Depression Therapists in Moreno Valley, CA

Photo of Jessica Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92555
Hi, my name is Jessica Hernandez and I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I utilize a client-centered approach to match client's needs and create an empowering environment. I utilize a client-centered approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, and play therapy. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I'm comfortable working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and major life transitions. My goal with every client is to provide a safe environment where they can feel comfortable and supported in sharing their life experiences, trauma, and emotions.
Hi, my name is Jessica Hernandez and I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I utilize a client-centered approach to match client's needs and create an empowering environment. I utilize a client-centered approach, cognitive behavioral therapy, and play therapy. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I'm comfortable working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and major life transitions. My goal with every client is to provide a safe environment where they can feel comfortable and supported in sharing their life experiences, trauma, and emotions.
(951) 517-4914 View (951) 517-4914
Photo of Sheri Akins, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheri Akins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
I am pleased to introduce myself as Sheri Akins, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a distinguished career spanning over 15 years in the field. I am renowned for my Client Centered approach to therapy, which has proven to be highly effective in addressing various challenges faced by individuals and families. I possess a wealth of experience in addressing a diverse range of adult and childhood obstacles, with a particular emphasis on assessing an individual's willingness to change. My professional background is deeply rooted in assisting adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and addiction challenges.
I am pleased to introduce myself as Sheri Akins, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a distinguished career spanning over 15 years in the field. I am renowned for my Client Centered approach to therapy, which has proven to be highly effective in addressing various challenges faced by individuals and families. I possess a wealth of experience in addressing a diverse range of adult and childhood obstacles, with a particular emphasis on assessing an individual's willingness to change. My professional background is deeply rooted in assisting adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and addiction challenges.
(951) 904-4069 View (951) 904-4069
Photo of Tanya P. L. Carcamo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tanya P. L. Carcamo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92555  (Online Only)
Are you or someone you love struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, loss or panic attacks? It takes courage to seek help, and we are here to help you find the healing, peace and balance you’re searching for. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level 2 (Evergreen Certification 903284) as well as DBT Certified (Evergreen Certification 185604). Personal website: www.CarcamoCounseling.com or find me on Headway to request an appointment (link in website section).
Are you or someone you love struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, loss or panic attacks? It takes courage to seek help, and we are here to help you find the healing, peace and balance you’re searching for. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level 2 (Evergreen Certification 903284) as well as DBT Certified (Evergreen Certification 185604). Personal website: www.CarcamoCounseling.com or find me on Headway to request an appointment (link in website section).
(951) 309-7788 View (951) 309-7788
Photo of Cheryl Stebbings, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Stebbings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92557  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Cheryl and I have been working in this field for over eleven years. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and my experience includes working with depression and anxiety related issues, mood instability, trauma response disorders, psychosis, personality disorders, self-harming behaviors, relationship conflicts, and individual concerns.I am skilled in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavior, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-dynamic, and Person Centered treatment. I am dedicated to helping my clients along their journey of self-discovery and healing and feel honored to be part of that experience.
Hello, my name is Cheryl and I have been working in this field for over eleven years. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and my experience includes working with depression and anxiety related issues, mood instability, trauma response disorders, psychosis, personality disorders, self-harming behaviors, relationship conflicts, and individual concerns.I am skilled in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavior, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-dynamic, and Person Centered treatment. I am dedicated to helping my clients along their journey of self-discovery and healing and feel honored to be part of that experience.
(951) 468-9437 View (951) 468-9437
Photo of Eimy Estrada, LPCC
Eimy Estrada
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92557
I typically work with individuals with self-esteem, relationship issues, peer relationships, domestic violence, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, life transitions, coping skills, Faith-based counseling, women's issues, child, anger management, and college students.
Hello, my name is Eimy Estrada. I believe in creating a warm and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, gain insights and find the tools they need for personal growth and healing. It's my passion to walk alongside individuals on their unique journeys providing guidance and empowering them to live their best lives. Having experienced the transformative power of therapy firsthand, I am deeply passionate about helping others unlock their potential for growth and healing. Witnessing the positive changes in my own life and seeing loved ones thrive through therapy inspired me to dedicate myself to this field.
I typically work with individuals with self-esteem, relationship issues, peer relationships, domestic violence, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, life transitions, coping skills, Faith-based counseling, women's issues, child, anger management, and college students.
Hello, my name is Eimy Estrada. I believe in creating a warm and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, gain insights and find the tools they need for personal growth and healing. It's my passion to walk alongside individuals on their unique journeys providing guidance and empowering them to live their best lives. Having experienced the transformative power of therapy firsthand, I am deeply passionate about helping others unlock their potential for growth and healing. Witnessing the positive changes in my own life and seeing loved ones thrive through therapy inspired me to dedicate myself to this field.
(951) 338-9431 View (951) 338-9431
Photo of Craig Wetterer, CP, Psychologist
Craig Wetterer
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92557
My name is Dr. Craig Wetterer and I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Nevada. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, drawing from cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused theoretical models. My focus areas in my practice include depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, adjustment to work stress and sleep disorders. My typical client is someone who is experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, which is often connected to unexpected life events, or other circumstances that have overwhelmed the individual's coping ability.
My name is Dr. Craig Wetterer and I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Nevada. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, drawing from cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused theoretical models. My focus areas in my practice include depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, adjustment to work stress and sleep disorders. My typical client is someone who is experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, which is often connected to unexpected life events, or other circumstances that have overwhelmed the individual's coping ability.
(951) 724-5807 View (951) 724-5807
Photo of Rachel Ocampo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Ocampo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92557
I also have experience working with grief and loss- whether it is a parent, loved one, or friend and working with women of all ages who have experienced infertility, weight issues, and depression.
Hi there! My name is Rachel Ocampo PhD who is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist! I have been described as a down-to-earth but straightforward therapist who will support you while telling you what you NEED to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear! I have extensive experience working with adolescents, women, couples, and families. I have worked with clients with complex trauma and co-occurring disorders. I also have experience as a foster parent, adoptive parent, and working with high-needs children who have experienced severe trauma in their past.
I also have experience working with grief and loss- whether it is a parent, loved one, or friend and working with women of all ages who have experienced infertility, weight issues, and depression.
Hi there! My name is Rachel Ocampo PhD who is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist! I have been described as a down-to-earth but straightforward therapist who will support you while telling you what you NEED to hear, not necessarily what you want to hear! I have extensive experience working with adolescents, women, couples, and families. I have worked with clients with complex trauma and co-occurring disorders. I also have experience as a foster parent, adoptive parent, and working with high-needs children who have experienced severe trauma in their past.
(951) 425-4608 View (951) 425-4608
Photo of Angela Thompson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92555
My name is Angela Thompson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist my clients in making progress and feeling better. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for young adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, and stress.
My name is Angela Thompson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist my clients in making progress and feeling better. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for young adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, and stress.
(951) 396-3508 View (951) 396-3508
Photo of Kim Coshnear, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Coshnear
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
Hello, I am Kim Coshnear, a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California. My mission is to cultivate a nurturing and accepting environment, empowering clients to embrace self-acceptance and pursue transformative changes that enrich their lives. In my practice, I specialize in assisting individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, and addiction, and navigating complex questions about relationships, personal identity, and life's purpose.
Hello, I am Kim Coshnear, a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California. My mission is to cultivate a nurturing and accepting environment, empowering clients to embrace self-acceptance and pursue transformative changes that enrich their lives. In my practice, I specialize in assisting individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, and addiction, and navigating complex questions about relationships, personal identity, and life's purpose.
(951) 357-0969 View (951) 357-0969
Photo of Lauralee Fuhrmann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauralee Fuhrmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92551
I typically work with adults who have experience with depression, anxiety, poor self/body image, sexual abuse, and life transitions.
Lauralee Fuhrmann LCSW. Approach is client-centered, strengths-based. It can be difficult to open-up and talk about life-stressors to a stranger. Sometimes, we can feel unheard or alone, or just need someone who can be a helping, compassionate, and nonjudgmental ear. In therapy, we can mend fractured and fragmented pieces of ourselves that have been damaged by past relationships, and trauma. Together, we can bring out positive change in our lives; we can challenge negative cognitions and dissonance. Together, we can begin the path of healing.
I typically work with adults who have experience with depression, anxiety, poor self/body image, sexual abuse, and life transitions.
Lauralee Fuhrmann LCSW. Approach is client-centered, strengths-based. It can be difficult to open-up and talk about life-stressors to a stranger. Sometimes, we can feel unheard or alone, or just need someone who can be a helping, compassionate, and nonjudgmental ear. In therapy, we can mend fractured and fragmented pieces of ourselves that have been damaged by past relationships, and trauma. Together, we can bring out positive change in our lives; we can challenge negative cognitions and dissonance. Together, we can begin the path of healing.
(951) 349-4840 View (951) 349-4840
Photo of Dr. Jessica Williams, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jessica Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
It takes great courage to reach out for help. Needing help is not a bad thing. Sometimes we experience situations that lead to heartache and pain, frustration, anger, unforgiveness, sadness, grief, and on and on. Our situations can seem hopeless at times, and we need another perspective to help us realize that we CAN make it through, and that we ARE strong enough to overcome. My goal is to help you get to the root of the issues and challenges that you are experiencing, whether it be anxiety, depression, behavior problems, etc., so that you can move on to enjoying your life to the fullest.
It takes great courage to reach out for help. Needing help is not a bad thing. Sometimes we experience situations that lead to heartache and pain, frustration, anger, unforgiveness, sadness, grief, and on and on. Our situations can seem hopeless at times, and we need another perspective to help us realize that we CAN make it through, and that we ARE strong enough to overcome. My goal is to help you get to the root of the issues and challenges that you are experiencing, whether it be anxiety, depression, behavior problems, etc., so that you can move on to enjoying your life to the fullest.
(951) 363-2628 View (951) 363-2628
Photo of Enowoghomwenma Osaghae, LCP, Psychologist
Enowoghomwenma Osaghae
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92555
My focus is on individuals experiencing varying stressors related to live/work issues, anxiety, depression, substance/other addiction problems, and trauma.
My name is Dr. Eno Osaghae. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY34976) based in California with specialized training in psychological evaluations, advocacy, crisis management, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder, PTSD/Trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, addictive disorders, and working with individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum and neurodevelopmental disorders. I work from an integrative approach, drawing from psychodynamic, humanistic, and cognitive behavioral perspectives.
My focus is on individuals experiencing varying stressors related to live/work issues, anxiety, depression, substance/other addiction problems, and trauma.
My name is Dr. Eno Osaghae. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY34976) based in California with specialized training in psychological evaluations, advocacy, crisis management, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder, PTSD/Trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, addictive disorders, and working with individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum and neurodevelopmental disorders. I work from an integrative approach, drawing from psychodynamic, humanistic, and cognitive behavioral perspectives.
(951) 540-1022 View (951) 540-1022
Photo of Demetric Marsh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Demetric Marsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
Hello, I'm Dee Marsh, LCSW, JD. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I am currently licensed in NC, CA and WA state. My practice specialties include foster care/adoptions; anxiety, depression, trauma, stress management, spirituality, employment/workplace issues; addictions; grief/loss; court-ordered assessments/recommendations; diversity/inclusion/cultural issues. Since each individual is different, the treatment approach and goals must be based on the patient's needs. Starting where the patient is- is essential.
Hello, I'm Dee Marsh, LCSW, JD. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I am currently licensed in NC, CA and WA state. My practice specialties include foster care/adoptions; anxiety, depression, trauma, stress management, spirituality, employment/workplace issues; addictions; grief/loss; court-ordered assessments/recommendations; diversity/inclusion/cultural issues. Since each individual is different, the treatment approach and goals must be based on the patient's needs. Starting where the patient is- is essential.
(951) 744-9362 View (951) 744-9362
Photo of Melissa Cachopo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Cachopo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92551
Struggles that I work closely with are; depression, anxiety, substance use, understanding and exploring one's identity, along with helping you accept yourself for who you are, while working towards specific goals.
Hello, my name is Melissa Cachopo, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is helping you identify who you are by learning to put yourself first. This is a key proponent to my therapeutic process, as it allows you to learn and grow through your life. I take on an approach that includes care and empathy, along with direct support, to help you reach your identified goals.
Struggles that I work closely with are; depression, anxiety, substance use, understanding and exploring one's identity, along with helping you accept yourself for who you are, while working towards specific goals.
Hello, my name is Melissa Cachopo, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is helping you identify who you are by learning to put yourself first. This is a key proponent to my therapeutic process, as it allows you to learn and grow through your life. I take on an approach that includes care and empathy, along with direct support, to help you reach your identified goals.
(951) 379-3273 View (951) 379-3273
Photo of Vilka Jasmin Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vilka Jasmin Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
Hello, my name is Dr. V. Jasmin Smith, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I hold a doctorate degree in clinical psychology. I am based in Southern California, and I have over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in the treatment of complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders using various modalities such as play therapy, positive psychology, talk and exposure therapy, mindfulness techniques, cognitive behavior therapy, and other integration techniques such as visual arts and music.
Hello, my name is Dr. V. Jasmin Smith, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I hold a doctorate degree in clinical psychology. I am based in Southern California, and I have over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in the treatment of complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders using various modalities such as play therapy, positive psychology, talk and exposure therapy, mindfulness techniques, cognitive behavior therapy, and other integration techniques such as visual arts and music.
(951) 458-5684 View (951) 458-5684
Photo of D. Sophia Wise, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
D. Sophia Wise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553  (Online Only)
Welcome. I want to commend you for beginning the process of seeking out a therapist. Many who seek out therapy are experiencing a lapse of peace and harmony in their lives. Through a faith-based perspective, we'll work to together to navigate the challenges that you are currently facing. I will tailor your sessions to your specific needs which might include teaching you stress-management, strategies to better manage your emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, and build new thinking and behavior skills in order to overcome stress, depression, anxiety, and panic symptoms.
Welcome. I want to commend you for beginning the process of seeking out a therapist. Many who seek out therapy are experiencing a lapse of peace and harmony in their lives. Through a faith-based perspective, we'll work to together to navigate the challenges that you are currently facing. I will tailor your sessions to your specific needs which might include teaching you stress-management, strategies to better manage your emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, and build new thinking and behavior skills in order to overcome stress, depression, anxiety, and panic symptoms.
(951) 366-1628 View (951) 366-1628
Photo of Randa Saleh, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Randa Saleh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
My name is Randa Saleh, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with clients of all ages and different walks of life. My focus areas of practice are trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, family conflicts, and personal life transitions. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for individuals of all ages. I consider their age, cultural upbringing, diagnosis, and what they want to work on in therapy. I typically work with adults.
My name is Randa Saleh, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with clients of all ages and different walks of life. My focus areas of practice are trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, family conflicts, and personal life transitions. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for individuals of all ages. I consider their age, cultural upbringing, diagnosis, and what they want to work on in therapy. I typically work with adults.
(951) 944-0171 View (951) 944-0171
Photo of Perranesha Marie Holifield, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Perranesha Marie Holifield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92553  (Online Only)
Moreover, I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational issues, and stress management.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who attained my master's at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I've worked with adolescents, individuals, and couples in a community based and private practice setting. I currently work with adults whom are wanting to gain a better approach to their life while going through difficulties with transitions, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and/or life rediscoveries.
Moreover, I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational issues, and stress management.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who attained my master's at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I've worked with adolescents, individuals, and couples in a community based and private practice setting. I currently work with adults whom are wanting to gain a better approach to their life while going through difficulties with transitions, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and/or life rediscoveries.
(951) 363-2203 View (951) 363-2203
Photo of Deryl Taylor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deryl Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92557  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals navigate life transitions, cultural adjustments, and identity exploration while managing mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
My ideal client is someone navigating significant life transitions, such as moving to a new culture or exploring their identity, and dealing with mood disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. They often feel overwhelmed by emotional turbulence and struggle with feelings of isolation, uncertainty, and self-doubt. They need emotional support, effective coping strategies, assistance with cultural adjustment, and guidance in identity exploration. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, integrating into their new cultural context, gaining self-awareness, and improving their relationships.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate life transitions, cultural adjustments, and identity exploration while managing mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
My ideal client is someone navigating significant life transitions, such as moving to a new culture or exploring their identity, and dealing with mood disorders like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. They often feel overwhelmed by emotional turbulence and struggle with feelings of isolation, uncertainty, and self-doubt. They need emotional support, effective coping strategies, assistance with cultural adjustment, and guidance in identity exploration. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, integrating into their new cultural context, gaining self-awareness, and improving their relationships.
(909) 245-8572 View (909) 245-8572
Photo of Tala Kolb, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tala Kolb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Moreno Valley, CA 92557
My name is Tala Kolb and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. One of my greatest passions is supporting individuals through life challenges and helping them to find valuable tools to increase happiness and quality of life. I specialize in pre-teens, teens, and young adults who are experiencing a variety of life's challenges and mental health issues, such as life transitions and adjustments, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship and family issues, coping skills, anger management, eating disorders, children/teens with parents going through divorce, bullying and other issues that arise around social media.
My name is Tala Kolb and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. One of my greatest passions is supporting individuals through life challenges and helping them to find valuable tools to increase happiness and quality of life. I specialize in pre-teens, teens, and young adults who are experiencing a variety of life's challenges and mental health issues, such as life transitions and adjustments, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship and family issues, coping skills, anger management, eating disorders, children/teens with parents going through divorce, bullying and other issues that arise around social media.
(916) 527-9902 View (916) 527-9902

See more therapy options for Moreno Valley

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.