Depression Therapists in Los Angeles, CA
![Photo of William Dexter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420b1055-eebb-4eef-a429-f2cc752528c6/1/320x400.png)
I have experience working with substance abuse disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and healing relationships.
My name is William Dexter I am a LMFT licensed marriage family therapist. I am devoted to the health, well-being, and safety of clients and have lived a clean and sober lifestyle for over thirty years. My approach to therapy is to focus on relationships with yourself, with others, and with your Higher Power or GOD as you understand him. I believe the problem is not knowing who you are, and the solution is finding out who you are.
I have experience working with substance abuse disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and healing relationships.
My name is William Dexter I am a LMFT licensed marriage family therapist. I am devoted to the health, well-being, and safety of clients and have lived a clean and sober lifestyle for over thirty years. My approach to therapy is to focus on relationships with yourself, with others, and with your Higher Power or GOD as you understand him. I believe the problem is not knowing who you are, and the solution is finding out who you are.
![Photo of Cazzie Emily Marzwell, AMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b0323b7-0217-4c16-a8d4-b4b4e6e1125a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cazzie Emily Marzwell
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025 (Online Only)
Sometimes we must take a look at the painful or stressful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction. Obstacles may stand in the way of leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or helpless to take important steps, work toward goals and improve relationships. If you can relate, feeling anxious, sad, depressed, stressed, etc., perhaps it’s time for therapy. Anxiety is overwhelming, depression is often debilitating, and maybe you are wondering if therapy can help. Therapy provides the opportunity to explore feelings of depression, anxiety, helplessness or hopelessness.
Sometimes we must take a look at the painful or stressful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction. Obstacles may stand in the way of leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or helpless to take important steps, work toward goals and improve relationships. If you can relate, feeling anxious, sad, depressed, stressed, etc., perhaps it’s time for therapy. Anxiety is overwhelming, depression is often debilitating, and maybe you are wondering if therapy can help. Therapy provides the opportunity to explore feelings of depression, anxiety, helplessness or hopelessness.
![Photo of Emma Thomson, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b5bf95f-87c8-4398-a391-1412c8917844/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirming therapy and work to support clients in becoming their authentic selves. In addition, I provide clients with tools and coping skills to best guide them through any unique situations that may come with being a member of the LGBTQ+ community. We live in a world that may or may not understand our experiences and so I aim to provide an understanding and supportive space where you feel seen. Previously I worked as an outpatient mental health clinician serving a range of clients with differing needs. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, and psychosis.
I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirming therapy and work to support clients in becoming their authentic selves. In addition, I provide clients with tools and coping skills to best guide them through any unique situations that may come with being a member of the LGBTQ+ community. We live in a world that may or may not understand our experiences and so I aim to provide an understanding and supportive space where you feel seen. Previously I worked as an outpatient mental health clinician serving a range of clients with differing needs. I have experience treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, and psychosis.
![Photo of Andres Cohen, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b5ba540-dbb4-439c-b0d4-28a516abe9d1/1/320x400.png)
I help people with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, compulsive behavior, grief/loss, and trauma.
Life can feel overwhelming, confusing, and, at times, impossible. You may know your problems but can’t seem to overcome them. Whether existential issues or life’s minutiae weigh you down, trauma has left you feeling cut off from yourself and others, or your creativity feels stunted by your past, I understand how isolating these challenges can be. You don't have to navigate them alone.
I help people with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, compulsive behavior, grief/loss, and trauma.
Life can feel overwhelming, confusing, and, at times, impossible. You may know your problems but can’t seem to overcome them. Whether existential issues or life’s minutiae weigh you down, trauma has left you feeling cut off from yourself and others, or your creativity feels stunted by your past, I understand how isolating these challenges can be. You don't have to navigate them alone.
![Photo of Brigit Jacoby, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a39fdcd-7e91-4519-bb13-75e0c2ae9db8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brigit Jacoby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is heavily dependent on what my clients bring to session including managing Anxiety, Depression and working on balancing personal and work relationships.
Hello! My name is Brigit Jacoby and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
My therapeutic approach is heavily dependent on what my clients bring to session including managing Anxiety, Depression and working on balancing personal and work relationships.
Hello! My name is Brigit Jacoby and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
![Photo of Catherine Pancheri, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7cadacf-c22f-4df0-b24e-28490276c651/2/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Pancheri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90035 (Online Only)
Are you ready to address areas of your life where you feel stuck, unfulfilled or are struggling? Therapy is a great start. Whatever is calling you to therapy - relationships, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, the therapeutic space allows you to deal with challenges, while being gently guided to help you understand and process what you are feeling, current blocks and ways to create the changes you want. I view therapy as self-care and an important and healing way to work through life’s difficulties. I will listen to you with curiosity and non-judgment to help you better understand yourself and stuck points.
Are you ready to address areas of your life where you feel stuck, unfulfilled or are struggling? Therapy is a great start. Whatever is calling you to therapy - relationships, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, the therapeutic space allows you to deal with challenges, while being gently guided to help you understand and process what you are feeling, current blocks and ways to create the changes you want. I view therapy as self-care and an important and healing way to work through life’s difficulties. I will listen to you with curiosity and non-judgment to help you better understand yourself and stuck points.
![Photo of Janet Conn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/467c1004-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Most people I work with want similar things: to acquire insight into their lives, to identify the barriers that are holding them back and to develop the ability for change. My experience and training is in insight-oriented, relational psychotherapy and executive/career coaching. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, past traumas, relationship problems, life transitions or finding a place in a culture that is not welcoming to you, I create a safe, confidential environment to explore the issues you are struggling with.
Most people I work with want similar things: to acquire insight into their lives, to identify the barriers that are holding them back and to develop the ability for change. My experience and training is in insight-oriented, relational psychotherapy and executive/career coaching. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, past traumas, relationship problems, life transitions or finding a place in a culture that is not welcoming to you, I create a safe, confidential environment to explore the issues you are struggling with.
![Photo of Susan Horvat, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a5d0642-1e07-41f0-8937-72ca3a4baea6/2/320x400.jpeg)
It takes courage to start/restart therapy - well done for taking the first step! Whether your therapeutic needs are straightforward or complex, my ultimate goal is to empower you. I specialize in treating BPD and complex trauma. Many of my clients identify as creative, sensitive, and/or neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism) and tend to struggle with some combination of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and/or substance abuse. Whatever you're facing, we will customize your treatment plan together in order to get you the best, most efficient results possible.
It takes courage to start/restart therapy - well done for taking the first step! Whether your therapeutic needs are straightforward or complex, my ultimate goal is to empower you. I specialize in treating BPD and complex trauma. Many of my clients identify as creative, sensitive, and/or neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism) and tend to struggle with some combination of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and/or substance abuse. Whatever you're facing, we will customize your treatment plan together in order to get you the best, most efficient results possible.
![Photo of Jennifer Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4a47c71-ff38-4ba8-8def-2c64cb71c352/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90007 (Online Only)
My focus of practice is helping adults across the lifespan with Anxiety, Depression including Bipolar Depression, and ADHD, and how those intersect.
Hi, my name is Jennifer D. Jones, with 30 years in mental health and over 6 years of experience as a California-licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I have a Master’s in Clinical Psychology, MA, and also a Master’s in Social Work (MSW). I offer a relational and empathetic approach. Specializing in diverse mental health concerns, my eclectic style incorporates cognitive-behavioral techniques, other therapeutic modalities, and personalized strategies. I come from a supportive, compassionate focused therapeutic approach.
My focus of practice is helping adults across the lifespan with Anxiety, Depression including Bipolar Depression, and ADHD, and how those intersect.
Hi, my name is Jennifer D. Jones, with 30 years in mental health and over 6 years of experience as a California-licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I have a Master’s in Clinical Psychology, MA, and also a Master’s in Social Work (MSW). I offer a relational and empathetic approach. Specializing in diverse mental health concerns, my eclectic style incorporates cognitive-behavioral techniques, other therapeutic modalities, and personalized strategies. I come from a supportive, compassionate focused therapeutic approach.
![Photo of Zev Swiller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5135d340-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The ideal client I envision is a person grappling with anxiety and depression, guilt, and shame. They are looking for a safe space to explore the root causes without judgment in order to regain a sense of inner peace, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and rebuild connections with themselves and others. Ultimately, he or she seeks to embrace authenticity and find sustainable happiness in their life.
The ideal client I envision is a person grappling with anxiety and depression, guilt, and shame. They are looking for a safe space to explore the root causes without judgment in order to regain a sense of inner peace, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and rebuild connections with themselves and others. Ultimately, he or she seeks to embrace authenticity and find sustainable happiness in their life.
![Photo of Jamie Onstott, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0848ab7f-2a50-43ef-ae1d-5b460acdb8b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie Onstott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
Iam a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 18 years of experience in the mental health field. The majority of my experience has been working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression and trauma. I use a very humanistic and client-centered approach to help clients to feel they can share thoughts and feelings safely and free from judgement. I understand that asking for help and facilitating change in your life takes a lot of courage. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and I am here as a resource to support you through achieving your goals.
Iam a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 18 years of experience in the mental health field. The majority of my experience has been working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression and trauma. I use a very humanistic and client-centered approach to help clients to feel they can share thoughts and feelings safely and free from judgement. I understand that asking for help and facilitating change in your life takes a lot of courage. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and I am here as a resource to support you through achieving your goals.
15 Second Videos
Nate Anderson
Amanda Feinberg
Katrin Harrison
Brandi S Butler
Hernan Garza
Amy Cordero
Dahlia Seroussi
Jadah Petty
Kevin Brody
Amanda Neiman
Michael Morar
Jeneba Young
Kambria Caldwell
Luz Esther Kyncl
Here Counseling
Lili Sanchez-Cordova
Alexander Gilburd
Melanie Siegel
K.a.p Yaakov Bekhor
David Ibrahim
Adam LeHaf
Sergio Ocampo
Christa Scholtz
Robert O'Brien
Alessandra Rizzotti
Tashia Chambers
Becky White
Cory Schneider
Kylee Yoshikawa
Benjamin Huang Nguyen
Limitless Mindset Therapy
Nina Gonzaga
Joshua L Davis
Brian Donovan
Janet B Shiver
Stephanie Gonzalez
Sharif Khan
Therapy Lab Los Angeles
Soroce King
Connor McClenahan
Robert Novickas
Enrique I. Gracian
Jordyn Trockman
Nicole Moore
Shari Brickin
Talk It Out Therapy Services
Chris Calandra
Michele Goldberg
Stan Friedman
Katherine Dautenhahn (Anxiety Trauma Depression Burnout)
![Photo of Anahid Mosala, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d366ba19-aad4-4bfa-9a5b-75f46964a11b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anahid Mosala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Anxiety, depression and trauma can have a ripple effect throughout your whole life felt far beyond the obvious symptoms themselves. Perhaps you experience a paralyzing level of perfectionism or maybe you overschedule yourself to avoid thinking and feeling. Trauma can manifest itself in many ways and can have a significant impact on your daily life. In my practice, I specialize in working with young adults, individuals with childhood trauma and adult survivors of sexual and gender based violence with a focus on navigating daily life, relationships and boundaries to overcome these difficulties.
Anxiety, depression and trauma can have a ripple effect throughout your whole life felt far beyond the obvious symptoms themselves. Perhaps you experience a paralyzing level of perfectionism or maybe you overschedule yourself to avoid thinking and feeling. Trauma can manifest itself in many ways and can have a significant impact on your daily life. In my practice, I specialize in working with young adults, individuals with childhood trauma and adult survivors of sexual and gender based violence with a focus on navigating daily life, relationships and boundaries to overcome these difficulties.
![Photo of Taylor Bowman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b9af0f1-3420-479d-8b79-c7f61817a895/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with young adults and millennials who are ready to regain control over depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career/life decisions and difficult upbringings. It’s important to me that clients have a space to share vulnerable parts of their lives while gently challenged in a way that incites growth. I’m passionate about the process and working with those who are ready to step into their power. My approach is often laidback and welcoming of humor - incorporating as much "realness" as possible so that our work feels meaningful and progress feels attainable.
I work with young adults and millennials who are ready to regain control over depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career/life decisions and difficult upbringings. It’s important to me that clients have a space to share vulnerable parts of their lives while gently challenged in a way that incites growth. I’m passionate about the process and working with those who are ready to step into their power. My approach is often laidback and welcoming of humor - incorporating as much "realness" as possible so that our work feels meaningful and progress feels attainable.
![Photo of Philip Gnaedig, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b3acd58-4eb3-49c8-98a7-7c5a8c690d27/2/320x400.jpeg)
Philip Gnaedig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90029 (Online Only)
I work with adults who are feeling alone, depressed, anxious, insecure, overwhelmed and/or are seeking peace and healing around both past and current trauma.
I center my client relationships around a spirit of empathy, collaboration and safety. The therapeutic support I provide is eclectic, client-centered, trauma-informed and rooted in finding a holistic path to resolution and balance when faced with life’s challenges. I work alongside you to be bring a sense of peace over disruptive or traumatic experiences, and thoughtful exploration of the questions around identity, self-worth and fulfillment that face us in every stage of life.
I work with adults who are feeling alone, depressed, anxious, insecure, overwhelmed and/or are seeking peace and healing around both past and current trauma.
I center my client relationships around a spirit of empathy, collaboration and safety. The therapeutic support I provide is eclectic, client-centered, trauma-informed and rooted in finding a holistic path to resolution and balance when faced with life’s challenges. I work alongside you to be bring a sense of peace over disruptive or traumatic experiences, and thoughtful exploration of the questions around identity, self-worth and fulfillment that face us in every stage of life.
![Photo of Nate Anderson, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7a26ac1-3690-446e-bef2-205da044da91/1/320x400.png)
Life can be complicated, and there isn’t a handbook for managing issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationships. It’s important to know that you’re not alone, and these challenges are opportunities for growth. You’re probably here because you feel it’s time to “do something different.” Let our team at Meridian Counseling guide you on this journey.
Life can be complicated, and there isn’t a handbook for managing issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationships. It’s important to know that you’re not alone, and these challenges are opportunities for growth. You’re probably here because you feel it’s time to “do something different.” Let our team at Meridian Counseling guide you on this journey.
![Photo of Amanda Feinberg, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/342e185b-6848-47f9-a98f-08a66b68c3c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in assisting adults who grapple with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and more. My patients are often intelligent, hard-working individuals with a strong sense of perfectionism and a natural propensity for putting others before themselves. My role as a therapist is to assist people in uncovering the parts of themselves that may have been obscured by trauma, societal conditioning, and fear. In this process, I provide patients with education and help them understand the "why" behind their behaviors. This knowledge can be a powerful catalyst for change and personal growth.
I specialize in assisting adults who grapple with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and more. My patients are often intelligent, hard-working individuals with a strong sense of perfectionism and a natural propensity for putting others before themselves. My role as a therapist is to assist people in uncovering the parts of themselves that may have been obscured by trauma, societal conditioning, and fear. In this process, I provide patients with education and help them understand the "why" behind their behaviors. This knowledge can be a powerful catalyst for change and personal growth.
![Photo of Michelle Allee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fabbc38-8959-4fe9-92a1-ec86781bf7c9/1/320x400.png)
Currently, I am accepting referrals for adults who have symptoms including depression, anxiety, anger, issues with focus, sleep, weight, stress, and life transitions.
Hello! I am Michelle Allee, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sacramento, CA, providing telehealth to individuals across California. I take a trauma-informed eclectic approach to therapy, centering on the client as the expert on their own life and desire for growth and healing. I believe what happens to us doesn't define us. Together, we will create a partnership, giving you the opportunity to find techniques that fit your concerns and goals, pulling from different approaches.
Currently, I am accepting referrals for adults who have symptoms including depression, anxiety, anger, issues with focus, sleep, weight, stress, and life transitions.
Hello! I am Michelle Allee, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Sacramento, CA, providing telehealth to individuals across California. I take a trauma-informed eclectic approach to therapy, centering on the client as the expert on their own life and desire for growth and healing. I believe what happens to us doesn't define us. Together, we will create a partnership, giving you the opportunity to find techniques that fit your concerns and goals, pulling from different approaches.
![Photo of Justin Shubert, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1a9ba44-0a9e-4d23-baf7-5e1f3a2ba574/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, and issues around sexuality & intimacy.
While compassion is the cornerstone of my practice, I will also challenge you in more direct ways. Through the process of psychotherapy we come to know ourselves in a meaningful way. This self-insight can lead to comfort, purpose, and more settled, enriching relationships. * A note about COVID-19: this pandemic has already caused all of us great loss, destruction, and grief. We are anxious about what may come. It is of some solace to know that we are all feeling these things across the world, in our own ways, and that we will get through this.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, and issues around sexuality & intimacy.
While compassion is the cornerstone of my practice, I will also challenge you in more direct ways. Through the process of psychotherapy we come to know ourselves in a meaningful way. This self-insight can lead to comfort, purpose, and more settled, enriching relationships. * A note about COVID-19: this pandemic has already caused all of us great loss, destruction, and grief. We are anxious about what may come. It is of some solace to know that we are all feeling these things across the world, in our own ways, and that we will get through this.
![Photo of Dolly B Phillips, LMFT, CT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf6b58b4-1539-445f-80b1-20a6c3d97f0b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a grief specialist who offers a warm, non-judgmental partnership with my clients who may have a chronic or life threatening illness, or are grievers or caregivers. My approach is trauma informed, collaborative, strength-based and tailored to meet your needs. I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals, families & support groups with people from age 5 to 90 years old. I also work with those facing depression, anxiety, CPTSD and other life challenges and stressors.
I am a grief specialist who offers a warm, non-judgmental partnership with my clients who may have a chronic or life threatening illness, or are grievers or caregivers. My approach is trauma informed, collaborative, strength-based and tailored to meet your needs. I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals, families & support groups with people from age 5 to 90 years old. I also work with those facing depression, anxiety, CPTSD and other life challenges and stressors.
![Photo of Guisela Carrera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe747867-4c9b-436c-8e58-0fb1f2b65f79/1/320x400.png)
Guisela Carrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
Do you feel powerless, hopeless and lost with your pre-teen/adolescent? Are your emotional, physical and mental state becoming impacted by the stressors of your parenting, home and work demands? I provide client-centered individual parent therapy, individual adolescent therapy (ages 11-17), and parent & child counseling. I treat clients who may suffer from conditions including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, trauma, adjustment, and interpersonal issues.
Do you feel powerless, hopeless and lost with your pre-teen/adolescent? Are your emotional, physical and mental state becoming impacted by the stressors of your parenting, home and work demands? I provide client-centered individual parent therapy, individual adolescent therapy (ages 11-17), and parent & child counseling. I treat clients who may suffer from conditions including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, trauma, adjustment, and interpersonal issues.
See more therapy options for Los Angeles
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Los Angeles
- Baldwin Hills
- Beverly Hills
- Glassell Park
- Hollywood
- Huntington Park
- Leimert Park
- Oakwood
- Playa Vista
- Silver Lake
- View Park
- West Hollywood
- Windsor Hills
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.