Depression Therapists in Valley Village, CA

Photo of Michael Beltrano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Beltrano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607
I have experience working closely with diverse clients from ages 5-65+ dealing with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, dual diagnosis, BPD, and ADHD.
Hi, my name is Michael Beltrano, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work collaboratively with clients to build on the skills that matter to them. I have experience working closely with culturally diverse clients from ages 5-65+ dealing with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, dual diagnosis, BPD, and ADHD. I utilize person-centered approaches when building rapport. Additionally, I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, Emotion Focused (EFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solution Focused approaches and interventions within the therapeutic process.
I have experience working closely with diverse clients from ages 5-65+ dealing with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, dual diagnosis, BPD, and ADHD.
Hi, my name is Michael Beltrano, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work collaboratively with clients to build on the skills that matter to them. I have experience working closely with culturally diverse clients from ages 5-65+ dealing with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, dual diagnosis, BPD, and ADHD. I utilize person-centered approaches when building rapport. Additionally, I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, Emotion Focused (EFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solution Focused approaches and interventions within the therapeutic process.
(323) 991-9398 View (323) 991-9398
Photo of Diane Lee Kubrin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diane Lee Kubrin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607
I offer compassionate psychotherapy services for people struggling with depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, stage of life issues, EMDR, divorce/separation, substance use, grief, and services to simply help a person grow to be the best version of themselves.
My approach to therapy is person centered and flexible. I work collaboratively with individuals and couples on goals and provide a safe, affirming and confidential space to create a new life path. Change is hard, but a renewed sense of hope and joy on the other side of a difficult period of time is possible. Life throws a lot of unpredictable things our way, and therapy can help build resilience while simultaneously uncovering the wonderful parts of ourselves that have been dormant. Therapy allows for healing and a chance for renewal.
I offer compassionate psychotherapy services for people struggling with depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, stage of life issues, EMDR, divorce/separation, substance use, grief, and services to simply help a person grow to be the best version of themselves.
My approach to therapy is person centered and flexible. I work collaboratively with individuals and couples on goals and provide a safe, affirming and confidential space to create a new life path. Change is hard, but a renewed sense of hope and joy on the other side of a difficult period of time is possible. Life throws a lot of unpredictable things our way, and therapy can help build resilience while simultaneously uncovering the wonderful parts of ourselves that have been dormant. Therapy allows for healing and a chance for renewal.
(818) 514-1415 View (818) 514-1415
Photo of Neda Levi, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neda Levi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607  (Online Only)
Living with depression and/or anxiety juxtaposed with a shaky sense of self, while one's childhood trauma is unknowingly being pushed aside, can be very overwhelming. Given the emotions that humans experience as they navigate their own unique worlds, these challenges can continue to permeate every avenue of one’s existence as they enter each life stage. Addressing strained relationships with primary caregivers & learning to reparent one’s self due to childhood neglect, can serve as the vehicle through which one is equipped with the tools necessary to provide themselves compassion & a foundation to create a life they've yearned for.
Living with depression and/or anxiety juxtaposed with a shaky sense of self, while one's childhood trauma is unknowingly being pushed aside, can be very overwhelming. Given the emotions that humans experience as they navigate their own unique worlds, these challenges can continue to permeate every avenue of one’s existence as they enter each life stage. Addressing strained relationships with primary caregivers & learning to reparent one’s self due to childhood neglect, can serve as the vehicle through which one is equipped with the tools necessary to provide themselves compassion & a foundation to create a life they've yearned for.
(818) 717-7983 View (818) 717-7983
Photo of Marisa Schimmel, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Schimmel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607  (Online Only)
I'm Marisa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (115264) who received my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, specializing in children, youth, and families. I have expertise in working with individual adults specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Transitions, Relationship Issues, and Self Esteem.
I'm Marisa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (115264) who received my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, specializing in children, youth, and families. I have expertise in working with individual adults specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Transitions, Relationship Issues, and Self Esteem.
(818) 862-5338 View (818) 862-5338
Photo of Heather Weingold, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Weingold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607
I offer both in-person & virtual sessions. I primarily see adults who are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, identity, parenthood, grief and loss & relationship stressors. As a therapist, I believe in a more new school approach where our dynamic in session provides the foundation for self actualization. I want clients to feel safe, comfortable and enjoy coming to session even when there are psychosocial stressors that we are working through.
I offer both in-person & virtual sessions. I primarily see adults who are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, identity, parenthood, grief and loss & relationship stressors. As a therapist, I believe in a more new school approach where our dynamic in session provides the foundation for self actualization. I want clients to feel safe, comfortable and enjoy coming to session even when there are psychosocial stressors that we are working through.
(818) 369-3096 View (818) 369-3096
Photo of Vita Hall, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vita Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91601  (Online Only)
I have experience working with many issues including anxiety, depression, substance use, mood disorders, relationship problems, grief & loss, ADHD, career challenges, LGBTQ+, and changes in the life cycle.
Providing telehealth throughout the state of California. If you are struggling with a personal or emotional issue, please know change and growth is possible. I believe everyone has the ability to improve their psychological health. I provide compassionate and supportive therapy combined with modern therapeutic modalities that allow you to learn new skills to live a healthier and happier life.
I have experience working with many issues including anxiety, depression, substance use, mood disorders, relationship problems, grief & loss, ADHD, career challenges, LGBTQ+, and changes in the life cycle.
Providing telehealth throughout the state of California. If you are struggling with a personal or emotional issue, please know change and growth is possible. I believe everyone has the ability to improve their psychological health. I provide compassionate and supportive therapy combined with modern therapeutic modalities that allow you to learn new skills to live a healthier and happier life.
(747) 281-4218 View (747) 281-4218
Photo of Muriel Ghislaine Gaudin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Muriel Ghislaine Gaudin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607
I work with a broad range of clients from teens to elders and treat a wide range of issues: Anxiety, depression, substance abuse, domestic violence, adoption issues, mental illness in the family, loss.
As we move through life, some challenges easily become roadblocks to living the life we want. In therapy you can start to understand your struggles, find your strengths and experience a world that is unique to you. Therapy could be the most significant step you have ever taken. Together we might explore how your past relationships and your relationships with others came to be, how to integrate the conflict and tension that have become a challenge in your life, how to develop new skills to manage the issues you are presently facing.
I work with a broad range of clients from teens to elders and treat a wide range of issues: Anxiety, depression, substance abuse, domestic violence, adoption issues, mental illness in the family, loss.
As we move through life, some challenges easily become roadblocks to living the life we want. In therapy you can start to understand your struggles, find your strengths and experience a world that is unique to you. Therapy could be the most significant step you have ever taken. Together we might explore how your past relationships and your relationships with others came to be, how to integrate the conflict and tension that have become a challenge in your life, how to develop new skills to manage the issues you are presently facing.
(818) 869-2644 View (818) 869-2644
Photo of Ronald Kaufman - Family Time Centers, PsyD, Psychologist
Family Time Centers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607
The Centers are welcoming and accessible to families of all ages because in some way or another trauma, anxiety, and depression can be helped.
Family Time centers are community hubs where everyone can get the help or support they need. They can tap into community resources, learn new parenting skills, and/or get individualized support. We provide a location where challenges can be explored and personal relationships can be strengthened. If you or someone in your family is struggling, we have expert therapists who can help a parent or a child receive the counseling they need. We provide an inclusive location that is welcoming, handicap accessible, and reflective of the core values of healing your inner self.
The Centers are welcoming and accessible to families of all ages because in some way or another trauma, anxiety, and depression can be helped.
Family Time centers are community hubs where everyone can get the help or support they need. They can tap into community resources, learn new parenting skills, and/or get individualized support. We provide a location where challenges can be explored and personal relationships can be strengthened. If you or someone in your family is struggling, we have expert therapists who can help a parent or a child receive the counseling they need. We provide an inclusive location that is welcoming, handicap accessible, and reflective of the core values of healing your inner self.
(818) 572-9799 View (818) 572-9799
Photo of Athena Mesina, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Athena Mesina
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Athena and I am an Associate Registered Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, California. I have experience working with adults and teens addressing physical trauma, emotional abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. I previously worked for a Trauma Assault Crisis Center which has expanded my expertise to include a population that has experienced complex traumas. To me, a therapist is a form of support walking alongside clients in their mental health journey; continuing to learn with them, staying proactive, and backing them as they navigate obstacles. A safe and warm, compassionate space.
Welcome! My name is Athena and I am an Associate Registered Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, California. I have experience working with adults and teens addressing physical trauma, emotional abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. I previously worked for a Trauma Assault Crisis Center which has expanded my expertise to include a population that has experienced complex traumas. To me, a therapist is a form of support walking alongside clients in their mental health journey; continuing to learn with them, staying proactive, and backing them as they navigate obstacles. A safe and warm, compassionate space.
(818) 696-4909 View (818) 696-4909
Photo of Philip Elias Khoury, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Philip Elias Khoury
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607
Life challenges can push us forward or, when too much, weaken our mind, body and soul. Feelings of anxiety, depression, anger or just feeling overwhelmed are common signs of a life out of balance. At these times therapy can help. Together we can look at what is burdening you and what is holding you back from engaging more fully and happily in your life. Through compassion and understanding you can discover ways to build a life reflecting your values, hopes and desires. In therapy you can learn skills that you were never provided.
Life challenges can push us forward or, when too much, weaken our mind, body and soul. Feelings of anxiety, depression, anger or just feeling overwhelmed are common signs of a life out of balance. At these times therapy can help. Together we can look at what is burdening you and what is holding you back from engaging more fully and happily in your life. Through compassion and understanding you can discover ways to build a life reflecting your values, hopes and desires. In therapy you can learn skills that you were never provided.
(818) 491-7111 View (818) 491-7111
Photo of Blanche Mcwane, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Blanche Mcwane
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607
Are you suffering from anxiety and depression, or having symptoms such as insomnia or a change in appetite, have feelings that something is not quite right but feel stuck as how to change. We are often unconsciously drawn to familiar situations we learned in childhood. Events and relationships in the earlier parts of our lives have affected us, and draw us into familiar situations where we repeat unhealthy choices, that are often not in our best interest.
Are you suffering from anxiety and depression, or having symptoms such as insomnia or a change in appetite, have feelings that something is not quite right but feel stuck as how to change. We are often unconsciously drawn to familiar situations we learned in childhood. Events and relationships in the earlier parts of our lives have affected us, and draw us into familiar situations where we repeat unhealthy choices, that are often not in our best interest.
(818) 308-3234 View (818) 308-3234
Photo of Laura Calnan, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Calnan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607
I have a particular interest and strength in working with teens & adults suffering from anxiety & depression.
My goal in therapy is to facilitate self-exploration in an attempt to heal and make sense of difficult situations, emotional states and relationships. I do this by providing a safe space to explore, free of judgments and agendas. Many of us get stuck in particular patterns just like grooves in a record and we never get out of those patterns. Through work in therapy we can create new grooves that result in different responses to the situations, emotions and relationships of life. The aim of therapy is to develop an awareness of our cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns so that we can change them. Teletherapy & sliding scale.
I have a particular interest and strength in working with teens & adults suffering from anxiety & depression.
My goal in therapy is to facilitate self-exploration in an attempt to heal and make sense of difficult situations, emotional states and relationships. I do this by providing a safe space to explore, free of judgments and agendas. Many of us get stuck in particular patterns just like grooves in a record and we never get out of those patterns. Through work in therapy we can create new grooves that result in different responses to the situations, emotions and relationships of life. The aim of therapy is to develop an awareness of our cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns so that we can change them. Teletherapy & sliding scale.
(818) 962-6449 View (818) 962-6449
Photo of Avana Pace, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Avana Pace
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607  (Online Only)
My name is Avana Pace and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I use telehealth therapy to help adults live a more empowered and fulfilled life when faced with depression, anxiety, navigating relationships, and the stress of life. My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment-Based Therapy. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. I work from a client-centered perspective to understand the goals my clients have for their therapy experience and help them build their unique strengths to achieve them.
My name is Avana Pace and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I use telehealth therapy to help adults live a more empowered and fulfilled life when faced with depression, anxiety, navigating relationships, and the stress of life. My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment-Based Therapy. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. I work from a client-centered perspective to understand the goals my clients have for their therapy experience and help them build their unique strengths to achieve them.
(805) 669-2850 View (805) 669-2850
Photo of Alina Neiman, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alina Neiman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607  (Online Only)
I specialize in dealing with issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, and grief/loss.
My work focuses on helping individuals achieve a level of clarity and consciousness in their lives that can create a sense of joy, groundedness and growth. Growth can take many forms in one's life: improved relationships, improved sense of well-being, enhanced sense of self, reduction of painful/unwanted symptoms, career success, etc. My approach focuses on understanding and uncovering what stands in the way of one's growth. This process lays the groundwork for reaching a place of greater fulfillment. I seek to explore issues from the past/present to provide insight into what motivates present feelings and behaviors.
I specialize in dealing with issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, and grief/loss.
My work focuses on helping individuals achieve a level of clarity and consciousness in their lives that can create a sense of joy, groundedness and growth. Growth can take many forms in one's life: improved relationships, improved sense of well-being, enhanced sense of self, reduction of painful/unwanted symptoms, career success, etc. My approach focuses on understanding and uncovering what stands in the way of one's growth. This process lays the groundwork for reaching a place of greater fulfillment. I seek to explore issues from the past/present to provide insight into what motivates present feelings and behaviors.
(818) 390-9271 View (818) 390-9271
Photo of Leigh Lustig, PsyD, Psychologist
Leigh Lustig
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607  (Online Only)
I've worked with individuals who were experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors, personality disorders, relationship issues, addictions, and persistent mental illnesses.
I have always enjoyed helping others and working with diverse individuals! Whether you're dealing with short-term issues, like life transitions, stressors, or relationship difficulties, or more long-term issues, like coping with chronic mental illness, or feeling stuck and unsatisfied in your life, I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings and facilitate growth leading to a more fulfilled life.
I've worked with individuals who were experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors, personality disorders, relationship issues, addictions, and persistent mental illnesses.
I have always enjoyed helping others and working with diverse individuals! Whether you're dealing with short-term issues, like life transitions, stressors, or relationship difficulties, or more long-term issues, like coping with chronic mental illness, or feeling stuck and unsatisfied in your life, I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings and facilitate growth leading to a more fulfilled life.
(323) 745-8439 View (323) 745-8439
Photo of Cara Frierson-O'Donnell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cara Frierson-O'Donnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607
Are you facing change? Maybe considering making changes but, feel too overwhelmed? Life changes, even those typically seen as "good", have the potential to evoke anxiety, fear, or depression. As we grow up we internalize messages from those around us and our experiences. Discovering and challenging those messages can help one learn to manage and tolerate their emotions. Together we can explore what messages are getting in your way. We can discover what is right for you and how you want to rewrite them.
Are you facing change? Maybe considering making changes but, feel too overwhelmed? Life changes, even those typically seen as "good", have the potential to evoke anxiety, fear, or depression. As we grow up we internalize messages from those around us and our experiences. Discovering and challenging those messages can help one learn to manage and tolerate their emotions. Together we can explore what messages are getting in your way. We can discover what is right for you and how you want to rewrite them.
(818) 986-3358 View (818) 986-3358
Photo of James J De Santis, PhD, Psychologist
James J De Santis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607  (Online Only)
A life issues consultant and therapist, I have expertise in dealing with anxiety, depression, stress & burn-out, relationship formation difficulties, parenting skills, learning disabilities, attention deficits, trauma, grief & loss, relationship & career transitions, chemical dependency & codependency.
I tend to be most helpful to intense, high-functioning adults struggling with mood or anxiety symptoms or significant life transitions who are striving toward personal achievement, balance between work and relationships, and a sense of well-being. I may draw on various approaches according to the problem you are dealing with and my experience with what may benefit you. These include cognitive, psychodynamic, interpersonal, and psychoeducational approaches. I may propose different ways of looking at or handling situations. I may suggest in-between session reading or homework assignments.
A life issues consultant and therapist, I have expertise in dealing with anxiety, depression, stress & burn-out, relationship formation difficulties, parenting skills, learning disabilities, attention deficits, trauma, grief & loss, relationship & career transitions, chemical dependency & codependency.
I tend to be most helpful to intense, high-functioning adults struggling with mood or anxiety symptoms or significant life transitions who are striving toward personal achievement, balance between work and relationships, and a sense of well-being. I may draw on various approaches according to the problem you are dealing with and my experience with what may benefit you. These include cognitive, psychodynamic, interpersonal, and psychoeducational approaches. I may propose different ways of looking at or handling situations. I may suggest in-between session reading or homework assignments.
(818) 551-1714 View (818) 551-1714
Photo of Paige E. Fecske, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paige E. Fecske
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607  (Online Only)
I have helped children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, feeling unfulfilled, lacking self-confidence, feeling stuck, difficulty coping with major life changes, trauma, athletic performance and/or grief.
Right now everything may seem overwhelming and impossible…take a deep breath and know that you are not alone. I provide a warm and compassionate space that encourages growth and connection. Our sessions will be collaborative, creative, and tailored to your individual needs. The therapeutic techniques I use have been shown to help people bring awareness to unconscious patterns and understanding to their thoughts, behaviors and emotions.
I have helped children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, feeling unfulfilled, lacking self-confidence, feeling stuck, difficulty coping with major life changes, trauma, athletic performance and/or grief.
Right now everything may seem overwhelming and impossible…take a deep breath and know that you are not alone. I provide a warm and compassionate space that encourages growth and connection. Our sessions will be collaborative, creative, and tailored to your individual needs. The therapeutic techniques I use have been shown to help people bring awareness to unconscious patterns and understanding to their thoughts, behaviors and emotions.
(323) 714-3996 View (323) 714-3996
Photo of Lyra Velayo Matin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lyra Velayo Matin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607  (Online Only)
I am a depth-trained and results-oriented psychotherapist. My goal is to help you gain self-awareness and teach psychological tools for personal growth and healing in and beyond therapy. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, a difficult life transition, creative blocks, unhealthy behaviors that you can’t seem to change, or challenges regarding your neurodiversity or sexuality, I will help you use them as opportunities for positive and sustainable transformation. I provide online therapy to individuals, couples, and families using psychoanalytic, somatic, coaching, evidence-based, and psycho-spiritual approaches.
I am a depth-trained and results-oriented psychotherapist. My goal is to help you gain self-awareness and teach psychological tools for personal growth and healing in and beyond therapy. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, a difficult life transition, creative blocks, unhealthy behaviors that you can’t seem to change, or challenges regarding your neurodiversity or sexuality, I will help you use them as opportunities for positive and sustainable transformation. I provide online therapy to individuals, couples, and families using psychoanalytic, somatic, coaching, evidence-based, and psycho-spiritual approaches.
(213) 423-4315 View (213) 423-4315
Photo of Jennifer Brizuela, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Brizuela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valley Village, CA 91607  (Online Only)
What do you say to yourself in times of stress? During moments of uncertainty, are you able to reach for your partner for support? Sometimes, our inner conversations disrupt our ability to cope or connect with others. I can help! I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma, are struggling with anxiety, depression, or undergoing life transitions. In my work with couples, I help strengthen connections and overcome "raw spots" within your relationship. I specialize in working with intercultural couples to help each partner better understand one another's lived experiences.
What do you say to yourself in times of stress? During moments of uncertainty, are you able to reach for your partner for support? Sometimes, our inner conversations disrupt our ability to cope or connect with others. I can help! I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma, are struggling with anxiety, depression, or undergoing life transitions. In my work with couples, I help strengthen connections and overcome "raw spots" within your relationship. I specialize in working with intercultural couples to help each partner better understand one another's lived experiences.
(323) 897-1484 View (323) 897-1484
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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.