Depression Therapists in Portola Valley, CA

Photo of Heather Fuller- Emdr And Brainspotting Therapist, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Fuller- Emdr And Brainspotting Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portola Valley, CA 94028  (Online Only)
My specialties are anxiety, people-pleasing, perfectionism, stress, trauma, depression, and self-esteem.
Are you struggling with anxiety and overwhelm? Does this sound familiar? You keep putting everyone else's needs before your own. You're always pushing yourself to your limits and holding yourself to a high standard. You overthink things and are tired. It doesn't have to be like this. I work with intuitive and deeply feeling women to help you reclaim your peace, find the confidence to ask for what you want, and stop feeling guilty for having wants and needs. If you are looking to grow, heal, and experience lasting change, I can help.
My specialties are anxiety, people-pleasing, perfectionism, stress, trauma, depression, and self-esteem.
Are you struggling with anxiety and overwhelm? Does this sound familiar? You keep putting everyone else's needs before your own. You're always pushing yourself to your limits and holding yourself to a high standard. You overthink things and are tired. It doesn't have to be like this. I work with intuitive and deeply feeling women to help you reclaim your peace, find the confidence to ask for what you want, and stop feeling guilty for having wants and needs. If you are looking to grow, heal, and experience lasting change, I can help.
(619) 914-6612 View (619) 914-6612
Photo of Jia Rebecca Li, LMFT, MA, JD, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jia Rebecca Li
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, JD, CHT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portola Valley, CA 94028
I specialize in relationships, life transitions and grief/loss, with additional in-depth trainings to work effectively with couples and families. I work frequently with personal, cultural, multigenerational and systemic traumas that present as depression/anxiety, anger, addiction, low self-esteem, relational conflicts, parenting challenges, career difficulties and more. Prior to psychotherapy, I worked in law and finance with top law firms and investment banks for two decades, and I deeply appreciate the stressful and complex work/life dynamics facing many families, sometimes seemingly as a result of their very own success.
I specialize in relationships, life transitions and grief/loss, with additional in-depth trainings to work effectively with couples and families. I work frequently with personal, cultural, multigenerational and systemic traumas that present as depression/anxiety, anger, addiction, low self-esteem, relational conflicts, parenting challenges, career difficulties and more. Prior to psychotherapy, I worked in law and finance with top law firms and investment banks for two decades, and I deeply appreciate the stressful and complex work/life dynamics facing many families, sometimes seemingly as a result of their very own success.
(650) 275-6912 View (650) 275-6912
Photo of Alisia Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alisia Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portola Valley, CA 94028  (Online Only)
This support I offer is guided by my training in Hakomi Psychotherapy, attachment and relational trauma, depression, and recovery from alcohol and drugs.
You are a woman who would like to know how to deeply trust and nurture yourself. To care for the parts of you that need tenderness and a place to explore what brings you alive and what gets in the way of this. You may not know how or where to begin because you were not shown how. You’re so good at taking care of others that there’s nothing left for you. Or, perhaps you have learned to put yourself to the side because that is what feels safest. You may be asking yourself, “Is it okay to take care of me and what I want?”
This support I offer is guided by my training in Hakomi Psychotherapy, attachment and relational trauma, depression, and recovery from alcohol and drugs.
You are a woman who would like to know how to deeply trust and nurture yourself. To care for the parts of you that need tenderness and a place to explore what brings you alive and what gets in the way of this. You may not know how or where to begin because you were not shown how. You’re so good at taking care of others that there’s nothing left for you. Or, perhaps you have learned to put yourself to the side because that is what feels safest. You may be asking yourself, “Is it okay to take care of me and what I want?”
(831) 292-3677 View (831) 292-3677
Photo of Wendy Lair, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Lair
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portola Valley, CA 94028
Are you looking for a therapist who is warm and engaging, flexible and practical? I believe that developing a strong working relationship between therapist and client is the basis for growth and change. I listen to your needs first, and will work collaboratively to identify and work toward your goals. My specialties: Helping young children and their families understand development, work through challenging behaviors, anxiety, depression, anger and other mood concerns. Supporting adolescents as they strive for independence and maturity. Managing parenting stress for individuals and couples. Healing from trauma.
Are you looking for a therapist who is warm and engaging, flexible and practical? I believe that developing a strong working relationship between therapist and client is the basis for growth and change. I listen to your needs first, and will work collaboratively to identify and work toward your goals. My specialties: Helping young children and their families understand development, work through challenging behaviors, anxiety, depression, anger and other mood concerns. Supporting adolescents as they strive for independence and maturity. Managing parenting stress for individuals and couples. Healing from trauma.
(650) 683-8436 View (650) 683-8436
Photo of Joyce Schmid, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joyce Schmid
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Portola Valley, CA 94028  (Online Only)
My typical client is an adult of exceptional intelligence, creativity, achievement, and kindness, who needs to address problems in his or her life. These problems include depression, anxiety, the disease of addiction, childhood trauma,the addictions of others, and/or difficulties in forming or enjoying relationships. Too many people emerge from childhood with wounds from parental loss, abuse, or neglect. Some carry genetic loadings for addiction. The aftermath of these is devastating, despite success and "looking good." Revealing the pain to another person and revising basic assumptions about yourself and others in a safe relationship can help.
My typical client is an adult of exceptional intelligence, creativity, achievement, and kindness, who needs to address problems in his or her life. These problems include depression, anxiety, the disease of addiction, childhood trauma,the addictions of others, and/or difficulties in forming or enjoying relationships. Too many people emerge from childhood with wounds from parental loss, abuse, or neglect. Some carry genetic loadings for addiction. The aftermath of these is devastating, despite success and "looking good." Revealing the pain to another person and revising basic assumptions about yourself and others in a safe relationship can help.
(650) 629-7185 View (650) 629-7185
Photo of Amelia Gough, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amelia Gough
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Portola Valley, CA 94028
I have helped clients like you successfully address a wide variety of issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Stress Management, Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault.
I’m am one of the few therapists seeing in person clients for EMDR therapy in Nevada County. Whether you're struggling with an issue, or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, I can help. I provide a caring environment where you can identify and explore those issues that may be getting in the way of more rewarding relationships. The goal is to help provide you with insight and tools you need to move beyond old, limiting beliefs and behaviors. I have over 25 years experience. I will help you identify limiting beliefs and unhealthy coping mechanisms that are standing in the way of reaching your goals.
I have helped clients like you successfully address a wide variety of issues including: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Stress Management, Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault.
I’m am one of the few therapists seeing in person clients for EMDR therapy in Nevada County. Whether you're struggling with an issue, or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, I can help. I provide a caring environment where you can identify and explore those issues that may be getting in the way of more rewarding relationships. The goal is to help provide you with insight and tools you need to move beyond old, limiting beliefs and behaviors. I have over 25 years experience. I will help you identify limiting beliefs and unhealthy coping mechanisms that are standing in the way of reaching your goals.
(530) 554-9319 View (530) 554-9319
PsychRenewal
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portola Valley, CA 94028
PsychRenewal provides personalized treatment for a broad range of psychological challenges, including depression, anxiety, and stress; personality-related difficulties; relationship problems; life transitions, such as divorce, relocation, and changes in health status or employment; and work-related issues.
If you are between the ages of 25 and 65 and are experiencing emotional challenges in your personal or professional life, PsychRenewal is here to help.
PsychRenewal provides personalized treatment for a broad range of psychological challenges, including depression, anxiety, and stress; personality-related difficulties; relationship problems; life transitions, such as divorce, relocation, and changes in health status or employment; and work-related issues.
If you are between the ages of 25 and 65 and are experiencing emotional challenges in your personal or professional life, PsychRenewal is here to help.
(650) 240-4491 View (650) 240-4491
Photo of Samantha Moshiri, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Moshiri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portola Valley, CA 94028  (Online Only)
Struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, depression, OCD or PTSD is exhausting. I can help. You don't have to continue to feel so trapped.
Struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, depression, OCD or PTSD is exhausting. I can help. You don't have to continue to feel so trapped.
(650) 529-6514 View (650) 529-6514
Photo of Araceli Pimentel, MSW, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Araceli Pimentel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portola Valley, CA 94028  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their feelings, communicate effectively, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, and marital/pre-marital issues.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their feelings, communicate effectively, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, and marital/pre-marital issues.
(323) 312-3401 View (323) 312-3401
Photo of Jean Schellenberg - Dr. Jean Schellenberg, Psychologist, Inc., PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jean Schellenberg, Psychologist, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portola Valley, CA 94028
For years, I have served as a supportive psychologist, teacher, and artist. I specialize in trauma and developed a Recovery Model to heal emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. The Model also addresses healthier adult sexuality and intimacy. In 1998, the APA gave me an honorary award for my research. My art work is featured in: Transformation of the Psyche: by Drs. Joseph Henderson and Dyane Sherwood. I provide in-depth adult psychotherapy using creative, cognitive, and transpersonal methods. I encourage patient healing through visualization, body/mind/spiritual connection, transpersonal psychology, and dream work.
For years, I have served as a supportive psychologist, teacher, and artist. I specialize in trauma and developed a Recovery Model to heal emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. The Model also addresses healthier adult sexuality and intimacy. In 1998, the APA gave me an honorary award for my research. My art work is featured in: Transformation of the Psyche: by Drs. Joseph Henderson and Dyane Sherwood. I provide in-depth adult psychotherapy using creative, cognitive, and transpersonal methods. I encourage patient healing through visualization, body/mind/spiritual connection, transpersonal psychology, and dream work.
(650) 910-3786 View (650) 910-3786
Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Silver Lake Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portola Valley, CA 94028
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
(415) 949-2547 View (415) 949-2547
Photo of Dr. Carey Incledon, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Carey Incledon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portola Valley, CA 94028
I consider it a privilege to do the work I do—in fact, helping others heal, grow, and thrive every day brings great meaning to my life. I know from personal experience how life can sometimes feel unbearable. I also know from personal experience what it is like to work closely with a gifted psychologist to create a new perspective and a new life that are even better than before. I am passionate about providing the highest-quality mental health services to each of my clients and would love the opportunity to support you through this time.
I consider it a privilege to do the work I do—in fact, helping others heal, grow, and thrive every day brings great meaning to my life. I know from personal experience how life can sometimes feel unbearable. I also know from personal experience what it is like to work closely with a gifted psychologist to create a new perspective and a new life that are even better than before. I am passionate about providing the highest-quality mental health services to each of my clients and would love the opportunity to support you through this time.
(424) 408-1107 View (424) 408-1107
Photo of Michael Y Simon - Michael Y. Simon, LMFT, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Y. Simon, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portola Valley, CA 94028
Therapy should not and cannot be "one size fits all." It should be rooted in a consistent, deep effort to understand who you are and what you need, in relation to the resources you have near you. Therapy should also be practical and offer some fairly immediate results, even though bigger change takes time. It's ultimately about collaboration, and the formation of a helpful relationship. Although I have 25 years of clinical experience to bring to our work, it is more important that you feel we have a good match as we enter this work together. I trust that after we talk, you'll know whether it seems like the right match.
Therapy should not and cannot be "one size fits all." It should be rooted in a consistent, deep effort to understand who you are and what you need, in relation to the resources you have near you. Therapy should also be practical and offer some fairly immediate results, even though bigger change takes time. It's ultimately about collaboration, and the formation of a helpful relationship. Although I have 25 years of clinical experience to bring to our work, it is more important that you feel we have a good match as we enter this work together. I trust that after we talk, you'll know whether it seems like the right match.
(510) 343-7369 View (510) 343-7369
Rebecca Cordero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portola Valley, CA 94028
I have been working with children, teens and adults for over 20 years in private practice. Prior to that, I worked in schools and at counseling agencies. I see clients of all ages using a combined approach of Cognitive Behavior and Psychodynamic therapies. However, I recognize that one size does not fit all when it comes to therapy, so I tailor my approach to the individual needs of each client.
I have been working with children, teens and adults for over 20 years in private practice. Prior to that, I worked in schools and at counseling agencies. I see clients of all ages using a combined approach of Cognitive Behavior and Psychodynamic therapies. However, I recognize that one size does not fit all when it comes to therapy, so I tailor my approach to the individual needs of each client.
(833) 669-0382 View (833) 669-0382

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dayna Reader, LMFT, C-EMDR, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dayna Reader
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, C-EMDR, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94028
PTSD/ C-PTSD/ anxiety/depression do not have to be a life sentence! You can heal completely: mind, body and spirit.
I believe in the innate power of human beings to heal & grow. You don't have to live with the pain of old experiences weighing you down or keeping you stuck; healing is possible & within reach. Are you struggling in relationships or at work? Are you trying to be the person, parent, or partner you want to be, but missing the mark? Do you want to finally learn to accept (& love) yourself fully & unconditionally, & allow others to love you as well? Counseling can help you find freedom & clarity and let go of what's holding you back. I'm certified in EMDR & can offer this modality for healing in addition to traditional talk therapy.
PTSD/ C-PTSD/ anxiety/depression do not have to be a life sentence! You can heal completely: mind, body and spirit.
I believe in the innate power of human beings to heal & grow. You don't have to live with the pain of old experiences weighing you down or keeping you stuck; healing is possible & within reach. Are you struggling in relationships or at work? Are you trying to be the person, parent, or partner you want to be, but missing the mark? Do you want to finally learn to accept (& love) yourself fully & unconditionally, & allow others to love you as well? Counseling can help you find freedom & clarity and let go of what's holding you back. I'm certified in EMDR & can offer this modality for healing in addition to traditional talk therapy.
(650) 529-4996 View (650) 529-4996
Photo of Michael E. Buckle, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Michael E. Buckle
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94304
I am passionate about helping people feel and perform better. My clients include adults and adolescents seeking help with anxiety, depression, stress, and general mental health concerns. I also specialize in working with athletes, performers, professionals, and teams wanting to enhance mental skills for peak performance. I adopt a strength-based, collaborative, and goal-directed approach to quickly identify and overcome barriers to wellbeing and performance. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with other scientifically supported therapies to effect change and enhance performance.
I am passionate about helping people feel and perform better. My clients include adults and adolescents seeking help with anxiety, depression, stress, and general mental health concerns. I also specialize in working with athletes, performers, professionals, and teams wanting to enhance mental skills for peak performance. I adopt a strength-based, collaborative, and goal-directed approach to quickly identify and overcome barriers to wellbeing and performance. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with other scientifically supported therapies to effect change and enhance performance.
(650) 480-3556 View (650) 480-3556
Photo of Tylo James, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Tylo James
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94304  (Online Only)
I support clients to dismantle stress and anxiety habits, heal relationship issues, find honest self-motivation, and own self esteem that prevents hardships from becoming depression.
Being and feeling seen is healing. I believe that healing is a deep understanding of our past and ownership of the future we are creating for ourselves. I support clients who feel unprepared for life, love, or parenting. Maybe you have found yourself noticing unhealed stuff; sensations, thoughts, urges or feelings that are too big to ignore? You're not alone, growing into our best self requires self awareness and now that you have that the rest can become clearer. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling life takes courage, I am here to support you in evolving on purpose
I support clients to dismantle stress and anxiety habits, heal relationship issues, find honest self-motivation, and own self esteem that prevents hardships from becoming depression.
Being and feeling seen is healing. I believe that healing is a deep understanding of our past and ownership of the future we are creating for ourselves. I support clients who feel unprepared for life, love, or parenting. Maybe you have found yourself noticing unhealed stuff; sensations, thoughts, urges or feelings that are too big to ignore? You're not alone, growing into our best self requires self awareness and now that you have that the rest can become clearer. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling life takes courage, I am here to support you in evolving on purpose
(424) 346-9612 View (424) 346-9612
Photo of Maria Holden, PsyD, Psychologist
Maria Holden
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94028  (Online Only)
Instead, I will work deeply with you to see what and who causes you anxiety and depression, grief, sadness, emptiness and fear.
Are you working through trauma or a difficult life transition? Are you in relationship with a toxic or narcissistic person? Are you facing painful loss? Do you want to use principles of spirituality to strengthen you and answer life's deepest questions? Do you suffer from DID or dissociative disorder? For 30 years, I have guided people toward authentic ways of living and relating. Through many types of treatment, I help people to understand how traumatic life events change us and how to transform thoughts, feelings, and relationships. We focus on real actions you can take to find the power to reverse the effects of pain and trauma.
Instead, I will work deeply with you to see what and who causes you anxiety and depression, grief, sadness, emptiness and fear.
Are you working through trauma or a difficult life transition? Are you in relationship with a toxic or narcissistic person? Are you facing painful loss? Do you want to use principles of spirituality to strengthen you and answer life's deepest questions? Do you suffer from DID or dissociative disorder? For 30 years, I have guided people toward authentic ways of living and relating. Through many types of treatment, I help people to understand how traumatic life events change us and how to transform thoughts, feelings, and relationships. We focus on real actions you can take to find the power to reverse the effects of pain and trauma.
(510) 216-1317 View (510) 216-1317
Photo of Dr. Mini Rattu, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Dr. Mini Rattu
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94304  (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression are on the rise leaving many people feeling inadequate, vulnerable, and helpless.
Are you feeling burned out, anxious about getting things done, or having recurring distressing thoughts? Do you feel stagnant to reach your higher potential? Or maybe you struggle with low self esteem and poor confidence to communicate your needs. Well, you’re not alone! My name is Dr. Mini and I am a Licensed Psychologist with a passion for helping people on their mental health journeys. Life can be tough at times, but with the right support, you’ll learn to turn your obstacles into stepping stones into a better future.
Anxiety and depression are on the rise leaving many people feeling inadequate, vulnerable, and helpless.
Are you feeling burned out, anxious about getting things done, or having recurring distressing thoughts? Do you feel stagnant to reach your higher potential? Or maybe you struggle with low self esteem and poor confidence to communicate your needs. Well, you’re not alone! My name is Dr. Mini and I am a Licensed Psychologist with a passion for helping people on their mental health journeys. Life can be tough at times, but with the right support, you’ll learn to turn your obstacles into stepping stones into a better future.
(415) 943-4929 View (415) 943-4929
Photo of Ryann DeSouza, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryann DeSouza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94304
Are you struggling with any of the following: trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, Autism, hoarding, organizational issues, and parenting issues? I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life when taking the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you on this new journey. I am looking for highly motivated individuals that are ready for the challenge, whom are dedicated and motivated to make a positive change in their life. I believe everyone deserves quality care.
Are you struggling with any of the following: trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, Autism, hoarding, organizational issues, and parenting issues? I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life when taking the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you on this new journey. I am looking for highly motivated individuals that are ready for the challenge, whom are dedicated and motivated to make a positive change in their life. I believe everyone deserves quality care.
(650) 235-4676 View (650) 235-4676

See more therapy options for Portola Valley

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.