Depression Therapists in Trabuco Canyon, CA

Photo of Jeannine Huitzil, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeannine Huitzil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Hello and Bienvenidos! I'm Jeannine Huitzil! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Lic 89017 in the state of California, I am here to empower you so that you reach a place of healing. I was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking psychotherapist. I have over 10 years of experience working with adults and children. I have worked with many diverse identities and populations, especially Spanish-speaking individuals. I have worked with young adults who are first Gen in higher education and struggling with anxiety and depression.
Hello and Bienvenidos! I'm Jeannine Huitzil! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Lic 89017 in the state of California, I am here to empower you so that you reach a place of healing. I was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking psychotherapist. I have over 10 years of experience working with adults and children. I have worked with many diverse identities and populations, especially Spanish-speaking individuals. I have worked with young adults who are first Gen in higher education and struggling with anxiety and depression.
(949) 779-6437 View (949) 779-6437
Photo of Suzanne Barron, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanne Barron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679  (Online Only)
These are difficult times. Whether you are sheltering in place, or out in the workplace, these unusual times can increase anxiety and depression. Online sessions are available to assist you in individual or couple counseling. Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel you have lost connection with yourself or loved ones? Change and healing are possible. It is a courageous step to begin therapy. I will encourage you and empower you to learn skills to more fully live your life.
These are difficult times. Whether you are sheltering in place, or out in the workplace, these unusual times can increase anxiety and depression. Online sessions are available to assist you in individual or couple counseling. Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel you have lost connection with yourself or loved ones? Change and healing are possible. It is a courageous step to begin therapy. I will encourage you and empower you to learn skills to more fully live your life.
(805) 256-1575 View (805) 256-1575
Photo of Candice Clayton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candice Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Hello! My name is Candice Clayton, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience in mental health. I use a strength-based and solution-focused approach to support your personal growth and mental health journey. I have a wide experience in the mental health field from children to adults to couples. I mainly treat adults and couples at this time who are going through various phases and changes in life. I treat trauma, anxiety, depression, infidelity, relationship issues, and imposter syndrome.
Hello! My name is Candice Clayton, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience in mental health. I use a strength-based and solution-focused approach to support your personal growth and mental health journey. I have a wide experience in the mental health field from children to adults to couples. I mainly treat adults and couples at this time who are going through various phases and changes in life. I treat trauma, anxiety, depression, infidelity, relationship issues, and imposter syndrome.
(858) 358-7607 View (858) 358-7607
Photo of Michelle Trigleth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Trigleth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
I have had the opportunity to support a wide variety of socially and ethnically diverse clients who have experienced symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, suicidality, self-harm, stress, and bereavement.
Hello, I’m Michelle. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a person-oriented, humanistic approach to support clients as they navigate life and relationships with self and others. I utilize a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused strategies, Narrative Therapy, EMDR, and other trauma-informed approaches to best meet the needs and support the goals of my clients. I have had the opportunity to work with LGBTQ+ individuals as well as those living with disabilities.
I have had the opportunity to support a wide variety of socially and ethnically diverse clients who have experienced symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, suicidality, self-harm, stress, and bereavement.
Hello, I’m Michelle. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a person-oriented, humanistic approach to support clients as they navigate life and relationships with self and others. I utilize a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused strategies, Narrative Therapy, EMDR, and other trauma-informed approaches to best meet the needs and support the goals of my clients. I have had the opportunity to work with LGBTQ+ individuals as well as those living with disabilities.
(949) 998-5579 View (949) 998-5579
Photo of Natalie Montaldi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Montaldi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679  (Online Only)
My name is Natalie Montaldi and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida but working with clients in California statewide via telehealth. I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health field, and I enjoy working with teens and adults. I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem issues, grief/loss, women’s issues, life transitions, relationship issues, and postpartum depression. I like to use evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, and Psychotherapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
My name is Natalie Montaldi and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida but working with clients in California statewide via telehealth. I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health field, and I enjoy working with teens and adults. I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem issues, grief/loss, women’s issues, life transitions, relationship issues, and postpartum depression. I like to use evidence-based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focus Therapy, and Psychotherapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(951) 717-3571 View (951) 717-3571
Photo of Nancy Lozano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Lozano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for children, teenagers/adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, social or family challenges, and difficulties adjusting to life changes.
My name is Nancy Lozano; I am a Bilingual/Bicultural Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I specialize in working with children, teenagers/adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, social or family challenges, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. My approach to therapy is based on my client's needs. I use a collaborative approach to therapy and the integration of evidence-based techniques, such as CBT, CPP, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, strengths-based, and client-centered therapy.
I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for children, teenagers/adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, social or family challenges, and difficulties adjusting to life changes.
My name is Nancy Lozano; I am a Bilingual/Bicultural Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I specialize in working with children, teenagers/adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, social or family challenges, and difficulties adjusting to life changes. My approach to therapy is based on my client's needs. I use a collaborative approach to therapy and the integration of evidence-based techniques, such as CBT, CPP, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, strengths-based, and client-centered therapy.
(818) 463-1670 View (818) 463-1670
Photo of Michelle McCray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle McCray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Whether you've hit a rough patch and are working through some adjustment issues, are grieving the loss of a loved one or relationship, struggle with depression, anxiety , stress, or compulsions, are having family or relationship problems, have a history of trauma, or simply want to know yourself more deeply and explore YOU, we can work together.
Hello there, my name is Michelle McCray and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work primarily with adults of all ages and my approach to therapy is deeply rooted in empathy and holistic psychology. Whatever challenges you may face, I believe that you are worthy of being heard and feeling supported on your journey toward healing. Reach out for an initial session if you think we are good fit, I look forward to getting to work with you. I work with men, women, LGBTQIA+ folks and am comfortable treating various mental health challenges.
Whether you've hit a rough patch and are working through some adjustment issues, are grieving the loss of a loved one or relationship, struggle with depression, anxiety , stress, or compulsions, are having family or relationship problems, have a history of trauma, or simply want to know yourself more deeply and explore YOU, we can work together.
Hello there, my name is Michelle McCray and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work primarily with adults of all ages and my approach to therapy is deeply rooted in empathy and holistic psychology. Whatever challenges you may face, I believe that you are worthy of being heard and feeling supported on your journey toward healing. Reach out for an initial session if you think we are good fit, I look forward to getting to work with you. I work with men, women, LGBTQIA+ folks and am comfortable treating various mental health challenges.
(925) 966-2076 View (925) 966-2076
Photo of Dorina Stern, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dorina Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals, couples on relationship and marital issues, and also specialize in working with adolescents with issues such as ADHD, low self-esteem, self-destructive behavior, depression, trauma, lack of motivation and confusion regarding the future.
Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed on a daily basis? Does it feel like your mind is working against you? Do you feel like you're never good enough? How you feel about yourself and the way you perceive the situations in your life is the key to how happy and successful you are. I can help you decrease the anxiety and depression that creates this mental confusion and may be preventing you from creating the life and the relationships that you want. Please check out my website at www.dorinasterntherapy.com for more detailed information about my practice. Weekend and evening appointments are available.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples on relationship and marital issues, and also specialize in working with adolescents with issues such as ADHD, low self-esteem, self-destructive behavior, depression, trauma, lack of motivation and confusion regarding the future.
Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed on a daily basis? Does it feel like your mind is working against you? Do you feel like you're never good enough? How you feel about yourself and the way you perceive the situations in your life is the key to how happy and successful you are. I can help you decrease the anxiety and depression that creates this mental confusion and may be preventing you from creating the life and the relationships that you want. Please check out my website at www.dorinasterntherapy.com for more detailed information about my practice. Weekend and evening appointments are available.
(949) 514-8852 View (949) 514-8852
Photo of Deanna Jefferson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deanna Jefferson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Hello. My name is Deanna Jefferson. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I provide therapeutic services for individuals and couples. I typically work with individuals and couples. I also work with active-duty military, Veterans, and civilians. I am comfortable working with couples in strengthening their relationship as well as individual sessions focusing on anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and peer relationships to name a few.
Hello. My name is Deanna Jefferson. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I provide therapeutic services for individuals and couples. I typically work with individuals and couples. I also work with active-duty military, Veterans, and civilians. I am comfortable working with couples in strengthening their relationship as well as individual sessions focusing on anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and peer relationships to name a few.
(760) 374-3515 View (760) 374-3515
Photo of Alexandra Kofsky, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Kofsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
My name is Alexandra Kofsky, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that human beings possess an innate ability to move toward happiness and health, but sometimes adversity, life transitions, and challenging life experiences can get in the way of leading productive and meaningful lives. My approach as a therapist aims to foster a reparative relationship through collaborative, warm, and interactive sessions. Through the use of several traditional and modern modalities, I work with teens, young adults, and adults, struggling with issues like stress, anxiety, depression, communication, parenting, grief, trauma.
My name is Alexandra Kofsky, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that human beings possess an innate ability to move toward happiness and health, but sometimes adversity, life transitions, and challenging life experiences can get in the way of leading productive and meaningful lives. My approach as a therapist aims to foster a reparative relationship through collaborative, warm, and interactive sessions. Through the use of several traditional and modern modalities, I work with teens, young adults, and adults, struggling with issues like stress, anxiety, depression, communication, parenting, grief, trauma.
(424) 499-4830 View (424) 499-4830
Photo of Desirae Giraldes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Desirae Giraldes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Hi, my name is Desirae Giraldes and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in communities throughout my career in a variety of settings and areas but my focus is working in the area of Mental Health. I love the mental health field and have worked in this area for over 25 years. While I love working with each of my clients who bring an individual experience to work through, I especially love working in the area of depression, anxiety and codependency.
Hi, my name is Desirae Giraldes and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in communities throughout my career in a variety of settings and areas but my focus is working in the area of Mental Health. I love the mental health field and have worked in this area for over 25 years. While I love working with each of my clients who bring an individual experience to work through, I especially love working in the area of depression, anxiety and codependency.
(951) 944-0161 View (951) 944-0161
Photo of Destinee Gannuscio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Destinee Gannuscio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Sometimes life throws a curveball. Other times, it feels like life's been one giant curveball from the start. You may have found yourself feeling stuck, losing hope, and struggling to talk to your people about what's going on. Whatever it is that led you to this point, I'm here to offer support and a helping hand to navigate these stressors and help you find peace. My experience consists primarily of working with trauma (including physical/sexual abuse and first responder work stress), depression, anxiety, and substance use, and my ideal client is simply someone that's willing to take that leap of faith and is ready to do the work!
Sometimes life throws a curveball. Other times, it feels like life's been one giant curveball from the start. You may have found yourself feeling stuck, losing hope, and struggling to talk to your people about what's going on. Whatever it is that led you to this point, I'm here to offer support and a helping hand to navigate these stressors and help you find peace. My experience consists primarily of working with trauma (including physical/sexual abuse and first responder work stress), depression, anxiety, and substance use, and my ideal client is simply someone that's willing to take that leap of faith and is ready to do the work!
(909) 962-7119 View (909) 962-7119
Photo of Sonia Singh, LCP, Psychologist
Sonia Singh
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
My specialized areas of focus are anxiety, stress, depression, sleep issues, ADHD, women’s mental health, health issues, life and professional transitions, and college student mental health issues.
I am Dr. Sonia Singh, a licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Newport Beach, CA practicing teletherapy with adults (19 and over) throughout the state of California. I have 15+ years of experience in the field of psychology, providing evidence-based therapy and assessments to individuals for stress management, anxiety, depression, and helping people navigate life transitions. In addition to being a Clinical Psychologist, I have additional specialized training as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My practice has been focused on enabling individuals like you to go beyond surviving to optimize their well-being.
My specialized areas of focus are anxiety, stress, depression, sleep issues, ADHD, women’s mental health, health issues, life and professional transitions, and college student mental health issues.
I am Dr. Sonia Singh, a licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Newport Beach, CA practicing teletherapy with adults (19 and over) throughout the state of California. I have 15+ years of experience in the field of psychology, providing evidence-based therapy and assessments to individuals for stress management, anxiety, depression, and helping people navigate life transitions. In addition to being a Clinical Psychologist, I have additional specialized training as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My practice has been focused on enabling individuals like you to go beyond surviving to optimize their well-being.
(619) 848-3011 View (619) 848-3011
Photo of Lisa Kelly, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Welcome! My name is Lisa Kelly. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my master's degree in 2014 and have since then worked with both children and adults with a wide range of mental health disorders. I primarily work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, and trauma spectrum disorders. My therapeutic approach is one of compassion, authenticity, and connection. With that foundation, I help clients through their struggles one day at a time. I strive to help people create more love and compassion for themselves and others.
Welcome! My name is Lisa Kelly. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my master's degree in 2014 and have since then worked with both children and adults with a wide range of mental health disorders. I primarily work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, and trauma spectrum disorders. My therapeutic approach is one of compassion, authenticity, and connection. With that foundation, I help clients through their struggles one day at a time. I strive to help people create more love and compassion for themselves and others.
(530) 539-1702 View (530) 539-1702
Photo of Teresa Moreno, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teresa Moreno
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Hello. My name is Teresa Moreno. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with diverse populations and situations. I believe Recovery is possible. Life can become stressful and challenging as we navigate changes in our lives- whether it is divorce, a breakup, trauma, loss, parenting, relocating, unfulfilled careers, conflict in family or relationships, and so forth. Our bodies can respond to changes and or stress in different ways- depression, anxiety, anger, loss of sleep, overthinking, loss of pleasure or hope, diet changes, loss of concentration or loss of motivation, etc.
Hello. My name is Teresa Moreno. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with diverse populations and situations. I believe Recovery is possible. Life can become stressful and challenging as we navigate changes in our lives- whether it is divorce, a breakup, trauma, loss, parenting, relocating, unfulfilled careers, conflict in family or relationships, and so forth. Our bodies can respond to changes and or stress in different ways- depression, anxiety, anger, loss of sleep, overthinking, loss of pleasure or hope, diet changes, loss of concentration or loss of motivation, etc.
(213) 577-1052 View (213) 577-1052
Photo of Emilio Perdomo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilio Perdomo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
I have experience working with the following conditions: Adjustment Issues Anxiety and related disorders Depression Gender Identity and Dysphoria Grief and Loss Trauma.
I'm Emilio Perdomo, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach as a therapist, is to be collaborative with my client which means we work together to work through past or present challenges. I have worked with clients ages 12-60 years old. By providing you with a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns and providing education, guidance and commitment to the process, I want to help you move toward achieving your personal therapeutic goals. Most of my clients tend to have anxiety, ADHD or depression. I have experience working with clients who are BICOP or LGBTQIA+.
I have experience working with the following conditions: Adjustment Issues Anxiety and related disorders Depression Gender Identity and Dysphoria Grief and Loss Trauma.
I'm Emilio Perdomo, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach as a therapist, is to be collaborative with my client which means we work together to work through past or present challenges. I have worked with clients ages 12-60 years old. By providing you with a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns and providing education, guidance and commitment to the process, I want to help you move toward achieving your personal therapeutic goals. Most of my clients tend to have anxiety, ADHD or depression. I have experience working with clients who are BICOP or LGBTQIA+.
(626) 887-8086 View (626) 887-8086
Photo of Carla Wills, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carla Wills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping others overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma while improving communication, relationships, and overall quality of life. If you're seeking support and guidance on your journey towards emotional well-being you've come to the right place. Using evidence-based techniques I create a safe and nurturing environment where we can address your unique challenges.
I specialize in helping others overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma while improving communication, relationships, and overall quality of life. If you're seeking support and guidance on your journey towards emotional well-being you've come to the right place. Using evidence-based techniques I create a safe and nurturing environment where we can address your unique challenges.
(619) 535-1037 View (619) 535-1037
Photo of Michele Richter, LPCC
Michele Richter
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Hi, my name is Michele Richter, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) providing online/telehealth therapy to children, adolescents, young and older adults, and families. I focus in several areas including anger management, anxiety, coping skills, depression, addiction, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, trauma & PTSD, and stress, amongst others. My approach is compassion focused, culturally sensitive and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, and more.
Hi, my name is Michele Richter, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) providing online/telehealth therapy to children, adolescents, young and older adults, and families. I focus in several areas including anger management, anxiety, coping skills, depression, addiction, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, trauma & PTSD, and stress, amongst others. My approach is compassion focused, culturally sensitive and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, and more.
(916) 292-9641 View (916) 292-9641
Photo of Michelle DeVincentis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle DeVincentis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California with over 8 years of clinical experience. I typically work with parents in the perinatal period as they navigate their transition into parenthood or re-adjust to life with a new baby, whether it's their first or the fifth! I screen and treat clients for postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and birth trauma. I rely heavily on aspects of CBT, DBT, and the importance of self-regulation. It is important to me that my practice is trauma-informed and culturally sensitive because therapeutic care should be accessible to everyone.
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California with over 8 years of clinical experience. I typically work with parents in the perinatal period as they navigate their transition into parenthood or re-adjust to life with a new baby, whether it's their first or the fifth! I screen and treat clients for postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and birth trauma. I rely heavily on aspects of CBT, DBT, and the importance of self-regulation. It is important to me that my practice is trauma-informed and culturally sensitive because therapeutic care should be accessible to everyone.
(951) 494-6995 View (951) 494-6995
Photo of Alexandra Poling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Poling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679  (Online Only)
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), along with skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness, I help my clients identify and change ways of thinking and coping that may be impacting their mental health. This approach includes teaching coping skills that will target specific symptoms and triggers as well as learning to cope with or resolve intense emotional pain. I use this approach to treat complicated grief, trauma, panic, and related anxiety or depression.
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), along with skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness, I help my clients identify and change ways of thinking and coping that may be impacting their mental health. This approach includes teaching coping skills that will target specific symptoms and triggers as well as learning to cope with or resolve intense emotional pain. I use this approach to treat complicated grief, trauma, panic, and related anxiety or depression.
(510) 380-7804 View (510) 380-7804
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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.