Photo of Alexis Sword, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexis Sword
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
Over 2,600 5-star reviews doing remote therapy.  2019 and 2022 business Award for Excellence in Psychotherapy!  Treating: Adults and Children via Remote Therapy ages 9-99yrs. 25+yrs experience using a mind, body and soul approach. Specialty: Depression, ADHD, Anxiety & Trauma.   As a survivor herself of child abuse, rape and kidnapping her use of both traditional therapy and Eastern knowledge from studies with Tibetan Monks in India and Shamans in Central America, has lead to hundreds of clients with amazing results.
Over 2,600 5-star reviews doing remote therapy.  2019 and 2022 business Award for Excellence in Psychotherapy!  Treating: Adults and Children via Remote Therapy ages 9-99yrs. 25+yrs experience using a mind, body and soul approach. Specialty: Depression, ADHD, Anxiety & Trauma.   As a survivor herself of child abuse, rape and kidnapping her use of both traditional therapy and Eastern knowledge from studies with Tibetan Monks in India and Shamans in Central America, has lead to hundreds of clients with amazing results.
(310) 340-0671 View (310) 340-0671
Photo of Stacey D Downing, LMFT, MA, Coach, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stacey D Downing
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, Coach
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
I work with those experiencing mental health challenges along with those going through what some refer to as "the dark night of the soul" which may show up as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, addiction, or suicidal ideation.
We are here to thrive, not just survive. As a licensed therapist, Shamanic practitioner and former bodyworker, I am here to help the soul searchers, truth seekers, and those on a quest to rediscover their authentic selves towards overall health and healing. I will support you on your journey to shed the layers of fear, shame, trauma and pain. I will help you on your spiritual or self healing journey, providing additional support as you encounter life's challenges. When the walls come down, and the truth of the authentic self begins to emerge, it may be difficult, but we will move through it together. We will identify triggers and blockages, and look into things such as unhealthy attachments, cognitive distortions (negative thoughts) and “less than healthy” belief systems. It doesn’t matter whether they came from trauma in childhood, abuse, unhealthy relationships, grief or loss, I am here to help. By identifying, processing, and releasing that which no longer serves you will allow the true healing to finally begin and set your feet on the path you were meant to walk.
I work with those experiencing mental health challenges along with those going through what some refer to as "the dark night of the soul" which may show up as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, addiction, or suicidal ideation.
We are here to thrive, not just survive. As a licensed therapist, Shamanic practitioner and former bodyworker, I am here to help the soul searchers, truth seekers, and those on a quest to rediscover their authentic selves towards overall health and healing. I will support you on your journey to shed the layers of fear, shame, trauma and pain. I will help you on your spiritual or self healing journey, providing additional support as you encounter life's challenges. When the walls come down, and the truth of the authentic self begins to emerge, it may be difficult, but we will move through it together. We will identify triggers and blockages, and look into things such as unhealthy attachments, cognitive distortions (negative thoughts) and “less than healthy” belief systems. It doesn’t matter whether they came from trauma in childhood, abuse, unhealthy relationships, grief or loss, I am here to help. By identifying, processing, and releasing that which no longer serves you will allow the true healing to finally begin and set your feet on the path you were meant to walk.
(858) 251-1074 View (858) 251-1074
Photo of Tess Owens, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tess Owens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Qualified to provide individual and family therapy. I have gained an in-depth understanding and passion for relational and family systems, trauma-informed care and experiential interventions. I am an empathic and insightful therapist with a talent for empowering clients towards positive growth. I have a successful history of achievement in academic, training and work experiences. Trained in assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning and providing psychotherapy to adults & adolescents with a wide variety of presenting problems including, depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, self esteem, identity, relapse and addiction.
Qualified to provide individual and family therapy. I have gained an in-depth understanding and passion for relational and family systems, trauma-informed care and experiential interventions. I am an empathic and insightful therapist with a talent for empowering clients towards positive growth. I have a successful history of achievement in academic, training and work experiences. Trained in assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning and providing psychotherapy to adults & adolescents with a wide variety of presenting problems including, depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, self esteem, identity, relapse and addiction.
(619) 431-4106 View (619) 431-4106
Photo of Jeongmi Moon, PhD, Psychologist
Jeongmi Moon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92126
Depression, Anxiety, Women's Issues; Menopause, Postpartum/Prenatal/reproductive issues, Cultural Issues(Immigration), Loss and Grief, Anger Issues, Family issues, Occupational issues, school issues, ADHD, LGBTQAI+ issues.
Dr. Moon is a compassionate psychologist dedicated to fostering mental well-being. She creates a warm and inclusive therapeutic environment, ensuring effective communication with diverse clients. With a wealth of experience in addressing various psychological challenges, Dr. Moon is committed to guiding individuals on their journey to emotional resilience and personal growth.
Depression, Anxiety, Women's Issues; Menopause, Postpartum/Prenatal/reproductive issues, Cultural Issues(Immigration), Loss and Grief, Anger Issues, Family issues, Occupational issues, school issues, ADHD, LGBTQAI+ issues.
Dr. Moon is a compassionate psychologist dedicated to fostering mental well-being. She creates a warm and inclusive therapeutic environment, ensuring effective communication with diverse clients. With a wealth of experience in addressing various psychological challenges, Dr. Moon is committed to guiding individuals on their journey to emotional resilience and personal growth.
(619) 374-8568 View (619) 374-8568
Photo of Julia Kamp, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Kamp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Ready to begin your journey of self-discovery and healing? Are you tired of emotionally suffering or staying stuck in old patterns? I am here to help you by providing support and building skills through tele-mental health services. I have over 10 years of experience with both military and civilians working with individuals, couples, families, and children struggling with trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship stress, parenting issues, anger management, and much more.
Ready to begin your journey of self-discovery and healing? Are you tired of emotionally suffering or staying stuck in old patterns? I am here to help you by providing support and building skills through tele-mental health services. I have over 10 years of experience with both military and civilians working with individuals, couples, families, and children struggling with trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship stress, parenting issues, anger management, and much more.
(619) 473-2753 View (619) 473-2753
Photo of Jacqueline Miranda, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Miranda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105
Hello! My name is Jacqueline Miranda, I'm an LMFT and I have been working in the field 8 years. Some of my areas of focus include working with couples, individuals, and children utilizing a trauma informed approach. I primarily work with children, and I am also comfortable working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma. My approach tends to be person centered, trauma focused, and humanistic.
Hello! My name is Jacqueline Miranda, I'm an LMFT and I have been working in the field 8 years. Some of my areas of focus include working with couples, individuals, and children utilizing a trauma informed approach. I primarily work with children, and I am also comfortable working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma. My approach tends to be person centered, trauma focused, and humanistic.
(858) 463-6719 View (858) 463-6719
Photo of Diana Pena, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Pena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
Hi! My name is Diana, I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have 21+ years of mental health experience working with adults, children, and families in inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings. My experience working with various issues including transgenerational and relational trauma, familial conflict, anxiety, depression, and other disorders. My experience working with various issues including transgenerational and relational trauma, familial conflict, relationship conflict anxiety, depression, and other disorders.
Hi! My name is Diana, I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have 21+ years of mental health experience working with adults, children, and families in inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings. My experience working with various issues including transgenerational and relational trauma, familial conflict, anxiety, depression, and other disorders. My experience working with various issues including transgenerational and relational trauma, familial conflict, relationship conflict anxiety, depression, and other disorders.
(619) 949-3293 View (619) 949-3293
Photo of Molly Paris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Paris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I also have experience with individuals facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational issues, and attachment struggles.
Sharing our inner experiences with someone can often feel frightening, which is exactly why I place such an importance on connection and acceptance in the therapeutic process. I aim to create a safe environment that will invite my clients to delve deeper into their personal narrative, as I truly believe we are not built to process emotions alone. As humans, we all have a propensity to grow and become our true selves, unfortunately we aren’t always gifted with the circumstances to allow it. I am passionate about creating a space for not only self-discovery and self acceptance, but to allow clients to feel seen, heard, and valued.
I also have experience with individuals facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational issues, and attachment struggles.
Sharing our inner experiences with someone can often feel frightening, which is exactly why I place such an importance on connection and acceptance in the therapeutic process. I aim to create a safe environment that will invite my clients to delve deeper into their personal narrative, as I truly believe we are not built to process emotions alone. As humans, we all have a propensity to grow and become our true selves, unfortunately we aren’t always gifted with the circumstances to allow it. I am passionate about creating a space for not only self-discovery and self acceptance, but to allow clients to feel seen, heard, and valued.
(619) 658-8738 View (619) 658-8738
Photo of Dr. Tahirih Moffett, PsyD, MSSW, BSN, Psychologist
Dr. Tahirih Moffett
Psychologist, PsyD, MSSW, BSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Let’s say it – life can be hard! It takes courage to ask for help and I’m here to help you develop greater self-understanding and cope with your concerns better. Family and relationship problems, microaggressions/discriminations, financial stress, work and academic demands can sometimes feel overwhelming. Unmanaged self-critical thoughts and rejection of our natural emotions make it worse and can lead to depression and excess anxiety. You may find that the coping strategies you’ve used in the past are no longer working for you. Well, I am here to help support your journey towards building the sort of life you want.
Let’s say it – life can be hard! It takes courage to ask for help and I’m here to help you develop greater self-understanding and cope with your concerns better. Family and relationship problems, microaggressions/discriminations, financial stress, work and academic demands can sometimes feel overwhelming. Unmanaged self-critical thoughts and rejection of our natural emotions make it worse and can lead to depression and excess anxiety. You may find that the coping strategies you’ve used in the past are no longer working for you. Well, I am here to help support your journey towards building the sort of life you want.
(619) 489-1534 View (619) 489-1534
Photo of Melanie Hunt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
I am trained in treating depression and anxiety disorders, mood disorders, self-harm issues, stress management, anger issues, childhood trauma, as well as grief and behavioral problems.
Hello, I’m Melanie! My name is Melanie Hunt. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego; CA. I serve clients within the state of California via telehealth. I work with adults 18 years and older. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and childhood trauma utilizing therapeutic modalities such as Narrative therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and attachment theory to improve the lives of my clients.
I am trained in treating depression and anxiety disorders, mood disorders, self-harm issues, stress management, anger issues, childhood trauma, as well as grief and behavioral problems.
Hello, I’m Melanie! My name is Melanie Hunt. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego; CA. I serve clients within the state of California via telehealth. I work with adults 18 years and older. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and childhood trauma utilizing therapeutic modalities such as Narrative therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and attachment theory to improve the lives of my clients.
(619) 404-3213 View (619) 404-3213
Photo of Dr. Dominic J. DiMaggio, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Dominic J. DiMaggio
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92102
I specialize in adult individual psychotherapy. I have worked in multiple outpatient treatment facilities, including community mental health, public high school, federal career training facility, and university counseling centers. I am interested in and have experience in the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, emotion regulation, and relationship difficulties. I enjoy providing mental health services to the San Diego community, where there are many people with diverse life experiences.
I specialize in adult individual psychotherapy. I have worked in multiple outpatient treatment facilities, including community mental health, public high school, federal career training facility, and university counseling centers. I am interested in and have experience in the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, emotion regulation, and relationship difficulties. I enjoy providing mental health services to the San Diego community, where there are many people with diverse life experiences.
(858) 412-1427 View (858) 412-1427
Photo of Shena Crowe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shena Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
My whole-person approach to care has helped my clients safeguard their health, work through trauma, manage stress, anxiety, depression and much more.
Hello, my name is Shena and I am a Licensed Mental Health Practitioner who has had the pleasure of working in public and private sector behavioral health which has provided me with a germane of experience working with individuals, children, and families. In my experience, I learned quickly that people who struggled with internal challenges were either confronted with familial shame or cultural stigma which made asking for help very difficult or non-existent which left many to struggle in silence. For these reasons, I have made it my life’s mission to advocate for and help individuals who may not have the support they need.
My whole-person approach to care has helped my clients safeguard their health, work through trauma, manage stress, anxiety, depression and much more.
Hello, my name is Shena and I am a Licensed Mental Health Practitioner who has had the pleasure of working in public and private sector behavioral health which has provided me with a germane of experience working with individuals, children, and families. In my experience, I learned quickly that people who struggled with internal challenges were either confronted with familial shame or cultural stigma which made asking for help very difficult or non-existent which left many to struggle in silence. For these reasons, I have made it my life’s mission to advocate for and help individuals who may not have the support they need.
(619) 651-9931 View (619) 651-9931
Photo of Celia Cruz-Elmassian Lcsw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celia Cruz-Elmassian Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92111
Addressing depression and anxiety can be intimidating, but my person centered and mindful approach focuses on helping clients towards a state of acceptance - towards themselves, others, and life situation, which is often the springboard toward taking committed action to thrive in a way that is consistent with your values.
You try to put on a brave face, but you've been struggling for a while. Balancing the many demands of life - work, relationships, school, stressful surprises - can feel overwhelming for everyone and it can impact our ability to function in the healthiest of ways. You know you have to try to keep that brave face on and try to be "happy" but you're not even sure what happy means anymore. You need to figure out how to live your own best life, and not everyone else's
Addressing depression and anxiety can be intimidating, but my person centered and mindful approach focuses on helping clients towards a state of acceptance - towards themselves, others, and life situation, which is often the springboard toward taking committed action to thrive in a way that is consistent with your values.
You try to put on a brave face, but you've been struggling for a while. Balancing the many demands of life - work, relationships, school, stressful surprises - can feel overwhelming for everyone and it can impact our ability to function in the healthiest of ways. You know you have to try to keep that brave face on and try to be "happy" but you're not even sure what happy means anymore. You need to figure out how to live your own best life, and not everyone else's
(858) 463-4212 x100 View (858) 463-4212 x100
Photo of Julie Lynn Paavola, MA, LPCC, LMHC, ATR-BC
Julie Lynn Paavola
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
I also use EMDR for trauma, CBT to address depression and exposure therapy for OCD.
Welcome to Creative Endeavors! I am here to support you in finding the healing potential within yourself. Just as our bodies heal from a cut, under the right conditions our psyche/soul can heal and thrive. It requires us to work together to foster meaning, purpose and new life through therapy which I call a "creative endeavor." Together we can form a compassionate partnership to explore who you are, your goals, hopes and dreams, in a safe, non-judgmental space.
I also use EMDR for trauma, CBT to address depression and exposure therapy for OCD.
Welcome to Creative Endeavors! I am here to support you in finding the healing potential within yourself. Just as our bodies heal from a cut, under the right conditions our psyche/soul can heal and thrive. It requires us to work together to foster meaning, purpose and new life through therapy which I call a "creative endeavor." Together we can form a compassionate partnership to explore who you are, your goals, hopes and dreams, in a safe, non-judgmental space.
(619) 329-9571 View (619) 329-9571
Photo of Sasha Sandles-Palmer, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Sasha Sandles-Palmer
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
This allows Sasha to address anxiety, depression, trauma, self worth, perfectionism, relationship issues, IBD/IBS, career counseling, grief and loss issues.
Does fear, trauma, or anxiety interfere with living your life? Do you feel uncertain about the direction your life or relationships are drifting? Or do you wonder how to assert yourself more in your relationships? If the answer is yes, you are not alone. Life is filled with the unexpected and the best we can do is to find solutions. But it is often not simple to act on or even know what solutions exist. Our fears, anxieties, traumas, and other emotional blocks diminish motivation and confidence to take action. This makes a self-reflective examination of what is necessary to support the growth of what is possible.
This allows Sasha to address anxiety, depression, trauma, self worth, perfectionism, relationship issues, IBD/IBS, career counseling, grief and loss issues.
Does fear, trauma, or anxiety interfere with living your life? Do you feel uncertain about the direction your life or relationships are drifting? Or do you wonder how to assert yourself more in your relationships? If the answer is yes, you are not alone. Life is filled with the unexpected and the best we can do is to find solutions. But it is often not simple to act on or even know what solutions exist. Our fears, anxieties, traumas, and other emotional blocks diminish motivation and confidence to take action. This makes a self-reflective examination of what is necessary to support the growth of what is possible.
(619) 313-5034 View (619) 313-5034
Photo of Jen Leone - Jennifer Leone, LMFT #14433, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Leone, LMFT #14433
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116
Are your thoughts working for or against yourself? I work with professional adults, individual men & women, experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief issues, relational conflict/recovery, and parenting challenges. If you are ready to make changes, frustrated with your current relationship, state of mind or grieving process, I can help you use your strengths to elicit change.
Are your thoughts working for or against yourself? I work with professional adults, individual men & women, experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief issues, relational conflict/recovery, and parenting challenges. If you are ready to make changes, frustrated with your current relationship, state of mind or grieving process, I can help you use your strengths to elicit change.
(619) 486-5601 View (619) 486-5601
Photo of Jessica A. Lopez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica A. Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious or depressed because of work, a relationship, or your adult relationship with your parents? Do you want deeper connections or want to explore your attachment style? I'm Jessica, and I'm here to support you. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, also known as a connection reviver & hope restorer. As a Native American woman & transplant to San Diego, I believe we are capable of change. I specialize in helping individuals like you navigate the complexities of modern living, offering tailored support to address anxiety & depression, and guide you toward feeling better in yourself & in your relationships.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed because of work, a relationship, or your adult relationship with your parents? Do you want deeper connections or want to explore your attachment style? I'm Jessica, and I'm here to support you. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, also known as a connection reviver & hope restorer. As a Native American woman & transplant to San Diego, I believe we are capable of change. I specialize in helping individuals like you navigate the complexities of modern living, offering tailored support to address anxiety & depression, and guide you toward feeling better in yourself & in your relationships.
(619) 378-4692 View (619) 378-4692
Photo of Sarah Mace, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Mace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92102  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am passionate about creating a safe space for you to work through grief and loss, anxiety, depression, codependency, women's issues, and life transitions such as divorce. Together, we will use evidence-based modalities to support your goals so you can feel better and live a life that is aligned with what is important to you. Therapy is a process and I make it a point to provide education and support every step of the way.
Hi there! I am passionate about creating a safe space for you to work through grief and loss, anxiety, depression, codependency, women's issues, and life transitions such as divorce. Together, we will use evidence-based modalities to support your goals so you can feel better and live a life that is aligned with what is important to you. Therapy is a process and I make it a point to provide education and support every step of the way.
(619) 658-7081 View (619) 658-7081
Photo of Esau Valdez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Esau Valdez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Esau Valdez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2022. He has an MA in Psychology from Brandman University. Esau helps in reducing and eliminating these symptoms that have impacted functioning for the individual by providing a welcoming and safe environment where the individual can talk about their problems without judgment, shame, or guilt. Esau has worked and works with people who experience depression, anxiety, social anxiety, grief, loss, work stress, and various family issues.
Esau Valdez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2022. He has an MA in Psychology from Brandman University. Esau helps in reducing and eliminating these symptoms that have impacted functioning for the individual by providing a welcoming and safe environment where the individual can talk about their problems without judgment, shame, or guilt. Esau has worked and works with people who experience depression, anxiety, social anxiety, grief, loss, work stress, and various family issues.
(858) 682-2321 View (858) 682-2321
Photo of Marjorie Manuel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marjorie Manuel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92113
My name is Marjorie Manuel, LCSW practicing in the state of California. I am very big on rapport building and involving the clients in driving their own treatments, which include active participation in goal setting and working on realistic expectations in therapy. My background experiences were focused on depression, anxiety, stress, counseling, mental health illness, substance use, grief, and military.
My name is Marjorie Manuel, LCSW practicing in the state of California. I am very big on rapport building and involving the clients in driving their own treatments, which include active participation in goal setting and working on realistic expectations in therapy. My background experiences were focused on depression, anxiety, stress, counseling, mental health illness, substance use, grief, and military.
(619) 586-6399 View (619) 586-6399
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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.