Depression Therapists in Norwalk, CA

Photo of Yitong Li, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yitong Li
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
Hi there, I am Yitong (Ashley) Li, a bilingual (Mandarin and English) LCSW. Life is tough sometimes, and relationship issues could be overwhleming too. I am experienced in treating a range of issues including depression, anxiety, panic attack, stress management, grief, parenting, and family relationship issues.
Hi there, I am Yitong (Ashley) Li, a bilingual (Mandarin and English) LCSW. Life is tough sometimes, and relationship issues could be overwhleming too. I am experienced in treating a range of issues including depression, anxiety, panic attack, stress management, grief, parenting, and family relationship issues.
(562) 539-4098 View (562) 539-4098
Photo of Ashley Cyrus, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Cyrus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
I enjoy working with adult clients and couples experiencing concern regarding the following areas: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Adoption, Anxiety, Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Depression, Intellectual Disability, racial/cultural identity, relationship issues, self-esteem, Trauma, and Spirituality.
Hi, I am Ashley Cyrus and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. . My goal as your therapist is to provide caring support to help you overcome challenges that are keeping you from meeting your personal life goals and your full potential. I believe that each person offers their own personal talents and contributes in their own way.
I enjoy working with adult clients and couples experiencing concern regarding the following areas: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Adoption, Anxiety, Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Depression, Intellectual Disability, racial/cultural identity, relationship issues, self-esteem, Trauma, and Spirituality.
Hi, I am Ashley Cyrus and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. . My goal as your therapist is to provide caring support to help you overcome challenges that are keeping you from meeting your personal life goals and your full potential. I believe that each person offers their own personal talents and contributes in their own way.
(562) 667-4644 View (562) 667-4644
Photo of Janet Ambriz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet Ambriz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
I focus on helping with managing anxiety, depression, life stressors, and trauma.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or just stuck? Are you having trouble setting boundaries, communicating your needs or prioritizing yourself? Therapy could be the perfect space for you to heal, grow and improve your life and relationships. I am passionate about helping you on that journey and providing care for your unique needs. You too can gain an understanding of your feelings, learn to cope with difficult situations, heal from past and current conflicts and improve relationships.
I focus on helping with managing anxiety, depression, life stressors, and trauma.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or just stuck? Are you having trouble setting boundaries, communicating your needs or prioritizing yourself? Therapy could be the perfect space for you to heal, grow and improve your life and relationships. I am passionate about helping you on that journey and providing care for your unique needs. You too can gain an understanding of your feelings, learn to cope with difficult situations, heal from past and current conflicts and improve relationships.
(562) 262-5098 View (562) 262-5098
Photo of Sandra Lepe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Lepe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
My name is Sandra Lepe, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am here to help my clients manage those difficult times in their life. I have been practicing since 2005. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach to help you get to a better emotional and mental place in your life. I use CBT and solution-focused psychotherapy to help you resolve those issues you are struggling with. I use active listening and provide feedback to challenge those thoughts and behaviors causing you problems. My focus is on adults dealing with depression and anxiety.
My name is Sandra Lepe, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am here to help my clients manage those difficult times in their life. I have been practicing since 2005. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach to help you get to a better emotional and mental place in your life. I use CBT and solution-focused psychotherapy to help you resolve those issues you are struggling with. I use active listening and provide feedback to challenge those thoughts and behaviors causing you problems. My focus is on adults dealing with depression and anxiety.
(562) 203-1311 View (562) 203-1311
Photo of Ray Buchanan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ray Buchanan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
Hello I’m Ray, a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 25 years of experience in the field. I am passionate about helping people find purpose and partner with you as you set out to live your best life. You may be ready for significant change or just a little change. That's great, and I will meet you where you are at! I am here for you. I specialize in life transitions, spirituality, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I utilize interventions from a variety of treatment families including CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing and family systems techniques to affect change according to your individual needs.
Hello I’m Ray, a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 25 years of experience in the field. I am passionate about helping people find purpose and partner with you as you set out to live your best life. You may be ready for significant change or just a little change. That's great, and I will meet you where you are at! I am here for you. I specialize in life transitions, spirituality, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I utilize interventions from a variety of treatment families including CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing and family systems techniques to affect change according to your individual needs.
(562) 684-6405 View (562) 684-6405
Photo of Barbara Hernandez, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650
I have been working in the field of social services for the past 20 years and as a therapist for the last 18 years. Now I have a group practice of over 15 Therapist helping me offer comprehensive services. I have been licensed as an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2008 and as an Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor since 2014. I currently work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents. I treat many issues, ranging from depression, anxiety, child behavioral problems and trauma. If you are looking for another treatment specialty, call the office and I can see which therapist can best server you,
I have been working in the field of social services for the past 20 years and as a therapist for the last 18 years. Now I have a group practice of over 15 Therapist helping me offer comprehensive services. I have been licensed as an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2008 and as an Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor since 2014. I currently work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents. I treat many issues, ranging from depression, anxiety, child behavioral problems and trauma. If you are looking for another treatment specialty, call the office and I can see which therapist can best server you,
(562) 362-3233 View (562) 362-3233
Photo of Cristina Mendoza, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cristina Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
I typically work with adults who are navigating issues resulting from trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and adjustment to life changes.
My name is Cristina Mendoza, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am based in Fresno, California, and am available to work with clients in person and via telehealth. I work with adults who are struggling with trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, or adjustment issues using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Therapy is a very personal process so I want to be sure to utilize approaches that will best suit each individual client and their needs.
I typically work with adults who are navigating issues resulting from trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and adjustment to life changes.
My name is Cristina Mendoza, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am based in Fresno, California, and am available to work with clients in person and via telehealth. I work with adults who are struggling with trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, or adjustment issues using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Therapy is a very personal process so I want to be sure to utilize approaches that will best suit each individual client and their needs.
(562) 620-5910 View (562) 620-5910
Photo of Gloria Leticia Rojas, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gloria Leticia Rojas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Gloria Rojas and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. Outside of private practice, I work as a Director of Mental Health for a community based mental health agency. My clients typically have concerns in the following areas: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, behavioral issues, ADHD, loss/grief, acute stress, adjustment to life transitions, women's issues, relationship difficulties, generational trauma, cultural issues and work stress. During our time together, you can expect support, compassion, empathy and sensitivity.
Hello! My name is Gloria Rojas and I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. Outside of private practice, I work as a Director of Mental Health for a community based mental health agency. My clients typically have concerns in the following areas: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, behavioral issues, ADHD, loss/grief, acute stress, adjustment to life transitions, women's issues, relationship difficulties, generational trauma, cultural issues and work stress. During our time together, you can expect support, compassion, empathy and sensitivity.
(626) 604-0677 View (626) 604-0677
Photo of Lluvia Hetrick, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lluvia Hetrick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
My approach to therapy focuses on building the therapeutic relationship and supporting each client with an individualized treatment plan to support their needs. I am a trauma-focused therapist and believe presenting problems that bring people to therapy are rooted in earlier experiences. Brainspotting is a gentle yet effective neurobiological approach to treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, panic disorder, PTSD, attachment wounds, etc.
My approach to therapy focuses on building the therapeutic relationship and supporting each client with an individualized treatment plan to support their needs. I am a trauma-focused therapist and believe presenting problems that bring people to therapy are rooted in earlier experiences. Brainspotting is a gentle yet effective neurobiological approach to treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, panic disorder, PTSD, attachment wounds, etc.
(562) 539-2333 View (562) 539-2333
Photo of David Morgan, LPCC
David Morgan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
My name is David Morgan, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC 11222). My approach to therapy is primarily cognitive-behavioral. I do counseling/therapy with individuals, couples, and families. I treat clients who may have depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and marital difficulties. I try to make clients feel comfortable in expressing their thoughts and emotions. I explore their mental health journey up to the present day.
My name is David Morgan, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC 11222). My approach to therapy is primarily cognitive-behavioral. I do counseling/therapy with individuals, couples, and families. I treat clients who may have depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and marital difficulties. I try to make clients feel comfortable in expressing their thoughts and emotions. I explore their mental health journey up to the present day.
(562) 667-5786 View (562) 667-5786
Photo of James Strawn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Strawn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
Hello and Welcome. I am James Strawn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with close to 25 years of clinical experience. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective taking into consideration the whole person within the context of their mental health needs. My focus areas of practice are anxiety, depression, early stages of dementia and memory impairment, sexual orientation, mens issues, grief and loss therapy, relationship problems, and life transition related issues
Hello and Welcome. I am James Strawn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with close to 25 years of clinical experience. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective taking into consideration the whole person within the context of their mental health needs. My focus areas of practice are anxiety, depression, early stages of dementia and memory impairment, sexual orientation, mens issues, grief and loss therapy, relationship problems, and life transition related issues
(562) 203-0329 View (562) 203-0329
Photo of April Celeste Elaine Johnson, DSW, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
April Celeste Elaine Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, DSW, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
I have experience working with clients on crisis stabilization, depression, anxiety, psychosis, autism, PTSD/trauma, anger management, life transition, terminal illnesses, divorce, sexual assault victims, parenting and gender issues.
Do you ever forget how you got to work? Is life overwhelming, but you have no one to talk to? Do you hold it in, thinking it will go away? Some time in your life, you may be faced with the analogy of “your life vs. a bottle of soda.” There may be things shaken or flipped upside down in your life and you may want to explode. Knowing what happens to a bottle of soda & knowing people react differently, everyone’s version of “exploding” may come in various forms. As a therapist, I strive to find ways to turn your impairments into functionalities. Regarding the soda analogy, let’s “relieve pressure, open diligently, & consume slowly.”
I have experience working with clients on crisis stabilization, depression, anxiety, psychosis, autism, PTSD/trauma, anger management, life transition, terminal illnesses, divorce, sexual assault victims, parenting and gender issues.
Do you ever forget how you got to work? Is life overwhelming, but you have no one to talk to? Do you hold it in, thinking it will go away? Some time in your life, you may be faced with the analogy of “your life vs. a bottle of soda.” There may be things shaken or flipped upside down in your life and you may want to explode. Knowing what happens to a bottle of soda & knowing people react differently, everyone’s version of “exploding” may come in various forms. As a therapist, I strive to find ways to turn your impairments into functionalities. Regarding the soda analogy, let’s “relieve pressure, open diligently, & consume slowly.”
(909) 328-1536 View (909) 328-1536
Photo of Kimberly Benning, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Benning
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in eating disorders and disordered eating, addictions, anxiety, and depression. I work largely from a cognitive-behavioral framework, helping patients to identify and restructure their thoughts that lead to maladaptive behaviors, in order to engage in healthier and more productive ways. If you want to make peace with food, learn to love your body, feel more stable and secure in your emotions, strengthen your relationships, break free from addictive behaviors, or just have someone to talk to when life gets rough, please reach out!
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in eating disorders and disordered eating, addictions, anxiety, and depression. I work largely from a cognitive-behavioral framework, helping patients to identify and restructure their thoughts that lead to maladaptive behaviors, in order to engage in healthier and more productive ways. If you want to make peace with food, learn to love your body, feel more stable and secure in your emotions, strengthen your relationships, break free from addictive behaviors, or just have someone to talk to when life gets rough, please reach out!
(562) 502-8871 View (562) 502-8871
Photo of Rachel Carey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Carey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
Life can be difficult, and we can all use some support sometimes. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe place where we can collaboratively develop goals that are important to you. I have experience working with people who are facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship struggles, trauma symptoms, grief, and more. My approach involves integrating evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, and ACT. Additionally, Mindfulness and attention paid to relevant past experiences/relationships can also be helpful. Together we can determine a path that makes sense to you as the client.
Life can be difficult, and we can all use some support sometimes. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe place where we can collaboratively develop goals that are important to you. I have experience working with people who are facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship struggles, trauma symptoms, grief, and more. My approach involves integrating evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, and ACT. Additionally, Mindfulness and attention paid to relevant past experiences/relationships can also be helpful. Together we can determine a path that makes sense to you as the client.
(562) 566-3869 View (562) 566-3869
Photo of Lisa Watson, PsyD, Psychologist
Lisa Watson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
Welcome, my name is Dr. Lisa Watson and I am licensed to see patients in the state of California. I work with both adolescent and adult clients. My area of specialty is trauma, and I have experience treating PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, chronic & acute illness, such as cancer, acute stress disorder, bipolar disorders, transgender identity, adjustment disorders. I work within a holistic, whole person framework, addressing mind, body, emotional, and spiritual interconnectedness, to help clients discover their authentic selves, make meaning of life experiences, become empowered, and heal trauma.
Welcome, my name is Dr. Lisa Watson and I am licensed to see patients in the state of California. I work with both adolescent and adult clients. My area of specialty is trauma, and I have experience treating PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, chronic & acute illness, such as cancer, acute stress disorder, bipolar disorders, transgender identity, adjustment disorders. I work within a holistic, whole person framework, addressing mind, body, emotional, and spiritual interconnectedness, to help clients discover their authentic selves, make meaning of life experiences, become empowered, and heal trauma.
(562) 568-9176 View (562) 568-9176
Photo of Nia A King, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nia A King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
With a passion for helping adolescents navigate through challenges, I offer a safe and supportive space for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma.
The ideal client seeks self-actualization and improved self-relationships. They grapple with negative thoughts stemming from past experiences, hindering their growth. Their goal is to overcome these obstacles, forge their unique identity, and cultivate self-love. They yearn to break free from the shackles of self-doubt, embracing authenticity and inner harmony. By guiding them through trauma-focused CBT, Interpersonal Therapy and EMDR, I empower them to confront their past, reshape their narrative, and foster resilience. Ultimately, they aspire to lead fulfilling lives, grounded in self-acceptance and genuine connections.
With a passion for helping adolescents navigate through challenges, I offer a safe and supportive space for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma.
The ideal client seeks self-actualization and improved self-relationships. They grapple with negative thoughts stemming from past experiences, hindering their growth. Their goal is to overcome these obstacles, forge their unique identity, and cultivate self-love. They yearn to break free from the shackles of self-doubt, embracing authenticity and inner harmony. By guiding them through trauma-focused CBT, Interpersonal Therapy and EMDR, I empower them to confront their past, reshape their narrative, and foster resilience. Ultimately, they aspire to lead fulfilling lives, grounded in self-acceptance and genuine connections.
(562) 667-5615 View (562) 667-5615
Photo of Nicole Johns, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Johns
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
I strive to ensure my clients feel valued, accepted, and heard. I have experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I also enjoy working with all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience working with trauma, adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, and loss. The modalities I incorporate are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems Theories, and Psychodynamic and Behavioral Therapy. Together, we will work to bring you the happiness and healthy life you want to have and enjoy.
I strive to ensure my clients feel valued, accepted, and heard. I have experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I also enjoy working with all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience working with trauma, adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, and loss. The modalities I incorporate are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems Theories, and Psychodynamic and Behavioral Therapy. Together, we will work to bring you the happiness and healthy life you want to have and enjoy.
(323) 701-0683 View (323) 701-0683
Photo of Hussain Johnee Elhaouli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hussain Johnee Elhaouli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650
Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, interrelation issues, or any of the complexities of life, therapy can be a non-judgmental space for reflection and vulnerability. Finding the right fit to help you explore these internal, interpersonal, or sociocultural factors can be a challenge, and I want to meet you where you're at, then help you get where you’d like to go. My focus is building a strong therapeutic relationship together and having an affirming space for you to explore your identity, experiences, and emotions.
Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, interrelation issues, or any of the complexities of life, therapy can be a non-judgmental space for reflection and vulnerability. Finding the right fit to help you explore these internal, interpersonal, or sociocultural factors can be a challenge, and I want to meet you where you're at, then help you get where you’d like to go. My focus is building a strong therapeutic relationship together and having an affirming space for you to explore your identity, experiences, and emotions.
(626) 382-7923 View (626) 382-7923
Photo of Brent Carter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brent Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
I do treat and deal with a variety of presenting problems and diagnoses typically my current client base comes to therapy to address Anxiety, Depression, Relationship/Communication issues, Job Stress, or Work/Family balance issues as well as Life Transitions and questions of Meaning or purpose.
Hello. I am Brent Carter MA,MFT. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. (LMFT 41193). My approach to therapy is to create an environment where you can explore your feelings and emotions in an atomosphere of trust and acceptance. I see myself as a guide on your personal journey where you are making the decisions about where and when to turn. I view the therapist role as one of support but it is you who chooses. Ideally I would redirect you if you appear to be moving towards a dead-end or in a dangerous direction. But in the end, you are the one making the decisions about your life.
I do treat and deal with a variety of presenting problems and diagnoses typically my current client base comes to therapy to address Anxiety, Depression, Relationship/Communication issues, Job Stress, or Work/Family balance issues as well as Life Transitions and questions of Meaning or purpose.
Hello. I am Brent Carter MA,MFT. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. (LMFT 41193). My approach to therapy is to create an environment where you can explore your feelings and emotions in an atomosphere of trust and acceptance. I see myself as a guide on your personal journey where you are making the decisions about where and when to turn. I view the therapist role as one of support but it is you who chooses. Ideally I would redirect you if you appear to be moving towards a dead-end or in a dangerous direction. But in the end, you are the one making the decisions about your life.
(909) 443-2727 View (909) 443-2727
Photo of Shehanie Hernandez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shehanie Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
I work with people from diverse backgrounds s cultures; couples, families, individuals, children and adolescents. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, codependency, self-esteem and identity, grief and loss, family conflict, 1st and 2nd generational therapy, and general difficulties that you may experience from major and minor life transitions.
I work with people from diverse backgrounds s cultures; couples, families, individuals, children and adolescents. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, codependency, self-esteem and identity, grief and loss, family conflict, 1st and 2nd generational therapy, and general difficulties that you may experience from major and minor life transitions.
(424) 405-4682 View (424) 405-4682
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.