Relational Therapists in Pasadena, CA

Photo of Jose Luna, ASW, EMDR
Jose Luna
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
In addition, I have worked with couples who have experienced relational conflicts, extramarital affairs, and sexual difficulties.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
In addition, I have worked with couples who have experienced relational conflicts, extramarital affairs, and sexual difficulties.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
(626) 507-3877 View (626) 507-3877
Photo of Lola Martin, PsyD, Psychologist
Lola Martin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy incorporates relational psychodynamic, behavioral, and somatic techniques.
Healing is possible. No matter who you are, or what happened to you, you deserve to feel safe and at home in your body. You can create a life that is worth living.
My approach to therapy incorporates relational psychodynamic, behavioral, and somatic techniques.
Healing is possible. No matter who you are, or what happened to you, you deserve to feel safe and at home in your body. You can create a life that is worth living.
(626) 240-5492 View (626) 240-5492
Photo of Katherine Eberle, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Katherine Eberle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
I have training in attachment-oriented psychodynamic, family systems, and emotions-focused therapies focusing on anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relational distress.
However you may have arrived here, I hope you find this as your invitation to enter a process of healing, renewed hope, and self-becoming. In therapy, we bring a sense of liberation to your emotions, experiences, and identity, and grow toward a sense of confidence to make the changes you desire. Together, we explore and understand your experiences and to tend to your goals through an affirming, collaborative, and caring process.
I have training in attachment-oriented psychodynamic, family systems, and emotions-focused therapies focusing on anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relational distress.
However you may have arrived here, I hope you find this as your invitation to enter a process of healing, renewed hope, and self-becoming. In therapy, we bring a sense of liberation to your emotions, experiences, and identity, and grow toward a sense of confidence to make the changes you desire. Together, we explore and understand your experiences and to tend to your goals through an affirming, collaborative, and caring process.
(310) 299-8207 View (310) 299-8207
Photo of Angela Youngs, PsyD, Psychologist
Angela Youngs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
Hi there! Is your child or adolescent exhibiting symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image challenges, or interpersonal challenges? Are you concerned these challenges are impacting their ability to thrive? I am a licensed psychologist trained in working with children, adolescents, and their parents, and I am here to help! I approach my work from a relational perspective, meaning I prioritize the therapeutic relationship, as it is the vessel that allows for growth and change. From there, I utilize conversation, art, play, and more to support skill-building, resilience development, and insight.
Hi there! Is your child or adolescent exhibiting symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image challenges, or interpersonal challenges? Are you concerned these challenges are impacting their ability to thrive? I am a licensed psychologist trained in working with children, adolescents, and their parents, and I am here to help! I approach my work from a relational perspective, meaning I prioritize the therapeutic relationship, as it is the vessel that allows for growth and change. From there, I utilize conversation, art, play, and more to support skill-building, resilience development, and insight.
(323) 784-1246 View (323) 784-1246
Photo of Katherine (Kate) DellaFera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine (Kate) DellaFera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
My work is somatic, relational, and nervous system focused, and also informed by parts work, self compassion, mindfulness, and my own background in yoga and the arts.
My clients are often survivors of trauma, women, and queer people that are curious about how their experiences have impacted them and come to me to help regulate their nervous systems and begin to accept and heal all parts of themselves. I enjoy working with relationship issues, gender, sexuality, identity, and helping folks restore wholeness after surviving traumatic and upsetting experiences, particularly narcissistic abuse or emotionally immature caregivers. In our work together, we will consider how your nervous system has been impacted by your life experiences and help you move into a space of deeper regulation and self love.
My work is somatic, relational, and nervous system focused, and also informed by parts work, self compassion, mindfulness, and my own background in yoga and the arts.
My clients are often survivors of trauma, women, and queer people that are curious about how their experiences have impacted them and come to me to help regulate their nervous systems and begin to accept and heal all parts of themselves. I enjoy working with relationship issues, gender, sexuality, identity, and helping folks restore wholeness after surviving traumatic and upsetting experiences, particularly narcissistic abuse or emotionally immature caregivers. In our work together, we will consider how your nervous system has been impacted by your life experiences and help you move into a space of deeper regulation and self love.
(323) 831-8607 View (323) 831-8607
Photo of Richard LaBrie, PsyD, Psychologist
Richard LaBrie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
(626) 765-3076 View (626) 765-3076
Photo of Daniel Fenton, PhD, Psychologist
Daniel Fenton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Fenton works from a trauma-informed and relational perspective, promoting recovery narratives as ways to empower his clients and build self-efficacy.
Currently licensed in California (In-Person & Virtual) and Nevada (Virtual Only). Dr. Daniel Fenton is a Neuropsychologist and Psychotherapist who works with individuals across the lifespan. He provides neurocognitive and psychological evaluation, in addition to psychotherapy. His specialty is the interaction between medical illness and psychological symptoms/conditions such as, depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. He is passionate about working with individuals experiencing chronic and acute medical conditions, marital and relational conflict, career stress, as well as challenging life transitions.
Fenton works from a trauma-informed and relational perspective, promoting recovery narratives as ways to empower his clients and build self-efficacy.
Currently licensed in California (In-Person & Virtual) and Nevada (Virtual Only). Dr. Daniel Fenton is a Neuropsychologist and Psychotherapist who works with individuals across the lifespan. He provides neurocognitive and psychological evaluation, in addition to psychotherapy. His specialty is the interaction between medical illness and psychological symptoms/conditions such as, depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. He is passionate about working with individuals experiencing chronic and acute medical conditions, marital and relational conflict, career stress, as well as challenging life transitions.
(626) 723-3934 View (626) 723-3934
Photo of Kira Bartholomew, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kira Bartholomew
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
attachment therapy) depending on the needs of the client - while maintaining a grounding in relational psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
My goal is to create a safe, collaborative environment for us to explore your strengths and challenges together. Our work together will be strengths based to support you through the challenges and goals that you bring to therapy. I work with children (5+), teens, and adults who are dealing with a variety of mental health issues.
attachment therapy) depending on the needs of the client - while maintaining a grounding in relational psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
My goal is to create a safe, collaborative environment for us to explore your strengths and challenges together. Our work together will be strengths based to support you through the challenges and goals that you bring to therapy. I work with children (5+), teens, and adults who are dealing with a variety of mental health issues.
(626) 389-2715 View (626) 389-2715
Photo of Kelsey Blazak, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kelsey Blazak
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
My approach is relational, collaborative, and depth-oriented.
We all need extra support at various points in life. If you're feeling stuck, exhausted, frustrated, or struggling to feel like yourself, you are not alone. Effective therapy can help you address these challenges, gain deeper self-understanding, practice new skills, and effect meaningful change in your life. I believe when we show up for ourselves and allow our full humanity to be met with compassion, powerful shifts can occur.
My approach is relational, collaborative, and depth-oriented.
We all need extra support at various points in life. If you're feeling stuck, exhausted, frustrated, or struggling to feel like yourself, you are not alone. Effective therapy can help you address these challenges, gain deeper self-understanding, practice new skills, and effect meaningful change in your life. I believe when we show up for ourselves and allow our full humanity to be met with compassion, powerful shifts can occur.
(323) 508-2927 View (323) 508-2927
Photo of Maria Perdomo-Torres - Perdomo Psychotherapy Services, PLLC, LCSW, MHA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Perdomo Psychotherapy Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MHA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
Are you successful on paper, but still struggle to find fulfillment in life, or feel like you are “never enough”? Do you find social interactions overwhelming, and constantly replay them in your head, worried about how you came across to others? Have you searched keywords like “perfectionism” or “impostor syndrome” and feel like it might describe you? I help young to middle-aged women (ages 21 to 55) who struggle with anxiety, self-criticism, low self-esteem, or relational trauma. I also specialize in supporting clients through stressful life changes or transitions.
Are you successful on paper, but still struggle to find fulfillment in life, or feel like you are “never enough”? Do you find social interactions overwhelming, and constantly replay them in your head, worried about how you came across to others? Have you searched keywords like “perfectionism” or “impostor syndrome” and feel like it might describe you? I help young to middle-aged women (ages 21 to 55) who struggle with anxiety, self-criticism, low self-esteem, or relational trauma. I also specialize in supporting clients through stressful life changes or transitions.
(305) 257-9162 View (305) 257-9162
Photo of Sheron Gershelis, ASW, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sheron Gershelis
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
(626) 587-3182 View (626) 587-3182
Photo of Anthea Tjoa, PsyD, MAICS, MAT, Psychologist
Anthea Tjoa
Psychologist, PsyD, MAICS, MAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with clients who are experiencing the emotional, psychological, and relational difficulties that come from processing their intersecting identities, sense of self, and relational contexts. My specialties are depression, grief, and trauma (e.g., relational abuse or religious abuse) that can stem from those complex dynamics.
I am passionate about working with clients who are experiencing the emotional, psychological, and relational difficulties that come from processing their intersecting identities, sense of self, and relational contexts. My specialties are depression, grief, and trauma (e.g., relational abuse or religious abuse) that can stem from those complex dynamics.
(323) 900-5266 View (323) 900-5266
Photo of Dr. Shannon N Thomas, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Shannon N Thomas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
I offer therapy ($290: individual, $345: couples) and assessment for ADHD, learning disorders, mood & neuropsychological testing ($3,500+). I empower my clients to take the next personalized, informed steps towards lasting change. As you learn coping skills in a warm, relational setting, we'll alleviate your symptoms by identifying and challenging your maladaptive thought, emotional or behavioral patterns that no longer serve you. Together, we'll identify your strengths and apply them towards achieving your goals. My goal is to enable you to achieve a meaningful life of purpose, connection with others, and fulfillment with yourself.
I offer therapy ($290: individual, $345: couples) and assessment for ADHD, learning disorders, mood & neuropsychological testing ($3,500+). I empower my clients to take the next personalized, informed steps towards lasting change. As you learn coping skills in a warm, relational setting, we'll alleviate your symptoms by identifying and challenging your maladaptive thought, emotional or behavioral patterns that no longer serve you. Together, we'll identify your strengths and apply them towards achieving your goals. My goal is to enable you to achieve a meaningful life of purpose, connection with others, and fulfillment with yourself.
(562) 600-7489 View (562) 600-7489
Photo of Maryam Ashraf, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maryam Ashraf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
I specialize in healing from low self-worth, relational trauma, childhood trauma, and attachment injuries.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
I specialize in healing from low self-worth, relational trauma, childhood trauma, and attachment injuries.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
(626) 669-4304 View (626) 669-4304
Photo of Glen Denlinger - Well Marriage Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Well Marriage Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
If you want help and support in any relational area in your life, please click on the "website" button under our picture on the left.
Couples counseling is our specialty and what we offer exclusively at Well Marriage Center. We have 4 licensed, specialized couples therapists in the LA and surrounding areas who have committed their life's work to helping couples change the trajectory of their relationship with counseling and coaching techniques that heal trust, rekindle intimacy, and increase the positive aspects of your relationship. We listen intently but don't only listen; you get our thoughts, ideas, suggestions and feedback every step of the way. We're active with you in this process. Relationship dynamics are our specialty!
If you want help and support in any relational area in your life, please click on the "website" button under our picture on the left.
Couples counseling is our specialty and what we offer exclusively at Well Marriage Center. We have 4 licensed, specialized couples therapists in the LA and surrounding areas who have committed their life's work to helping couples change the trajectory of their relationship with counseling and coaching techniques that heal trust, rekindle intimacy, and increase the positive aspects of your relationship. We listen intently but don't only listen; you get our thoughts, ideas, suggestions and feedback every step of the way. We're active with you in this process. Relationship dynamics are our specialty!
(626) 263-6864 View (626) 263-6864
Photo of Julie Brown, PsyD, MAT, CSAT, Psychologist
Julie Brown
Psychologist, PsyD, MAT, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
My focused training in relational wellness, resilience-building, trauma reprocessing (EMDR, Havening), & addiction / disordered eating recovery provide a robust foundation for helping folks forge a more regulated life.
As humans, our experiences impact our mental and physical wellbeing, reinforcing core beliefs and the way we know ourselves. We might seek comfort & stability in a variety of ways- some helpful, some not. With curiosity, it’s possible to build self-knowledge that empowers change, both in our individual lives and in our relationships. As a specialist in trauma recovery, functional coping, & relational/sexual health, I believe that building self-awareness is essential to wellness. If you’re ready to discover more about your patterns and the barriers you’ve experienced along the way to thriving, now is a great time to begin exploring.
My focused training in relational wellness, resilience-building, trauma reprocessing (EMDR, Havening), & addiction / disordered eating recovery provide a robust foundation for helping folks forge a more regulated life.
As humans, our experiences impact our mental and physical wellbeing, reinforcing core beliefs and the way we know ourselves. We might seek comfort & stability in a variety of ways- some helpful, some not. With curiosity, it’s possible to build self-knowledge that empowers change, both in our individual lives and in our relationships. As a specialist in trauma recovery, functional coping, & relational/sexual health, I believe that building self-awareness is essential to wellness. If you’re ready to discover more about your patterns and the barriers you’ve experienced along the way to thriving, now is a great time to begin exploring.
(323) 522-2280 View (323) 522-2280
Photo of Justine Gordon, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(626) 605-6736 View (626) 605-6736
Photo of Cyla Fisk, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cyla Fisk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
My approach is warm, authentic, collaborative and relational.
I’m passionate about helping women transform their lives. Supporting them on their path to growth and healing. Being a woman in today’s modern world is hard. There’s pressure to have a healthy relationship, successful career, to be a good parent, and to be physically and emotionally healthy. High expectations of us take a toll on our minds and our bodies. Many women I work with talk about losing themselves and feeling frustratingly stuck. You want to feel grounded and confident. You need time to look inward and heal. You’re ready to develop a pathway forward, one where you feel hopeful and in control. You're in the right place.
My approach is warm, authentic, collaborative and relational.
I’m passionate about helping women transform their lives. Supporting them on their path to growth and healing. Being a woman in today’s modern world is hard. There’s pressure to have a healthy relationship, successful career, to be a good parent, and to be physically and emotionally healthy. High expectations of us take a toll on our minds and our bodies. Many women I work with talk about losing themselves and feeling frustratingly stuck. You want to feel grounded and confident. You need time to look inward and heal. You’re ready to develop a pathway forward, one where you feel hopeful and in control. You're in the right place.
(323) 289-6953 View (323) 289-6953
Photo of Curtis Miller, PsyD, DMin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Curtis Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, DMin, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
Marital Therapy: Contemporary Relational Theories, Imago Relationship Therapy, Various Communication Models.
The most fascinating and important part of my job as a therapist is how to have a really good conversation. It may sound too simple, but it cuts to the heart of what to expect from therapy. Through good conversation, you experience connection and understanding. When we are understood, difficult feelings change with resulting freedoms to engage life. Trained both as a Marriage and Family therapist and a psychoanalyst, I work with complex relationship issues, divorce and blended families, depression, anxiety, addictions, men's issues, and sexual trauma recovery, and integration of psychology and faith/spirituality.
Marital Therapy: Contemporary Relational Theories, Imago Relationship Therapy, Various Communication Models.
The most fascinating and important part of my job as a therapist is how to have a really good conversation. It may sound too simple, but it cuts to the heart of what to expect from therapy. Through good conversation, you experience connection and understanding. When we are understood, difficult feelings change with resulting freedoms to engage life. Trained both as a Marriage and Family therapist and a psychoanalyst, I work with complex relationship issues, divorce and blended families, depression, anxiety, addictions, men's issues, and sexual trauma recovery, and integration of psychology and faith/spirituality.
(626) 593-9837 View (626) 593-9837
Photo of Michael Marossy, PhD, Psychologist
Michael Marossy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I use a relational and insight-oriented approach that I adapt to align with each clients' particular needs.
My clients often begin therapy feeling lost, confused, stuck, or overwhelmed. Some are dealing with distress from a recent event, while others are hoping to address difficulties they've been struggling with for a long time. Maybe you're in difficult relationships or job situations. You might feel uncertain of who you are or what you really want. Maybe your day-to-day just feels like too much, and you want to make changes to reduce stress and feel more purpose and joy. Whatever the case may be, I'm glad you're seeking help. I'd be honored to listen to your struggles and help you find the path towards a more free and fulfilling life.
I use a relational and insight-oriented approach that I adapt to align with each clients' particular needs.
My clients often begin therapy feeling lost, confused, stuck, or overwhelmed. Some are dealing with distress from a recent event, while others are hoping to address difficulties they've been struggling with for a long time. Maybe you're in difficult relationships or job situations. You might feel uncertain of who you are or what you really want. Maybe your day-to-day just feels like too much, and you want to make changes to reduce stress and feel more purpose and joy. Whatever the case may be, I'm glad you're seeking help. I'd be honored to listen to your struggles and help you find the path towards a more free and fulfilling life.
(626) 499-5544 View (626) 499-5544
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Relational Therapists

How does relational therapy work?

Relational therapy was developed by psychologist Jean Miller, whose ideas stressed that having strong connections with others encourages better health and well-being when compared with a lonely existence. Conversely, poor interpersonal relationships do not foster growth and learning. Relational therapy also encourages trust in others and patience with others, along with better communication and less conflict.

Is relational therapy evidence-based?

Relational therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating certain mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral or acceptance and commitment therapy. However, relational therapy uses techniques found in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as psychodynamic therapy, which are both well-studied with empirical research.

How long are people typically in relational therapy?

Clients may see improvement after a few weeks or months of therapy. Like cognitive behavioral therapy, relational therapy can reduce symptoms within 10 to 20 weeks, at 45 to 50 minutes once a week. But like any type of therapy, improvement depends on the person and the severity of the problem.

Does relational therapy work?

While no therapy type will work for everyone, some evidence suggests that this therapy can be effective. Relational therapy can help a person manage problematic relationships as well as the mental health conditions that accompany difficult relationships like depression or anxiety. This therapy type may offer benefits that are hard to measure but can be just as valuable—including feelings of higher self-worth or healthier connections with others.