Depression Therapists in Northridge, CA

Photo of Annette Hymes, Marriage & Family Therapist
Annette Hymes
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324  (Online Only)
My name is Annette Hymes. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25 years of experience. I have experience working with adults, couples and individuals dealing with anxiety disorder, depression, stress reduction, bereavement and loss and relationship issues. I realize that each person has unique needs, therefore my treatment plan for changes, positive growth and problem solving skills are carefully planned for each individual. Together we work to make therapy a beneficial and worthwhile experience. Together we also develop tools to help solve problems, improve relationships and change behavior to improve your life. Please feel free to call me to discuss any questions.
My name is Annette Hymes. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25 years of experience. I have experience working with adults, couples and individuals dealing with anxiety disorder, depression, stress reduction, bereavement and loss and relationship issues. I realize that each person has unique needs, therefore my treatment plan for changes, positive growth and problem solving skills are carefully planned for each individual. Together we work to make therapy a beneficial and worthwhile experience. Together we also develop tools to help solve problems, improve relationships and change behavior to improve your life. Please feel free to call me to discuss any questions.
(818) 963-9192 View (818) 963-9192
Photo of Frank Costello, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frank Costello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91325
My goal is to help people in how they manage the stress and anxieties in life. Often, the way we perceive a problem greatly affects how we deal (or don't deal) with that problem. Building on insight and self-awareness, we can move the mountains in our minds, so we can see a clearer picture of ourselves, and the world around us-- improving our ability to cope, our self esteem, and the quality of our personal relationships. I will help provide you with practical and useful tools to cope with: Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Grief, Communication Issues, Difficult Relationships, and Life Transitions.
My goal is to help people in how they manage the stress and anxieties in life. Often, the way we perceive a problem greatly affects how we deal (or don't deal) with that problem. Building on insight and self-awareness, we can move the mountains in our minds, so we can see a clearer picture of ourselves, and the world around us-- improving our ability to cope, our self esteem, and the quality of our personal relationships. I will help provide you with practical and useful tools to cope with: Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Grief, Communication Issues, Difficult Relationships, and Life Transitions.
(323) 689-5430 View (323) 689-5430
Photo of Teresa Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91325  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include childhood and adult trauma, anxiety, adjustment challenges, intimate partner violence, depression, life coaching, behavioral concerns, boundary setting, self-esteem, and social difficulties.
Life can get overwhelming sometimes and what we may need is someone to listen and help us work through those life challenges. I Identify as a Latina, female therapist, who is bilingual (English/Spanish) I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults, of diverse cultural backgrounds. I believe in providing a safe, secure, and calming space. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic approaches including, a strengths-based approach, trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy, exposure therapy, meditation, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, as well as cognitive behavioral (CBT).
My areas of expertise include childhood and adult trauma, anxiety, adjustment challenges, intimate partner violence, depression, life coaching, behavioral concerns, boundary setting, self-esteem, and social difficulties.
Life can get overwhelming sometimes and what we may need is someone to listen and help us work through those life challenges. I Identify as a Latina, female therapist, who is bilingual (English/Spanish) I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults, of diverse cultural backgrounds. I believe in providing a safe, secure, and calming space. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic approaches including, a strengths-based approach, trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy, exposure therapy, meditation, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, as well as cognitive behavioral (CBT).
(747) 285-4170 View (747) 285-4170
Photo of Darrin L Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darrin L Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324
I specialize in analyzing relationships, connections & emotions. I work with my clients to help them heal from past trauma, loss, anxiety or symptoms of depression. Together at a pace that's comfortable for you, we will get to the root of emotional distress through processing past life events that lead to negative symptoms or outcomes. We will work together to build a stronger sense of self to promote wholeness and an increased sense of well-being. I will work to "unstick" you from unprocessed life encounters or loss where emotion was not felt, nurtured or resolved.
I specialize in analyzing relationships, connections & emotions. I work with my clients to help them heal from past trauma, loss, anxiety or symptoms of depression. Together at a pace that's comfortable for you, we will get to the root of emotional distress through processing past life events that lead to negative symptoms or outcomes. We will work together to build a stronger sense of self to promote wholeness and an increased sense of well-being. I will work to "unstick" you from unprocessed life encounters or loss where emotion was not felt, nurtured or resolved.
(818) 626-3539 View (818) 626-3539
Photo of Samantha Tallon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Tallon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91325
Hello there! My name is Samantha Tallon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), currently providing telehealth counseling services to clients in California. I have experience in managing relational issues and challenging family dynamics while working with adults, teenagers, couples and families. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
Hello there! My name is Samantha Tallon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), currently providing telehealth counseling services to clients in California. I have experience in managing relational issues and challenging family dynamics while working with adults, teenagers, couples and families. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
(818) 797-9308 View (818) 797-9308
Photo of Lynda Ross - Nevada Psych Eval, PhD, Psychologist
Nevada Psych Eval
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91343
When you are experiencing Depression, Anxiety or other conflict, it can be difficult to identify what is not working and where to start to turn things around.
Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist for more than 20 years. Providing individual, family, marriage, and couples counseling. Specific areas of focus are Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Family and Relationship Conflict.
When you are experiencing Depression, Anxiety or other conflict, it can be difficult to identify what is not working and where to start to turn things around.
Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist for more than 20 years. Providing individual, family, marriage, and couples counseling. Specific areas of focus are Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Family and Relationship Conflict.
(213) 464-0995 View (213) 464-0995
Photo of Christine Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324
STRESS RELIEF FOR EMERGING ADULTS, TEENS AND PARENTS. Are you a young adult unsure of your life direction or having trouble reaching your goals? Is depression or anxiety interfering with your school success in college? Are you the parent of a teen who is withdrawn, unmotivated or unhappy? My goal is to help young people resolve the emotional distractions that can interfere with school success or create challenges in relationships with family, friends or in the workplace.
STRESS RELIEF FOR EMERGING ADULTS, TEENS AND PARENTS. Are you a young adult unsure of your life direction or having trouble reaching your goals? Is depression or anxiety interfering with your school success in college? Are you the parent of a teen who is withdrawn, unmotivated or unhappy? My goal is to help young people resolve the emotional distractions that can interfere with school success or create challenges in relationships with family, friends or in the workplace.
(818) 214-8696 View (818) 214-8696
Photo of Vanessa Hernandez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91325
The reason you may be on this page may vary, from current stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma you may have experienced in your childhood.
(Sesiones disponibles en Español) Hello & welcome! I know how overwhelming finding the right therapist can be, so I congratulate you on taking this first big step! Therapy can be healing and empowering but starting the process can feel overwhelming and nerve-wracking. Allow me to make that process easier and comfortable for you. Together we can identify your current needs, things that are working, your strengths, and your goals. In therapy, we will also explore and develop coping strategies that will help you better manage your stress and help you feel empowered!
The reason you may be on this page may vary, from current stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma you may have experienced in your childhood.
(Sesiones disponibles en Español) Hello & welcome! I know how overwhelming finding the right therapist can be, so I congratulate you on taking this first big step! Therapy can be healing and empowering but starting the process can feel overwhelming and nerve-wracking. Allow me to make that process easier and comfortable for you. Together we can identify your current needs, things that are working, your strengths, and your goals. In therapy, we will also explore and develop coping strategies that will help you better manage your stress and help you feel empowered!
(747) 271-5330 View (747) 271-5330
Photo of Jessica Reina, PsyD, Psychologist
Jessica Reina
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91325
Hello and Welcome! I work with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, family, and group therapy. I specialize in working with symptoms related to trauma, depression, and anxiety; in addition to a variety of behavioral symptoms that children and adolescents present with. Through your participation in therapy, you will be given the opportunity to explore how a variety of factors have impacted your life; and together we will find ways to process these life experiences, and learn ways to better cope that will provide you with comfort and safety.
Hello and Welcome! I work with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, family, and group therapy. I specialize in working with symptoms related to trauma, depression, and anxiety; in addition to a variety of behavioral symptoms that children and adolescents present with. Through your participation in therapy, you will be given the opportunity to explore how a variety of factors have impacted your life; and together we will find ways to process these life experiences, and learn ways to better cope that will provide you with comfort and safety.
(818) 280-9057 View (818) 280-9057
Photo of Julie Remala-Hanley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Remala-Hanley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91325
I am passionate about working with women who want to feel better in their own skin. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or perinatal emotional distress? Are you battling addictions, eating disorders, or trauma symptoms? Are dealing with challenging relationships or trying to navigate the twists and turns of life? I'd love to help you be in healthier relationships with yourself and the people you love. With a deep commitment to your personal growth, a willingness to do things that might feel scary, and a lot of good laughs, I think we can work together to do the important work of healing.
I am passionate about working with women who want to feel better in their own skin. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or perinatal emotional distress? Are you battling addictions, eating disorders, or trauma symptoms? Are dealing with challenging relationships or trying to navigate the twists and turns of life? I'd love to help you be in healthier relationships with yourself and the people you love. With a deep commitment to your personal growth, a willingness to do things that might feel scary, and a lot of good laughs, I think we can work together to do the important work of healing.
(626) 436-3525 View (626) 436-3525
Photo of Nancy Lozano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Lozano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91325
I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for children, teenagers/adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, social or family challenges, and difficulties adjusting to life changes.
My name is Nancy Lozano; I am a Bilingual/Bicultural Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I specialize in working with children, teenagers/adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, social or family challenges, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. My approach to therapy is based on my client's needs. I use a collaborative approach to therapy and the integration of evidence-based techniques, such as CBT, CPP, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, strengths-based, and client-centered therapy.
I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for children, teenagers/adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, social or family challenges, and difficulties adjusting to life changes.
My name is Nancy Lozano; I am a Bilingual/Bicultural Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I specialize in working with children, teenagers/adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, social or family challenges, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. My approach to therapy is based on my client's needs. I use a collaborative approach to therapy and the integration of evidence-based techniques, such as CBT, CPP, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, strengths-based, and client-centered therapy.
(818) 463-1670 View (818) 463-1670
Photo of Dr. Nidia Hernandez, PhD, LCSW, MSW, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Nidia Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW, MPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324  (Online Only)
My specialties include supporting and alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress through a trauma and culturally informed lens.
I aim to support individuals dealing with personal and professional barriers impacting their well-being. In my clinical practice, I support issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, emerging adulthood transitions, intergenerational trauma, past trauma histories, systemic oppression, and burnout. Some issues can impact our ability to reach our potential to live a fulfilling and enriching life. You are not alone, and together we can support your healing journey.
My specialties include supporting and alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress through a trauma and culturally informed lens.
I aim to support individuals dealing with personal and professional barriers impacting their well-being. In my clinical practice, I support issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, emerging adulthood transitions, intergenerational trauma, past trauma histories, systemic oppression, and burnout. Some issues can impact our ability to reach our potential to live a fulfilling and enriching life. You are not alone, and together we can support your healing journey.
(323) 417-9977 View (323) 417-9977
Photo of Parvin Saberi-Shakib, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Parvin Saberi-Shakib
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91325  (Online Only)
I've helped many clients enact the changes they want in their lives such as engaging with thoughts and behaviors in more helpful ways, processing and overcoming trauma, building more connected relationships, and learning to manage and cope with stress, anxiety and depression.
As a licensed therapist, I consider it a great privilege to be part of someone’s healing and growth, where they are free to be wholly human. I recognize that seeking therapy can have stigmas attached to it among some marginalized and minority communities. I am passionate about breaking through these stigmas and can uniquely understand coming from these communities myself as a Muslim and child of immigrants. I aim to provide therapy within a social justice framework that is holistic and trauma informed. I believe that the personal is political, and therefore, that therapy can not be inherently apolitical.
I've helped many clients enact the changes they want in their lives such as engaging with thoughts and behaviors in more helpful ways, processing and overcoming trauma, building more connected relationships, and learning to manage and cope with stress, anxiety and depression.
As a licensed therapist, I consider it a great privilege to be part of someone’s healing and growth, where they are free to be wholly human. I recognize that seeking therapy can have stigmas attached to it among some marginalized and minority communities. I am passionate about breaking through these stigmas and can uniquely understand coming from these communities myself as a Muslim and child of immigrants. I aim to provide therapy within a social justice framework that is holistic and trauma informed. I believe that the personal is political, and therefore, that therapy can not be inherently apolitical.
(818) 293-4919 View (818) 293-4919
Photo of Orkideh Csukay, Psy, D, Psychologist
Orkideh Csukay
Psychologist, Psy, D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324
Do you suffer from symptoms of sadness, depression so feel you need help? Do you suffer from worry, nervousness, eating and sleep issues? Do you struggle with excessive worries and find you are nervous often? Did you go through a traumatic event in your life? I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy techniques to help clients going through Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Do you suffer from infertility issues and how that is impacting you emotionally and physically as a result? I provide support through the process and recovering from the impact of fertility issues and ways it impacts each person and their relationship.
Do you suffer from symptoms of sadness, depression so feel you need help? Do you suffer from worry, nervousness, eating and sleep issues? Do you struggle with excessive worries and find you are nervous often? Did you go through a traumatic event in your life? I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy techniques to help clients going through Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Do you suffer from infertility issues and how that is impacting you emotionally and physically as a result? I provide support through the process and recovering from the impact of fertility issues and ways it impacts each person and their relationship.
(747) 227-7852 View (747) 227-7852
Photo of J. Juan Macias, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J. Juan Macias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324  (Online Only)
I will partner with you to: Reduce feelings of anxiety, depression and grief • Manage challenging life events • Identify your “voice” in work and personal relationships • Navigate difficult conversations • Understand and manage your anger better • Help find your authentic self • Manage expectations of yourself and others • Find more meaning.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Career Coach with a passion for helping men and women thrive in their relationships with themselves and others (e.g., assert. Barriers I can help you overcome include anxiety/stress, depression/grief and adjusting to life challenges, both at home and in the workplace. I provide therapy in both English and Spanish and can incorporate Christian spirituality, upon request. Many years ago, I transitioned from a successful career in the corporate world to follow my calling as a therapist and would like to help you reach your desired values and goals.
I will partner with you to: Reduce feelings of anxiety, depression and grief • Manage challenging life events • Identify your “voice” in work and personal relationships • Navigate difficult conversations • Understand and manage your anger better • Help find your authentic self • Manage expectations of yourself and others • Find more meaning.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Career Coach with a passion for helping men and women thrive in their relationships with themselves and others (e.g., assert. Barriers I can help you overcome include anxiety/stress, depression/grief and adjusting to life challenges, both at home and in the workplace. I provide therapy in both English and Spanish and can incorporate Christian spirituality, upon request. Many years ago, I transitioned from a successful career in the corporate world to follow my calling as a therapist and would like to help you reach your desired values and goals.
(747) 281-4546 View (747) 281-4546
Photo of Alina Hetherman, MS, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Alina Hetherman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91325  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adult individuals who are challenged by a variety of issues including relationship issues, abuse and neglect, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and bereavement. I have a genuine interest in helping people improve their mental and emotional health to have meaningful and healthy lives and social relationships. We truly are social beings and we all have the natural ability to create and nurture healthy social relationships.
I specialize in working with adult individuals who are challenged by a variety of issues including relationship issues, abuse and neglect, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and bereavement. I have a genuine interest in helping people improve their mental and emotional health to have meaningful and healthy lives and social relationships. We truly are social beings and we all have the natural ability to create and nurture healthy social relationships.
(818) 593-0658 View (818) 593-0658
Photo of Patty (Padideh) Fiore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patty (Padideh) Fiore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91325
Whether you’re looking for individual, couple, or work counseling, I can facilitate a safe space for you to find clarity and address your concerns. My goal is to provide you with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to help you connect to your inner strengths. I have been working as a psychotherapist since 2005 and have accumulated a great deal of experience. I have treated clients who have suffered from depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, loss, performance anxiety, and self-esteem, as well as those who have difficulty dealing with significant life changes.
Whether you’re looking for individual, couple, or work counseling, I can facilitate a safe space for you to find clarity and address your concerns. My goal is to provide you with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to help you connect to your inner strengths. I have been working as a psychotherapist since 2005 and have accumulated a great deal of experience. I have treated clients who have suffered from depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, loss, performance anxiety, and self-esteem, as well as those who have difficulty dealing with significant life changes.
(818) 960-6608 View (818) 960-6608
Photo of Mark Sergi, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Sergi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324
You can overcome the challenges that you face today. Whether you are challenged by depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and/or another emotional health issue; counseling, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you overcome your mental health issues and transform yourself into the person you hope to become. I, Dr. Mark Sergi, have counseled adults, couples, and elders for over 20 years; helping hundreds of persons improve their emotional health and quality of life.
You can overcome the challenges that you face today. Whether you are challenged by depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and/or another emotional health issue; counseling, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you overcome your mental health issues and transform yourself into the person you hope to become. I, Dr. Mark Sergi, have counseled adults, couples, and elders for over 20 years; helping hundreds of persons improve their emotional health and quality of life.
(818) 452-2191 View (818) 452-2191
Photo of Christine Popaj, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Popaj
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324  (Online Only)
I utilize multiple modalities to help manage and cope with symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Making the choice to start therapy can be intimidating, but taking the steps to care for yourself and your mental health shows that you are ready for some change. In order for this change to develop, I place immense value on the importance of the therapeutic relationship and provide a safe space for clients to feel understood, challenged and empowered without feeling judged. I want all of my clients to feel as though therapy is a safe place to vent, laugh, cry, gain insight, and grow as in individual.
I utilize multiple modalities to help manage and cope with symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Making the choice to start therapy can be intimidating, but taking the steps to care for yourself and your mental health shows that you are ready for some change. In order for this change to develop, I place immense value on the importance of the therapeutic relationship and provide a safe space for clients to feel understood, challenged and empowered without feeling judged. I want all of my clients to feel as though therapy is a safe place to vent, laugh, cry, gain insight, and grow as in individual.
(818) 280-8796 View (818) 280-8796
Photo of Cynthia Lemus-Alarcon, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Lemus-Alarcon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91325  (Online Only)
I have worked with many individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma.
My name is Dr. Cynthia Lemus. I am a bilingual speaking therapist (Spanish and English) I attained my bachelor's in Child Development and Master Social Work from CSUN and doctoral degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have been working in outpatient mental health for 6 years. I have had the opportunity to be certified in a couple of evidence-based practices such as MAP (Managing and Adapting Practices), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and certified for CPP (Child-Parent Psychotherapy).
I have worked with many individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma.
My name is Dr. Cynthia Lemus. I am a bilingual speaking therapist (Spanish and English) I attained my bachelor's in Child Development and Master Social Work from CSUN and doctoral degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have been working in outpatient mental health for 6 years. I have had the opportunity to be certified in a couple of evidence-based practices such as MAP (Managing and Adapting Practices), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and certified for CPP (Child-Parent Psychotherapy).
(747) 529-7676 View (747) 529-7676
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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.