Depression Psychiatrists in San Jose, CA

Photo of Volker Nabavi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Volker Nabavi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95123  (Online Only)
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
(323) 508-2308 View (323) 508-2308
Photo of David Paul Goldstein, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist
David Paul Goldstein
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
Depression including Postpartum Depression.
I am an experienced psychiatrist who believes in compassionate care for my patient’s health and well-being. One of my core values as part of my practice is being a skillful listener understanding the importance of working closely with each patient in developing an individualized treatment plan. Patients are respected and treated with the utmost sensitivity to whatever their situation may be. People come to me with a wide range of issues and may not understand why they are suffering with symptoms such as anxiety, depression, lack of energy, sleeping issues, eating and concentration issues.as well as difficulty with relationships.
Depression including Postpartum Depression.
I am an experienced psychiatrist who believes in compassionate care for my patient’s health and well-being. One of my core values as part of my practice is being a skillful listener understanding the importance of working closely with each patient in developing an individualized treatment plan. Patients are respected and treated with the utmost sensitivity to whatever their situation may be. People come to me with a wide range of issues and may not understand why they are suffering with symptoms such as anxiety, depression, lack of energy, sleeping issues, eating and concentration issues.as well as difficulty with relationships.
(408) 478-9690 View (408) 478-9690
Photo of Volker Nabavi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Volker Nabavi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95123
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
(213) 877-4658 View (213) 877-4658
Photo of Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124
specializes in treating cognitive issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Brain Fog, Depression, OCD, and PTSD.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
specializes in treating cognitive issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Brain Fog, Depression, OCD, and PTSD.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(408) 351-7422 View (408) 351-7422
Photo of Dr. Axeline Johnson, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Axeline Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognisant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
Dr. Johnson is bilingual (Spanish and English) and a Board-certified psychiatrist. She is welcoming new patients seeking professional help for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health concerns. With medical education at UCLA and specialty training at the University of Pennsylvania, she combines knowledge of psychopharmacology with a nuanced understanding of patients' concerns and experiences with medications. She is particularly cognisant of therapeutic inertia, and works with her patients to ensure that medications are effective and not over-used.
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Photo of Piran Mehta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Piran Mehta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113
Hey there, I'm Piran. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Have you lost motivation in things you used to enjoy? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety, depression and mood. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hang-ups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
Hey there, I'm Piran. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Have you lost motivation in things you used to enjoy? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety, depression and mood. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hang-ups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
(408) 715-1736 View (408) 715-1736
Photo of Kirsten Thompson - Remedy Psychiatry - San Jose, Psychiatrist
Remedy Psychiatry - San Jose
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95123  (Online Only)
We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms – anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, insomnia and more.
Are you struggling in your daily life and wondering if prescription medication might help you? But, you don't want to wait weeks to get an appointment or pay alot to get personalized medication management? You are not alone, and that is why we started Remedy. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. We treat adults, teens and children from the comfort of home over video - days, nights and weekends. We take care of you with or without insurance, and our care remains the same for all.
We treat a wide range of mental health symptoms – anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, insomnia and more.
Are you struggling in your daily life and wondering if prescription medication might help you? But, you don't want to wait weeks to get an appointment or pay alot to get personalized medication management? You are not alone, and that is why we started Remedy. See one of our mental health specialists for an in-depth mental health evaluation, diagnosis and ongoing medication management care. We treat adults, teens and children from the comfort of home over video - days, nights and weekends. We take care of you with or without insurance, and our care remains the same for all.
(408) 692-2178 View (408) 692-2178
Photo of Kailee Marin, DO , Psychiatrist
Kailee Marin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(408) 459-4213 View (408) 459-4213
Photo of Waqar Zuberi, MD, Psychiatrist
Waqar Zuberi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(408) 706-2491 View (408) 706-2491
Photo of Eilly Yang, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Eilly Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128  (Online Only)
My specialties include depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more.
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. You will find that I am curious, open-minded, inquisitive, and accepting. I care about my clients deeply and aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more.
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. You will find that I am curious, open-minded, inquisitive, and accepting. I care about my clients deeply and aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
(206) 596-7635 View (206) 596-7635
Photo of Holly Olalia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Olalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(408) 539-1119 View (408) 539-1119
Photo of Margaret Mcilroy, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Margaret Mcilroy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95119  (Online Only)
Patients visit her for psychiatric consultations, sleep disorder, depression, anxiety, anger management, to name a few.
Ms. Margaret Mcilroy is an experienced adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. Ms. Mcilroy completed her master’s degree in nursing at the University of California. She also received a post-master’s certificate in nursing from Azusa Pacific University. Ms. Mcilroy then completed her doctorate in psychiatric and mental health nursing from Brandman University.
Patients visit her for psychiatric consultations, sleep disorder, depression, anxiety, anger management, to name a few.
Ms. Margaret Mcilroy is an experienced adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. Ms. Mcilroy completed her master’s degree in nursing at the University of California. She also received a post-master’s certificate in nursing from Azusa Pacific University. Ms. Mcilroy then completed her doctorate in psychiatric and mental health nursing from Brandman University.
(310) 515-8113 View (310) 515-8113
Photo of Eric Steckler, MD, Psychiatrist
Eric Steckler
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
I am a psychiatrist, board certified in both adult and child psychiatry, with 45 years of clinical practice. I like to help people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
I am a psychiatrist, board certified in both adult and child psychiatry, with 45 years of clinical practice. I like to help people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
(310) 515-8113 View (310) 515-8113
Photo of Toimbie Amaazee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Toimbie Amaazee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95119  (Online Only)
Toimbie Amaazee's practice is dedicated to delivering healthcare services to individuals managing conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and other substantial mental health challenges impacting their daily lives.
Toimbie Amaazee is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialization in medication management.
Toimbie Amaazee's practice is dedicated to delivering healthcare services to individuals managing conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and other substantial mental health challenges impacting their daily lives.
Toimbie Amaazee is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialization in medication management.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Cinthia Walker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cinthia Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(510) 726-4090 View (510) 726-4090
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95119  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(916) 776-5519 View (916) 776-5519
Photo of Princess McKenzie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(408) 583-6450 View (408) 583-6450
Photo of Kenneth Saldua, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kenneth Saldua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95101  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating ADHD, depression, and bipolar disorders using a humanistic, goal-oriented approach.
Hello, my name is Kenneth and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have extensive experience treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and psychosis as well as personal experience with mental health challenges. I believe that building a strong foundation of trust between clinician and client is crucial and that combining a humanitarian approach with evidence-based practice leads to better outcomes. My goal is to provide safe, comprehensive, and goal-oriented clinical care.
I specialize in treating ADHD, depression, and bipolar disorders using a humanistic, goal-oriented approach.
Hello, my name is Kenneth and I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have extensive experience treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and psychosis as well as personal experience with mental health challenges. I believe that building a strong foundation of trust between clinician and client is crucial and that combining a humanitarian approach with evidence-based practice leads to better outcomes. My goal is to provide safe, comprehensive, and goal-oriented clinical care.
(951) 467-4146 View (951) 467-4146
Photo of Kara Ditto, MD, Psychiatrist
Kara Ditto
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112  (Online Only)
My name is Kara Ditto, MD and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering online medication management to adults. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include bipolar, depression, psychotic disorders, PTSD, trauma, mood disorders, and women's issues. I do not prescribe controlled substances or stimulants.
My name is Kara Ditto, MD and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering online medication management to adults. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include bipolar, depression, psychotic disorders, PTSD, trauma, mood disorders, and women's issues. I do not prescribe controlled substances or stimulants.
(213) 699-5721 View (213) 699-5721
Photo of Pai Yeh 'art', PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pai Yeh 'art'
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
Art Yeh (pronounced "yay!") is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He has worked as a provider in a wide array of settings in different states. Art has done psychiatric consulting and specializes in many disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis. He has worked telehealth treating clients across the lifespan. Art treats children, adolescents, adults and geriatric. Art has made himself a dynamic behavioral health provider by providing inpatient behavioral health services to adolescents, adults, and geriatric in 4 different states.
Art Yeh (pronounced "yay!") is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He has worked as a provider in a wide array of settings in different states. Art has done psychiatric consulting and specializes in many disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis. He has worked telehealth treating clients across the lifespan. Art treats children, adolescents, adults and geriatric. Art has made himself a dynamic behavioral health provider by providing inpatient behavioral health services to adolescents, adults, and geriatric in 4 different states.
(415) 702-2539 View (415) 702-2539
Depression Psychiatrists

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.