Depression Therapists in 95129

Photo of Nadia Lau, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nadia Lau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95129
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. Visit us at www.paloaltotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. Visit us at www.paloaltotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
(408) 752-5998 View (408) 752-5998
Photo of undefined - Mindful Matters, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mindful Matters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families going through depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship issues.
I want to commend you that in seeking help, you are taking the first step towards a healthier, happier life. If you are feeling isolated in your thoughts, and conflicted about sharing what you are going through with a stranger, I totally understand what you are feeling and want you to know that you are not alone. I am here to support and guide you in discovering how to move forward in your life and overcome the challenges you are currently facing. I provide a safe, supportive, and caring environment that will help facilitate the healing and restoration process. I accept Lyra and Cigna insurance.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families going through depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship issues.
I want to commend you that in seeking help, you are taking the first step towards a healthier, happier life. If you are feeling isolated in your thoughts, and conflicted about sharing what you are going through with a stranger, I totally understand what you are feeling and want you to know that you are not alone. I am here to support and guide you in discovering how to move forward in your life and overcome the challenges you are currently facing. I provide a safe, supportive, and caring environment that will help facilitate the healing and restoration process. I accept Lyra and Cigna insurance.
(510) 254-3473 View (510) 254-3473
Photo of Melody D London, PhD, Psychologist
Melody D London
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129  (Online Only)
Dr. London has 20 years of experience providing services in a confidential space where you can safely explore your concerns. You can work though personal and professional transitions by learning new skills and improving relationships or, if desired, you can be led to heal from pain, conquer substance overuse or better understand and cope with bipolar disorder, depression or anxiety. Your journey will be personally crafted to meet your specific needs. Your goals, needs and perspectives will be an integral part of your treatment plan. Your therapy will be part of a collaborative process in which you will be an active participant.
Dr. London has 20 years of experience providing services in a confidential space where you can safely explore your concerns. You can work though personal and professional transitions by learning new skills and improving relationships or, if desired, you can be led to heal from pain, conquer substance overuse or better understand and cope with bipolar disorder, depression or anxiety. Your journey will be personally crafted to meet your specific needs. Your goals, needs and perspectives will be an integral part of your treatment plan. Your therapy will be part of a collaborative process in which you will be an active participant.
(408) 214-8477 View (408) 214-8477
Photo of Kellie Gonzalez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kellie Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
Hi there, my name is Kellie and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist here is Southern California. Though the majority of my work has been working children in the foster care system, I've always enjoyed working with people from all ages. I find that my approach is simple, treat others how you would want to be treated, with dignity and respect. I look forward to seeing how we might move forward to get you to where you want to be. I have done a lot of trauma work throughout the years. Anxiety, depression, and sexual violence is something I am very familiar and comfortable working with.
Hi there, my name is Kellie and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist here is Southern California. Though the majority of my work has been working children in the foster care system, I've always enjoyed working with people from all ages. I find that my approach is simple, treat others how you would want to be treated, with dignity and respect. I look forward to seeing how we might move forward to get you to where you want to be. I have done a lot of trauma work throughout the years. Anxiety, depression, and sexual violence is something I am very familiar and comfortable working with.
(408) 498-9946 View (408) 498-9946
Photo of Claire Castle, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claire Castle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
Hello, name is Claire Castle, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in the LGBTQ+ issues, gender identity, women's issues, neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression, using Interpersonal Neurobiology, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Narrative Therapy to provide my clients validation and teach them an expanded emotional vocabulary, so they can live the best version of their lives.
Hello, name is Claire Castle, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in the LGBTQ+ issues, gender identity, women's issues, neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression, using Interpersonal Neurobiology, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Narrative Therapy to provide my clients validation and teach them an expanded emotional vocabulary, so they can live the best version of their lives.
(669) 291-1958 View (669) 291-1958
Photo of Veiss Zandieh, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Veiss Zandieh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
I work with individuals, couples and families experiencing any relationship issues, grief & loss, as well as clients struggling with low self esteem, trauma, anxiety and depression.
Congratulations on taking the courageous step to begin therapy. As we all know, life can be challenging and demanding at times. This may lead us to feeling sad, angry, hopeless or confused. We may feel stuck and not know how to move forward; which can be a very lonely and scary place to be as well. However, you are not alone and healing is possible! My role as a therapist is to provide a safe place and offer warmth and empathy throughout this collaborative process, in order to help you in exploring your thoughts and feelings, as well as guide you in developing insight and identifying skills to achieve the thriving life you deserve.
I work with individuals, couples and families experiencing any relationship issues, grief & loss, as well as clients struggling with low self esteem, trauma, anxiety and depression.
Congratulations on taking the courageous step to begin therapy. As we all know, life can be challenging and demanding at times. This may lead us to feeling sad, angry, hopeless or confused. We may feel stuck and not know how to move forward; which can be a very lonely and scary place to be as well. However, you are not alone and healing is possible! My role as a therapist is to provide a safe place and offer warmth and empathy throughout this collaborative process, in order to help you in exploring your thoughts and feelings, as well as guide you in developing insight and identifying skills to achieve the thriving life you deserve.
(669) 222-6755 View (669) 222-6755
Photo of Caci B Tassano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caci B Tassano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95129  (Online Only)
New session times available as of 9/1/2023 . Are you struggling with relationships, work stress, or feeling isolated? Often people who come to see me for therapy are facing combined challenges including anxiety, depression and work stress. In therapy you and I will develop a therapeutic partnership and a collaborative, supportive space to help you reach your goals.
New session times available as of 9/1/2023 . Are you struggling with relationships, work stress, or feeling isolated? Often people who come to see me for therapy are facing combined challenges including anxiety, depression and work stress. In therapy you and I will develop a therapeutic partnership and a collaborative, supportive space to help you reach your goals.
(831) 713-1895 View (831) 713-1895
Photo of Lisa Tran, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
You don’t have to be alone with your hardships; we all struggle in life at one point or another. Suppose you feel you are currently struggling due to depression, anxiety, identity, relationships, work stress, communication, or finding your place in the world. Life’s complications and difficulties can be made more accessible with understanding, conversation, and support. I am happy to be beside you during this time and guide you through it, using my years of study and experience to help you move toward a state of life you are happier in.
You don’t have to be alone with your hardships; we all struggle in life at one point or another. Suppose you feel you are currently struggling due to depression, anxiety, identity, relationships, work stress, communication, or finding your place in the world. Life’s complications and difficulties can be made more accessible with understanding, conversation, and support. I am happy to be beside you during this time and guide you through it, using my years of study and experience to help you move toward a state of life you are happier in.
(408) 413-3686 View (408) 413-3686
Photo of Michelle Horn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Horn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
I am also comfortable working with addiction, anxiety, depression, sexual trauma, and/or forensic clients.
Michelle Horn, LMFT 136019. Improving relationships and managing stressors in daily life settings is important. My practice focuses on supporting improved coping skills and strategies to achieve positive outcomes. My practice is trauma-informed and focuses on increasing coping strategies to reduce symptoms and increase quality of life. I believe that balance and connectivity lead to overall emotional and mental health. In my practice, it is important to me that I support you and/or your loved one's to achieve this.
I am also comfortable working with addiction, anxiety, depression, sexual trauma, and/or forensic clients.
Michelle Horn, LMFT 136019. Improving relationships and managing stressors in daily life settings is important. My practice focuses on supporting improved coping skills and strategies to achieve positive outcomes. My practice is trauma-informed and focuses on increasing coping strategies to reduce symptoms and increase quality of life. I believe that balance and connectivity lead to overall emotional and mental health. In my practice, it is important to me that I support you and/or your loved one's to achieve this.
(408) 512-3984 View (408) 512-3984
Photo of Chelsey Reese, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsey Reese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, various trauma, and challenges navigating life transitions, communication, conflict, and relationships.
My name is Chelsey Reese. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and 200RYT. As a therapist, I work to create and hold a supportive space for individuals, couples, and families to be seen, felt, and heard. I lead with curiosity, meet clients where they are at, and encourage clients to engage in a reflective process. We can tap into our greatest strengths and potential when we take the time to process our thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences.
I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, various trauma, and challenges navigating life transitions, communication, conflict, and relationships.
My name is Chelsey Reese. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and 200RYT. As a therapist, I work to create and hold a supportive space for individuals, couples, and families to be seen, felt, and heard. I lead with curiosity, meet clients where they are at, and encourage clients to engage in a reflective process. We can tap into our greatest strengths and potential when we take the time to process our thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences.
(818) 456-1643 View (818) 456-1643
Photo of Justine Gordon, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(213) 761-4246 View (213) 761-4246
Photo of Laurel Salmon, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Laurel Salmon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
Experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma can be hard to navigate on one’s own. Through the use of integrative modalities, my goal is to help you find your way so that you can manage symptoms, feel your best, discover who you truly are, and move forward in the direction of your dreams whereby your past no longer holds you back. Using warmth and compassion, I also aim to provide trauma-informed care to discuss your struggles without judgment and safely process unresolved trauma and feelings.
Experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma can be hard to navigate on one’s own. Through the use of integrative modalities, my goal is to help you find your way so that you can manage symptoms, feel your best, discover who you truly are, and move forward in the direction of your dreams whereby your past no longer holds you back. Using warmth and compassion, I also aim to provide trauma-informed care to discuss your struggles without judgment and safely process unresolved trauma and feelings.
(650) 977-4305 View (650) 977-4305
Photo of Amanda Bautista, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Bautista
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95129
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. Visit us at www.paloaltotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. Visit us at www.paloaltotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
(650) 899-4682 View (650) 899-4682
Photo of Lauren Timmerman, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Timmerman
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95129
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. Visit us at www.paloaltotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. Visit us at www.paloaltotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
(650) 582-4411 View (650) 582-4411
Photo of Richard Wayne, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richard Wayne
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129  (Online Only)
I've worked extensively with depression, trauma, anxiety, relationship problems, and issues related to divorce and abuse.
Most of us want to solve our own problems, but at times getting help is the wisest move, speeding progress and often bringing desired changes we didn't realize were possible. I help you connect with your inner wisdom and resolve problems while adding skills that bring resilience and strength. My approach is compassionate, non-judging, supportive, and tailored to your uniqueness. Therapy helps with most life challenges because it's really about personal growth: getting better at handling what life brings, and helping the wise, powerful, authentic you come to the forefront, take charge, find meaning, and engage fully.
I've worked extensively with depression, trauma, anxiety, relationship problems, and issues related to divorce and abuse.
Most of us want to solve our own problems, but at times getting help is the wisest move, speeding progress and often bringing desired changes we didn't realize were possible. I help you connect with your inner wisdom and resolve problems while adding skills that bring resilience and strength. My approach is compassionate, non-judging, supportive, and tailored to your uniqueness. Therapy helps with most life challenges because it's really about personal growth: getting better at handling what life brings, and helping the wise, powerful, authentic you come to the forefront, take charge, find meaning, and engage fully.
(650) 667-7226 View (650) 667-7226
Photo of Sheron Gershelis, ASW, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sheron Gershelis
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
Together, we delve into traumas, anxiety, depression, and family/relationship challenges, understanding how these stressors impact your life.
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
Together, we delve into traumas, anxiety, depression, and family/relationship challenges, understanding how these stressors impact your life.
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
(650) 844-0092 View (650) 844-0092
Photo of undefined - Palo Alto Therapy , LMFT, LCSW, LPCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Palo Alto Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. Visit us at www.paloaltotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. Visit us at www.paloaltotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
(650) 761-9765 View (650) 761-9765
Photo of Bella Stitt Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, LPCC, LCSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bella Stitt Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPCC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95129
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
Is excessive worry or anxiety limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a happier life? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, public speaking fears, OCD, panic, excessive worry and depression is our primary focus. By using proven therapy methods (We are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, and reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy and help you get results to improve your emotions and your life. By doing this we can help rather quickly. Call to schedule a free phone consultation.
(650) 582-2219 View (650) 582-2219
Photo of Claire Wilkinson Girczyc, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claire Wilkinson Girczyc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95129
I have experience helping clients who are on the autism spectrum, and those who have ADHD, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety as well as many other concerns.
Do you feel stuck, unhappy, and dissatisfied? Having problems in relationships? Does each day feel like too much to handle? Take the first step toward making positive change in your life by calling to schedule an appointment. Working together, we can identify your goals and desires, recognize and capitalize on your strengths, find strategies to relieve your stress and anxiety, improve your mood, reinvigorate your relationships, and increase your life satisfaction. I provide caring, supportive, non-judgmental, confidential therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples in welcoming, comfortable offices, Monday through Friday.
I have experience helping clients who are on the autism spectrum, and those who have ADHD, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety as well as many other concerns.
Do you feel stuck, unhappy, and dissatisfied? Having problems in relationships? Does each day feel like too much to handle? Take the first step toward making positive change in your life by calling to schedule an appointment. Working together, we can identify your goals and desires, recognize and capitalize on your strengths, find strategies to relieve your stress and anxiety, improve your mood, reinvigorate your relationships, and increase your life satisfaction. I provide caring, supportive, non-judgmental, confidential therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples in welcoming, comfortable offices, Monday through Friday.
(650) 753-6234 View (650) 753-6234
Photo of Cathy Trenary, APCC
Cathy Trenary
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
(213) 761-4246 View (213) 761-4246
Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.