Depression Therapists in Upland, CA

Photo of Joyce E Handler, PsyD, Psychologist
Joyce E Handler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
I've had the privilege of helping people heal from a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, job stress, career issues, childhood abuse, trauma and PTSD.
We all have challenges in life, but when those challenges become overwhelming, it's nice to know that you don't have to go the journey alone. I consider it a tremendous privilege to be part of your journey. I provide a safe, supportive environment where you can openly share about what you're going through. Together, we work to find solutions to your problem. Often, our work will yield fresh insights, new learning about yourself, and helpful implications for the future.
I've had the privilege of helping people heal from a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, job stress, career issues, childhood abuse, trauma and PTSD.
We all have challenges in life, but when those challenges become overwhelming, it's nice to know that you don't have to go the journey alone. I consider it a tremendous privilege to be part of your journey. I provide a safe, supportive environment where you can openly share about what you're going through. Together, we work to find solutions to your problem. Often, our work will yield fresh insights, new learning about yourself, and helpful implications for the future.
(909) 584-5941 View (909) 584-5941
Photo of C Todd Holder, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
C Todd Holder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
I have worked extensively with adults and adolescents specializing in struggles with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, poor anger management, and alcohol/drug abuse.
A warm and engaging relationship is at the heart of healing. I specialize in working with teens and adults as they navigate through a time of crisis, feelings of being stuck in old patterns, or experiencing an ongoing pattern of strained relationships. If you are a parent, you may feel worried about your child's well-being and would like to renew your sense of hope for the future.
I have worked extensively with adults and adolescents specializing in struggles with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, poor anger management, and alcohol/drug abuse.
A warm and engaging relationship is at the heart of healing. I specialize in working with teens and adults as they navigate through a time of crisis, feelings of being stuck in old patterns, or experiencing an ongoing pattern of strained relationships. If you are a parent, you may feel worried about your child's well-being and would like to renew your sense of hope for the future.
(909) 280-0928 View (909) 280-0928
Photo of Jennifer M Reed - Integrated Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Integrated Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
Not accepting insurance. It is my goal to help you create change in your life and develop a new understanding as you face life's challenges. Together, we will optimize your ability to achieve a healthy state of balance and well-being. Most of the individuals I see are coping with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues or challenges adjusting to a new stage in life. I look forward to speaking with you to discuss your needs and expectations.
Not accepting insurance. It is my goal to help you create change in your life and develop a new understanding as you face life's challenges. Together, we will optimize your ability to achieve a healthy state of balance and well-being. Most of the individuals I see are coping with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues or challenges adjusting to a new stage in life. I look forward to speaking with you to discuss your needs and expectations.
(909) 281-9735 View (909) 281-9735
Photo of Christina Schulz, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Schulz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
Interactive solution-based therapy services are provided in an accepting and caring environment. If you are experiencing difficulty in a marriage or relationship, are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, sad, lonely or depressed, anxious, or experiencing frustrations of parenting you will receive help identifying alternatives. I will support you as you learn to live more in alignment with what is most important to you. With increased insight you may feel an increased sense of control over your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Together, we will work toward your quest for improvement and happiness.
Interactive solution-based therapy services are provided in an accepting and caring environment. If you are experiencing difficulty in a marriage or relationship, are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, sad, lonely or depressed, anxious, or experiencing frustrations of parenting you will receive help identifying alternatives. I will support you as you learn to live more in alignment with what is most important to you. With increased insight you may feel an increased sense of control over your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Together, we will work toward your quest for improvement and happiness.
(909) 521-1959 View (909) 521-1959
Photo of Christopher Ortego, MA, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christopher Ortego
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
Are you feeling uncertain or overwhelmed by life's changes? Perhaps you're experiencing feelings of being lost or hopeless. Maybe anxiety, fatigue, or worry have become all too familiar. It's time to start living the fulfilling life you deserve. Drawing from my personal, academic, and professional journey navigating anxiety, depression, academic pressures, cultural challenges, and relationship dynamics, I've come to understand the profound need to be seen, heard, and accepted with compassion, warmth, and authenticity. Together, we'll explore who you are, who you aspire to be, and how to embrace your true self.
Are you feeling uncertain or overwhelmed by life's changes? Perhaps you're experiencing feelings of being lost or hopeless. Maybe anxiety, fatigue, or worry have become all too familiar. It's time to start living the fulfilling life you deserve. Drawing from my personal, academic, and professional journey navigating anxiety, depression, academic pressures, cultural challenges, and relationship dynamics, I've come to understand the profound need to be seen, heard, and accepted with compassion, warmth, and authenticity. Together, we'll explore who you are, who you aspire to be, and how to embrace your true self.
(626) 317-7698 x707 View (626) 317-7698 x707
Photo of Douglas Livingston Quinn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Douglas Livingston Quinn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
My name is Douglas Livingston-Quinn, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have masters degrees in divinity and counseling psychology, as well as a doctorate in clinical psychology. I have great insight and comfort working with adults and young adults, and an extensive background working with clients with ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, autistic-spectrum disorders, depression, loss and grief, sexual abuse, and trauma/PTSD. I employ a mix of approaches including interpersonal, client-centered, behavioral, cognitive, solution-focused and motivational modalities, as well as elements of EMDR where it seems useful.
My name is Douglas Livingston-Quinn, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have masters degrees in divinity and counseling psychology, as well as a doctorate in clinical psychology. I have great insight and comfort working with adults and young adults, and an extensive background working with clients with ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, autistic-spectrum disorders, depression, loss and grief, sexual abuse, and trauma/PTSD. I employ a mix of approaches including interpersonal, client-centered, behavioral, cognitive, solution-focused and motivational modalities, as well as elements of EMDR where it seems useful.
(909) 442-0515 View (909) 442-0515
Photo of April Solange Wozencroft, LMFT, DMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
April Solange Wozencroft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, DMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
Waitlist for new clients
It is a vulnerable thing to seek help and an act of courage. My experience has been with adults and adolescents. I have experience assisting men and women with acute Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, and Eating Disorders. My experience does encompass family therapy in addition to couple's therapy. I have worked with at risk youth that struggle with ADHD, ADD, Autism, Oppositional Defiance, Addiction, Conduct Disorders, Anxiety, and Mood Disorder with and without psychotic features. I know that I can help allow me to prove it even if it comes in the form of another referral.
It is a vulnerable thing to seek help and an act of courage. My experience has been with adults and adolescents. I have experience assisting men and women with acute Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, and Eating Disorders. My experience does encompass family therapy in addition to couple's therapy. I have worked with at risk youth that struggle with ADHD, ADD, Autism, Oppositional Defiance, Addiction, Conduct Disorders, Anxiety, and Mood Disorder with and without psychotic features. I know that I can help allow me to prove it even if it comes in the form of another referral.
(909) 323-0173 View (909) 323-0173
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Johnson, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Summit Psychological Services. I provide psychological testing to help individuals clarify mental health diagnoses and to aid with treatment recommendations. I provide testing for adult ADHD. I also provide Independent Medical Evaluations and worker’s compensation evaluations. If you have a question about testing, please contact me. I also provide psychosomatic group therapy which focuses on restorative yoga, trauma, and depression.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Summit Psychological Services. I provide psychological testing to help individuals clarify mental health diagnoses and to aid with treatment recommendations. I provide testing for adult ADHD. I also provide Independent Medical Evaluations and worker’s compensation evaluations. If you have a question about testing, please contact me. I also provide psychosomatic group therapy which focuses on restorative yoga, trauma, and depression.
(909) 584-3611 View (909) 584-3611
Photo of Eva Lomeli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eva Lomeli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
My name is Eva A. Lomeli, LCSW. I have been a mental health provider for more than twenty-five years. I have helped clients with depression and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, BPD, grief, end of life issues, trauma or sexual abuse, and relationship issues. I use a strength based perspective and employ Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Humanistic approaches. I am committed to providing a space where you can freely express your concerns, feel understood and valued, safely process your thoughts and feelings, and learn new skills and strategies to face life's challenges.
My name is Eva A. Lomeli, LCSW. I have been a mental health provider for more than twenty-five years. I have helped clients with depression and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, BPD, grief, end of life issues, trauma or sexual abuse, and relationship issues. I use a strength based perspective and employ Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Humanistic approaches. I am committed to providing a space where you can freely express your concerns, feel understood and valued, safely process your thoughts and feelings, and learn new skills and strategies to face life's challenges.
(909) 308-5972 View (909) 308-5972
Photo of Allen E. Lipscomb - Dr. Allen E. Lipscomb, PsyD, LCSW, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Allen E. Lipscomb, PsyD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Lipscomb has his doctorate in psychology with a clinical emphasis in marriage, family and child psychotherapy. Dr. Lipscomb is a licensed clinical social worker who provides psychotherapy, counseling and coaching services. He provides services to individuals, couples, children/youth and families. He specializes in areas such as: Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, and Trauma. Ultimately, he provides an affirming, culturally responsive, and anti-oppressive therapeutic environment for individuals to grow and thrive.
Dr. Lipscomb has his doctorate in psychology with a clinical emphasis in marriage, family and child psychotherapy. Dr. Lipscomb is a licensed clinical social worker who provides psychotherapy, counseling and coaching services. He provides services to individuals, couples, children/youth and families. He specializes in areas such as: Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, and Trauma. Ultimately, he provides an affirming, culturally responsive, and anti-oppressive therapeutic environment for individuals to grow and thrive.
(909) 340-3458 View (909) 340-3458
Photo of Anna Appenzell-McDonald, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Appenzell-McDonald
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
My name is Tina McDonald, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I have been licensed since 1994 and have had the opportunity to work on behalf of clients with a variety of issues. I am a passionate advocate in assisting clients in meeting their goals. Over the course of my career, I have worked with clients recovering from child abuse, domestic violence, drug abuse, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I am comfortable working with clients struggling with these issues and with clients looking to make changes in their life and careers.
My name is Tina McDonald, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I have been licensed since 1994 and have had the opportunity to work on behalf of clients with a variety of issues. I am a passionate advocate in assisting clients in meeting their goals. Over the course of my career, I have worked with clients recovering from child abuse, domestic violence, drug abuse, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I am comfortable working with clients struggling with these issues and with clients looking to make changes in their life and careers.
(909) 325-3758 View (909) 325-3758
Photo of Crystal Amber Lynn Amick - Nspiring Change, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nspiring Change
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
Specializing in treatment of crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, PTSD, behavioral outbursts, anger management, relational issues, stress, and the effects of institutionalization/incarceration.
NEW UPLAND OFFICE!!-ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS- OPEN AVAILABILITY FOR BOTH IN PERSON AND VIRTUAL SESSION- IMMEDIATE OPENINGS AVAILABLE! We are warm, kind hearted therapists hoping to Nspire Change. Life isn't always easy, and sometimes we need that nonjudgmental listener to help us get through the tough times. Let us help you work through those tough situations and improve your quality of life and relationships with others. Don't continue to struggle on your own. There is hope for a brighter tomorrow, the choice is yours!
Specializing in treatment of crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, PTSD, behavioral outbursts, anger management, relational issues, stress, and the effects of institutionalization/incarceration.
NEW UPLAND OFFICE!!-ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS- OPEN AVAILABILITY FOR BOTH IN PERSON AND VIRTUAL SESSION- IMMEDIATE OPENINGS AVAILABLE! We are warm, kind hearted therapists hoping to Nspire Change. Life isn't always easy, and sometimes we need that nonjudgmental listener to help us get through the tough times. Let us help you work through those tough situations and improve your quality of life and relationships with others. Don't continue to struggle on your own. There is hope for a brighter tomorrow, the choice is yours!
(760) 493-6101 View (760) 493-6101
Photo of Natalie Freeman, MS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Freeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
Vulnerability researcher and storyteller Brené Brown stated once that authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we are supposed to be, and instead, embracing who we are. Do you feel insecure, lost, or helpless? Do you ever feel immense pressure to be someone that you are not? Do you feel depressed or anxious about life’s journey or had a loss? Do you find yourself dwelling on the past or the future, preventing you from truly living a joyous life? Have you experienced trauma or loss and are struggling to move forward? I will help you understand yourself better so you can live a peaceful and happier life.
Vulnerability researcher and storyteller Brené Brown stated once that authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we are supposed to be, and instead, embracing who we are. Do you feel insecure, lost, or helpless? Do you ever feel immense pressure to be someone that you are not? Do you feel depressed or anxious about life’s journey or had a loss? Do you find yourself dwelling on the past or the future, preventing you from truly living a joyous life? Have you experienced trauma or loss and are struggling to move forward? I will help you understand yourself better so you can live a peaceful and happier life.
(626) 316-6149 x704 View (626) 316-6149 x704
Photo of Leo Juarez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leo Juarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
I have extensive experience in working with clients presenting depression, anxiety, relationship issues and childhood trauma.
You have discovered a highly experienced therapist with a humanistic approach to life's challenges. Are you seeking relief from emotional pain due to depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, divorce, or loss? If so I have over 25 years experience as a psychotherapist working with individuals, couples and families. My expectation is to assist each and every client who enlists my services to meet their identified goals. I believe in establishing a healthy working relationship in the process of addressing desired outcomes. My therapeutic approach is holistic and based on psychodynamic approaches.
I have extensive experience in working with clients presenting depression, anxiety, relationship issues and childhood trauma.
You have discovered a highly experienced therapist with a humanistic approach to life's challenges. Are you seeking relief from emotional pain due to depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, divorce, or loss? If so I have over 25 years experience as a psychotherapist working with individuals, couples and families. My expectation is to assist each and every client who enlists my services to meet their identified goals. I believe in establishing a healthy working relationship in the process of addressing desired outcomes. My therapeutic approach is holistic and based on psychodynamic approaches.
(909) 713-3942 View (909) 713-3942
Photo of Maricella Campuzano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maricella Campuzano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
My name is Maricella Campuzano and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the metro area of Los Angeles. I am a trauma-focused therapist who specializes in the treatment of adolescents and adults, specifically those in at-risk populations. I have over a decade of experience treating adolescents, adults, and families in underserved populations, specifically at-risk youth. I also have extensive experience working with adolescents on probation, recently incarcerated, or transitioning back into the community. My expertise further lies with those who struggle with PTSD, C-PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and other mood disorders.
My name is Maricella Campuzano and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the metro area of Los Angeles. I am a trauma-focused therapist who specializes in the treatment of adolescents and adults, specifically those in at-risk populations. I have over a decade of experience treating adolescents, adults, and families in underserved populations, specifically at-risk youth. I also have extensive experience working with adolescents on probation, recently incarcerated, or transitioning back into the community. My expertise further lies with those who struggle with PTSD, C-PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and other mood disorders.
(909) 757-5004 View (909) 757-5004
Photo of Leah Leonard, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leah Leonard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, grief and trauma counseling, parenting support and more.
My goal is to help my clients uncover their true potential and lead an authentic life. Connecting quickly to develop the trust of my clients, I am able to address their conflicts and challenges to help them find resolution. I provide individual, couples and family counseling in a safe and supportive environment. I offer a personalized approach, tailored to each individual client's unique life situation to help them attain the personal growth they are seeking.
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, grief and trauma counseling, parenting support and more.
My goal is to help my clients uncover their true potential and lead an authentic life. Connecting quickly to develop the trust of my clients, I am able to address their conflicts and challenges to help them find resolution. I provide individual, couples and family counseling in a safe and supportive environment. I offer a personalized approach, tailored to each individual client's unique life situation to help them attain the personal growth they are seeking.
(909) 907-9953 View (909) 907-9953
Photo of Heather Y. Daniels, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Y. Daniels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91784
Bicoastal virtual therapy in CA and Washington, DC and now offering walk-and-talk therapy in the greater LA region. I specialize in anxiety and depression, grief, coping with school and work demands, parenting, and religious trauma while utilizing a cognitive behavioral approach along with meditation and mindfulness. I strongly believe in the mind-body connection and explore this with my clients. Therapy works best when the therapist and client work together toward client-driven goals and will provide a safe and supportive place for you to focus on yourself and your well-being.
Bicoastal virtual therapy in CA and Washington, DC and now offering walk-and-talk therapy in the greater LA region. I specialize in anxiety and depression, grief, coping with school and work demands, parenting, and religious trauma while utilizing a cognitive behavioral approach along with meditation and mindfulness. I strongly believe in the mind-body connection and explore this with my clients. Therapy works best when the therapist and client work together toward client-driven goals and will provide a safe and supportive place for you to focus on yourself and your well-being.
(562) 359-4331 View (562) 359-4331
Photo of Leticia Gutierrez-Lopez - Tranquilidad Wellbeing and Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Tranquilidad Wellbeing and Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise are trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationships.
My name is Dr. Leticia Gutiérrez-López, a Psychologist serving all age groups. My treatment philosophy is focused on overall wellbeing and I believe in treating the whole person and not just their symptoms or diagnosis. I listen with empathy, help my clients develop a tool kit of wellbeing coping strategies, and strive to instill hope.
My areas of expertise are trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationships.
My name is Dr. Leticia Gutiérrez-López, a Psychologist serving all age groups. My treatment philosophy is focused on overall wellbeing and I believe in treating the whole person and not just their symptoms or diagnosis. I listen with empathy, help my clients develop a tool kit of wellbeing coping strategies, and strive to instill hope.
(909) 443-2170 View (909) 443-2170
Photo of Norina Verduzco-Murphy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Norina Verduzco-Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upland, CA 91786
As a licensed therapist, I see my role as one in which I assist clients in creating an emotional, physical and spiritual balance in their lives. My therapy style is based on a variety of approaches with consideration of each client's values, cultural identity, strengths, and life experiences. I am particularly skilled in working with parenting, children, living with chronic pain/illness, trauma,survivors of child abuse, depression/anxiety, grief, postpartum mood d/o, and pregnancy/infant loss. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to help them make lasting change.
As a licensed therapist, I see my role as one in which I assist clients in creating an emotional, physical and spiritual balance in their lives. My therapy style is based on a variety of approaches with consideration of each client's values, cultural identity, strengths, and life experiences. I am particularly skilled in working with parenting, children, living with chronic pain/illness, trauma,survivors of child abuse, depression/anxiety, grief, postpartum mood d/o, and pregnancy/infant loss. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to help them make lasting change.
(909) 962-1629 View (909) 962-1629
Photo of Debi Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debi Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Upland, CA 91786  (Online Only)
My specialties are depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 11 yrs of experience working in mental health. I have experience working with various populations and believe in helping to heal the whole person, by focusing on the mind, body, and spirit. I would love to be a part of your journey of managing stress, anxiety, depression, and/or processing trauma.
My specialties are depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Hi, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 11 yrs of experience working in mental health. I have experience working with various populations and believe in helping to heal the whole person, by focusing on the mind, body, and spirit. I would love to be a part of your journey of managing stress, anxiety, depression, and/or processing trauma.
(909) 655-4927 View (909) 655-4927
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.