254-5865
Photo of Adam Colson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam Colson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
I have experience helping a wide variety of clients with stress and anxiety, depression, dating and relationships, couples therapy, family conflicts, parenting issues, and anger management.
Hello, I am Adam Colson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist. I have worked with people of all ages, from children as young as 10 to adults as old as 65. I am 60 years old, so I've lived long enough to help many people and to see a lot of what life can offer us, both positive and negative. I am a straight man, married, and have over 10 years of clinical social work and therapy experience.
I have experience helping a wide variety of clients with stress and anxiety, depression, dating and relationships, couples therapy, family conflicts, parenting issues, and anger management.
Hello, I am Adam Colson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist. I have worked with people of all ages, from children as young as 10 to adults as old as 65. I am 60 years old, so I've lived long enough to help many people and to see a lot of what life can offer us, both positive and negative. I am a straight man, married, and have over 10 years of clinical social work and therapy experience.
(657) 571-1918 View (657) 571-1918
Photo of Dr. Rob Wolff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Rob Wolff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fontana, CA 92336
A well-balanced life, a sense of harmony, and living as our authentic selves. This is a desire held by many, but sometimes we don’t quite know how to achieve this or address the roadblocks in our lives. I’m Dr. Rob Wolff, and I find no greater joy than helping people identify what their best life looks like and how to start living that best life. Some of life’s challenges may include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship problems, sexual health, and navigating difficult situations. To reach our maximum potential, we must connect with, and live as our authentic selves.
A well-balanced life, a sense of harmony, and living as our authentic selves. This is a desire held by many, but sometimes we don’t quite know how to achieve this or address the roadblocks in our lives. I’m Dr. Rob Wolff, and I find no greater joy than helping people identify what their best life looks like and how to start living that best life. Some of life’s challenges may include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship problems, sexual health, and navigating difficult situations. To reach our maximum potential, we must connect with, and live as our authentic selves.
(951) 494-4150 View (951) 494-4150
Photo of Caitlyn Kiraly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlyn Kiraly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Caity Kiraly and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Colorado (CA License 122145, CO License 09930648). My goal is to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to process challenging emotions and life circumstances. My areas of focus are eating disorder treatment/ recovery, LGBTQIA+ challenges and stressors, athletes or former athletes navigating performance issues and retirement, depression, anxiety, and general life/ relationship stressors.
Hello, my name is Caity Kiraly and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Colorado (CA License 122145, CO License 09930648). My goal is to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to process challenging emotions and life circumstances. My areas of focus are eating disorder treatment/ recovery, LGBTQIA+ challenges and stressors, athletes or former athletes navigating performance issues and retirement, depression, anxiety, and general life/ relationship stressors.
(619) 996-0473 View (619) 996-0473
Photo of Tracey Nguyen, BS , MA, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tracey Nguyen
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS , MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome. Our agency offers affordable, low-cost, telehealth/online. I am passionate about working with teens, young adults, and adults who are Hello and Welcome. experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, personal growth, prenatal/pregnancy/postpartum, and self-esteem.My goal is to create a safe and affirming place that offers authenticity, humor, and genuineness for you to share your stories. I believe in healing and growth through processing and making meanings of your experiences, recognizing your strengths, embracing your identities, nurturing your spirituality, and empowering you to make intentional choices.
Hello and Welcome. Our agency offers affordable, low-cost, telehealth/online. I am passionate about working with teens, young adults, and adults who are Hello and Welcome. experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, personal growth, prenatal/pregnancy/postpartum, and self-esteem.My goal is to create a safe and affirming place that offers authenticity, humor, and genuineness for you to share your stories. I believe in healing and growth through processing and making meanings of your experiences, recognizing your strengths, embracing your identities, nurturing your spirituality, and empowering you to make intentional choices.
(951) 290-5444 View (951) 290-5444
Photo of Celena Horton, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celena Horton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730  (Online Only)
My specialties are treating anxiety, depression, severe mental illness and everyday life stressors.
After experiencing this time of uncertainty and change, I am here to meet your psychological needs. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with my Doctorate in Psychology; who is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I believe in meeting you where you are. My personal mantra is empowering and motivating you to help to incite change. I have over 9 years of experience of working with individuals, families and couples in various settings.
My specialties are treating anxiety, depression, severe mental illness and everyday life stressors.
After experiencing this time of uncertainty and change, I am here to meet your psychological needs. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with my Doctorate in Psychology; who is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I believe in meeting you where you are. My personal mantra is empowering and motivating you to help to incite change. I have over 9 years of experience of working with individuals, families and couples in various settings.
(951) 309-9288 View (951) 309-9288

See more therapy options for Mt Baldy

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.