Depression Therapists in Sherman Oaks, CA

Photo of Nancy Golden, MAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Golden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Do you keep wishing and hoping for change? Whether you are considering therapy for the first time or you are disappointed with previous therapies, I can offer you a healing experience that is sensitive to your strengths as well as your pain. I believe that insight alone does not always help people feel better. However insight as a result of in depth therapy and body awareness can give you the tools for profound and beneficial change. I specialize in relationship problems, anxiety, depression,sexual issues and mind/body awareness.
Do you keep wishing and hoping for change? Whether you are considering therapy for the first time or you are disappointed with previous therapies, I can offer you a healing experience that is sensitive to your strengths as well as your pain. I believe that insight alone does not always help people feel better. However insight as a result of in depth therapy and body awareness can give you the tools for profound and beneficial change. I specialize in relationship problems, anxiety, depression,sexual issues and mind/body awareness.
(818) 963-9314 View (818) 963-9314
Photo of Joanne Freed, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joanne Freed
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I work with depression, anxiety, personality, somatic disorders, and physical disabilities.
I work mainly with women 40 and over, who are experiencing life transitions such as career conflicts, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and spiritual concerns. I also work with males, and females under 40. I am Psychodynamically and Psychoanalytically trained, as well as, experienced and trained in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also use a Holistic approach in my work with my clients, which means I include the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions to bring about a deeper and holistic approach to treatment. I have training in many aspects of Spiritual Psychology, and I am trained as an Evidenced Based Practice therapist. I like to work with individuals who are interested in self-reflection and increasing their self-awareness in order to bring about change, balance, and joy in their life's. I use an empathic, supportive, and non-judgemental approach in my work with clients, which creates an environment for growth and symptom relieve. I create a treatment plan unique to the needs and circumstances of each person I see in treatment.
I work with depression, anxiety, personality, somatic disorders, and physical disabilities.
I work mainly with women 40 and over, who are experiencing life transitions such as career conflicts, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and spiritual concerns. I also work with males, and females under 40. I am Psychodynamically and Psychoanalytically trained, as well as, experienced and trained in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also use a Holistic approach in my work with my clients, which means I include the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions to bring about a deeper and holistic approach to treatment. I have training in many aspects of Spiritual Psychology, and I am trained as an Evidenced Based Practice therapist. I like to work with individuals who are interested in self-reflection and increasing their self-awareness in order to bring about change, balance, and joy in their life's. I use an empathic, supportive, and non-judgemental approach in my work with clients, which creates an environment for growth and symptom relieve. I create a treatment plan unique to the needs and circumstances of each person I see in treatment.
(818) 492-4274 View (818) 492-4274
Photo of Leslie Munguia, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Munguia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I believe everyone is capable of change. Regardless of what has occurred in the past, it’s never too late to create a fulfilling and meaningful future. My experience in psychotherapy has led me to understand that we are all human and continuing to grow throughout different phases of life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, parenting distress, or other mental health issues, together I can help you to overcome your current struggles. Through the therapeutic process, we will work to help you live fully in the present regardless of what has occurred in your past.
I believe everyone is capable of change. Regardless of what has occurred in the past, it’s never too late to create a fulfilling and meaningful future. My experience in psychotherapy has led me to understand that we are all human and continuing to grow throughout different phases of life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, parenting distress, or other mental health issues, together I can help you to overcome your current struggles. Through the therapeutic process, we will work to help you live fully in the present regardless of what has occurred in your past.
(747) 269-6106 View (747) 269-6106
Photo of Elizabeth Francis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Francis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
I have worked with adults, adolescents, and couples on issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief.
Our work together will provide you with a supportive space to process your emotions and cultivate an awareness of your feelings without judgment. This approach will allow your emotions to flow through you, instead of stagnating within you. We will focus on your personal journey, using my observations and experiences with you in our sessions to uncover insights into your relational patterns. My goal is to foster a therapeutic environment that promotes safety, expansion, curiosity, and creativity, utilizing a nurturing yet straightforward approach.
I have worked with adults, adolescents, and couples on issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief.
Our work together will provide you with a supportive space to process your emotions and cultivate an awareness of your feelings without judgment. This approach will allow your emotions to flow through you, instead of stagnating within you. We will focus on your personal journey, using my observations and experiences with you in our sessions to uncover insights into your relational patterns. My goal is to foster a therapeutic environment that promotes safety, expansion, curiosity, and creativity, utilizing a nurturing yet straightforward approach.
(323) 825-6226 View (323) 825-6226
Photo of Deisi Rohsig-Moeser, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deisi Rohsig-Moeser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Are you struggling in your relationships with loved ones? Overwhelmed adjusting to life post-pandemic? Or confused and scared going through a major life transition? Talking with an empathic therapist can alleviate anxiety and depression caused by these stresses. In my 10 years of experience in mental health I have helped people with severe trauma, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem find a path to the life they wanted.
Are you struggling in your relationships with loved ones? Overwhelmed adjusting to life post-pandemic? Or confused and scared going through a major life transition? Talking with an empathic therapist can alleviate anxiety and depression caused by these stresses. In my 10 years of experience in mental health I have helped people with severe trauma, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem find a path to the life they wanted.
(818) 614-5132 View (818) 614-5132
Photo of Alex Shelling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alex Shelling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
My specialty areas include depression, anxiety, coping skills, foster care issues, school issues, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) at Apex Group Therapy. I received my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University. I have extensive experience working in Community-Based, Residential, and School Mental Health Settings. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, young adults and families in assisting them in developing and utilizing the necessary coping skills to manage and care for themselves and feel empowered in their life choices while addressing systematic barriers and historical traumas.
My specialty areas include depression, anxiety, coping skills, foster care issues, school issues, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) at Apex Group Therapy. I received my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University. I have extensive experience working in Community-Based, Residential, and School Mental Health Settings. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, young adults and families in assisting them in developing and utilizing the necessary coping skills to manage and care for themselves and feel empowered in their life choices while addressing systematic barriers and historical traumas.
(747) 205-4041 View (747) 205-4041
Photo of Nassim Sanani, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nassim Sanani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I work a great deal with individuals who have suffered early childhood trauma and who subsequently find themselves struggling with adult depression and/or anxiety.
As individuals, we are so unique. We all come from very distinct backgrounds and life experiences, both of which impact our decisions, choices, desires and fears. These considerations all play a role in the struggles and pain we face. Looking at these areas of our lives and trying to understand their influence can be overwhelming and scary. For this reason I strive to create a safe, warm and non-judgmental environment where, together, we can explore collaboratively. This time together will allow you the space needed to evaluate your experiences and understand how they affect you and your relationships.
I work a great deal with individuals who have suffered early childhood trauma and who subsequently find themselves struggling with adult depression and/or anxiety.
As individuals, we are so unique. We all come from very distinct backgrounds and life experiences, both of which impact our decisions, choices, desires and fears. These considerations all play a role in the struggles and pain we face. Looking at these areas of our lives and trying to understand their influence can be overwhelming and scary. For this reason I strive to create a safe, warm and non-judgmental environment where, together, we can explore collaboratively. This time together will allow you the space needed to evaluate your experiences and understand how they affect you and your relationships.
(818) 465-9772 View (818) 465-9772
Photo of Teri Arana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teri Arana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(213) 376-5672 View (213) 376-5672
Photo of Katie Heeran, LMFT, MA, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Heeran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I know both personally and professionally the difficulties of depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, trauma and relational issues.
"(Humans) will do anything, no matter how absurd, to avoid facing (their) own soul(s)." - Carl Jung. I am looking to work with people who are ready to do this work. I want you to have a meaningful life, as YOU define it. If you don't know what you want, I hope our work together will help you find that. If you know what you want but keep running into the same obstacles, I hope to help you understand what those obstacles mean and show you how to work with them more effectively.
I know both personally and professionally the difficulties of depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, trauma and relational issues.
"(Humans) will do anything, no matter how absurd, to avoid facing (their) own soul(s)." - Carl Jung. I am looking to work with people who are ready to do this work. I want you to have a meaningful life, as YOU define it. If you don't know what you want, I hope our work together will help you find that. If you know what you want but keep running into the same obstacles, I hope to help you understand what those obstacles mean and show you how to work with them more effectively.
(818) 946-0774 View (818) 946-0774
Photo of Madeline Karabian, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Madeline Karabian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
My private practice work focuses on life transitions, anxiety, depression, sex, and intimacy.
My approach to therapy is one of active, yet gentle collaboration between therapist and client. My practice as a psychotherapist is to help cut through outdated narratives that often prevent us from creating the changes to live a satisfying and enriching life. I draw from my experiences working with individuals, couples, families and kids at a community mental health center, as well as at an elementary school. Additionally, I have training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and am a Prepare/Enright Premarital and Marriage Assessment Facilitator.
My private practice work focuses on life transitions, anxiety, depression, sex, and intimacy.
My approach to therapy is one of active, yet gentle collaboration between therapist and client. My practice as a psychotherapist is to help cut through outdated narratives that often prevent us from creating the changes to live a satisfying and enriching life. I draw from my experiences working with individuals, couples, families and kids at a community mental health center, as well as at an elementary school. Additionally, I have training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and am a Prepare/Enright Premarital and Marriage Assessment Facilitator.
(747) 330-0436 View (747) 330-0436
Photo of Dianne Stern Gorsey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dianne Stern Gorsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Feeling sad, mad, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, lonely, stuck? In my private practice I see individuals and couples dealing with depression and anxiety, life transitions including aging, retirement, illness, divorce, death of spouse, empty nest and career transitions as well as domestic violence, and parenting. I utilize a variety of theoretical orientations and interventions all tailored to the needs of each client. I am California certified to see survivors of domestic abuse. If you are ready to make changes in your life, therapy might be the conduit through which you can discover alternatives and improve your life.
Feeling sad, mad, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, lonely, stuck? In my private practice I see individuals and couples dealing with depression and anxiety, life transitions including aging, retirement, illness, divorce, death of spouse, empty nest and career transitions as well as domestic violence, and parenting. I utilize a variety of theoretical orientations and interventions all tailored to the needs of each client. I am California certified to see survivors of domestic abuse. If you are ready to make changes in your life, therapy might be the conduit through which you can discover alternatives and improve your life.
(818) 918-3211 View (818) 918-3211
Photo of Michelle Marie Manning, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Marie Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
To me, an ideal client is anyone who is willing to open themselves to change. I have a great deal of experience treating depression and anxiety in clients of all ages. I like to work with a variety of modalities in addition to talk therapy, like expressive arts and dream work.
To me, an ideal client is anyone who is willing to open themselves to change. I have a great deal of experience treating depression and anxiety in clients of all ages. I like to work with a variety of modalities in addition to talk therapy, like expressive arts and dream work.
(408) 831-7983 View (408) 831-7983
Photo of Henry Kimmel, PsyD, Psychologist
Henry Kimmel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
My dissertation dealt with depression.
Psychotherapy isn't an easy task for someone to undertake. I've had life-changing success with clients by making them comfortable and being a supportive presence through what can be a challenging journey. Patience is critical but when a client feels stuck, that's where a therapist's experience and acumen are able to move the client closer to their desired therapeutic goal. I've had the good fortune to witness that psychotherapy can be an amazing, miraculous undertaking and it's been my great, good fortune to be able to participate in it.
My dissertation dealt with depression.
Psychotherapy isn't an easy task for someone to undertake. I've had life-changing success with clients by making them comfortable and being a supportive presence through what can be a challenging journey. Patience is critical but when a client feels stuck, that's where a therapist's experience and acumen are able to move the client closer to their desired therapeutic goal. I've had the good fortune to witness that psychotherapy can be an amazing, miraculous undertaking and it's been my great, good fortune to be able to participate in it.
(818) 946-0597 View (818) 946-0597
Photo of Richard Berg, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richard Berg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
If you are feeling depressed, anxious, dealing with loss,grief, and relationship conflicts, come and let us take the path together.
Do you want to turn your life around? Do you hope to find a way out and end the pain you may be feeling now ? Are you going thru life now and thinking "I have to turn my life around". In my twenty years of experience, I have come to understand that sticking to the process of therapy is a courageous first step. When you are in pain, it is very hard to find the hope and motivation to stay the course. I know participating in therapy can help. I can help you reap these benefits. It requires committing to this process. Commitment is the key and I believe that helping you gain insight will give you the power to find your way out.
If you are feeling depressed, anxious, dealing with loss,grief, and relationship conflicts, come and let us take the path together.
Do you want to turn your life around? Do you hope to find a way out and end the pain you may be feeling now ? Are you going thru life now and thinking "I have to turn my life around". In my twenty years of experience, I have come to understand that sticking to the process of therapy is a courageous first step. When you are in pain, it is very hard to find the hope and motivation to stay the course. I know participating in therapy can help. I can help you reap these benefits. It requires committing to this process. Commitment is the key and I believe that helping you gain insight will give you the power to find your way out.
(747) 229-0875 x818645 View (747) 229-0875 x818645
Photo of Norra MacReady, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Norra MacReady
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I also work with men and women in their 30s and 40s who may be wondering what's next for them in life, with adults who have ADHD and other "neuroatypical" conditions, and with people experiencing depression and/or anxiety.
Sometimes it helps just to talk to someone. Someone who can listen with empathy and without judgment. Someone who can see patterns you may not have been aware of, who can help you talk back to that negative voice in your head, and who can help you renew your hopes for yourself and the future. Someone like me. To all of you I say, Come, let's talk about it, and together we'll find a way through this messy business of life. You are not alone.
I also work with men and women in their 30s and 40s who may be wondering what's next for them in life, with adults who have ADHD and other "neuroatypical" conditions, and with people experiencing depression and/or anxiety.
Sometimes it helps just to talk to someone. Someone who can listen with empathy and without judgment. Someone who can see patterns you may not have been aware of, who can help you talk back to that negative voice in your head, and who can help you renew your hopes for yourself and the future. Someone like me. To all of you I say, Come, let's talk about it, and together we'll find a way through this messy business of life. You are not alone.
(424) 322-2442 View (424) 322-2442
Photo of Laleh Rokni, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laleh Rokni
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I have extensive knowledge of the underlying factors or issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, victimization and co-dependency.
Life can be full of challenges, hardships and every day stresses or struggles. If you are finding yourself struggling, remember that it is possible to find solutions and create a positive and healthy emotional balance. In order to find the solutions or create an emotional balance you need to seek the help of a professional who is trained to help and guide you towards your goals or provide you with tools that can assist you with self-improvement. Therapy is the tool that can provide you with support to create healthy relationships. It is not an easy task to ask for help and I'm glad you’re here looking for help.
I have extensive knowledge of the underlying factors or issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, victimization and co-dependency.
Life can be full of challenges, hardships and every day stresses or struggles. If you are finding yourself struggling, remember that it is possible to find solutions and create a positive and healthy emotional balance. In order to find the solutions or create an emotional balance you need to seek the help of a professional who is trained to help and guide you towards your goals or provide you with tools that can assist you with self-improvement. Therapy is the tool that can provide you with support to create healthy relationships. It is not an easy task to ask for help and I'm glad you’re here looking for help.
(747) 225-8286 View (747) 225-8286
Photo of Lakana S. Nicolas - L. Nicolas Psychotherapy with Wise Heart Healing, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
L. Nicolas Psychotherapy with Wise Heart Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
My name is Lakana Nicolas and I am a Licensed Board Certified Psychotherapist with a passion for working with individuals dealing with anxiety and depression as results of past traumas, individuals struggling with interpersonal relationships, and those struggling with the uncertainties of their future and life's purpose.
We have all envisioned some version of our ideal selves. Often times past hurts or traumas can affect our lives so that we act out from a place of brokenness rather than healing and compassion. The dissonance our present selves and who we aspire to be can lead to frustration, depression, anxiety, and despair. If you are feeling stagnant and looking for ways to shift out of unhealthy self-defeating patterns, you have come to the right place.
My name is Lakana Nicolas and I am a Licensed Board Certified Psychotherapist with a passion for working with individuals dealing with anxiety and depression as results of past traumas, individuals struggling with interpersonal relationships, and those struggling with the uncertainties of their future and life's purpose.
We have all envisioned some version of our ideal selves. Often times past hurts or traumas can affect our lives so that we act out from a place of brokenness rather than healing and compassion. The dissonance our present selves and who we aspire to be can lead to frustration, depression, anxiety, and despair. If you are feeling stagnant and looking for ways to shift out of unhealthy self-defeating patterns, you have come to the right place.
(323) 688-5542 View (323) 688-5542
Photo of Joanne Barron, PsyD, Psychologist
Joanne Barron
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
I work with Complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and addiction and see clients for a wide range of psychological disorders including; codependency, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
When life isn't going well, or you feel stuck, anxious, depressed or angry. Therapy may help you to move beyond patterns and circumstances that are causing distress. Those who have experienced trauma , childhood neglect or abuse can benefit from trauma focused therapy to help move beyond the past. Together we can explore what is keeping you from living the life you want, and work towards more fulfilling relationships , increased connection to self, and a deeper capacity for joy. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, panic, fear, addiction, numbness, isolation or depression therapy can help in facilitating change.
I work with Complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and addiction and see clients for a wide range of psychological disorders including; codependency, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
When life isn't going well, or you feel stuck, anxious, depressed or angry. Therapy may help you to move beyond patterns and circumstances that are causing distress. Those who have experienced trauma , childhood neglect or abuse can benefit from trauma focused therapy to help move beyond the past. Together we can explore what is keeping you from living the life you want, and work towards more fulfilling relationships , increased connection to self, and a deeper capacity for joy. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, panic, fear, addiction, numbness, isolation or depression therapy can help in facilitating change.
(818) 616-6888 View (818) 616-6888
Photo of Debra Sharon - Counseling West, PhD, Psychologist
Counseling West
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
The center provides counseling for children, adults, couples and families on a sliding scale fee structure. You will find that our depth psychological approach honors your individuality and encourages a deeper exploration of ones inner world. There is great wisdom in these depths. With over 30 therapists on staff, we are able to offer guidance with an array of presenting challenges such as depression,anxiety,loss, trauma and relationship issues. Our services are offered in English, Spanish, Russian, Hebrew, Farsi, Armenian, German, Romanian and Arabic. Our center is LGBT affirmative.
The center provides counseling for children, adults, couples and families on a sliding scale fee structure. You will find that our depth psychological approach honors your individuality and encourages a deeper exploration of ones inner world. There is great wisdom in these depths. With over 30 therapists on staff, we are able to offer guidance with an array of presenting challenges such as depression,anxiety,loss, trauma and relationship issues. Our services are offered in English, Spanish, Russian, Hebrew, Farsi, Armenian, German, Romanian and Arabic. Our center is LGBT affirmative.
(818) 990-9898 View (818) 990-9898
Photo of Melissa V Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa V Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401  (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Renowned as the top therapeutic destination for celebrities, professional athletes, entertainment industry professionals, and anyone seeking mental health services. I specialize in helping individuals with a range of mental health concerns, including trauma (physical, sexual, and emotional abuse), PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, anger management, life skills development, career transitions, self-care strategies, and more.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Renowned as the top therapeutic destination for celebrities, professional athletes, entertainment industry professionals, and anyone seeking mental health services. I specialize in helping individuals with a range of mental health concerns, including trauma (physical, sexual, and emotional abuse), PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, anger management, life skills development, career transitions, self-care strategies, and more.
(747) 269-0414 View (747) 269-0414
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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.