Depression Psychiatrists in 91101

Photo of Catherine Sullivan, MD, Psychiatrist
Catherine Sullivan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
I treat individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
I am a Stanford University trained, board certified adult psychiatrist. I take a holistic, compassionate approach to treating individuals with a variety of conditions. Reasons for seeking treatment can be complex, and I recommend and prescribe medications using evidence-based practices only after a thorough assessment and when my client and I are in agreement with the plan. I am happy to collaborate with outside therapists and other medical professionals as needed to provide comprehensive treatment for clients.
I treat individuals with depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
I am a Stanford University trained, board certified adult psychiatrist. I take a holistic, compassionate approach to treating individuals with a variety of conditions. Reasons for seeking treatment can be complex, and I recommend and prescribe medications using evidence-based practices only after a thorough assessment and when my client and I are in agreement with the plan. I am happy to collaborate with outside therapists and other medical professionals as needed to provide comprehensive treatment for clients.
(626) 322-2693 View (626) 322-2693
Photo of Stan Mesen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stan Mesen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I have spent much of my professional career helping others manage stress, depression, and personal loss.
I realize that most of us could use support, particularly during times of overwhelming challenges within our personal and professional lives. Our lives are complex and come with significant obligations and expectations from our families, friends, and ourselves. If the challenges become overwhelming, we may start to doubt our abilities to manage our affairs and interactions with others. If stress, doubt, and dissatisfaction remain unaddressed, thoughts and feelings may evolve into an unhealthy view of ourselves and our environment, understanding we need help.
I have spent much of my professional career helping others manage stress, depression, and personal loss.
I realize that most of us could use support, particularly during times of overwhelming challenges within our personal and professional lives. Our lives are complex and come with significant obligations and expectations from our families, friends, and ourselves. If the challenges become overwhelming, we may start to doubt our abilities to manage our affairs and interactions with others. If stress, doubt, and dissatisfaction remain unaddressed, thoughts and feelings may evolve into an unhealthy view of ourselves and our environment, understanding we need help.
(323) 616-2865 View (323) 616-2865
Photo of Dr. Jahanzeb Khan, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jahanzeb Khan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Dr. Khan’s ideal clients are individuals and families seeking compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. He specializes in addressing a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral problems, and crisis intervention. His goal is to provide personalized care that helps clients achieve emotional well-being and a better quality of life.
Dr. Khan’s ideal clients are individuals and families seeking compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. He specializes in addressing a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral problems, and crisis intervention. His goal is to provide personalized care that helps clients achieve emotional well-being and a better quality of life.
(626) 727-8507 View (626) 727-8507
Photo of Chris Yeh - Chris Yeh, MD, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist
Chris Yeh, MD
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Accepting patients for both in-person and online appointments. I’m a UC Irvine, Harbor UCLA trained psychiatrist based in Pasadena, California. I treat a broad range of disorders and specialize in adult psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, schizophrenia, and thought disorders. In my career, I’ve been fortunate to meet and work with people from all walks of life. I draw upon my diverse experiences and background in medicine, mental health, scientific research, and business administration to give my patients what they need—whether that be medication, therapy, or guidance.
Accepting patients for both in-person and online appointments. I’m a UC Irvine, Harbor UCLA trained psychiatrist based in Pasadena, California. I treat a broad range of disorders and specialize in adult psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, schizophrenia, and thought disorders. In my career, I’ve been fortunate to meet and work with people from all walks of life. I draw upon my diverse experiences and background in medicine, mental health, scientific research, and business administration to give my patients what they need—whether that be medication, therapy, or guidance.
(626) 941-2333 View (626) 941-2333
Photo of Holly Olalia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Olalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (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!
(310) 360-7200 View (310) 360-7200
Photo of Tooyin A Owolabi, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tooyin A Owolabi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Dr. Owolabi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of invaluable mental health experience. I am deeply passionate about guiding individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. I understand that each person's path is unique and deserves personalized care and support. My ideal client may be grappling with a range of issues, from anxiety and depression to trauma-related disorders or mood disturbances. Regardless of the specific challenges they encounter, my ideal client seeks relief from their distress and a sense of empowerment over their mental health.
Dr. Owolabi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of invaluable mental health experience. I am deeply passionate about guiding individuals on their journey toward mental wellness. I understand that each person's path is unique and deserves personalized care and support. My ideal client may be grappling with a range of issues, from anxiety and depression to trauma-related disorders or mood disturbances. Regardless of the specific challenges they encounter, my ideal client seeks relief from their distress and a sense of empowerment over their mental health.
(626) 772-6621 View (626) 772-6621
Photo of Rosie Aguero, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rosie Aguero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I offer healthcare services for individuals managing conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and other mental health issues that significantly impact their daily lives.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management.
I offer healthcare services for individuals managing conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and other mental health issues that significantly impact their daily lives.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management.
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Kailee Marin, DO , Psychiatrist
Kailee Marin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (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!
(747) 774-8128 View (747) 774-8128
Photo of Hamasik Margaryan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hamasik Margaryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
My ideal client may be experiencing issues such as stress, anxiety, or depression, or simply seeking to enhance their overall well-being. They may feel overwhelmed by life's challenges and need guidance in finding balance and clarity. Their goals likely include improving their mental health, achieving a better sense of calm, and gaining control over their emotions and thoughts. They want to understand themselves better, build resilience, and improve both their mental and physical health.
My ideal client may be experiencing issues such as stress, anxiety, or depression, or simply seeking to enhance their overall well-being. They may feel overwhelmed by life's challenges and need guidance in finding balance and clarity. Their goals likely include improving their mental health, achieving a better sense of calm, and gaining control over their emotions and thoughts. They want to understand themselves better, build resilience, and improve both their mental and physical health.
(424) 496-3822 View (424) 496-3822
Photo of Sheenie Ambardar - Sheenie Ambardar MD, Concierge Psychiatrist, MD, Psychiatrist
Sheenie Ambardar MD, Concierge Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
As an award-winning psychiatrist with 16 years of experience treating Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD, I offer a personalized approach that goes beyond managing symptoms.
Do you feel like you're trudging through life, weighed down by a constant sense of sadness & worry? Perhaps the joy you once knew has faded, replaced by a persistent feeling of being stuck. You're not alone. Millions of adults struggle with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and an overwhelming sense of being trapped in a cycle of negativity. I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on your daily life. The relentless drain of energy, the crippling anxieties, & the sense of hopelessness can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. You may yearn for the vibrant life you once had, but the path forward seems unclear.
As an award-winning psychiatrist with 16 years of experience treating Depression, Anxiety, and ADHD, I offer a personalized approach that goes beyond managing symptoms.
Do you feel like you're trudging through life, weighed down by a constant sense of sadness & worry? Perhaps the joy you once knew has faded, replaced by a persistent feeling of being stuck. You're not alone. Millions of adults struggle with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and an overwhelming sense of being trapped in a cycle of negativity. I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on your daily life. The relentless drain of energy, the crippling anxieties, & the sense of hopelessness can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. You may yearn for the vibrant life you once had, but the path forward seems unclear.
(424) 888-5610 View (424) 888-5610
Photo of Waqar Zuberi, MD, Psychiatrist
Waqar Zuberi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
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!
(747) 339-3564 View (747) 339-3564
Photo of Cinthia Walker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cinthia Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (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!
(747) 349-8561 View (747) 349-8561
Photo of Princess McKenzie, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Princess McKenzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (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!
(747) 347-3657 View (747) 347-3657
Photo of Mahmoud Aborabeh, MD, Psychiatrist
Mahmoud Aborabeh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
Mahmoud Aborabeh frequently sees patients for Anxiety, Depression, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD / ADHD), Psychiatry Consultation, and Sleep Problems.
Dr. Mahmoud Aborabeh has 10 office locations, including in Gardena, Van Nuys, Los Angeles, Northridge, Newhall, Culver City, Fullerton, Santa Ana, and San Francisco
Mahmoud Aborabeh frequently sees patients for Anxiety, Depression, Hyperactive Disorder (ADD / ADHD), Psychiatry Consultation, and Sleep Problems.
Dr. Mahmoud Aborabeh has 10 office locations, including in Gardena, Van Nuys, Los Angeles, Northridge, Newhall, Culver City, Fullerton, Santa Ana, and San Francisco
(877) 515-8113 View (877) 515-8113
Photo of Marina Youssef, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marina Youssef
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I specialize in treating clients who suffer from bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, depression, anxiety, sleep problems, and ADHD.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders? Do you find it hard to focus on your daily tasks due to your untreated ADHD and or PTSD? If so then you've come to the right person! I am here to help you every step of the way.
I specialize in treating clients who suffer from bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, depression, anxiety, sleep problems, and ADHD.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or mood disorders? Do you find it hard to focus on your daily tasks due to your untreated ADHD and or PTSD? If so then you've come to the right person! I am here to help you every step of the way.
(626) 240-5406 View (626) 240-5406
Photo of Alejandra Ramos, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alejandra Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
Utilizing both Western and integrative approaches, we support women across the lifespan and from all cultural backgrounds who are struggling with menopause, postpartum, depression, anxiety, and ADHD thrive in both mind and body.
Do you ever find yourself feeling tired, fatigued, unmotivated, or experiencing a sense of hopelessness that makes it challenging to tackle your daily activities? Do you struggle with concentration, disruptions in sleep, appetite changes, or mood swings? Are you experiencing constant worry, nervousness, or even hot flashes? Are these symptoms holding you back from enjoying the things you love? We are here to help.
Utilizing both Western and integrative approaches, we support women across the lifespan and from all cultural backgrounds who are struggling with menopause, postpartum, depression, anxiety, and ADHD thrive in both mind and body.
Do you ever find yourself feeling tired, fatigued, unmotivated, or experiencing a sense of hopelessness that makes it challenging to tackle your daily activities? Do you struggle with concentration, disruptions in sleep, appetite changes, or mood swings? Are you experiencing constant worry, nervousness, or even hot flashes? Are these symptoms holding you back from enjoying the things you love? We are here to help.
(626) 699-9134 View (626) 699-9134
Photo of Steve Khachi, MD, Psychiatrist
Steve Khachi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Dr. Khachi is a Stanford-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. He brings years of experience in neuroscience research and cutting-edge clinical care to the Los Angeles area. He is the founding CEO and Medical Director of Mind Study Center, providing world-class comprehensive psychological and psychiatric care. He is known as an innovator in the field and for his expertise in psychopharmacology, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and other evidenced-based treatments for psychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Dr. Khachi is a Stanford-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. He brings years of experience in neuroscience research and cutting-edge clinical care to the Los Angeles area. He is the founding CEO and Medical Director of Mind Study Center, providing world-class comprehensive psychological and psychiatric care. He is known as an innovator in the field and for his expertise in psychopharmacology, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and other evidenced-based treatments for psychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(626) 427-6591 View (626) 427-6591
Photo of Yj Jenice Kim - Jenice Kim, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Jenice Kim, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, psychosis, insomnia, and ADHD.
If you’re reading this, you’re probably not feeling your best self. I often see patients who are struggling at work or have relationship problems. Some don’t have the motivation or energy to make change in their lives. I believe in collaborating closely with the patient in understanding their problem and recommending an evidence-based treatment plan that best serves their needs and goals.
I treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, psychosis, insomnia, and ADHD.
If you’re reading this, you’re probably not feeling your best self. I often see patients who are struggling at work or have relationship problems. Some don’t have the motivation or energy to make change in their lives. I believe in collaborating closely with the patient in understanding their problem and recommending an evidence-based treatment plan that best serves their needs and goals.
(626) 790-1092 View (626) 790-1092
Photo of Demetria Posadas, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Demetria Posadas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I am Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in mood disorders such as anxiety and depression to ADHD, PTSD and more! I do both medication management along with therapy.
All that a we are, is a result of what we have thought- Gautama Buddha. Change is possible and we all have the capabilities to become who we imagine. It indeed isn't easy, especially if we have ongoing anxiety, depression, anger, etc. but whatever it is you may struggling with it isn't the end. Together we can help navigate through these difficulties, developing coping skills as a team to find our true inner self that is yearning to be free.
I am Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in mood disorders such as anxiety and depression to ADHD, PTSD and more! I do both medication management along with therapy.
All that a we are, is a result of what we have thought- Gautama Buddha. Change is possible and we all have the capabilities to become who we imagine. It indeed isn't easy, especially if we have ongoing anxiety, depression, anger, etc. but whatever it is you may struggling with it isn't the end. Together we can help navigate through these difficulties, developing coping skills as a team to find our true inner self that is yearning to be free.
(626) 746-4303 View (626) 746-4303
Photo of Veronica Kang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Veronica Kang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I specialize in depression/ mood disorders, anxiety, schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD.
I am listening without judgement, I understand your struggles, I respect your experiences and feelings. I am committed to providing compassionate, empathetic care to my clients. I encourage strong partnership with my clients where they will take active role in care. I focus on holistic approach (medication management, therapy, collaboration with interdisciplinary teams), in optimizing mental health. We will strive together to achieve realistic set goals, progress toward regaining quality of life.
I specialize in depression/ mood disorders, anxiety, schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD.
I am listening without judgement, I understand your struggles, I respect your experiences and feelings. I am committed to providing compassionate, empathetic care to my clients. I encourage strong partnership with my clients where they will take active role in care. I focus on holistic approach (medication management, therapy, collaboration with interdisciplinary teams), in optimizing mental health. We will strive together to achieve realistic set goals, progress toward regaining quality of life.
(657) 571-7418 View (657) 571-7418
1
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.