Photo of Deanne Samuels, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Deanne Samuels
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Is stress, anxiety, depression, or chronic illness, affecting your life? Does imposter syndrome reduce enjoyment of your achievements. I can help. I specialize in stress management, depression, health anxiety, pain management, panic, smoking cessation, and support for those living with chronic illness (e.g., cancer). I am trained in techniques for those experiencing imposter syndrome. I utilize short-term cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation /meditation, mindfulness, and cognitive restructuring techniques to get you back to living your life. Phone / video sessions only for CALIFORNIA residents and FLORIDA residents.
Is stress, anxiety, depression, or chronic illness, affecting your life? Does imposter syndrome reduce enjoyment of your achievements. I can help. I specialize in stress management, depression, health anxiety, pain management, panic, smoking cessation, and support for those living with chronic illness (e.g., cancer). I am trained in techniques for those experiencing imposter syndrome. I utilize short-term cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation /meditation, mindfulness, and cognitive restructuring techniques to get you back to living your life. Phone / video sessions only for CALIFORNIA residents and FLORIDA residents.
(628) 222-4058 View (628) 222-4058
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 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 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 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 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
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 Teresa Blenggio Martinez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Teresa Blenggio Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Teresa Blenggio Martinez, LMFT, Somatic trauma-informed approach, I am deeply committed to delivering comprehensive care, establishing a safe environment, and ensuring positive outcomes. Confidential consultations and assessments, ensuring privacy and trust in the therapeutic process. My therapeutic approach is rooted in integrative somatic trauma-informed care. I have a particular interest in supporting individuals impacted by anxiety, depression, complex PTSD, intergenerational trauma, the impact of systemic oppression, coming out related issues, and intimate partner violence/domestic violence.
Teresa Blenggio Martinez, LMFT, Somatic trauma-informed approach, I am deeply committed to delivering comprehensive care, establishing a safe environment, and ensuring positive outcomes. Confidential consultations and assessments, ensuring privacy and trust in the therapeutic process. My therapeutic approach is rooted in integrative somatic trauma-informed care. I have a particular interest in supporting individuals impacted by anxiety, depression, complex PTSD, intergenerational trauma, the impact of systemic oppression, coming out related issues, and intimate partner violence/domestic violence.
(562) 418-5792 View (562) 418-5792
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 Krystal Faraz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oakland, CA
Krystal Faraz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Hello there! My name is Krystal Faraz and I’m a licensed mental health counselor in Washington state as well as California. I primarily practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-centered, solution focused therapy (SFT) along with other modalities as indicated. I take a very direct approach with practical skills to help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression. I assist individuals dealing with anxiety and depression.
Hello there! My name is Krystal Faraz and I’m a licensed mental health counselor in Washington state as well as California. I primarily practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-centered, solution focused therapy (SFT) along with other modalities as indicated. I take a very direct approach with practical skills to help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression. I assist individuals dealing with anxiety and depression.
(323) 922-4014 View (323) 922-4014
Photo of Jeneba Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jeneba Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94603
My name is Jeneba Young. I cater to African American millennial women who need assistance with tapping into their feminine energy. I am passionate about empowering African American millennial women navigate through relationship with themselves and others. I cater to women struggling with tapping into their feminine strength and inversely causing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, and life transitions. If you are ready to awaken your natural feminine strength, embrace womanhood, and express their inner truths lets speak!
My name is Jeneba Young. I cater to African American millennial women who need assistance with tapping into their feminine energy. I am passionate about empowering African American millennial women navigate through relationship with themselves and others. I cater to women struggling with tapping into their feminine strength and inversely causing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, and life transitions. If you are ready to awaken your natural feminine strength, embrace womanhood, and express their inner truths lets speak!
(415) 429-7809 View (415) 429-7809
Photo of Guiding Hope Individual and Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Guiding Hope Individual and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, DBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
People search for therapy for various reasons. Most often these reasons include feelings of sadness, experiencing difficulties adjusting to life changes, difficulties dealing with chronic physical pain, emotional pain, trauma, depression, anger, stress and anxieties. Perhaps you are trying to heal from a difficult relationship breakup, leaving you feeling sad and defeated. It could be that you are a part of a newly formed blended family, living together for the first time, and instead of joy you are experiencing chaos. You may be seeking help, because your spouse has received orders for yet another deployment with the military.
People search for therapy for various reasons. Most often these reasons include feelings of sadness, experiencing difficulties adjusting to life changes, difficulties dealing with chronic physical pain, emotional pain, trauma, depression, anger, stress and anxieties. Perhaps you are trying to heal from a difficult relationship breakup, leaving you feeling sad and defeated. It could be that you are a part of a newly formed blended family, living together for the first time, and instead of joy you are experiencing chaos. You may be seeking help, because your spouse has received orders for yet another deployment with the military.
(619) 432-4230 View (619) 432-4230
Photo of Dr. M at Insight Thoughts Psychotherapy Services, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Dr. M at Insight Thoughts Psychotherapy Services
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling with overwhelming emotions, excessive worries or major life transitions? If you're looking for a mental health service that caters to your needs, you've come to the right place! I offer a comprehensive range of services to help you achieve optimal well-being. As a therapist I specialize in treating a variety of disorders, including anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma, among others. I use evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and more to help you overcome your challenges.
Do you find yourself struggling with overwhelming emotions, excessive worries or major life transitions? If you're looking for a mental health service that caters to your needs, you've come to the right place! I offer a comprehensive range of services to help you achieve optimal well-being. As a therapist I specialize in treating a variety of disorders, including anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma, among others. I use evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and more to help you overcome your challenges.
(657) 837-2200 View (657) 837-2200
Photo of Jones Urban Practice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jones Urban Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with clients with anxiety, depression and trauma; providing therapy to teens and adults, and facilitating groups for teenagers My goal is to provide realistic and tangible therapy that will enhance your overall well-being.
As a therapist, I believe in working with clients to improve their emotional and mental health. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I believe therapy involves helping clients explore how social environments impacts mental health and exploring how thoughts/what one believes influences behavior and how one feels about themselves.
My experience includes working with clients with anxiety, depression and trauma; providing therapy to teens and adults, and facilitating groups for teenagers My goal is to provide realistic and tangible therapy that will enhance your overall well-being.
As a therapist, I believe in working with clients to improve their emotional and mental health. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I believe therapy involves helping clients explore how social environments impacts mental health and exploring how thoughts/what one believes influences behavior and how one feels about themselves.
(510) 619-2625 View (510) 619-2625
Photo of Leslie Hammer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Leslie Hammer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
Connecting with nature has been shown to reduce stress, loneliness, depression, and anxiety and provides a rich landscape for personal growth and healing.
Welcome! Are you drawn to the natural world when you need to feel more grounded, calm, or inspired? Are you looking to broaden your community of support? I work with people primarily outside in the natural world, engaging in ecotherapy practices. We would meet at a local park in the East Bay Area, where we would sit, walk, or explore the area while tending to whatever stresses, questions, or emotions are arising in you.
Connecting with nature has been shown to reduce stress, loneliness, depression, and anxiety and provides a rich landscape for personal growth and healing.
Welcome! Are you drawn to the natural world when you need to feel more grounded, calm, or inspired? Are you looking to broaden your community of support? I work with people primarily outside in the natural world, engaging in ecotherapy practices. We would meet at a local park in the East Bay Area, where we would sit, walk, or explore the area while tending to whatever stresses, questions, or emotions are arising in you.
(510) 726-7017 View (510) 726-7017
Photo of Jasmin Canfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jasmin Canfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC-CA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Emotions suck, but if we continue to avoid them we will likely remain stuck in what may feel something like swimming in quicksand. Many of my clients come to me when they are tired of the cycle of feeling overwhelmed, depressed, hopeless, hurt, or filled with shame, and guilt. I want to assist you in utilizing the tools to make emotions more manageable. Through unconditional positive regard, self-compassion, and humor you will regain the life that you deserve.
Emotions suck, but if we continue to avoid them we will likely remain stuck in what may feel something like swimming in quicksand. Many of my clients come to me when they are tired of the cycle of feeling overwhelmed, depressed, hopeless, hurt, or filled with shame, and guilt. I want to assist you in utilizing the tools to make emotions more manageable. Through unconditional positive regard, self-compassion, and humor you will regain the life that you deserve.
(415) 226-6638 View (415) 226-6638
Photo of Laura M Ostrow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Laura M Ostrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94606  (Online Only)
Hello! I am currently offering trauma informed and EMDR therapy. I work primarily with high functioning women who are struggling with depression, anxiety, or PTSD and are ready to get to the root of it all and feel better. Whether you are challenged by intimacy issues, feeling unfulfilled at work or school, or are just tired of being controlled by emotions like anger or grief, emotions can be hard to manage. Lasting change happens within the context of a safe relationship, and regardless of your attachment style or history, I can help you create the changes you want to see in your life.
Hello! I am currently offering trauma informed and EMDR therapy. I work primarily with high functioning women who are struggling with depression, anxiety, or PTSD and are ready to get to the root of it all and feel better. Whether you are challenged by intimacy issues, feeling unfulfilled at work or school, or are just tired of being controlled by emotions like anger or grief, emotions can be hard to manage. Lasting change happens within the context of a safe relationship, and regardless of your attachment style or history, I can help you create the changes you want to see in your life.
(510) 343-7169 View (510) 343-7169
Photo of Mekdes Yilma, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Mekdes Yilma
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
As Audre Lord said, "Self-care is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation." Hello, I'm Mekdes! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working out of Fresno, CA. Deciding to seek counseling services is a huge step. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, or parenting challenges, participating in therapy can give you the boost that you need to start living your best life again! As a therapist, I consider it a privilege to be allowed to walk alongside you on your journey of healing.
As Audre Lord said, "Self-care is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation." Hello, I'm Mekdes! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working out of Fresno, CA. Deciding to seek counseling services is a huge step. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, or parenting challenges, participating in therapy can give you the boost that you need to start living your best life again! As a therapist, I consider it a privilege to be allowed to walk alongside you on your journey of healing.
(510) 480-3651 View (510) 480-3651
Photo of Bernadette Rivero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Bernadette Rivero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Whether it's depression, anxiety, trauma, negative self-talk, family dynamics, intergenerational cycles, race relations, world events, or you're a fellow healthcare worker, I will work diligently with you to develop an awareness and understanding of these aspects of your life.
Are there topics you're nervous or scared to discuss with your partner, friends or family due to embarrassment or fear of judgement? Do you continue to tell everyone you're "fine" when internally you may be experiencing a variety of emotions that you're unsure how to manage? Were you raised in a family that did not discuss emotions or perceived them as "weak"? These are very common thoughts that I would love to unpack with you. I understand the difficulty in being vulnerable and discussing your emotions. My purpose is to create a comfortable environment for you to work through these feelings and practice coping skills.
Whether it's depression, anxiety, trauma, negative self-talk, family dynamics, intergenerational cycles, race relations, world events, or you're a fellow healthcare worker, I will work diligently with you to develop an awareness and understanding of these aspects of your life.
Are there topics you're nervous or scared to discuss with your partner, friends or family due to embarrassment or fear of judgement? Do you continue to tell everyone you're "fine" when internally you may be experiencing a variety of emotions that you're unsure how to manage? Were you raised in a family that did not discuss emotions or perceived them as "weak"? These are very common thoughts that I would love to unpack with you. I understand the difficulty in being vulnerable and discussing your emotions. My purpose is to create a comfortable environment for you to work through these feelings and practice coping skills.
(510) 323-4463 View (510) 323-4463
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.