Depression Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Rachel Boyes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Boyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a diverse range of clients and have worked extensively with adults specializing in issues relating to long-term, low-grade anxiety and depression, isolation, relationship dynamics, self-esteem and grief.
Hello, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who supports my clients in discovering and achieving what they most want in life. As we begin to look more deeply at who we are, we can move toward a life that has increased balance and fulfillment. Many of us suffer in our relationships, careers and internal worlds due to a lack of awareness of the ways in which our past wounds impact current choices and ways of interacting with others. By taking a deeper look at these processes, problematic belief systems can begin to change.
I have experience working with a diverse range of clients and have worked extensively with adults specializing in issues relating to long-term, low-grade anxiety and depression, isolation, relationship dynamics, self-esteem and grief.
Hello, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who supports my clients in discovering and achieving what they most want in life. As we begin to look more deeply at who we are, we can move toward a life that has increased balance and fulfillment. Many of us suffer in our relationships, careers and internal worlds due to a lack of awareness of the ways in which our past wounds impact current choices and ways of interacting with others. By taking a deeper look at these processes, problematic belief systems can begin to change.
(510) 319-0136 View (510) 319-0136
Photo of Chloe Demisch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chloe Demisch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Looking for an in-person therapist in Oakland? Need help with managing stress, dating, work problems, relationships, family issues, life transitions, or depression? College/grad students, young professionals, millennials, Gen Z, new moms, tech workers, and creative types are my specialty.
Looking for an in-person therapist in Oakland? Need help with managing stress, dating, work problems, relationships, family issues, life transitions, or depression? College/grad students, young professionals, millennials, Gen Z, new moms, tech workers, and creative types are my specialty.
(619) 369-1564 View (619) 369-1564
Photo of Laura Condylis, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Condylis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Welcome! You are ready for a change. You may be overwhelmed by life, feel depressed or anxious, or have difficulty connecting in relationships. Whatever your reason for searching for a psychologist, a part of you believes in the possibility of a better life.
Welcome! You are ready for a change. You may be overwhelmed by life, feel depressed or anxious, or have difficulty connecting in relationships. Whatever your reason for searching for a psychologist, a part of you believes in the possibility of a better life.
(510) 953-4798 View (510) 953-4798
Photo of Sara Bisikirski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Bisikirski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
Through our connection I can help you learn to manage stress, depression, anxiety as well as other trauma related struggles such as substance abuse, relationship difficulties and self-harm behaviors.
With 20 years of experience, I work with individual adults, adolescents and couples from a trauma-informed model that integrates DBT, psychodynamic, family systems and Mindful Self-Compassion perspectives. Through therapy I can help you to achieve your goals, develop an increased understanding of yourself and build new ways of coping with life’s challenges. As a Certified Mediator with a background in divorce mediation I can lend informed support to those struggling with divorce-related challenges. Furthermore as a transracially adoptive mom of two I hold a strong interest in helping others navigate the world of parenting.
Through our connection I can help you learn to manage stress, depression, anxiety as well as other trauma related struggles such as substance abuse, relationship difficulties and self-harm behaviors.
With 20 years of experience, I work with individual adults, adolescents and couples from a trauma-informed model that integrates DBT, psychodynamic, family systems and Mindful Self-Compassion perspectives. Through therapy I can help you to achieve your goals, develop an increased understanding of yourself and build new ways of coping with life’s challenges. As a Certified Mediator with a background in divorce mediation I can lend informed support to those struggling with divorce-related challenges. Furthermore as a transracially adoptive mom of two I hold a strong interest in helping others navigate the world of parenting.
(510) 880-1983 View (510) 880-1983
Photo of Erica Khamvongsa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erica Khamvongsa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606
EMDR can be used for anxiety disorders, depression, and phobias.
I'm Erica Khamvongsa, LMFT. The approach to therapy I use is EMDR, with mindfulness. I work with clients who are experiencing being in a loophole in their trauma responses. I am here to help clients heal from their trauma. My focus areas in my practice are childhood trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and depression. Learning to love yourself is hard, especially after a traumatic experience or experience. I'm here to help clients to be gentle with themselves, healing is a journey, not a race.
EMDR can be used for anxiety disorders, depression, and phobias.
I'm Erica Khamvongsa, LMFT. The approach to therapy I use is EMDR, with mindfulness. I work with clients who are experiencing being in a loophole in their trauma responses. I am here to help clients heal from their trauma. My focus areas in my practice are childhood trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and depression. Learning to love yourself is hard, especially after a traumatic experience or experience. I'm here to help clients to be gentle with themselves, healing is a journey, not a race.
(510) 394-1713 View (510) 394-1713
Photo of Erik Bromberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erik Bromberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
I provide services for children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing challenges with anxiety and depression. I specialize in working with youth and their families who experience Tourette Syndrome, Selective Mutism, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). I utilize a strengths-based and whole person approach to help young people find their inner strength and bravery to face even the hardest situations. If you or your child are feeling anxious, overwhelmed or are struggling to find a place in the world I would like to collaborate with you to live a life that feels bright and vibrant.
I provide services for children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing challenges with anxiety and depression. I specialize in working with youth and their families who experience Tourette Syndrome, Selective Mutism, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). I utilize a strengths-based and whole person approach to help young people find their inner strength and bravery to face even the hardest situations. If you or your child are feeling anxious, overwhelmed or are struggling to find a place in the world I would like to collaborate with you to live a life that feels bright and vibrant.
(510) 216-1992 View (510) 216-1992
Photo of Niku (Nick) Ashok Shah, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Niku (Nick) Ashok Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
As a queer, South Asian American therapist, I specialize in providing body-centered psychodynamic therapy to Queer, Trans, Non-Binary, people of color and immigrants of the diasporas. With a relational and somatic approach in treatment, I can help you manage depression, anxiety, overwhelm, worry, stress and dis-ease. My hope is to help you heal trauma, manage dissociation, build insight around how your mind works and compassionately transform unhelpful internalized messages. I specialize in working with adults and teens.
As a queer, South Asian American therapist, I specialize in providing body-centered psychodynamic therapy to Queer, Trans, Non-Binary, people of color and immigrants of the diasporas. With a relational and somatic approach in treatment, I can help you manage depression, anxiety, overwhelm, worry, stress and dis-ease. My hope is to help you heal trauma, manage dissociation, build insight around how your mind works and compassionately transform unhelpful internalized messages. I specialize in working with adults and teens.
(510) 473-2440 View (510) 473-2440
Photo of Ana Batan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ana Batan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
Hello, my name is Ana Batan, LMFT. I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field.
Hello, my name is Ana Batan, LMFT. I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field.
(510) 726-0593 View (510) 726-0593
Photo of Sita G Patel, PhD, Psychologist
Sita G Patel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist in California since 2010. Using an authentic and direct approach, I treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, interpersonal and family challenges, and trauma. I work collaboratively with clients to develop collaborative therapy goals, track progress, build ongoing coping skills, and deepen emotional insight. In sessions, my approach is client-centered, warm, and culturally-sensitive.
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist in California since 2010. Using an authentic and direct approach, I treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, interpersonal and family challenges, and trauma. I work collaboratively with clients to develop collaborative therapy goals, track progress, build ongoing coping skills, and deepen emotional insight. In sessions, my approach is client-centered, warm, and culturally-sensitive.
(510) 288-5165 View (510) 288-5165
Photo of Ryan Sweat, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryan Sweat
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, limiting beliefs, life transitions, and attachment issues with individuals.
Hi, I’m Ryan. I’m a somatic therapist with an empathetic, solution-focused, and results-driven approach. I work with adults and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, and life changes. I also work with couples, moresomes, and families, focusing on improving communication and connection. I have experience working with a diverse range of clients, including neurodivergent, neurotypical, BIPOC, poly, mono, straight, and LGBTQIA+ folx. My mission is to help people find freedom from limiting beliefs and that hold them back. I seek to empower people to access and activate their own inner strengths and wisdom for change and agency.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, limiting beliefs, life transitions, and attachment issues with individuals.
Hi, I’m Ryan. I’m a somatic therapist with an empathetic, solution-focused, and results-driven approach. I work with adults and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, and life changes. I also work with couples, moresomes, and families, focusing on improving communication and connection. I have experience working with a diverse range of clients, including neurodivergent, neurotypical, BIPOC, poly, mono, straight, and LGBTQIA+ folx. My mission is to help people find freedom from limiting beliefs and that hold them back. I seek to empower people to access and activate their own inner strengths and wisdom for change and agency.
(510) 738-2974 View (510) 738-2974
Photo of Diane Cohen, PhD, Psychologist
Diane Cohen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I am a highly trained clinical and consulting psychologist working in the field of psychotherapy for 30 years. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy and provide long term and brief counseling services. I am experienced with adults, adolescents, couples and families struggling with a variety of emotional issues. Specialties include relational psychology and a multi-dimensional approach to finding solutions to life's difficulties. Areas of expertise include; depression, anxiety, impostor syndrome, and adjustment to life-transitions. I have also done extensive work and research in addictions and eating disorders/body image.
I am a highly trained clinical and consulting psychologist working in the field of psychotherapy for 30 years. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy and provide long term and brief counseling services. I am experienced with adults, adolescents, couples and families struggling with a variety of emotional issues. Specialties include relational psychology and a multi-dimensional approach to finding solutions to life's difficulties. Areas of expertise include; depression, anxiety, impostor syndrome, and adjustment to life-transitions. I have also done extensive work and research in addictions and eating disorders/body image.
(510) 573-7108 View (510) 573-7108
Photo of Angela M Anderson - Angela M. Anderson, LCSW, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela M. Anderson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
I am trained in EMDR and EFT which can be very helpful in processing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Feeling alone and overwhelmed? Do you want to make a change and don't know where to start? Are old wounds holding you back? Do you struggle with old habits and behaviors that keep you stuck? I can help you find what you need. I help clients find their voice and find their own unique path through an open and honest partnership. Clients gain self-awareness, self-acceptance, and the skills they need to continue to heal and grow in connection with others.
I am trained in EMDR and EFT which can be very helpful in processing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, chronic illness and trauma.
Feeling alone and overwhelmed? Do you want to make a change and don't know where to start? Are old wounds holding you back? Do you struggle with old habits and behaviors that keep you stuck? I can help you find what you need. I help clients find their voice and find their own unique path through an open and honest partnership. Clients gain self-awareness, self-acceptance, and the skills they need to continue to heal and grow in connection with others.
(510) 257-9468 View (510) 257-9468
Photo of Marie Sarte, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie Sarte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
As a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, my practice specializes in working with people who struggle with depression, unresolved trauma, anxiety, family and relationship issues, and life transitions. Effective therapy starts with a trusting relationship. In a safe space where you feel understood and accepted, we will work toward your goals so that you feel empowered to change and can begin to make positive changes in your life. Practice specialties: Teens, Young Adults, Depression, Anxiety, Relationship and Family Issues, Stress, Life Transitions, Trauma, and Substance Use.
As a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, my practice specializes in working with people who struggle with depression, unresolved trauma, anxiety, family and relationship issues, and life transitions. Effective therapy starts with a trusting relationship. In a safe space where you feel understood and accepted, we will work toward your goals so that you feel empowered to change and can begin to make positive changes in your life. Practice specialties: Teens, Young Adults, Depression, Anxiety, Relationship and Family Issues, Stress, Life Transitions, Trauma, and Substance Use.
(510) 401-3186 View (510) 401-3186
Photo of Trisha Rowe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trisha Rowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
Are feelings of depression, anxiety and self-criticism familiar to you? You may have done talk therapy before and still feel this way.
Your being on this site reflects your hope that at a time of vulnerability your can find someone who will assist and accompany you through your pain. I believe that everyone, no matter if they are dealing with depression, anxiety, or have been through intense abuse and/or neglect have within them a deeper part of themselves that is untouched and whole. Together we alleviate shame, fear and aloneness so that you can go beyond your defenses, explore your inner life and have new experiences that allow for your ability to tap into your healing and adaptive aspects of yourself.
Are feelings of depression, anxiety and self-criticism familiar to you? You may have done talk therapy before and still feel this way.
Your being on this site reflects your hope that at a time of vulnerability your can find someone who will assist and accompany you through your pain. I believe that everyone, no matter if they are dealing with depression, anxiety, or have been through intense abuse and/or neglect have within them a deeper part of themselves that is untouched and whole. Together we alleviate shame, fear and aloneness so that you can go beyond your defenses, explore your inner life and have new experiences that allow for your ability to tap into your healing and adaptive aspects of yourself.
(510) 342-9984 View (510) 342-9984
Photo of Noah Oderberg, PhD, Psychologist
Noah Oderberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Are you struggling with depression, low self-confidence, or anxiety? Are you having difficulties in your relationships or at work? Are you finding it hard to cope with a loss, life transition, or illness? I have brought warmth, knowledge, and compassion to my work with individuals & couples for over 30 years as a Psychologist. My approach to psychotherapy is to create a safe environment through listening and empathy that will enable you to talk about patterns in your life that are causing you distress. My goal is to help you achieve greater life satisfaction, healthier relationships & new sources of self worth.
Are you struggling with depression, low self-confidence, or anxiety? Are you having difficulties in your relationships or at work? Are you finding it hard to cope with a loss, life transition, or illness? I have brought warmth, knowledge, and compassion to my work with individuals & couples for over 30 years as a Psychologist. My approach to psychotherapy is to create a safe environment through listening and empathy that will enable you to talk about patterns in your life that are causing you distress. My goal is to help you achieve greater life satisfaction, healthier relationships & new sources of self worth.
(510) 404-8846 View (510) 404-8846
Photo of Anne-Marie Allerand Bloch, PhD, Psychologist
Anne-Marie Allerand Bloch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself anxious or depressed because you are not achieving your goals? Are you "stuck" in an unsatisfying relationship? Are you repeating behaviors that are self-defeating? I have many years experience in helping people identify their true needs and change their behaviors so that they can feel in greater control of their life. It is my belief that in a compassionate and supportive setting, painful and difficult emotions can be understood and integrated into oneself, providing a greater sense of well-being.
Do you find yourself anxious or depressed because you are not achieving your goals? Are you "stuck" in an unsatisfying relationship? Are you repeating behaviors that are self-defeating? I have many years experience in helping people identify their true needs and change their behaviors so that they can feel in greater control of their life. It is my belief that in a compassionate and supportive setting, painful and difficult emotions can be understood and integrated into oneself, providing a greater sense of well-being.
(650) 209-7608 View (650) 209-7608
Photo of Tracy Valerio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracy Valerio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606
I primarily have clients that experience anxiety and/or depression and/or are struggling in their relationships personally and/or professionally.
Hello . . . My name is Tracy Valerio and I've been a licensed therapist in California for 20+ years. My experience ranges from working with individuals, couples, children, and families across many diverse backgrounds, including racial, socioeconomic, geographic, and academic/professional backgrounds. My focus more recently has been helping those with anxiety and/or depression as it is affecting their personal and professional relationships with others, parenting support, relationship struggles, and support when living with a disability or having a family member with a disability.
I primarily have clients that experience anxiety and/or depression and/or are struggling in their relationships personally and/or professionally.
Hello . . . My name is Tracy Valerio and I've been a licensed therapist in California for 20+ years. My experience ranges from working with individuals, couples, children, and families across many diverse backgrounds, including racial, socioeconomic, geographic, and academic/professional backgrounds. My focus more recently has been helping those with anxiety and/or depression as it is affecting their personal and professional relationships with others, parenting support, relationship struggles, and support when living with a disability or having a family member with a disability.
(415) 481-3878 View (415) 481-3878
Photo of Vimmi Jaggi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vimmi Jaggi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I do work quite often with a lot of South Asian and American populations who experience trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues.
My Name is Vimmi Jaggi, LCSW licensed in CA 75673 and for the past about 14-15 years, I have been working to assist patients with finding ease of life. I help patients learn and break patterns: cultural, generational, or circumstantial that sometimes show up as fatigue, sadness, anxiety, overthinking and disable us from the joy of our lives. We all deserve loving kindness and can break these cycles that disable us. In such times we all can use trauma-informed and nonjudgmental support to help us heal from symptomatic root causes. There is hope. I wish to work together to help you find these hopes and choices.
I do work quite often with a lot of South Asian and American populations who experience trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues.
My Name is Vimmi Jaggi, LCSW licensed in CA 75673 and for the past about 14-15 years, I have been working to assist patients with finding ease of life. I help patients learn and break patterns: cultural, generational, or circumstantial that sometimes show up as fatigue, sadness, anxiety, overthinking and disable us from the joy of our lives. We all deserve loving kindness and can break these cycles that disable us. In such times we all can use trauma-informed and nonjudgmental support to help us heal from symptomatic root causes. There is hope. I wish to work together to help you find these hopes and choices.
(510) 800-9434 View (510) 800-9434
Photo of Zvi Bellin, PhD, LPCC, Counselor
Zvi Bellin
Counselor, PhD, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Struggle in your life, relationships, and family can provide surprising opportunities to cultivate resilience, connection, and meaning. Working with me is a collaborative process. I work with individuals, couples, and families to develop a framework that fosters nourishing joy and holistic health. I welcome clients who experience social/racial marginalization. If you struggle with communication, satisfaction, depression, meaning, or difficulty in life transitions, you will find resonance with my mindfulness-based and narrative approach. I work best with clients who seek to ease suffering and aim for transformation.
Struggle in your life, relationships, and family can provide surprising opportunities to cultivate resilience, connection, and meaning. Working with me is a collaborative process. I work with individuals, couples, and families to develop a framework that fosters nourishing joy and holistic health. I welcome clients who experience social/racial marginalization. If you struggle with communication, satisfaction, depression, meaning, or difficulty in life transitions, you will find resonance with my mindfulness-based and narrative approach. I work best with clients who seek to ease suffering and aim for transformation.
(510) 924-0291 View (510) 924-0291
Photo of Dr. Eric Bottino, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Eric Bottino
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I work with adolescents and adults from all walks of life experiencing an extensive range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, surviving abuse, body image, and eating disorders.
Are you so overwhelmed that you can't focus on your partner, kids, or other meaningful relationships? Do you feel like letting go of patterns is challenging and find yourself obsessing about your body to the point that eating becomes an ordeal? Do you feel like the past is weighing you down and you can't put it where it belongs, that is in the past? Do you engage in behaviors such as drug, alcohol, or other reckless endeavors that bring about tension and conflicts at home, at work, or other social settings?
I work with adolescents and adults from all walks of life experiencing an extensive range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, surviving abuse, body image, and eating disorders.
Are you so overwhelmed that you can't focus on your partner, kids, or other meaningful relationships? Do you feel like letting go of patterns is challenging and find yourself obsessing about your body to the point that eating becomes an ordeal? Do you feel like the past is weighing you down and you can't put it where it belongs, that is in the past? Do you engage in behaviors such as drug, alcohol, or other reckless endeavors that bring about tension and conflicts at home, at work, or other social settings?
(628) 227-5455 View (628) 227-5455
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.