Photo of Vimmi Jaggi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Vimmi Jaggi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I do work quite often with a lot of South Asian and American populations who experience trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues.
My Name is Vimmi Jaggi, LCSW licensed in CA 75673 and for the past about 14-15 years, I have been working to assist patients with finding ease of life. I help patients learn and break patterns: cultural, generational, or circumstantial that sometimes show up as fatigue, sadness, anxiety, overthinking and disable us from the joy of our lives. We all deserve loving kindness and can break these cycles that disable us. In such times we all can use trauma-informed and nonjudgmental support to help us heal from symptomatic root causes. There is hope. I wish to work together to help you find these hopes and choices.
I do work quite often with a lot of South Asian and American populations who experience trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues.
My Name is Vimmi Jaggi, LCSW licensed in CA 75673 and for the past about 14-15 years, I have been working to assist patients with finding ease of life. I help patients learn and break patterns: cultural, generational, or circumstantial that sometimes show up as fatigue, sadness, anxiety, overthinking and disable us from the joy of our lives. We all deserve loving kindness and can break these cycles that disable us. In such times we all can use trauma-informed and nonjudgmental support to help us heal from symptomatic root causes. There is hope. I wish to work together to help you find these hopes and choices.
(510) 800-9434 View (510) 800-9434
Photo of Liana Huang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(415) 942-6964 View (415) 942-6964
Photo of Justine Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
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.
(415) 936-0776 View (415) 936-0776
Photo of T Joshua Tan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
T Joshua Tan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma holding you back from being your true self? Do you feel stuck in managing difficult life transitions? Now, every little thing becomes super overwhelming. Those negative experiences reopen old wounds and cause new ones. You tried burying your pain hoping it would go away. You feel lonely and tormented. You feel exhausted, stressed, and angry all the time. You wonder how much more you can take. You are unsure of who or where to turn for help. In the midst of this painful journey, you do not have to go through it alone.
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma holding you back from being your true self? Do you feel stuck in managing difficult life transitions? Now, every little thing becomes super overwhelming. Those negative experiences reopen old wounds and cause new ones. You tried burying your pain hoping it would go away. You feel lonely and tormented. You feel exhausted, stressed, and angry all the time. You wonder how much more you can take. You are unsure of who or where to turn for help. In the midst of this painful journey, you do not have to go through it alone.
(510) 256-7573 View (510) 256-7573
Photo of Jennifer Lara, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
(415) 200-3335 View (415) 200-3335
Photo of Ann Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(415) 341-9910 View (415) 341-9910
Photo of Erick Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(415) 324-4286 View (415) 324-4286
Photo of Audrey Hu, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Audrey Hu
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
(415) 715-1673 View (415) 715-1673
Photo of Andy Truong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Andy Truong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Seeking therapy takes courage and strength. Are you experiencing feeling stuck due to childhood trauma? I am here to provide you with unconditional support to process through your anxiety, depression, and other unresolved feelings at your pace. Sometimes we may need someone who is there for us and there are no problems in life that are too big or small. You have taken the first step to seek help, I can help you discover your inner strength to bounce back and deep inside you may be wishing for peace and equilibrium. As a therapist, I aim to help you reach those goals together to bring about inner peace.
Seeking therapy takes courage and strength. Are you experiencing feeling stuck due to childhood trauma? I am here to provide you with unconditional support to process through your anxiety, depression, and other unresolved feelings at your pace. Sometimes we may need someone who is there for us and there are no problems in life that are too big or small. You have taken the first step to seek help, I can help you discover your inner strength to bounce back and deep inside you may be wishing for peace and equilibrium. As a therapist, I aim to help you reach those goals together to bring about inner peace.
(402) 685-8629 View (402) 685-8629
Photo of Rocio Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rocio Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94603
My name is Rocio Garcia, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, and overcoming life transitions. My approach to therapy is an eclectic modality. I aim to tailor my approach to the needs of each client. Most frequently, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in working with clients and assisting them in making progress toward their goals. My approach is primarily a good fit for emerging adults seeking to process challenges that emerge through life transitions and traumas.
My name is Rocio Garcia, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, and overcoming life transitions. My approach to therapy is an eclectic modality. I aim to tailor my approach to the needs of each client. Most frequently, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in working with clients and assisting them in making progress toward their goals. My approach is primarily a good fit for emerging adults seeking to process challenges that emerge through life transitions and traumas.
(341) 888-7191 View (341) 888-7191
Photo of Nicole Logan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(415) 704-6947 View (415) 704-6947
Photo of Jennie Nystrom, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jennie Nystrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
(415) 915-3417 View (415) 915-3417
Photo of Anisha Holden, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Anisha Holden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94603
Hey there! My name is Anisha Holden, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family therapist. I enjoy working with children/teens, adults, couples and families that are interested in working of differing backgrounds/cultures. Often, clients that are in the process of transitioning to a new stage in life are attracted to working with me. Whether it is becoming a spouse or parent, moving into a new position, graduating, or just simply changing from one state of being to another, my aim is to provide the necessary support to do so successfully. With any change, comes anxiety, depression, indecision, and so on.
Hey there! My name is Anisha Holden, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family therapist. I enjoy working with children/teens, adults, couples and families that are interested in working of differing backgrounds/cultures. Often, clients that are in the process of transitioning to a new stage in life are attracted to working with me. Whether it is becoming a spouse or parent, moving into a new position, graduating, or just simply changing from one state of being to another, my aim is to provide the necessary support to do so successfully. With any change, comes anxiety, depression, indecision, and so on.
(661) 768-1257 View (661) 768-1257
Photo of John Machikawa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
John Machikawa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607  (Online Only)
Hi there, My name is John Machikawa, a licensed therapist. I have been a licensed therapist for fifteen years and have worked in outpatient/inpatient facilities. I have experience providing supportive therapy to clients with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and feelings of hopelessness. I believe that it is important for you to feel safe and comfortable with your therapist. I believe a therapist should be supportive, patient, open-minded, and accepting. As your therapist, I will meet you wherever you are at in your therapeutic journey. Thank you for checking out my profile and I look forward to working with you.
Hi there, My name is John Machikawa, a licensed therapist. I have been a licensed therapist for fifteen years and have worked in outpatient/inpatient facilities. I have experience providing supportive therapy to clients with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and feelings of hopelessness. I believe that it is important for you to feel safe and comfortable with your therapist. I believe a therapist should be supportive, patient, open-minded, and accepting. As your therapist, I will meet you wherever you are at in your therapeutic journey. Thank you for checking out my profile and I look forward to working with you.
(657) 837-3240 View (657) 837-3240
Photo of Rebecca Peng, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rebecca Peng
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Waitlist for new clients
As an Asian female therapist, I deeply understand the challenges and opportunities that come with a bi-cultural upbringing. Every individual possesses the innate desire to grow as well as the capacity to heal from traumas and painful life events. I am here to guide you through difficult life transitions and improve your relationships. I will help you approach life with fresh perspectives and more effective strategies. I have more than a decade of therapy experience with clients of all ages struggling with issues such as depression and anxiety, trauma, addiction, grief and loss, and unhealthy relationships.
As an Asian female therapist, I deeply understand the challenges and opportunities that come with a bi-cultural upbringing. Every individual possesses the innate desire to grow as well as the capacity to heal from traumas and painful life events. I am here to guide you through difficult life transitions and improve your relationships. I will help you approach life with fresh perspectives and more effective strategies. I have more than a decade of therapy experience with clients of all ages struggling with issues such as depression and anxiety, trauma, addiction, grief and loss, and unhealthy relationships.
(415) 413-0418 View (415) 413-0418
Photo of Nathan Michael, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Nathan Michael
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
In my work with adults, teens and college-aged youth I specialize in the following areas: difficulties with anxiety and panic, depression, navigating trust and decisions, relationship problems, substance or behavioral challenges as well as those who want to experience more fulfillment, authenticity and intimacy in their lives.
Life can be hard. Sometimes we feel stuck. It may be that recent events, difficult feelings or relationship challenges are making it clear that some things are not working. It could be that stress, worry or confusion have felt overwhelming and lead to unhelpful patterns with yourself and the others you care most about. Within the frameworks of relational psychodynamic and somatic psychotherapy I offer a warm, supportive presence so you can explore whats difficult, hone your strengths and become more fully yourself.
In my work with adults, teens and college-aged youth I specialize in the following areas: difficulties with anxiety and panic, depression, navigating trust and decisions, relationship problems, substance or behavioral challenges as well as those who want to experience more fulfillment, authenticity and intimacy in their lives.
Life can be hard. Sometimes we feel stuck. It may be that recent events, difficult feelings or relationship challenges are making it clear that some things are not working. It could be that stress, worry or confusion have felt overwhelming and lead to unhelpful patterns with yourself and the others you care most about. Within the frameworks of relational psychodynamic and somatic psychotherapy I offer a warm, supportive presence so you can explore whats difficult, hone your strengths and become more fully yourself.
(415) 792-1901 View (415) 792-1901
Photo of Samana Budhathoki, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Samana Budhathoki
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607
Together we uncover the root of anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma by looking into the past to understand/manage the present while approaching the future in a meaningful & practical way.
We all try to cope with our wounds & stresses in the best way we can. Complex life experiences teach us complex ways to cope by perhaps— suppressing our feelings, staying hidden to avoid unwanted attention or punishment, acting out to explain the inexplicable, performing exceptionally & anxiously well to stand out or gain approval, or taking care of others at the expense of ourselves to compensate for our family legacies & cultural dynamics. Whatever the nature and range of your experiences, you may be struggling with your past and how it impacts your present, your work, your relationship with yourself, loved ones, & the world.
Together we uncover the root of anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma by looking into the past to understand/manage the present while approaching the future in a meaningful & practical way.
We all try to cope with our wounds & stresses in the best way we can. Complex life experiences teach us complex ways to cope by perhaps— suppressing our feelings, staying hidden to avoid unwanted attention or punishment, acting out to explain the inexplicable, performing exceptionally & anxiously well to stand out or gain approval, or taking care of others at the expense of ourselves to compensate for our family legacies & cultural dynamics. Whatever the nature and range of your experiences, you may be struggling with your past and how it impacts your present, your work, your relationship with yourself, loved ones, & the world.
(562) 257-3659 View (562) 257-3659
Photo of Angie Pelletier -Juarez, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Angie Pelletier -Juarez
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
I specialize in treating individuals from diverse backgrounds who struggle with mental health issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, and domestic or intimate partner violence.
Dr. PJ, also known as Dr. Angie Pelletier, is a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience. She applies a holistic methodology that takes into account mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual considerations to help people gain a better understanding of themselves. Her focus areas include trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence (IPV)/Domestic Violence (DV) victims, life and career transitions, and relationship issues, among others. Dr. PJ stresses the importance of identifying personal strengths and cultivating coping strategies to meet life's challenges.
I specialize in treating individuals from diverse backgrounds who struggle with mental health issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, and domestic or intimate partner violence.
Dr. PJ, also known as Dr. Angie Pelletier, is a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience. She applies a holistic methodology that takes into account mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual considerations to help people gain a better understanding of themselves. Her focus areas include trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence (IPV)/Domestic Violence (DV) victims, life and career transitions, and relationship issues, among others. Dr. PJ stresses the importance of identifying personal strengths and cultivating coping strategies to meet life's challenges.
(562) 278-0875 View (562) 278-0875
Photo of Cloda Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Cloda Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Greetings and welcome to Path Mental Health. My name is Dr. Jones. I am a clinical and school psychologist and counselor. I have over 25 years of experience working with children and families. I am licensed as a social worker and professional counselor in the state of California. I have worked with clients on relationships, individual issues, and career counseling. I specialize in relationship issues, past trauma, grieving, anxiety, and depression. Life can be stressful, and at times, we all need someone to talk with and help sort things out. My approach is to utilize a toolbox of interventions warmly and compassionately.
Greetings and welcome to Path Mental Health. My name is Dr. Jones. I am a clinical and school psychologist and counselor. I have over 25 years of experience working with children and families. I am licensed as a social worker and professional counselor in the state of California. I have worked with clients on relationships, individual issues, and career counseling. I specialize in relationship issues, past trauma, grieving, anxiety, and depression. Life can be stressful, and at times, we all need someone to talk with and help sort things out. My approach is to utilize a toolbox of interventions warmly and compassionately.
(831) 400-5714 View (831) 400-5714
Photo of Trasie Marie Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Trasie Marie Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EAP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
The majority of short-term therapy is Depression and Anxiety.
Private pay sessions for 60$ dollars, couples 75$, I take most insurance and the insurance I accept is increasing. I have experience of over 35 years expert professional, licensed in 3 states, CA, VA and WA. Currently in the Wash DC area on assignment with the DOD working with Military Families and providing therapy virtually to clients in California and Washington State. I'm a certified expert provider in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Drug and Alcohol Recovery, Family Dynamics and specialist and a DOD consult in Combat, childhood trauma, PTSD Psychotherapy. I also provided Christian counseling upon request.
The majority of short-term therapy is Depression and Anxiety.
Private pay sessions for 60$ dollars, couples 75$, I take most insurance and the insurance I accept is increasing. I have experience of over 35 years expert professional, licensed in 3 states, CA, VA and WA. Currently in the Wash DC area on assignment with the DOD working with Military Families and providing therapy virtually to clients in California and Washington State. I'm a certified expert provider in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Drug and Alcohol Recovery, Family Dynamics and specialist and a DOD consult in Combat, childhood trauma, PTSD Psychotherapy. I also provided Christian counseling upon request.
(540) 386-1336 View (540) 386-1336
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.