Depression Therapists in Pleasanton, CA

Photo of Elizabeth Purto Bahner, Counselor in Pleasanton, CA
Elizabeth Purto Bahner
Counselor, LPCC, PMH-C, PPS
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I am knowledgeable in treating depression, trauma, anxiety, body image issues, and more.
I believe you are your own source of strength, healing and recovery. I will empower you to find the wellness that lies within. My name is Elizabeth Purto Bahner, the therapist of Wellness Within Counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is here to help you face a difficult time or make a change in your life. I have over 9 years of mental health field experience including working with individuals, families, children, young adults and specialized populations like the Assyrian community, the LGBTQ community, postpartum and new mothers. I speak Assyrian fluently.
I am knowledgeable in treating depression, trauma, anxiety, body image issues, and more.
I believe you are your own source of strength, healing and recovery. I will empower you to find the wellness that lies within. My name is Elizabeth Purto Bahner, the therapist of Wellness Within Counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is here to help you face a difficult time or make a change in your life. I have over 9 years of mental health field experience including working with individuals, families, children, young adults and specialized populations like the Assyrian community, the LGBTQ community, postpartum and new mothers. I speak Assyrian fluently.
(209) 689-2488 View (209) 689-2488
Photo of Mary Kennard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
Mary Kennard
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
I'll help you find relief from depression, anxiety, addictions, stress ,grief, low self-esteem, and problems with relationships.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples on a wide variety of personal issues helping them to move from discord to harmony on goals of their choice.I find that everyone has a story to tell and believe that I am very attuned at helping clarify the impact our stories have in our lives. It is my belief that each person has hidden strengths that may have been weakened by life events. I have experience working with all ages, and stages of life; with individuals, couples, and families.With this experience I have developed a great empathy and understanding of those in distress.
I'll help you find relief from depression, anxiety, addictions, stress ,grief, low self-esteem, and problems with relationships.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples on a wide variety of personal issues helping them to move from discord to harmony on goals of their choice.I find that everyone has a story to tell and believe that I am very attuned at helping clarify the impact our stories have in our lives. It is my belief that each person has hidden strengths that may have been weakened by life events. I have experience working with all ages, and stages of life; with individuals, couples, and families.With this experience I have developed a great empathy and understanding of those in distress.
(925) 400-7634 View (925) 400-7634
Photo of Vilma Sylvester, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
Vilma Sylvester
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
My specialties include: depression, anxiety, marriage, trauma, substance abuse and women's issues.
You may experience emotional pain at times, as we all do. You may even have deeper emotional wounds that still need healing, but you don't have to endure unhappiness. YOU DON'T HAVE TO SUFFER. Let's work together to bring the joy back. True, life can get really tough. But psychology research tells us that you can improve emotional well-being and obtain the resilience you need to deal with the tough times, often regardless of challenging life circumstances. By using your strengths, increasing relational connection, positive experiences and engagement with what you value most you can find satisfaction and meaning in life.
My specialties include: depression, anxiety, marriage, trauma, substance abuse and women's issues.
You may experience emotional pain at times, as we all do. You may even have deeper emotional wounds that still need healing, but you don't have to endure unhappiness. YOU DON'T HAVE TO SUFFER. Let's work together to bring the joy back. True, life can get really tough. But psychology research tells us that you can improve emotional well-being and obtain the resilience you need to deal with the tough times, often regardless of challenging life circumstances. By using your strengths, increasing relational connection, positive experiences and engagement with what you value most you can find satisfaction and meaning in life.
(925) 421-2818 View (925) 421-2818
Photo of Matthew McKeithan, Psychologist in Pleasanton, CA
Matthew McKeithan
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I went from being a divorced homeless Veteran, suffering from a Brain Injury (TBI), PTSD, and Depression to a happily remarried father of four, who lives a rewarding and fulfilled life.
I specialize in treating those with various mental disorders and behavioral issues to include: ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, and Personality Disorders. I utilize detailed Psychological Assessment, and empirically supported treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. I am certified as a DBT practitioner and a life coach. Lastly, I integrate a holistic mindset into my practice, where emphasis is placed on gut/brain health, sleep quality, lifestyle, and diet.
I went from being a divorced homeless Veteran, suffering from a Brain Injury (TBI), PTSD, and Depression to a happily remarried father of four, who lives a rewarding and fulfilled life.
I specialize in treating those with various mental disorders and behavioral issues to include: ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, and Personality Disorders. I utilize detailed Psychological Assessment, and empirically supported treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. I am certified as a DBT practitioner and a life coach. Lastly, I integrate a holistic mindset into my practice, where emphasis is placed on gut/brain health, sleep quality, lifestyle, and diet.
(925) 660-7875 View (925) 660-7875
Photo of Melissa Ruiz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
Melissa Ruiz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I am a licensed marriage & family therapist with a genuine desire to help others.My approach to therapy begins with deep compassion toward each person's unique circumstances and story. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-love, being a highly sensitive person or having difficulty adjusting to change or life events, I strive to provide a non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe and comfortable to express yourself in an honest way. I also believe in a holistic, mind-body approach to treatment and often encourage integrating nutrition, functional medicine and natural approaches in order to optimally heal.
I am a licensed marriage & family therapist with a genuine desire to help others.My approach to therapy begins with deep compassion toward each person's unique circumstances and story. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-love, being a highly sensitive person or having difficulty adjusting to change or life events, I strive to provide a non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe and comfortable to express yourself in an honest way. I also believe in a holistic, mind-body approach to treatment and often encourage integrating nutrition, functional medicine and natural approaches in order to optimally heal.
(925) 403-4742 View (925) 403-4742
Photo of Sumrah Jan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
Sumrah Jan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I specialize working with depression, anxiety, grief, anger management, parenting & communication issues.
Are you emotionally exhausted, stressed & unable to recognize yourself? Is it a struggle communicating with loved ones? Ordinary tasks feel burdensome and you're too tired to do anything. If any of these even partially describe your situation it's important to recognize that you aren't alone.... it doesn't have to stay this way. Often the most trying and somber moments in our lives drive us to a journey of self-discovery. As your therapist it will be my goal to provide support and empower you, as you move beyond that pain. Genuine health and happiness are within grasp.
I specialize working with depression, anxiety, grief, anger management, parenting & communication issues.
Are you emotionally exhausted, stressed & unable to recognize yourself? Is it a struggle communicating with loved ones? Ordinary tasks feel burdensome and you're too tired to do anything. If any of these even partially describe your situation it's important to recognize that you aren't alone.... it doesn't have to stay this way. Often the most trying and somber moments in our lives drive us to a journey of self-discovery. As your therapist it will be my goal to provide support and empower you, as you move beyond that pain. Genuine health and happiness are within grasp.
(925) 273-7315 View (925) 273-7315
Photo of Mark Purcell, Psychologist in Pleasanton, CA
Mark Purcell
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I strive to compassionately work with clients to reveal their true self by identifying the patterns and obstacles that often create internal stress and interpersonal conflict. I work with adolescents, children, and adults. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults with moderate to severe psycho-social difficulties. I have expertise treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, substance abuse, self-harming and psychotic disorders. As a community mental health psychologist I am able to collaborate with educational, legal, and psychiatric professionals. I also provide psychological evaluations, as wells as workshops for parents and trainings to professionals.
I strive to compassionately work with clients to reveal their true self by identifying the patterns and obstacles that often create internal stress and interpersonal conflict. I work with adolescents, children, and adults. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults with moderate to severe psycho-social difficulties. I have expertise treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, substance abuse, self-harming and psychotic disorders. As a community mental health psychologist I am able to collaborate with educational, legal, and psychiatric professionals. I also provide psychological evaluations, as wells as workshops for parents and trainings to professionals.
(650) 206-5520 View (650) 206-5520
Photo of Michele Ryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
Michele Ryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I have worked with clients struggling with chemical and behavioral addictions, depression, multiple anxiety disorders, PTSD and ongoing difficulties due to past traumatic experiences and life stressors.
My name is Michele Ryan LMFT 118453. My approach is empathetic, collaborative, and goal oriented. Let me help you to make meaning in your life and recover from what can feel like a dark and daunting existence. Assisting those with mental health challenges with integrity is something I am deeply passionate about. I love working with individuals, families, couples, and children who have been affected by mental illness or just the everyday stressors and strains of life.
I have worked with clients struggling with chemical and behavioral addictions, depression, multiple anxiety disorders, PTSD and ongoing difficulties due to past traumatic experiences and life stressors.
My name is Michele Ryan LMFT 118453. My approach is empathetic, collaborative, and goal oriented. Let me help you to make meaning in your life and recover from what can feel like a dark and daunting existence. Assisting those with mental health challenges with integrity is something I am deeply passionate about. I love working with individuals, families, couples, and children who have been affected by mental illness or just the everyday stressors and strains of life.
(925) 744-6357 View (925) 744-6357
Photo of Susan Shanker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
Susan Shanker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, PPS, MA
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I provide a safe, caring, supportive, and non-judgmental atmosphere for my clients. I believe every individual is unique and has their own inner wisdom and strength that can be built upon in our sessions. I am passionate about helping people find more balance, joy, and fulfillment in their lives by focusing on their personal goals and utilizing a highly individualized and direct approach. I specialize in working with adults with a variety of needs and issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss, stress, anger, self-esteem issues, communication skills, divorce/separation, and parenting.
I provide a safe, caring, supportive, and non-judgmental atmosphere for my clients. I believe every individual is unique and has their own inner wisdom and strength that can be built upon in our sessions. I am passionate about helping people find more balance, joy, and fulfillment in their lives by focusing on their personal goals and utilizing a highly individualized and direct approach. I specialize in working with adults with a variety of needs and issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss, stress, anger, self-esteem issues, communication skills, divorce/separation, and parenting.
(925) 233-2571 View (925) 233-2571
Photo of Kamal Freiha, Psychologist in Pleasanton, CA
Kamal Freiha
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Our work together will help you reduce depression, anxiety, and maladjustment, and help you experience more happiness, peace, fulfillment, and productivity in your life.
I am a clinical psychologist based in the San Francisco Bay/East Bay area. My practice includes psychotherapy and evaluation for couples and adults. I am also available for teaching, training, consultation, and supervision in a wide array of settings. My style is warm, interactive, and assertive, and I like to check in with my clients about how they feel about the work we are doing together.
Our work together will help you reduce depression, anxiety, and maladjustment, and help you experience more happiness, peace, fulfillment, and productivity in your life.
I am a clinical psychologist based in the San Francisco Bay/East Bay area. My practice includes psychotherapy and evaluation for couples and adults. I am also available for teaching, training, consultation, and supervision in a wide array of settings. My style is warm, interactive, and assertive, and I like to check in with my clients about how they feel about the work we are doing together.
(510) 398-4154 View (510) 398-4154
Photo of Tienna Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
Tienna Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
I specialize in working with individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome! My name is Tienna Jackson, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and psychotherapist dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey to emotional well-being. My therapeutic style is rooted in evidence-based practices, drawing from my training and experience in providing culturally sensitive cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and trauma-informed care. As a member of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community, I bring a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the cultural nuances that may impact mental health.
I specialize in working with individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions.
Hello and welcome! My name is Tienna Jackson, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and psychotherapist dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey to emotional well-being. My therapeutic style is rooted in evidence-based practices, drawing from my training and experience in providing culturally sensitive cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and trauma-informed care. As a member of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community, I bring a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the cultural nuances that may impact mental health.
(925) 794-8202 View (925) 794-8202
Photo of Monica Englander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
Monica Englander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
I specialize in relationship issues. That means your relationship to yourself, and to others. But it also means I specialize in self esteem. If your sense of self is injured, you may not feel worthy of the kind of life you long to live. You may end up in relationships that need help, or no relationship at all. And that can all contribute to anxiety, depression, and unhelpful ways of trying to soothe the pain, instead of getting help to heal the pain. I do a lot of couple's therapy, and a lot of therapy with people who are looking for a life mate. But it all starts with feeling good about yourself.
I specialize in relationship issues. That means your relationship to yourself, and to others. But it also means I specialize in self esteem. If your sense of self is injured, you may not feel worthy of the kind of life you long to live. You may end up in relationships that need help, or no relationship at all. And that can all contribute to anxiety, depression, and unhelpful ways of trying to soothe the pain, instead of getting help to heal the pain. I do a lot of couple's therapy, and a lot of therapy with people who are looking for a life mate. But it all starts with feeling good about yourself.
(925) 242-9709 View (925) 242-9709
Photo of Natascha Thomson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
Natascha Thomson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
Do you feel anxious, stuck, lonely, angry or depressed? Does life seem overly difficult? If you are looking to improve your well-being and ready to take an active part in shaping a more positive future for yourself, I would like to be your guide on this journey. Whether you are experiencing trauma, grief, loss, marriage conflict, family problems, difficult life transitions, or a mental disorder, there are evidence-based methods and tools available to help you manage life more effectively and move forward. It is my goal to help my clients activate their inner strengths and to impart skills that can benefit them for a life time.
Do you feel anxious, stuck, lonely, angry or depressed? Does life seem overly difficult? If you are looking to improve your well-being and ready to take an active part in shaping a more positive future for yourself, I would like to be your guide on this journey. Whether you are experiencing trauma, grief, loss, marriage conflict, family problems, difficult life transitions, or a mental disorder, there are evidence-based methods and tools available to help you manage life more effectively and move forward. It is my goal to help my clients activate their inner strengths and to impart skills that can benefit them for a life time.
(925) 905-9014 View (925) 905-9014
Photo of James Roberts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
James Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
I provide online counseling/therapy for Adolescents, and Adults (Individual only, no couples therapy) for issues including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Grief and Loss, Behavioral Disturbance, Screen Addiction, Emotional Disturbance, Substance Use.
I've been providing professional counseling services to adolescents and adults for over a decade (15 years old and up). Individual therapy is currently offered, and family if needed. I've always been able to connect with clients, and have built long term therapeutic relationships them. I conduct online therapy only. I am an "out of network" provider. I will give you a billing statement that you will submit to your insurance company for reimbursement at their rate. Please visit onlinetherapynetwork.com for more information.
I provide online counseling/therapy for Adolescents, and Adults (Individual only, no couples therapy) for issues including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Grief and Loss, Behavioral Disturbance, Screen Addiction, Emotional Disturbance, Substance Use.
I've been providing professional counseling services to adolescents and adults for over a decade (15 years old and up). Individual therapy is currently offered, and family if needed. I've always been able to connect with clients, and have built long term therapeutic relationships them. I conduct online therapy only. I am an "out of network" provider. I will give you a billing statement that you will submit to your insurance company for reimbursement at their rate. Please visit onlinetherapynetwork.com for more information.
(925) 319-6002 View (925) 319-6002
Photo of Brett Kociol, Psychologist in Pleasanton, CA
Brett Kociol
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94588
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist with a strong commitment to providing high-quality individualized mental health care to adults. I offer both individual and group psychotherapy. I enjoy working with a diverse range of people, ages, and issues. I bring specialized training and experience in working with young professionals, people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse and relationship challenges. If you’d like to learn more about how I’d work with you or have any questions about starting therapy, please email or call me for a free phone consultation.
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist with a strong commitment to providing high-quality individualized mental health care to adults. I offer both individual and group psychotherapy. I enjoy working with a diverse range of people, ages, and issues. I bring specialized training and experience in working with young professionals, people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse and relationship challenges. If you’d like to learn more about how I’d work with you or have any questions about starting therapy, please email or call me for a free phone consultation.
(925) 306-1513 View (925) 306-1513
Photo of Jennifer Sharples, Psychologist in Pleasanton, CA
Jennifer Sharples
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I am an eclectic psychologist who utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy along with analytical psychology and Family Systems therapy to treat a wide range of problems. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples to help you resolve your issues and become able to live up to your true potential. I have advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and also have studied some Analytical Psychology by taking courses at the C.G. Jung Institute in San Francisco. I have over 20 years in the field of psychotherapy and have helped people deal with depression, anxiety, career issues, relationship problems and existential issues.
I am an eclectic psychologist who utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy along with analytical psychology and Family Systems therapy to treat a wide range of problems. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples to help you resolve your issues and become able to live up to your true potential. I have advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and also have studied some Analytical Psychology by taking courses at the C.G. Jung Institute in San Francisco. I have over 20 years in the field of psychotherapy and have helped people deal with depression, anxiety, career issues, relationship problems and existential issues.
(925) 892-3004 View (925) 892-3004
Photo of Vicci L Tibbetts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
Vicci L Tibbetts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, BCB
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
I will help you develop skills to reduce and alleviate symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, depression, and other physical, behavioral, and emotional related challenges.
My goal is for us to work together short-term based on needs and goals we identify at our first session. My clients learn skills immediately and reduce their symptoms quickly. I have 26 years of experience using Biofeedback and teaching coping skills with many different disorders, cultures, and individuals (adults/kids) & families. I have seen people improve the quality of their life and reduce conflict and suffering. I work with at an Integrative Health Center and we are open and knowledgeable in finding multiple and non traditional solutions so you can move forward and improve your mind and body.
I will help you develop skills to reduce and alleviate symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, depression, and other physical, behavioral, and emotional related challenges.
My goal is for us to work together short-term based on needs and goals we identify at our first session. My clients learn skills immediately and reduce their symptoms quickly. I have 26 years of experience using Biofeedback and teaching coping skills with many different disorders, cultures, and individuals (adults/kids) & families. I have seen people improve the quality of their life and reduce conflict and suffering. I work with at an Integrative Health Center and we are open and knowledgeable in finding multiple and non traditional solutions so you can move forward and improve your mind and body.
(925) 271-2423 View (925) 271-2423
Photo of Lindsey Kremmel, Psychologist in Pleasanton, CA
Lindsey Kremmel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with clients on a variety of clinical issues, including anxiety, depression, life transitions and LGBTQ+ issues.
Welcome! You have taken a big step in creating a better, more fulfilling life for yourself. Seeking psychological services takes courage; I respect and honor this as you embark on your journey. My style is compassionate, interactive, and collaborative. You can expect me to listen supportively at times or ask questions or offer suggestions and homework at other times. Therapy is an active process and I enjoy collaborating with each client as a team to reach the goals we have agreed upon.
I enjoy working with clients on a variety of clinical issues, including anxiety, depression, life transitions and LGBTQ+ issues.
Welcome! You have taken a big step in creating a better, more fulfilling life for yourself. Seeking psychological services takes courage; I respect and honor this as you embark on your journey. My style is compassionate, interactive, and collaborative. You can expect me to listen supportively at times or ask questions or offer suggestions and homework at other times. Therapy is an active process and I enjoy collaborating with each client as a team to reach the goals we have agreed upon.
(510) 788-2306 View (510) 788-2306
Photo of Amir A Siddiqui, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Pleasanton, CA
Amir A Siddiqui
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
Over 12 years of experience in providing individual,couples,and family therapy services. I believe one is the driver and they control how they want to live;however, I understand often times family, bullying, substances, depression, past trauma, anxiety, relationships, raising children, career/employment, financial, and personal struggles can be obstacles.My objective is to work with you in being aware and in creating solutions, which can counterattack these obstacles. Depending on your motivation this process can be short or long. It all depends on how much you want to live a productive Life. I also provide supervision to APCC's.
Over 12 years of experience in providing individual,couples,and family therapy services. I believe one is the driver and they control how they want to live;however, I understand often times family, bullying, substances, depression, past trauma, anxiety, relationships, raising children, career/employment, financial, and personal struggles can be obstacles.My objective is to work with you in being aware and in creating solutions, which can counterattack these obstacles. Depending on your motivation this process can be short or long. It all depends on how much you want to live a productive Life. I also provide supervision to APCC's.
(209) 314-5114 View (209) 314-5114
Photo of Nitya Prema, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pleasanton, CA
Nitya Prema
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
My clients often tell me they feel cared about. I enjoy helping people find what works for them individually and provide a relaxing environment. Depression and anxiety are most often the symptoms to bring individuals into treatment, couples learn ways to be supportive of one another. I listen, make suggestions and offer techniques that will provide ways to get more out of daily life.
My clients often tell me they feel cared about. I enjoy helping people find what works for them individually and provide a relaxing environment. Depression and anxiety are most often the symptoms to bring individuals into treatment, couples learn ways to be supportive of one another. I listen, make suggestions and offer techniques that will provide ways to get more out of daily life.
(209) 794-4889 View (209) 794-4889
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.