Depression Therapists in San Marino, CA

Photo of Dr. Roger Nolan, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Roger Nolan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
I have been trained in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) for depression and anxiety.
I specialize in Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy. This process, whether used alone, or supplemented by my other specialties (including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Imago Couples Therapy), helps us to cultivate a new relationship to situations in daily life. My motto is, "If you can't change the situation, change your relationship TO the situation." My treatment style is client-centered and solution-focused.
I have been trained in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) for depression and anxiety.
I specialize in Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy. This process, whether used alone, or supplemented by my other specialties (including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Imago Couples Therapy), helps us to cultivate a new relationship to situations in daily life. My motto is, "If you can't change the situation, change your relationship TO the situation." My treatment style is client-centered and solution-focused.
(626) 498-2188 View (626) 498-2188
Photo of Claudia Rosenberg, MSW, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Rosenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
When things aren't going right and it's time to seek help, I will be there to individualize your treatment and focus on your particular needs. I work with young adults, adults and older adults around many issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, difficult emotions, women's issues, recent losses, struggles in parenting, health crises, caring for the aging parent, as well as dealing with the transition of aging. I also have specialized experience with life span issues-emerging adulthood and adult children of aging parents, as well as with couples who are in business together.
When things aren't going right and it's time to seek help, I will be there to individualize your treatment and focus on your particular needs. I work with young adults, adults and older adults around many issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, difficult emotions, women's issues, recent losses, struggles in parenting, health crises, caring for the aging parent, as well as dealing with the transition of aging. I also have specialized experience with life span issues-emerging adulthood and adult children of aging parents, as well as with couples who are in business together.
(323) 576-4813 View (323) 576-4813
Photo of Canzi Wang, PhD, Psychologist
Canzi Wang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
My specialties are providing Mandarin-English bilingual therapy, working with internationals, immigrants, and Asian/Asian Americans, and treating relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, women’s issues, and attachment (family-of-origin) issues.
I’m glad you are here! Looking for a therapist means you’ve taken the initiative to ask for help and seek for change. Many people say that they already start to feel better after making their first appointment. Whether you are feeling stuck or blocked to achieve your goals, losing self-confidence and motivation; or having difficulty coping with a recent loss, a big life change; or finding yourself feeling more anxious, sad, angry, or having more arguments and feeling unsatisfied in your significant relationships; or you are interested in figuring out who you are and feel more connected with yourself; I am here for you.
My specialties are providing Mandarin-English bilingual therapy, working with internationals, immigrants, and Asian/Asian Americans, and treating relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, women’s issues, and attachment (family-of-origin) issues.
I’m glad you are here! Looking for a therapist means you’ve taken the initiative to ask for help and seek for change. Many people say that they already start to feel better after making their first appointment. Whether you are feeling stuck or blocked to achieve your goals, losing self-confidence and motivation; or having difficulty coping with a recent loss, a big life change; or finding yourself feeling more anxious, sad, angry, or having more arguments and feeling unsatisfied in your significant relationships; or you are interested in figuring out who you are and feel more connected with yourself; I am here for you.
(626) 317-6947 View (626) 317-6947
Photo of Brett Veltman, PsyD, Psychologist
Brett Veltman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
Relationships can be tough. But they can also be a source of great connection and joy. Are you struggling in your most important relationships? Or having conflicting feelings about the people in your life? Maybe you're feeling anxious or depressed? Or struggling to understand the changes taking place with your child or adolescent? Whatever struggle you're facing, you don't need face them on your own.
Relationships can be tough. But they can also be a source of great connection and joy. Are you struggling in your most important relationships? Or having conflicting feelings about the people in your life? Maybe you're feeling anxious or depressed? Or struggling to understand the changes taking place with your child or adolescent? Whatever struggle you're facing, you don't need face them on your own.
(626) 263-7528 View (626) 263-7528
Photo of Wei-Chin Hwang, PhD, Psychologist
Wei-Chin Hwang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
Hwang's clients struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflict, couples problems, self-esteem issues, personal growth, identity development, adjustment difficulties, and traumatic experiences.
Dr. Wei-Chin Hwang is a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of clinical psychology. He has two practice locations, one in Pasadena and one in Claremont, California. In his practice, he provides psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. Dr. Hwang has over 30 years of education, training, and experience in the field of psychology. He received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from UCLA (ranked #1 in clinical psychology) and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Harbor UCLA Medical Center. He is a professor at Claremont McKenna College (ranked #6 among liberal arts colleges in the U.S.).
Hwang's clients struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflict, couples problems, self-esteem issues, personal growth, identity development, adjustment difficulties, and traumatic experiences.
Dr. Wei-Chin Hwang is a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of clinical psychology. He has two practice locations, one in Pasadena and one in Claremont, California. In his practice, he provides psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. Dr. Hwang has over 30 years of education, training, and experience in the field of psychology. He received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from UCLA (ranked #1 in clinical psychology) and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Harbor UCLA Medical Center. He is a professor at Claremont McKenna College (ranked #6 among liberal arts colleges in the U.S.).
(310) 331-8709 View (310) 331-8709
Photo of Alison Lewis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
Everyone gets stuck sometimes. It could be about relationships, work issues or family stress. It can be about things that happened in childhood, like rejection or physical or sexual abuse. Feeling bad about ourselves and the effects of trauma can derail us. Trauma is a word that means "unhealed wound." When we have experienced trauma we might develop low self esteem, anxiety or depression, or we might engage in unhealthy behaviors. What do you want to change? I've been a therapist for 25 years and I want to help you get to where you want to go.
Everyone gets stuck sometimes. It could be about relationships, work issues or family stress. It can be about things that happened in childhood, like rejection or physical or sexual abuse. Feeling bad about ourselves and the effects of trauma can derail us. Trauma is a word that means "unhealed wound." When we have experienced trauma we might develop low self esteem, anxiety or depression, or we might engage in unhealthy behaviors. What do you want to change? I've been a therapist for 25 years and I want to help you get to where you want to go.
(213) 465-3908 View (213) 465-3908
Photo of Ted Cosse, PsyD, MA, MBA, Psychologist
Ted Cosse
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I specialize in working with individual adults who, despite success they may be experiencing in many aspects of their lives, are feeling depressed and/or anxious, and who may have reached a point where their life lacks a sense of purpose and meaning. Ideally, clients I work with are willing to explore their past for the purpose of identifying patterns in the way they have behaved and felt, and for the purpose of understanding how these patterns may have developed. Then, I will help you identify specific changes you may want to consider to help you move forward.
I specialize in working with individual adults who, despite success they may be experiencing in many aspects of their lives, are feeling depressed and/or anxious, and who may have reached a point where their life lacks a sense of purpose and meaning. Ideally, clients I work with are willing to explore their past for the purpose of identifying patterns in the way they have behaved and felt, and for the purpose of understanding how these patterns may have developed. Then, I will help you identify specific changes you may want to consider to help you move forward.
(626) 467-3001 View (626) 467-3001
Photo of Carlo Diaz, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carlo Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
I have helped people with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and childhood issues, among others.
I believe therapy to be a safe place where someone who is in need of help can be heard free of judgment. One of the main keys of therapy is working together on eliminating behaviors and belief patterns that do not help you grow as a person. By using various approaches that are tailored to your needs, therapy will assist in the development of tools and skills, which will help support personal growth. (Mi lengua materna es el español si le es mas agusto comunicarse asi).
I have helped people with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and childhood issues, among others.
I believe therapy to be a safe place where someone who is in need of help can be heard free of judgment. One of the main keys of therapy is working together on eliminating behaviors and belief patterns that do not help you grow as a person. By using various approaches that are tailored to your needs, therapy will assist in the development of tools and skills, which will help support personal growth. (Mi lengua materna es el español si le es mas agusto comunicarse asi).
(626) 400-6159 View (626) 400-6159
Photo of Gently Ang, PhD, Psychologist
Gently Ang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
Waitlist for new clients
I am a clinical psychologist with extensive background in both psychotherapy and assessment. Many of the clients I have worked with in psychotherapy have backgrounds of abuse and trauma, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, relationship breakdowns, and/or adjustment difficulties to career and life transitions. My psychotherapy approach draws from humanistic relational psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a biopsychosocial view of persons. I work collaboratively with my clients to set the goals and pace of the psychotherapy process.
I am a clinical psychologist with extensive background in both psychotherapy and assessment. Many of the clients I have worked with in psychotherapy have backgrounds of abuse and trauma, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, relationship breakdowns, and/or adjustment difficulties to career and life transitions. My psychotherapy approach draws from humanistic relational psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a biopsychosocial view of persons. I work collaboratively with my clients to set the goals and pace of the psychotherapy process.
(626) 310-4562 View (626) 310-4562
Photo of Rachel Ward, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
We all want to be understood and feel like we are making progress towards our life goals. My approach is comforting, humorous, humble, creative and lovingly direct. Everyone needs connection and in my experience the benefits of connecting and being seen by someone in therapy are many. Are you interested in working on an issue related to a relationship, major life change, depression and/or anxiety? Visit my website www.rachelwardlmft.com or call at 626-327-3456 for a free 25 minute consultation to see if we are a good fit. Making sure we connect is very important.
We all want to be understood and feel like we are making progress towards our life goals. My approach is comforting, humorous, humble, creative and lovingly direct. Everyone needs connection and in my experience the benefits of connecting and being seen by someone in therapy are many. Are you interested in working on an issue related to a relationship, major life change, depression and/or anxiety? Visit my website www.rachelwardlmft.com or call at 626-327-3456 for a free 25 minute consultation to see if we are a good fit. Making sure we connect is very important.
(626) 264-8724 View (626) 264-8724
Photo of Richard LaBrie, PsyD, Psychologist
Richard LaBrie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I work primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, identity exploration, autism spectrum disorder, self-esteem, grief and loss, and other concerns.
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
I work primarily with trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, identity exploration, autism spectrum disorder, self-esteem, grief and loss, and other concerns.
I believe everyone's feelings, personal history, strengths, and struggles are unique. At the same time, we are all a part of the connected, human story. But sometimes we can feel alone in our suffering, or even when we try and achieve positive goals. I work with adults, couples, and families by using my diverse training in a way that fits their particular styles and needs. Through relational connection, collaborating on concrete coping skills, and exploration of current and past patterns, I have seen tremendous healing in my partnership with clients.
(626) 765-3076 View (626) 765-3076
Photo of Mia Blakely-Brown, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mia Blakely-Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
Among my areas of expertise are Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Loss and Grief issues, Stress Management, Work and Career issues and Addiction & Recovery.
The ultimate goal of therapy is to heal and experience personal growth while being supported throughout the process. I provide a nurturing supportive environment and allow you the opportunity to explore the challenging issues you face in your daily life.
Among my areas of expertise are Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Loss and Grief issues, Stress Management, Work and Career issues and Addiction & Recovery.
The ultimate goal of therapy is to heal and experience personal growth while being supported throughout the process. I provide a nurturing supportive environment and allow you the opportunity to explore the challenging issues you face in your daily life.
(626) 414-5272 View (626) 414-5272
Photo of Cindy May, PhD, Psychologist
Cindy May
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
Her clinical interests include anxiety, depression, trauma, life-transitions, post-partum depression, and parenting issues.
Dr. May has over 20 years of experience working as a psychotherapist, researcher, educator, and supervisor in the field of mental health. She has had the privilege of training at UCLA with leading experts in the field of psychiatry and psychology and conducted clinical research at the UCLA Medical Center for several years. Dr. May has helped countless adolescents, adults, families, and couples overcome their personal obstacles to live healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives.
Her clinical interests include anxiety, depression, trauma, life-transitions, post-partum depression, and parenting issues.
Dr. May has over 20 years of experience working as a psychotherapist, researcher, educator, and supervisor in the field of mental health. She has had the privilege of training at UCLA with leading experts in the field of psychiatry and psychology and conducted clinical research at the UCLA Medical Center for several years. Dr. May has helped countless adolescents, adults, families, and couples overcome their personal obstacles to live healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives.
(949) 531-7247 View (949) 531-7247
Photo of Rebecca Bruno, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Bruno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I specialize in depth and somatic psychotherapies that support anxiety, persistent depression, complex trauma, self esteem issues, relationship issues, dream tending, adoption issues, attachment wounds, grief, religious trauma, life transitions, and spiritual growth.
It’s natural to get stuck sometimes. When you feel lost, overwhelmed, isolated, or depleted, a space to express yourself genuinely with a witness can be a soulful haven. Many people I see seek relief, change, growth, connection, and betterment in their lives. They are interested in tending to what has been holding them back and gaining the resources needed to heal wounded parts. Finding a trusted ally is an important step in receiving the help that you need to live fully, as you truly are. I believe in the medicinal properties of the therapeutic relationship and it is my honor to be a supportive companion along my clients’ journeys.
I specialize in depth and somatic psychotherapies that support anxiety, persistent depression, complex trauma, self esteem issues, relationship issues, dream tending, adoption issues, attachment wounds, grief, religious trauma, life transitions, and spiritual growth.
It’s natural to get stuck sometimes. When you feel lost, overwhelmed, isolated, or depleted, a space to express yourself genuinely with a witness can be a soulful haven. Many people I see seek relief, change, growth, connection, and betterment in their lives. They are interested in tending to what has been holding them back and gaining the resources needed to heal wounded parts. Finding a trusted ally is an important step in receiving the help that you need to live fully, as you truly are. I believe in the medicinal properties of the therapeutic relationship and it is my honor to be a supportive companion along my clients’ journeys.
(323) 615-1426 View (323) 615-1426
Photo of Kamran Eshtehardi, PhD, Psychologist
Kamran Eshtehardi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I work with individuals of all cultures age 13+ who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, family/relationship issues, and self-esteem issues, among other concerns.
Life is a canvas, and living is a creative process—an art form. Our mental health struggles can serve as paints for our canvas or act as binds that tie our hands. I help adults and teenagers unbind themselves, and paint their ways to fulfillment. I have expertise treating anxiety, depression, grief, and other struggles. My approach to therapy is collaborative, creative, and rooted in curiosity. These factors are key to a growth-inspiring therapeutic relationship. I strive to help clients go beyond behavior change to deeper self-understanding. Whether your aim is to navigate struggles, or achieve other goals, I may be able to help.
I work with individuals of all cultures age 13+ who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, family/relationship issues, and self-esteem issues, among other concerns.
Life is a canvas, and living is a creative process—an art form. Our mental health struggles can serve as paints for our canvas or act as binds that tie our hands. I help adults and teenagers unbind themselves, and paint their ways to fulfillment. I have expertise treating anxiety, depression, grief, and other struggles. My approach to therapy is collaborative, creative, and rooted in curiosity. These factors are key to a growth-inspiring therapeutic relationship. I strive to help clients go beyond behavior change to deeper self-understanding. Whether your aim is to navigate struggles, or achieve other goals, I may be able to help.
(626) 469-7237 View (626) 469-7237
Photo of Pouyan Rasi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pouyan Rasi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108  (Online Only)
Currently accepting New Patients. Somatically Informed treatment-Emotion acceptance and regulation. Life can become difficult at times. We need support and we need help navigating through the storms. If you have struggled with anxiety, depression, feel like you're stuck in a rut and want to change from unhelpful patterns of thinking or behavior, you have come to the right place. Perceptions become facts in our minds because we become hard wired due to our experiences; but because of that we can also rewire our minds which is where the hope comes in. Change can happen for you and it is never too late to start again.
Currently accepting New Patients. Somatically Informed treatment-Emotion acceptance and regulation. Life can become difficult at times. We need support and we need help navigating through the storms. If you have struggled with anxiety, depression, feel like you're stuck in a rut and want to change from unhelpful patterns of thinking or behavior, you have come to the right place. Perceptions become facts in our minds because we become hard wired due to our experiences; but because of that we can also rewire our minds which is where the hope comes in. Change can happen for you and it is never too late to start again.
(626) 628-1645 View (626) 628-1645
Photo of Neil Lam, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Neil Lam
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108  (Online Only)
I believe therapy is a process in which people nurture their strengths and understand the experiences that have shaped their lives. Together we will work holistically, while we explore the thoughts that bring us joy and the triggers that cause us pain and sadness. With over 2 decades of experience working with adults and teens, I have helped people who live with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders live fuller and happier lives. Sessions with me are a very interactive process that blends cognitive based therapy and mindful practices with natural humor and compassion.
I believe therapy is a process in which people nurture their strengths and understand the experiences that have shaped their lives. Together we will work holistically, while we explore the thoughts that bring us joy and the triggers that cause us pain and sadness. With over 2 decades of experience working with adults and teens, I have helped people who live with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders live fuller and happier lives. Sessions with me are a very interactive process that blends cognitive based therapy and mindful practices with natural humor and compassion.
(626) 498-1986 View (626) 498-1986
Photo of Kayt Pattee - 333 Mind Body Spirit Psychotherapy and Reiki, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
333 Mind Body Spirit Psychotherapy and Reiki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
I help you build tools to overcome your anxiety and depression.
You're feeling blocked; emotionally, spiritually or creatively. You're worried about the future and yearning to feel like you again. You are ready to let go of all that no longer serves you so you can freely move forward in your life and live up to your highest potential. You're tired of the chatter inside your head and want to feel confident listening to the guidence of your true self. Whether this is a solo journey, or includes your partner, you are ready to evolve. We are all creative beings with the potential to manifest the life and relationships we want for ourselves.
I help you build tools to overcome your anxiety and depression.
You're feeling blocked; emotionally, spiritually or creatively. You're worried about the future and yearning to feel like you again. You are ready to let go of all that no longer serves you so you can freely move forward in your life and live up to your highest potential. You're tired of the chatter inside your head and want to feel confident listening to the guidence of your true self. Whether this is a solo journey, or includes your partner, you are ready to evolve. We are all creative beings with the potential to manifest the life and relationships we want for ourselves.
(424) 329-1929 View (424) 329-1929
Photo of Colleen Stathatos, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Stathatos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
In addition to trauma treatment I also have expertise in treating anxiety, panic disorders, and depression.
Are you feeling stuck? Maybe you feel stuck in the past or present. Maybe it's hard to feel hopeful about the future. It's easy to become trapped in painful memories and negative experiences. A negative experience could be one life changing event or many smaller events that accumulate over time. I specialize in treating people who have experienced trauma. Trauma takes many forms but always takes a toll. Trauma can make you feel overwhelmed, insecure, and hopeless. Trauma can make you forget who you used to be.
In addition to trauma treatment I also have expertise in treating anxiety, panic disorders, and depression.
Are you feeling stuck? Maybe you feel stuck in the past or present. Maybe it's hard to feel hopeful about the future. It's easy to become trapped in painful memories and negative experiences. A negative experience could be one life changing event or many smaller events that accumulate over time. I specialize in treating people who have experienced trauma. Trauma takes many forms but always takes a toll. Trauma can make you feel overwhelmed, insecure, and hopeless. Trauma can make you forget who you used to be.
(213) 401-0305 View (213) 401-0305
Photo of Dr. Varda Hakobyan, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Varda Hakobyan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Struggling with past traumas? It's time to take care of your mental health and embark on a journey of healing! With years of experience in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and more, I offer personalized therapy tailored to your unique needs. My eclectic approach combines various techniques to help you overcome obstacles and achieve lasting wellness. Whether seeking relief from stress or aiming for personal growth, I am here to support you. Together, let's unlock your potential and cultivate a life filled with purpose, joy, and resilience.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Struggling with past traumas? It's time to take care of your mental health and embark on a journey of healing! With years of experience in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and more, I offer personalized therapy tailored to your unique needs. My eclectic approach combines various techniques to help you overcome obstacles and achieve lasting wellness. Whether seeking relief from stress or aiming for personal growth, I am here to support you. Together, let's unlock your potential and cultivate a life filled with purpose, joy, and resilience.
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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.