Photo of Renee K. Miller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renee K. Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
My experience includes 15 years of helping clients heal themselves and their relationships.The essence of my counseling approach is each person has access to health and well being regardless of what is currently being experienced. I help clients regain that innate health through deep listening and non-judgmental feedback. I work deeply with current thoughts, beliefs and feelings about one's self to uncover deep seated self-judgment that blocks happiness. Anxiety, depression and unhappiness transform into greater peace and understanding. In turn, self awareness is enhanced which leads to greater understanding, compassion and empathy for self and others.
My experience includes 15 years of helping clients heal themselves and their relationships.The essence of my counseling approach is each person has access to health and well being regardless of what is currently being experienced. I help clients regain that innate health through deep listening and non-judgmental feedback. I work deeply with current thoughts, beliefs and feelings about one's self to uncover deep seated self-judgment that blocks happiness. Anxiety, depression and unhappiness transform into greater peace and understanding. In turn, self awareness is enhanced which leads to greater understanding, compassion and empathy for self and others.
(925) 695-7914 View (925) 695-7914
Photo of Tonya Dowding, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Tonya Dowding
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Some areas of focus include anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship issues, addiction and co-dependence, sexual therapy, etc.
I find it effective to combine behavioral solutions with depth work. Since the unconscious ripples into all aspects of life, I have found that relational therapy addressing unconscious motives can help with most psychological difficulties. In addition to working with individuals, couples & families, I am adjunct faculty at the California Institute of Integral Studies where I teach in the Masters in Counseling Psychology Department and Psychological Services Clinic.
Some areas of focus include anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship issues, addiction and co-dependence, sexual therapy, etc.
I find it effective to combine behavioral solutions with depth work. Since the unconscious ripples into all aspects of life, I have found that relational therapy addressing unconscious motives can help with most psychological difficulties. In addition to working with individuals, couples & families, I am adjunct faculty at the California Institute of Integral Studies where I teach in the Masters in Counseling Psychology Department and Psychological Services Clinic.
(628) 333-6616 View (628) 333-6616
Photo of Dr. Eric Bottino, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Eric Bottino
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I work with adolescents and adults from all walks of life experiencing an extensive range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, surviving abuse, body image, and eating disorders.
Are you so overwhelmed that you can't focus on your partner, kids, or other meaningful relationships? Do you feel like letting go of patterns is challenging and find yourself obsessing about your body to the point that eating becomes an ordeal? Do you feel like the past is weighing you down and you can't put it where it belongs, that is in the past? Do you engage in behaviors such as drug, alcohol, or other reckless endeavors that bring about tension and conflicts at home, at work, or other social settings?
I work with adolescents and adults from all walks of life experiencing an extensive range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, surviving abuse, body image, and eating disorders.
Are you so overwhelmed that you can't focus on your partner, kids, or other meaningful relationships? Do you feel like letting go of patterns is challenging and find yourself obsessing about your body to the point that eating becomes an ordeal? Do you feel like the past is weighing you down and you can't put it where it belongs, that is in the past? Do you engage in behaviors such as drug, alcohol, or other reckless endeavors that bring about tension and conflicts at home, at work, or other social settings?
(628) 227-5455 View (628) 227-5455
Photo of Kristina Tu, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristina Tu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
am a License Marriage Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with individuals who have experience trauma, anxiety, family issues, relationship issues, eating disorders, depression, low self-esteem, and self-doubt. As a therapist, I strive to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for healing, and self-exploration. I use a collaborative approach with my clients and help them navigate through phases in their life that maybe confusing and challenging. When we are unable to process challenges in our lives, we can feel like we have lost our sense of direction and become stuck in unhealthy patterns.
am a License Marriage Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with individuals who have experience trauma, anxiety, family issues, relationship issues, eating disorders, depression, low self-esteem, and self-doubt. As a therapist, I strive to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for healing, and self-exploration. I use a collaborative approach with my clients and help them navigate through phases in their life that maybe confusing and challenging. When we are unable to process challenges in our lives, we can feel like we have lost our sense of direction and become stuck in unhealthy patterns.
(510) 616-9418 View (510) 616-9418
Photo of Rachel D Steinberg, PsyD, Psychologist
Rachel D Steinberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 16 years of experience providing services to adolescents and adults. My approach is interactive, attentive, flexible, and warm. I work with clients with a wide variety of issues, some of the most common being depression, anxiety/stress, burnout, relationship issues, grief, low self-esteem, family of origin difficulties and life transitions. I am neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming and strive to create a safe space for you to be heard.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 16 years of experience providing services to adolescents and adults. My approach is interactive, attentive, flexible, and warm. I work with clients with a wide variety of issues, some of the most common being depression, anxiety/stress, burnout, relationship issues, grief, low self-esteem, family of origin difficulties and life transitions. I am neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming and strive to create a safe space for you to be heard.
(510) 650-0502 View (510) 650-0502
Photo of Erick Santos, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Nicole Kat Laby, MFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Kat Laby
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Sometimes the belief that you will find the right therapist and get through difficulties feels so far away. Depression and anxiety can complicate your efforts to reach out and begin the process of telling your story. I am here to listen to your story and collaborate with you to get past hardships and make realistic and sustainable changes. I have an interactive style which helps to draw out the difficult parts and ground you in your pursuit of a more fulfilling life. Thank you for visiting and please let me know if you’d like to talk for a bit first in order to see if I could be of help. For more info please visit NicoleLaby.com
Sometimes the belief that you will find the right therapist and get through difficulties feels so far away. Depression and anxiety can complicate your efforts to reach out and begin the process of telling your story. I am here to listen to your story and collaborate with you to get past hardships and make realistic and sustainable changes. I have an interactive style which helps to draw out the difficult parts and ground you in your pursuit of a more fulfilling life. Thank you for visiting and please let me know if you’d like to talk for a bit first in order to see if I could be of help. For more info please visit NicoleLaby.com
(628) 333-2198 View (628) 333-2198
Photo of Alison Moon Jackson, PsyD, Psychologist
Alison Moon Jackson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I specialize in helping adults and adolescents who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationships, or identity issues. Changing things in life - whether in relationships with others, at work, or just in the day to day - can be hard to do on your own. I work to help you understand yourself on a new level, recognize patterns in your life that are keeping you from feeling how you want to feel, having the relationships you want to have, and achieving the accomplishments you hope to achieve.
I specialize in helping adults and adolescents who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationships, or identity issues. Changing things in life - whether in relationships with others, at work, or just in the day to day - can be hard to do on your own. I work to help you understand yourself on a new level, recognize patterns in your life that are keeping you from feeling how you want to feel, having the relationships you want to have, and achieving the accomplishments you hope to achieve.
(510) 405-6346 View (510) 405-6346
Photo of Nicole Logan, LPC, EMDR
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, EMDR
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 Tara Rech, PhD, Psychologist
Tara Rech
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
The kinds of issues I typically work with include relationship problems, depression, anxiety, creative blocks, personality disorders, grief and loss, life transitions, career issues, trauma, abuse, and problems related to sexuality.
Therapy can help you overcome difficulties, live creatively, and feel more alive. Many people become stuck in ways of thinking and living that no longer serve them. Through a caring therapeutic relationship, you can develop the courage to live in a meaningful and fulfilling way. Over the past 25 years, I have helped people with a wide variety of issues work through significant challenges, freeing them to make better choices. In addition to my clinical work, I teach and supervise at various training programs throughout the Bay Area, and was the Director of Counseling at California College of the Arts for 15 years.
The kinds of issues I typically work with include relationship problems, depression, anxiety, creative blocks, personality disorders, grief and loss, life transitions, career issues, trauma, abuse, and problems related to sexuality.
Therapy can help you overcome difficulties, live creatively, and feel more alive. Many people become stuck in ways of thinking and living that no longer serve them. Through a caring therapeutic relationship, you can develop the courage to live in a meaningful and fulfilling way. Over the past 25 years, I have helped people with a wide variety of issues work through significant challenges, freeing them to make better choices. In addition to my clinical work, I teach and supervise at various training programs throughout the Bay Area, and was the Director of Counseling at California College of the Arts for 15 years.
(510) 470-7909 View (510) 470-7909
Photo of Cathy Swift Nagel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy Swift Nagel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Coping with depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, illness, facing your mortality and aging, in general, as well as changes in mobility, cognition, or quality of life can be challenging.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2001, I am deeply committed to supporting the well-being of each client, providing culturally competent services and helping clients improve their quality of life.  I see older and disabled adults, often dealing with chronic illness or a new diagnosis.  I have an extensive history working in medical settings and am also available to assist caregivers with navigating the health care system. I believe that positive change is possible at any age and at any juncture in a person's life.  I believe you can have a more fulfilling life, and that I can help you.
Coping with depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, illness, facing your mortality and aging, in general, as well as changes in mobility, cognition, or quality of life can be challenging.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2001, I am deeply committed to supporting the well-being of each client, providing culturally competent services and helping clients improve their quality of life.  I see older and disabled adults, often dealing with chronic illness or a new diagnosis.  I have an extensive history working in medical settings and am also available to assist caregivers with navigating the health care system. I believe that positive change is possible at any age and at any juncture in a person's life.  I believe you can have a more fulfilling life, and that I can help you.
(415) 715-1807 View (415) 715-1807
Photo of Jennifer Lara, ASW
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 Natasa Nordman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natasa Nordman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
For over 15 years I have worked with families, adults, & youth treating survivors of intergenerational trauma, anxiety, depression & stress.
I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, traumas that are single incident events such as car accidents, surgeries or that have occurred throughout ones childhood where they are experiencing physical or emotional symptoms now as a result. I love working with individuals who are looking on ways to feel supported to increase their own self worth in all areas of their life. My style is relational and collaborative and I believe that you are the expert in your own life. I can help support in creating change around what works best for you - I pride myself on meeting patients where they are comfortable.
For over 15 years I have worked with families, adults, & youth treating survivors of intergenerational trauma, anxiety, depression & stress.
I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, traumas that are single incident events such as car accidents, surgeries or that have occurred throughout ones childhood where they are experiencing physical or emotional symptoms now as a result. I love working with individuals who are looking on ways to feel supported to increase their own self worth in all areas of their life. My style is relational and collaborative and I believe that you are the expert in your own life. I can help support in creating change around what works best for you - I pride myself on meeting patients where they are comfortable.
(925) 854-4473 View (925) 854-4473
Photo of Maayan Greene, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maayan Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I specialize in depression, anxiety, family issues, identity development , emotion regulation, and eating disorders.
If you are ready to learn more about yourself and develop a positive path toward growth seeking assistance can help you refocus on what's most meaningful to you. People come to therapy for many reasons, including needing help in handling stressful life transitions, to reduce psychological distress, increase one's self worth and to develop a better understanding of themselves. During therapy, we will explore unhealthy patterns by looking at the interplay between your thoughts, behaviors and emotions and how they affect your daily experiences. You will learn to develop fulfilling relationships, ways to cope in healthier ways, and ultimately live a fulfilling life.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, family issues, identity development , emotion regulation, and eating disorders.
If you are ready to learn more about yourself and develop a positive path toward growth seeking assistance can help you refocus on what's most meaningful to you. People come to therapy for many reasons, including needing help in handling stressful life transitions, to reduce psychological distress, increase one's self worth and to develop a better understanding of themselves. During therapy, we will explore unhealthy patterns by looking at the interplay between your thoughts, behaviors and emotions and how they affect your daily experiences. You will learn to develop fulfilling relationships, ways to cope in healthier ways, and ultimately live a fulfilling life.
(510) 402-1597 View (510) 402-1597
Photo of Dania March, MPH, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dania March
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting people through anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, shifting relationships, addiction/unwanted self-soothing behaviors, life transitions, and gender and sexual identity journeys.
The line between what we want, need, and can deal with can be a juggling act. Striking a balance is not always easy. Think of your life as an overflowing suitcase. Consider what it would be like to have help opening that suitcase, and take out or adjust a few things in it to lessen the load. That's working with me. I aim to help you find and learn to value your truest self and work on how to release, shift, or find new ways to carry your experiences and move within - or break free from - the systems you're a part of (systems like: family, school, work, community, and society).
I specialize in supporting people through anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, shifting relationships, addiction/unwanted self-soothing behaviors, life transitions, and gender and sexual identity journeys.
The line between what we want, need, and can deal with can be a juggling act. Striking a balance is not always easy. Think of your life as an overflowing suitcase. Consider what it would be like to have help opening that suitcase, and take out or adjust a few things in it to lessen the load. That's working with me. I aim to help you find and learn to value your truest self and work on how to release, shift, or find new ways to carry your experiences and move within - or break free from - the systems you're a part of (systems like: family, school, work, community, and society).
(510) 356-2241 View (510) 356-2241
Photo of undefined - Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center, Pre-Licensed Professional
Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Whether you are seeking immediate support to help cope during this time, or therapy for anxiety, depression, conflicts with your partner or other needs, we are here to help.
Therapy provides such a rich opportunity for growth and learning, helping persons to recover from the aftermaths of trauma, abuse and loss, meet the hardships of their lives and thrive. In times like this, with so much anxiety about our collective welfare, it can be an invaluable lifeline. In response to the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, we are now offering teletherapy (therapy by phone and online by video) for all our clients, whether new or established. Also called telehealth or telebehavioral health, teletherapy can provide vital care and support to individuals, couples and families.
Whether you are seeking immediate support to help cope during this time, or therapy for anxiety, depression, conflicts with your partner or other needs, we are here to help.
Therapy provides such a rich opportunity for growth and learning, helping persons to recover from the aftermaths of trauma, abuse and loss, meet the hardships of their lives and thrive. In times like this, with so much anxiety about our collective welfare, it can be an invaluable lifeline. In response to the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, we are now offering teletherapy (therapy by phone and online by video) for all our clients, whether new or established. Also called telehealth or telebehavioral health, teletherapy can provide vital care and support to individuals, couples and families.
(510) 858-0916 View (510) 858-0916
Photo of T Joshua Tan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Justine Gordon, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
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 Ann Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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 Cassandra Wells, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassandra Wells
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
My specialties include working with the severely mentally ill, children and adolescents, adults of all ages with a focus on anxiety, depression, grief work, college counseling, couples, families, and eating disorders.
I am a Black therapist with about 10 years of experience working with a wide breadth of clients from various cultural backgrounds and diversities. I primarily work from a Cognitive Behavioral background looking at how your thoughts can influence your feelings and behaviors and developing coping skills to manage thoughts and better regulate feelings. My main goal in therapy is to meet the client where they are at and provide treatment and support based on the goals and needs of the client. I am very energetic, positive, and down to earth while also being mindful to match my client’s energy and personality.
My specialties include working with the severely mentally ill, children and adolescents, adults of all ages with a focus on anxiety, depression, grief work, college counseling, couples, families, and eating disorders.
I am a Black therapist with about 10 years of experience working with a wide breadth of clients from various cultural backgrounds and diversities. I primarily work from a Cognitive Behavioral background looking at how your thoughts can influence your feelings and behaviors and developing coping skills to manage thoughts and better regulate feelings. My main goal in therapy is to meet the client where they are at and provide treatment and support based on the goals and needs of the client. I am very energetic, positive, and down to earth while also being mindful to match my client’s energy and personality.
(510) 630-1007 View (510) 630-1007
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.