Depression Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Heather Johnson, PhD, Psychologist
Heather Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92131  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, divorce issues, parenting, life transitions, grief, stress management, and self-esteem/body image.
Are you stressed out? Are you tired of feeling sad, anxious, and overwhelmed with life? Have you lost your focus? Do you feel as if things will never get better? I will help you get your life back on track and start feeling better again. My approach to therapy is warm, non-judgmental, and genuine. I will work together with you to help you achieve your goals and learn to manage life's struggles.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, divorce issues, parenting, life transitions, grief, stress management, and self-esteem/body image.
Are you stressed out? Are you tired of feeling sad, anxious, and overwhelmed with life? Have you lost your focus? Do you feel as if things will never get better? I will help you get your life back on track and start feeling better again. My approach to therapy is warm, non-judgmental, and genuine. I will work together with you to help you achieve your goals and learn to manage life's struggles.
(858) 348-5988 View (858) 348-5988
Photo of Elara Montagno, MS, LMFT, RYT200, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elara Montagno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RYT200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
Do you feel unhappy in your current life situation despite seeming to have it all together from the outside looking in? Do you feel lost, depressed, anxious or have low self-esteem? Are you a high achiever who struggles to embody a life full of joy & fulfillment? Are your relationships struggling? As a holistic psychotherapist & coach I can work with you to move through difficult emotions & past experiences to rediscover & tune back into your truest, healthiest & happiest self. You deserve to thrive; I will support you in cultivating your own inner strength & skills to evolve into your best self & live a life of joy & authenticity.
Do you feel unhappy in your current life situation despite seeming to have it all together from the outside looking in? Do you feel lost, depressed, anxious or have low self-esteem? Are you a high achiever who struggles to embody a life full of joy & fulfillment? Are your relationships struggling? As a holistic psychotherapist & coach I can work with you to move through difficult emotions & past experiences to rediscover & tune back into your truest, healthiest & happiest self. You deserve to thrive; I will support you in cultivating your own inner strength & skills to evolve into your best self & live a life of joy & authenticity.
(619) 975-1264 View (619) 975-1264
Photo of Monica Sanders, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Monica Sanders
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Some areas of life I can assist in includes the impacts of trauma, depression, anxiety, infidelity, relationship problems, gender/sexual orientation, and life transitions.
Searching for a space where you can just be you? Sometimes life can present challenges that make it hard for us to simply exist as who we are. As your therapist, I will provide a space that is both comforting and non-judgemental. Here we can work together to help you explore unique aspects of yourself that can help you address hardship, live as the fullest version of yourself and a life that feels satisfying for you. My approach to therapy is client-centered, compassionate, collaborative, curious and rooted in the idea that you have the capacity to re-story and improve the reality of your life.
Some areas of life I can assist in includes the impacts of trauma, depression, anxiety, infidelity, relationship problems, gender/sexual orientation, and life transitions.
Searching for a space where you can just be you? Sometimes life can present challenges that make it hard for us to simply exist as who we are. As your therapist, I will provide a space that is both comforting and non-judgemental. Here we can work together to help you explore unique aspects of yourself that can help you address hardship, live as the fullest version of yourself and a life that feels satisfying for you. My approach to therapy is client-centered, compassionate, collaborative, curious and rooted in the idea that you have the capacity to re-story and improve the reality of your life.
(619) 333-7014 View (619) 333-7014
Photo of Leslie Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
My name is Leslie Davis. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Francisco, California and work with clients statewide via telehealth. My experience includes 20 years in the clinical psychotherapy and professional counseling arena, working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, and complex trauma. I provide individual therapy to adults experiencing a wide range of concerns and mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, complex trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, self-esteem, substance abuse, and relationship issues.
My name is Leslie Davis. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Francisco, California and work with clients statewide via telehealth. My experience includes 20 years in the clinical psychotherapy and professional counseling arena, working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, and complex trauma. I provide individual therapy to adults experiencing a wide range of concerns and mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, complex trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, self-esteem, substance abuse, and relationship issues.
(858) 780-5325 View (858) 780-5325
Photo of Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92114
I have extensive experience working with individuals from all walks of life suffering from anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, life transitions, loss, and grief, living with a chronic illness, and problems related to parenting.
I’m Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo, a licensed clinical social worker with more than 9 years of experience. I have a bachelor’s degree in human services, a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a concentration in Social Work and Gerontology, and a master’s degree in social work from Indiana University. My goal is to touch, move and inspire all those I come in contact with. I am passionate about empowering people in all aspects of life. I help people embrace their authentic selves, develop compassion toward themselves and others, and live meaningful life through transformation and healing.
I have extensive experience working with individuals from all walks of life suffering from anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, life transitions, loss, and grief, living with a chronic illness, and problems related to parenting.
I’m Elizabeth Anaya-Olmedo, a licensed clinical social worker with more than 9 years of experience. I have a bachelor’s degree in human services, a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a concentration in Social Work and Gerontology, and a master’s degree in social work from Indiana University. My goal is to touch, move and inspire all those I come in contact with. I am passionate about empowering people in all aspects of life. I help people embrace their authentic selves, develop compassion toward themselves and others, and live meaningful life through transformation and healing.
(619) 391-2771 View (619) 391-2771
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
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 Kristen Kirby, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristen Kirby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
Hi, I'm Kristy Kirby, a Licensed Marriage; Family Therapist in CA. I primarily use Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I enjoy working with adults, and I specialize in Anxiety Disorders and Depression, as well as helping to improve self-esteem and relationships. I hope to provide a comfortable and safe environment where we can partner together. I range from client-centered to a more direct approach at times. I will often assign homework to give my clients something to think about or work on in between sessions.
Hi, I'm Kristy Kirby, a Licensed Marriage; Family Therapist in CA. I primarily use Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I enjoy working with adults, and I specialize in Anxiety Disorders and Depression, as well as helping to improve self-esteem and relationships. I hope to provide a comfortable and safe environment where we can partner together. I range from client-centered to a more direct approach at times. I will often assign homework to give my clients something to think about or work on in between sessions.
(858) 808-2343 View (858) 808-2343
Photo of Brianna Meacham, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brianna Meacham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
My primary focus is on helping those with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
Therapy is about exploring yourself and the way you interact with those around you to create opportunities for a greater experience in the world. This process of exploration allows you to develop an awareness of yourself, and of opportunities for growth and healing. My therapy style is eclectic, though I mostly utilize CBT, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe you already have the power to be happy within you, and I will assist you in discovering that power. Therapy happens outside of the therapy room, between sessions, which means there might be homework. The catalyst for change is you!
My primary focus is on helping those with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
Therapy is about exploring yourself and the way you interact with those around you to create opportunities for a greater experience in the world. This process of exploration allows you to develop an awareness of yourself, and of opportunities for growth and healing. My therapy style is eclectic, though I mostly utilize CBT, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe you already have the power to be happy within you, and I will assist you in discovering that power. Therapy happens outside of the therapy room, between sessions, which means there might be homework. The catalyst for change is you!
(619) 648-2144 View (619) 648-2144
Photo of Raizel Lax, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raizel Lax
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
I am most experienced in helping individuals with, mild to moderate depression, mild to moderate anxiety, loss, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Hello! My name is Raizel Lax I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal is to help you find healing through the therapeutic relationship we create together. You will be provided with a private, safe space for you to clarify confusion, find meaning, and develop the tools and skills needed to optimize both interpersonal and intrapersonal challenges. Some of my clinical specialties are in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, Chronic illness, Grief, and adjustment disorders.
I am most experienced in helping individuals with, mild to moderate depression, mild to moderate anxiety, loss, life transitions, and relationship issues.
Hello! My name is Raizel Lax I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal is to help you find healing through the therapeutic relationship we create together. You will be provided with a private, safe space for you to clarify confusion, find meaning, and develop the tools and skills needed to optimize both interpersonal and intrapersonal challenges. Some of my clinical specialties are in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, Chronic illness, Grief, and adjustment disorders.
(858) 463-6703 View (858) 463-6703
Photo of Debra Berl, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Berl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Debra Berl is a Licensed Clinical Social worker who completed her graduate degree in 1991 and was licensed in 1995. She has been working in the field of Social Work and Counseling since 1991. Debra treats clients from all backgrounds with a focus on adults and adolescents. Debra's area of experience and training include: grief and loss, coping with chronic pain and illness, depression, women's issues, LGBTQ concerns, supporting parents of children with special needs and treating anxiety disorders.
Debra Berl is a Licensed Clinical Social worker who completed her graduate degree in 1991 and was licensed in 1995. She has been working in the field of Social Work and Counseling since 1991. Debra treats clients from all backgrounds with a focus on adults and adolescents. Debra's area of experience and training include: grief and loss, coping with chronic pain and illness, depression, women's issues, LGBTQ concerns, supporting parents of children with special needs and treating anxiety disorders.
(858) 758-3514 View (858) 758-3514
Photo of Explore Counseling Group - Explore Counseling Group (nee Caldwell-Clark), MA, LMFT, AMFT, APC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Explore Counseling Group (nee Caldwell-Clark)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AMFT, APC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
New name - same quality counseling! A nonprofit established by Ben Caldwell and Aimee Clark in 2011, we have a team of compassionate and skilled associates ready to provide high-quality, affordable services to inform, improve, restore, and strengthen both the individual sense of self, and human relationships. Our focus includes, but is not limited to: Couples, Families, Parenting, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Problems, Grief and Hospice, High Conflict Relationships, and Behavior Problems. Our counselors are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Trauma Therapy (EMDR), and more.
New name - same quality counseling! A nonprofit established by Ben Caldwell and Aimee Clark in 2011, we have a team of compassionate and skilled associates ready to provide high-quality, affordable services to inform, improve, restore, and strengthen both the individual sense of self, and human relationships. Our focus includes, but is not limited to: Couples, Families, Parenting, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Problems, Grief and Hospice, High Conflict Relationships, and Behavior Problems. Our counselors are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Trauma Therapy (EMDR), and more.
(858) 368-4059 View (858) 368-4059
Photo of Nina Katherine Tomkiewicz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina Katherine Tomkiewicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
If you are wanting help to create change in your life, you are in the right spot. It's easy to get stuck in mental, emotional or behavioral patterns that cause suffering. I understand diagnoses like "anxiety" and " depression" to be collections of thoughts and feelings that become habitual ways of responding to life. To change means to identify how we want to think and feel, practicing a new way of being, and figuring out what we need to un-learn along the way.
If you are wanting help to create change in your life, you are in the right spot. It's easy to get stuck in mental, emotional or behavioral patterns that cause suffering. I understand diagnoses like "anxiety" and " depression" to be collections of thoughts and feelings that become habitual ways of responding to life. To change means to identify how we want to think and feel, practicing a new way of being, and figuring out what we need to un-learn along the way.
(619) 975-3894 View (619) 975-3894
Photo of Erinn Tozer - Hillcrest Psychological Associates
Hillcrest Psychological Associates
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Having difficulty finding a therapist with an opening? We have over 28 clinicians ready for you to choose from. Often, the decision to seek therapy involves courage and strength. Through a trusting partnership and genuine connection, counseling can help improve your quality of life and increase self-esteem. We treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, grief, and counseling specific to the LGBTQ+ community and college/graduate students. No matter what you’re seeking therapy for, one aspect remains the same: our dedication to your well-being.
Having difficulty finding a therapist with an opening? We have over 28 clinicians ready for you to choose from. Often, the decision to seek therapy involves courage and strength. Through a trusting partnership and genuine connection, counseling can help improve your quality of life and increase self-esteem. We treat a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, grief, and counseling specific to the LGBTQ+ community and college/graduate students. No matter what you’re seeking therapy for, one aspect remains the same: our dedication to your well-being.
(619) 940-1186 x10 View (619) 940-1186 x10
Photo of Christopher Schell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher Schell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
These often present themselves in the form of anxiety, depression stress, substance abuse, as well as conflicting cultural and socioeconomic factors.
Christopher Schell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego, California and works with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from National University. Christopher works with children, adolescents and adults and specializes in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. His passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing. Christopher's approach to his work is always centered around the specific needs of the client.
These often present themselves in the form of anxiety, depression stress, substance abuse, as well as conflicting cultural and socioeconomic factors.
Christopher Schell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego, California and works with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from National University. Christopher works with children, adolescents and adults and specializes in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. His passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing. Christopher's approach to his work is always centered around the specific needs of the client.
(619) 943-1332 View (619) 943-1332
Photo of Leanna Park, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leanna Park
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Hello there! My name is Leanna Park. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families through their toughest times, can celebrate with you through the good times, and be there with you through everything else in between. I can't wait to watch you grow as you meet your personal needs! I find myself working with a wide range of clients. I have seen individuals, couples, and families throughout my career as a therapist. The conditions that I find myself comfortable working with are anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance use, and trauma.
Hello there! My name is Leanna Park. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families through their toughest times, can celebrate with you through the good times, and be there with you through everything else in between. I can't wait to watch you grow as you meet your personal needs! I find myself working with a wide range of clients. I have seen individuals, couples, and families throughout my career as a therapist. The conditions that I find myself comfortable working with are anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance use, and trauma.
(619) 612-5270 View (619) 612-5270
Photo of Mojgan Khademi, PsyD, FABP, Psychologist
Mojgan Khademi
Psychologist, PsyD, FABP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
I have over 20 years of clinical experience in the mental health field working with adults struggling with a variety of concerns. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (CA License #PSY15300), a Board-Certified psychoanalyst, and a fellow of the American Board of Psychoanalysis. My practice in ludes two psychological Associates who see patients on a sliding scale. I have extensive training working adults in individual therapy and have expertise in treating depression, disordered eating, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and dissatisfaction with oneself and one’s life.
I have over 20 years of clinical experience in the mental health field working with adults struggling with a variety of concerns. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (CA License #PSY15300), a Board-Certified psychoanalyst, and a fellow of the American Board of Psychoanalysis. My practice in ludes two psychological Associates who see patients on a sliding scale. I have extensive training working adults in individual therapy and have expertise in treating depression, disordered eating, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and dissatisfaction with oneself and one’s life.
(619) 340-1037 View (619) 340-1037
Photo of Letriece S Johnson - Letriece Johnson w/ COCOA Cup Therapy, Inc., MSW, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Letriece Johnson w/ COCOA Cup Therapy, Inc.
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92114  (Online Only)
Are you ready for a change? Are you feeling stuck, bothered, feeling some way, overwhelmed, or just not feeling like yourself? My name is Letriece Johnson, and I am an Associate Clinical Licensed Social Worker, providing access, building resilience and support to the BIPOC community. I am here to help get you to a LYFE REimagined. I have a deep understanding of the disparities, challenges, and barriers associated with marginalized communities. I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and self-esteem.
Are you ready for a change? Are you feeling stuck, bothered, feeling some way, overwhelmed, or just not feeling like yourself? My name is Letriece Johnson, and I am an Associate Clinical Licensed Social Worker, providing access, building resilience and support to the BIPOC community. I am here to help get you to a LYFE REimagined. I have a deep understanding of the disparities, challenges, and barriers associated with marginalized communities. I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and self-esteem.
(619) 775-1392 View (619) 775-1392
Photo of Hengameh Motaghed, PhD, Psychologist
Hengameh Motaghed
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Hengamed Motaghed, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist offering therapy for individuals, couples and families. She works extensively with problems related to stress, anxiety, depression, relationship stress/problems and chronic mental disorders. Dr. Motaghed has done extensive research and practice in the field of Cross Cultural Psychology and has worked with clients who have cultural challenges and cross cultural issues.
Hengamed Motaghed, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist offering therapy for individuals, couples and families. She works extensively with problems related to stress, anxiety, depression, relationship stress/problems and chronic mental disorders. Dr. Motaghed has done extensive research and practice in the field of Cross Cultural Psychology and has worked with clients who have cultural challenges and cross cultural issues.
(619) 345-0114 View (619) 345-0114
Photo of Dani Schaer, PsyD, Psychologist
Dani Schaer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
I specialize in empowering teens, young adults, and families facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and life transitions.
I have a passion for helping teens, young adults, and families, grapple with challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and life transitions. Their needs include holistic support, coping skills, and improved family dynamics. Clients that want to build autonomy, confidence, and healthier relationships are ideal. They seek understanding, coping strategies, and a collaborative approach to navigate and thrive through their unique journeys.
I specialize in empowering teens, young adults, and families facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and life transitions.
I have a passion for helping teens, young adults, and families, grapple with challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and life transitions. Their needs include holistic support, coping skills, and improved family dynamics. Clients that want to build autonomy, confidence, and healthier relationships are ideal. They seek understanding, coping strategies, and a collaborative approach to navigate and thrive through their unique journeys.
(760) 334-5132 x103 View (760) 334-5132 x103
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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.