Depression Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Carie Bassett, APCC
Carie Bassett
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
My name is Carie Bassett, and I am a Licensed Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. I chose to change careers after years of working in the Finance Industry because of my deep desire to understand an individual’s emotional processes and ability to heal. I have gained valuable life and educational experience and work with individuals who are experiencing family conflicts, anxiety, depression, and having difficulty navigating through life transitions and stressors. I look forward to being a partner on your journey and assisting you in accomplishing your goals.
My name is Carie Bassett, and I am a Licensed Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. I chose to change careers after years of working in the Finance Industry because of my deep desire to understand an individual’s emotional processes and ability to heal. I have gained valuable life and educational experience and work with individuals who are experiencing family conflicts, anxiety, depression, and having difficulty navigating through life transitions and stressors. I look forward to being a partner on your journey and assisting you in accomplishing your goals.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Photo of Annette M Conway - #1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service, PsyD, PhD, Psychologist
#1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Psychological Evaluations: Depression & Anxiety Screening, Pre-Surgical Evaluations ( Incl.
Founded in 1993, Help Therapy has a team of over 50 licensed neuropsychologists and psychologists who offer a wide range of psychological evaluations. For patients who need extra support, therapy is also offered. Patients are matched to a provider of their choice based on their specific needs and preferences. Clinicians work with seniors, adults and youth (age 7+) all throughout California.
Psychological Evaluations: Depression & Anxiety Screening, Pre-Surgical Evaluations ( Incl.
Founded in 1993, Help Therapy has a team of over 50 licensed neuropsychologists and psychologists who offer a wide range of psychological evaluations. For patients who need extra support, therapy is also offered. Patients are matched to a provider of their choice based on their specific needs and preferences. Clinicians work with seniors, adults and youth (age 7+) all throughout California.
(619) 492-4586 View (619) 492-4586
Photo of Agueda Cabrera, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Agueda Cabrera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92107
I assist clients with identifying and reframing negative thoughts that in the past have contributed to anxiety and depression.
Hello, my name is Agueda Cabrera, I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. For over two decades, I have worked with individuals and families to help overcome symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress management, PTSD, and family problems. I utilize a strength-based approach as well as evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I offer warm and compassionate support and guidance to help clients focus on their strengths rather than their flaws allowing for growth during treatment.
I assist clients with identifying and reframing negative thoughts that in the past have contributed to anxiety and depression.
Hello, my name is Agueda Cabrera, I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. For over two decades, I have worked with individuals and families to help overcome symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress management, PTSD, and family problems. I utilize a strength-based approach as well as evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I offer warm and compassionate support and guidance to help clients focus on their strengths rather than their flaws allowing for growth during treatment.
(619) 603-0547 View (619) 603-0547
Photo of Daniel Fernandez, LPCC
Daniel Fernandez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults (12-30 years old), who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, career stressors, trauma, relationship conflict, and substance use.
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in San Diego, California. Life can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of emotions, changes, and challenges. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where adolescents and young adults (12-30 years old) can explore their thoughts and build resilience. With a blend of warmth, empathy, and practical tools, I support clients in managing anxiety, navigating relationships, and finding their unique paths in a complex world. Together, we’ll work to build confidence, cope with stress, and foster self-discovery—so they can thrive both now and in the future.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults (12-30 years old), who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, career stressors, trauma, relationship conflict, and substance use.
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in San Diego, California. Life can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of emotions, changes, and challenges. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where adolescents and young adults (12-30 years old) can explore their thoughts and build resilience. With a blend of warmth, empathy, and practical tools, I support clients in managing anxiety, navigating relationships, and finding their unique paths in a complex world. Together, we’ll work to build confidence, cope with stress, and foster self-discovery—so they can thrive both now and in the future.
(619) 815-8129 View (619) 815-8129
Photo of Dr. Araceli López-Arenas, PhD, MPH, Psychologist
Dr. Araceli López-Arenas
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in addressing several issues including life transitions, career, anxiety, depression, substance use, & trauma/PTSD.
Hi and welcome! I want to congratulate you for taking the first step in recognizing that you may need support in the areas that you are struggling with. Step two is finding a provider that you feel comfortable working with. You are likely resilient AF, find that you are in need of support, and probably take care of others, but who takes care of you? This is a place to be taken care of when you care for the rest of the world. If you are motivated to make changes in your life, then let’s schedule a phone consult to determine if you would like to start working with me.
I specialize in addressing several issues including life transitions, career, anxiety, depression, substance use, & trauma/PTSD.
Hi and welcome! I want to congratulate you for taking the first step in recognizing that you may need support in the areas that you are struggling with. Step two is finding a provider that you feel comfortable working with. You are likely resilient AF, find that you are in need of support, and probably take care of others, but who takes care of you? This is a place to be taken care of when you care for the rest of the world. If you are motivated to make changes in your life, then let’s schedule a phone consult to determine if you would like to start working with me.
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Photo of Andrea Peca, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Peca
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Andrea is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who earned her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from National University in 2012 and her Master's Degree from National University in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2014. Andrea treats clients who are 18 and older and specializes in helping clients with life adjustments, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, parenting concerns, self-esteem issues, peer relationships, LGBTQIA issues, and ADHD.
Andrea is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who earned her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from National University in 2012 and her Master's Degree from National University in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2014. Andrea treats clients who are 18 and older and specializes in helping clients with life adjustments, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, parenting concerns, self-esteem issues, peer relationships, LGBTQIA issues, and ADHD.
(858) 901-7090 View (858) 901-7090
Photo of Cynthia Edgerly, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Edgerly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, or simply looking to prioritize your wellness, I am here for you.
I earned a M.S.W. from Boston University in 1991, and I am licensed as an independent practitioner in both California and Massachusetts. Additionally, I am certified in Co-Parenting Mediation. I have decades of professional, volunteer, and life experience in treating the mental health needs of individuals and families across a wide variety of settings, including schools, outpatient clinics, developmental services, healthcare, and private practice. My special areas of focus include anxiety and depression, parenting issues, family systems, relationships, developmental issues, medically involved children, and aging.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, or simply looking to prioritize your wellness, I am here for you.
I earned a M.S.W. from Boston University in 1991, and I am licensed as an independent practitioner in both California and Massachusetts. Additionally, I am certified in Co-Parenting Mediation. I have decades of professional, volunteer, and life experience in treating the mental health needs of individuals and families across a wide variety of settings, including schools, outpatient clinics, developmental services, healthcare, and private practice. My special areas of focus include anxiety and depression, parenting issues, family systems, relationships, developmental issues, medically involved children, and aging.
(858) 251-6804 View (858) 251-6804
Photo of Mea Parker, LPCC
Mea Parker
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92139
I am compassionate about working with individuals coping with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relational tension, and low self-esteem.
I am Mea Parker, Professional Counselor. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in community agencies and outpatient settings. I utilized a strength-based, client-centered approach to increase self-esteem and to explore and decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression. I believe therapeutic tools such as empowerment, self-exploration, compassion, and empathy increase hope in people allowing them to heal and become their best selves.
I am compassionate about working with individuals coping with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relational tension, and low self-esteem.
I am Mea Parker, Professional Counselor. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in community agencies and outpatient settings. I utilized a strength-based, client-centered approach to increase self-esteem and to explore and decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression. I believe therapeutic tools such as empowerment, self-exploration, compassion, and empathy increase hope in people allowing them to heal and become their best selves.
(619) 586-6646 View (619) 586-6646
Photo of Teresa Trias, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teresa Trias
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92114
Areas of Expertise: Anxiety Stress Life Transitions Coping Skills Depression Family Conflict Grief Mood Disorders Peer Relationships Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Racial Identity Relationship Issues Self Esteem Substance Use Trauma and PTSD Women's Issues.
My name is Teresa Trias, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I offer an integrated approach in order to tailor my interventions to each unique person and circumstance. I also have specialized training in helping people make health behavior changes, learn the tools and skills needed to increase stress management, and recover from difficult and traumatic past experiences.
Areas of Expertise: Anxiety Stress Life Transitions Coping Skills Depression Family Conflict Grief Mood Disorders Peer Relationships Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Racial Identity Relationship Issues Self Esteem Substance Use Trauma and PTSD Women's Issues.
My name is Teresa Trias, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I offer an integrated approach in order to tailor my interventions to each unique person and circumstance. I also have specialized training in helping people make health behavior changes, learn the tools and skills needed to increase stress management, and recover from difficult and traumatic past experiences.
(619) 771-0248 View (619) 771-0248
Photo of Sharon Saeedi, PsyD, Psychologist
Sharon Saeedi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I work with adults providing both individual and couples therapy, in addition to the military and their family members. I have extensive training in treating anxiety, depression, marital/relationship issues, addiction, eating disorders, grief and loss, and trauma. I also provide therapy for those making stressful life transitions, seeking a more balanced lifestyle, perfectionistic tendencies, self-confidence, and greater self-awareness. Together, we can examine how your thoughts and emotions are impacting your daily life in either helpful or unhelpful ways.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I work with adults providing both individual and couples therapy, in addition to the military and their family members. I have extensive training in treating anxiety, depression, marital/relationship issues, addiction, eating disorders, grief and loss, and trauma. I also provide therapy for those making stressful life transitions, seeking a more balanced lifestyle, perfectionistic tendencies, self-confidence, and greater self-awareness. Together, we can examine how your thoughts and emotions are impacting your daily life in either helpful or unhelpful ways.
(619) 940-1370 View (619) 940-1370
Photo of Breanna Schiff, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Breanna Schiff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
In my experience working in many different counseling contexts, I have come to believe in the healing of a safe space with unconditional listening. I have walked clients through crisis, relational strain, identity questions, major anxieties, trauma, depression, everyday stressors and growing pains. My personal and educational background is in psychology integration work, which supports my approach in helping clients deconstruct beliefs and/or incorporating truths and traditions into practice. It is my goal to walk alongside and equip you with awareness and skills as you move forward (and maybe laugh together a little along the way).
In my experience working in many different counseling contexts, I have come to believe in the healing of a safe space with unconditional listening. I have walked clients through crisis, relational strain, identity questions, major anxieties, trauma, depression, everyday stressors and growing pains. My personal and educational background is in psychology integration work, which supports my approach in helping clients deconstruct beliefs and/or incorporating truths and traditions into practice. It is my goal to walk alongside and equip you with awareness and skills as you move forward (and maybe laugh together a little along the way).
(619) 304-0755 View (619) 304-0755
Photo of Audrey Hu, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Hu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
(760) 280-9656 View (760) 280-9656
Photo of Kimberly Lauro, PhD, Psychologist
Kimberly Lauro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
I specialize in helping individuals and couples with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Chronic Pain and General Life Changes.
Seeking treatment for depression, anxiety or chronic pain can be challenging, especially when you are feeling down, with little energy and overwhelmed. Because you are here, you are on the right track! I'm a clinical psychologist with over 16 years of experience helping people like you improve mood, energy, self- empowerment and quality of life. I like to work with a mind-body approach, looking at your whole body's experience of your mood...like pain, anxiety, breath.... I use both cognitive treatments, breathwork and ketamine assisted psychotherapy to help you reach your best overall health.
I specialize in helping individuals and couples with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Chronic Pain and General Life Changes.
Seeking treatment for depression, anxiety or chronic pain can be challenging, especially when you are feeling down, with little energy and overwhelmed. Because you are here, you are on the right track! I'm a clinical psychologist with over 16 years of experience helping people like you improve mood, energy, self- empowerment and quality of life. I like to work with a mind-body approach, looking at your whole body's experience of your mood...like pain, anxiety, breath.... I use both cognitive treatments, breathwork and ketamine assisted psychotherapy to help you reach your best overall health.
(858) 413-9273 View (858) 413-9273
Photo of Noor Gorgees, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Noor Gorgees
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Noor is a trilingual (Chaldean, Arabic, English) speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University. He has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and families and has special interests and experience treating complex trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidality, self-harm, substance abuse, emotional dysregulation, and grief.
Noor is a trilingual (Chaldean, Arabic, English) speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University. He has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and families and has special interests and experience treating complex trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidality, self-harm, substance abuse, emotional dysregulation, and grief.
(619) 940-1552 View (619) 940-1552
Photo of Robin Pekin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin Pekin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Robin Pekin treats patients starting at 5 year old. Dr. Pekin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology (2013), and his Masters in Science degree in Counseling (2015), both from San Diego State University. His clinical experience includes private practice and hospital settings. In the latter, Robin has counseled adults and adolescents struggling with acute mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bi-polar, psychosis, substance abuse, and PTSD.
Robin Pekin treats patients starting at 5 year old. Dr. Pekin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology (2013), and his Masters in Science degree in Counseling (2015), both from San Diego State University. His clinical experience includes private practice and hospital settings. In the latter, Robin has counseled adults and adolescents struggling with acute mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bi-polar, psychosis, substance abuse, and PTSD.
(858) 879-8210 View (858) 879-8210
Photo of Tammy Torres, PsyD, Psychologist
Tammy Torres
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
My areas of clinical specialties include working with those struggling with prolonged stress, depression, anxiety, weight management, and those coping with a chronic illnesses like vision loss, autoimmune disorders, traumatic brain injury or diabetes.
Hello, my name is Dr. Tammy Torres and I am currently the Director of Operations. Integrated Behavioral Health, Southern California at LifeStance Health. I was previously a Clinical Director and Licensed Psychotherapist at New Day Psychotherapy Group. I earned my bachelor's degree from University of California San Diego and pursued my doctoral degree from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology-Stanford Psy. D. Consortium in Palo Alto, California.
My areas of clinical specialties include working with those struggling with prolonged stress, depression, anxiety, weight management, and those coping with a chronic illnesses like vision loss, autoimmune disorders, traumatic brain injury or diabetes.
Hello, my name is Dr. Tammy Torres and I am currently the Director of Operations. Integrated Behavioral Health, Southern California at LifeStance Health. I was previously a Clinical Director and Licensed Psychotherapist at New Day Psychotherapy Group. I earned my bachelor's degree from University of California San Diego and pursued my doctoral degree from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology-Stanford Psy. D. Consortium in Palo Alto, California.
(858) 779-0850 View (858) 779-0850
Photo of Amber Roper, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amber Roper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
I believe that my job as a therapist is to meet each individual where they are to get them to where they want to go. I am passionate about working with people who make the brave choice to enter into therapy and take the healing journey. I believe therapy is very personal, and should be individualized and tailored to the needs of the client. I have experience working with and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship, and marriage conflicts.
I believe that my job as a therapist is to meet each individual where they are to get them to where they want to go. I am passionate about working with people who make the brave choice to enter into therapy and take the healing journey. I believe therapy is very personal, and should be individualized and tailored to the needs of the client. I have experience working with and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship, and marriage conflicts.
(424) 799-2157 View (424) 799-2157
Photo of Claudia Oreegal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Oreegal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92113
My experience includes working with diverse groups (Active-Duty Military/Veterans and their family members, LatinX, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+) of clients that have encountered addiction/substance misuse, homelessness, incarceration, trauma, grief and loss, anger management, depression, and anxiety.
Hello, my name is Claudia Oreegal and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California seeing clients via telehealth. I work with adult individuals and specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief addiction/substance misuse, and adjustment to phases of life while walking alongside clients to help them identify the root of their challenges and work towards creating a balance in life that works best for them.
My experience includes working with diverse groups (Active-Duty Military/Veterans and their family members, LatinX, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+) of clients that have encountered addiction/substance misuse, homelessness, incarceration, trauma, grief and loss, anger management, depression, and anxiety.
Hello, my name is Claudia Oreegal and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California seeing clients via telehealth. I work with adult individuals and specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief addiction/substance misuse, and adjustment to phases of life while walking alongside clients to help them identify the root of their challenges and work towards creating a balance in life that works best for them.
(858) 779-0208 View (858) 779-0208
Photo of Eva Ramirez-Holbrook, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eva Ramirez-Holbrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Eva Ramirez-Holbrook is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience specializing in depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, relational health, grief and loss. She is also a National Certified Counselor with more than 10 years of experience working with children and adolescents in a school setting with an emphasis on their academic and social/ emotional development. Eva's therapeutic approach is grounded by Narrative theory, utilizing a respectful, collaborative, and non-pathologizing approach to working with individuals.
Eva Ramirez-Holbrook is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience specializing in depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, relational health, grief and loss. She is also a National Certified Counselor with more than 10 years of experience working with children and adolescents in a school setting with an emphasis on their academic and social/ emotional development. Eva's therapeutic approach is grounded by Narrative theory, utilizing a respectful, collaborative, and non-pathologizing approach to working with individuals.
(949) 868-0289 View (949) 868-0289
Photo of Aspasia Caplaneris Birmingham, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aspasia Caplaneris Birmingham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92107
I have the education and life experience to help you with life challenges whether you are coming in by yourself, with your partner or with your family to address relational issues which may include depression, anxiety and/or communication issues.
I aim to provide you with support and relief from your anxiety and/or depressive symptoms and also offer you a perspective and understanding of your struggles and likely differs from what you might hear from family or friends. I share in the hope you will move forward in ways you might previously feared impossible. Good therapy focuses on maximizing your strengths and reducing your difficulties in the healing process.
I have the education and life experience to help you with life challenges whether you are coming in by yourself, with your partner or with your family to address relational issues which may include depression, anxiety and/or communication issues.
I aim to provide you with support and relief from your anxiety and/or depressive symptoms and also offer you a perspective and understanding of your struggles and likely differs from what you might hear from family or friends. I share in the hope you will move forward in ways you might previously feared impossible. Good therapy focuses on maximizing your strengths and reducing your difficulties in the healing process.
(619) 279-5632 View (619) 279-5632
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Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.