Photo of Kenneth Saldua, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Temecula, CA
Kenneth Saldua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590  (Online Only)
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.
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

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Peter Kass, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Peter Kass
Psychiatrist, MD, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104
Dr. Kass believes that optimal psychiatric care begins by hearing a patient’s history and understanding his or her goals for entering treatment. There are no algorithms for mental health care; Dr. Kass believes treating mental illness and optimizing patient well-being depends on formulating patients individually and tailoring treatment to meet their unique goals and needs. Psychological distress, whether it be experienced as depression, anxiety, social withdrawal, insomnia, irritability, or emotional numbness, is often due to multiple environmental, social, and psychological factors.
Dr. Kass believes that optimal psychiatric care begins by hearing a patient’s history and understanding his or her goals for entering treatment. There are no algorithms for mental health care; Dr. Kass believes treating mental illness and optimizing patient well-being depends on formulating patients individually and tailoring treatment to meet their unique goals and needs. Psychological distress, whether it be experienced as depression, anxiety, social withdrawal, insomnia, irritability, or emotional numbness, is often due to multiple environmental, social, and psychological factors.
(619) 391-2396 View (619) 391-2396
Photo of Ascher Medical Group, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Ascher Medical Group
Psychiatrist, DO, MFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Dr. Parisi takes a proactive, detail-oriented approach, working with patients in a direct and supportive fashion. He treats people who struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, insomnia, addiction, and relationship issues, working with adolescents, adults, individuals, and couples. Dually educated and trained as a psychiatrist, as well as a psychotherapist, he offers psychiatric medication management and extensive psychotherapy expertise. He offers complete, whole-person, mental health services and looks forward to collaborating with you toward a personalized plan based on your goals.
Dr. Parisi takes a proactive, detail-oriented approach, working with patients in a direct and supportive fashion. He treats people who struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, insomnia, addiction, and relationship issues, working with adolescents, adults, individuals, and couples. Dually educated and trained as a psychiatrist, as well as a psychotherapist, he offers psychiatric medication management and extensive psychotherapy expertise. He offers complete, whole-person, mental health services and looks forward to collaborating with you toward a personalized plan based on your goals.
(424) 351-9228 View (424) 351-9228
Photo of Elias Tsambis, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Elias Tsambis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Specializing in evaluation and medication management During these difficult time we are offering phone sessions to our current and new patients 15 min free consultation will be done by lcsw I am a board certified psychiatrist practing for over 35 Years I work with individuals couples and famlies providing therapy evaluations and medication management for the treatment of depression anxiety panic and bipolar disorder. Why suffer needlessly we can help we have a psychiatrist and lcsw
Specializing in evaluation and medication management During these difficult time we are offering phone sessions to our current and new patients 15 min free consultation will be done by lcsw I am a board certified psychiatrist practing for over 35 Years I work with individuals couples and famlies providing therapy evaluations and medication management for the treatment of depression anxiety panic and bipolar disorder. Why suffer needlessly we can help we have a psychiatrist and lcsw
(949) 234-6544 View (949) 234-6544
Photo of R. Dennis Porch, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
R. Dennis Porch
Psychiatrist, MD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst that engages the primitive mental states of patients on a metaphoric level increasing their own capacity to grow through emotional pain, fear and depression so that they can relieve hurtful feelings, and discover more of their own creative talents and abilities.
I am experienced in treating both adults and children with the use of Psychoanalytic methods. I use the object relations approaches of Klein, Winnicott and Bion. In child therapy, I engage children on a deep level through play, dreams, art and conversation. With adults, I use free association, night and day dreams. My object is to expose patients to their primitive, deep anxieties allowing them to work through their troubled minds, facilitating internal growth and development, and positive social interactions. I also work with mothers and babies having bonding difficulties. My practice is busy so use email for best results.
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst that engages the primitive mental states of patients on a metaphoric level increasing their own capacity to grow through emotional pain, fear and depression so that they can relieve hurtful feelings, and discover more of their own creative talents and abilities.
I am experienced in treating both adults and children with the use of Psychoanalytic methods. I use the object relations approaches of Klein, Winnicott and Bion. In child therapy, I engage children on a deep level through play, dreams, art and conversation. With adults, I use free association, night and day dreams. My object is to expose patients to their primitive, deep anxieties allowing them to work through their troubled minds, facilitating internal growth and development, and positive social interactions. I also work with mothers and babies having bonding difficulties. My practice is busy so use email for best results.
(949) 544-1600 View (949) 544-1600
Photo of Riz Ahmad, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (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, and OCD.
Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy 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.
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, and OCD.
Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy 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.
(657) 325-8756 View (657) 325-8756
Photo of Riz Ahmad, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821  (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 not an easy 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 not an easy 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!
(657) 837-5783 View (657) 837-5783
Photo of Emil Soorani MD, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Emil Soorani MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I have over 38 yrs of experience using psychopharmacology to treat depression, bi-polar, anxiety, dementias, ADHD, traumatic injuries, PTSD, and complex psychiatric disorders compounded by medical illnesses. I believe a holistic approach to treatment offers optimal outcomes. I also offer home consultations and Concierge Service.
I have over 38 yrs of experience using psychopharmacology to treat depression, bi-polar, anxiety, dementias, ADHD, traumatic injuries, PTSD, and complex psychiatric disorders compounded by medical illnesses. I believe a holistic approach to treatment offers optimal outcomes. I also offer home consultations and Concierge Service.
(424) 294-8980 View (424) 294-8980
Photo of Dr. Jon Deam, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Dr. Jon Deam
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Having experience with depression, anxiety, concentration difficulties, and his own previous personal struggle with obesity and lifestyle change, Dr.
Ever feel like something’s missing? Like it’s harder than it should be? The journey of turning inward to find strength, resilience, and meaning is not always an easy one, but it is one we were never meant to take alone. Dr. Jon, founder of Aveo Wellness, knows all about helping you face that challenge and lean into profound growth, with expert medication optimization and identifying where you feel stuck.
Having experience with depression, anxiety, concentration difficulties, and his own previous personal struggle with obesity and lifestyle change, Dr.
Ever feel like something’s missing? Like it’s harder than it should be? The journey of turning inward to find strength, resilience, and meaning is not always an easy one, but it is one we were never meant to take alone. Dr. Jon, founder of Aveo Wellness, knows all about helping you face that challenge and lean into profound growth, with expert medication optimization and identifying where you feel stuck.
(619) 940-1200 View (619) 940-1200
Photo of Riz Ahmad, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Riz Ahmad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503  (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 not an easy 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 not an easy 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!
(424) 227-5778 View (424) 227-5778
Photo of Brian W Wu, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Brian W Wu
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, MNM
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Brian Wu, MD, PhD, MNM is a general, adult psychiatrist who has a special interest in helping people get unstuck from symptoms that may block living in full alignment with their values or aspirations. Dr. Wu works with patients who have a variety of diagnoses including: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, OCD, PTSD, personality disorders, eating disorders, bipolar and schizophrenia. His approach to treatment is influenced by principles from Intense Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which combine using emotions to help drive action towards values.
Brian Wu, MD, PhD, MNM is a general, adult psychiatrist who has a special interest in helping people get unstuck from symptoms that may block living in full alignment with their values or aspirations. Dr. Wu works with patients who have a variety of diagnoses including: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, OCD, PTSD, personality disorders, eating disorders, bipolar and schizophrenia. His approach to treatment is influenced by principles from Intense Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which combine using emotions to help drive action towards values.
(323) 403-4863 View (323) 403-4863
Photo of Shervin Parvizi Ravan, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Shervin Parvizi Ravan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039  (Online Only)
My specialties include anxiety, depression, social phobia, performance anxiety, panic, ADHD, OCD, health anxiety, chronic dissatisfaction, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, relationships, depersonalization, career/academic support, and life transitions such as career changes, divorce, breakups, and parenting.
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, social phobia, performance anxiety, panic, ADHD, OCD, health anxiety, chronic dissatisfaction, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, relationships, depersonalization, career/academic support, and life transitions such as career changes, divorce, breakups, and parenting.
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
(347) 514-9562 View (347) 514-9562
Photo of Bonmente, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (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, and OCD.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We know asking for help is not an easy 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.
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, and OCD.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS - We know asking for help is not an easy 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.
(424) 239-2250 View (424) 239-2250
Photo of Jacob Moussai, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Jacob Moussai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
My approach includes evidence-based psychotherapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address issues of depression and anxiety.
Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, ADHD or low self-esteem? Are you stuck in an unwanted repetitive pattern or struggling to find a healthy relationship? I will work with you to shift gears and overcome the obstacles which are holding you back. I use the appropriate treatment for your needs, i.e. psychotherapy and/or medications. I am a board-certified psychiatrist who completed my training at Yale School of Medicine. I provide a comprehensive evaluation using an integrated approach to care, and build on your strengths.
My approach includes evidence-based psychotherapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address issues of depression and anxiety.
Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, ADHD or low self-esteem? Are you stuck in an unwanted repetitive pattern or struggling to find a healthy relationship? I will work with you to shift gears and overcome the obstacles which are holding you back. I use the appropriate treatment for your needs, i.e. psychotherapy and/or medications. I am a board-certified psychiatrist who completed my training at Yale School of Medicine. I provide a comprehensive evaluation using an integrated approach to care, and build on your strengths.
(310) 775-1866 View (310) 775-1866
Photo of Stephen Seager, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Stephen Seager
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Stephen B Seager MD has been a board-certified psychiatrist for twenty-six years. He specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders. A graduate of Hahnemann Medical College in Philadelphia, Dr Seager completed his psychiatry residency at Martin Luther King Hospital in Los Angeles. A former Emergency Room physician, Dr Seager is also a retired Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA School of Medicine.
Stephen B Seager MD has been a board-certified psychiatrist for twenty-six years. He specializes in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression and bipolar disorders. A graduate of Hahnemann Medical College in Philadelphia, Dr Seager completed his psychiatry residency at Martin Luther King Hospital in Los Angeles. A former Emergency Room physician, Dr Seager is also a retired Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA School of Medicine.
(510) 272-7095 View (510) 272-7095
Photo of Ryan Ley, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Ryan Ley
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Two of the most important aspects of a relationship with my patients is that they know how much I care about them and the issues they come to me for. Secondly, I want my patients to know how much I value their trust in me. My patients can count on me to give them my presence, focus and attention as we work through their mental health issues.
Two of the most important aspects of a relationship with my patients is that they know how much I care about them and the issues they come to me for. Secondly, I want my patients to know how much I value their trust in me. My patients can count on me to give them my presence, focus and attention as we work through their mental health issues.
(619) 243-0638 View (619) 243-0638
Photo of Dan Begel, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Dan Begel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Dr. Begel received his undergraduate and medical degrees from Yale University, where he also completed his residency in psychiatry. At Yale he studied the conceptual foundations of psychiatry and the core principles of diverse treatment methods. Today he treats people for a wide variety of issues, from the seemingly mild to the severe. He is up to date on psychiatric research and treatment, and utilizes the full range of methods in his work, including genetic analysis, psychotherapy, and medication management.
Dr. Begel received his undergraduate and medical degrees from Yale University, where he also completed his residency in psychiatry. At Yale he studied the conceptual foundations of psychiatry and the core principles of diverse treatment methods. Today he treats people for a wide variety of issues, from the seemingly mild to the severe. He is up to date on psychiatric research and treatment, and utilizes the full range of methods in his work, including genetic analysis, psychotherapy, and medication management.
(424) 610-8627 View (424) 610-8627
Photo of WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(424) 374-0250 View (424) 374-0250
Photo of Harry B. Rauch, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
Harry B. Rauch
Psychiatrist, DPh, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92866
Your child or teen may be dealing with school, concentration, emotional and behavioral issues. I offer assessment, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and medical management of children and adolescents. My services are provided in a private, comfortable setting using the latest techniques and knowledge. I spend the time every patient needs, and deserves, for optimal psychiatric care: listening carefully, asking relevant questions, explaining my observations and recommendations to family members, educating patients and parents about the therapeutic process. I look forward to meeting you and your family!
Your child or teen may be dealing with school, concentration, emotional and behavioral issues. I offer assessment, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and medical management of children and adolescents. My services are provided in a private, comfortable setting using the latest techniques and knowledge. I spend the time every patient needs, and deserves, for optimal psychiatric care: listening carefully, asking relevant questions, explaining my observations and recommendations to family members, educating patients and parents about the therapeutic process. I look forward to meeting you and your family!
(949) 267-3633 View (949) 267-3633
Photo of WellPsyche Medical Group, Psychiatrist in Temecula, CA
WellPsyche Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
(424) 361-1958 View (424) 361-1958
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.