Therapists in San Juan Capistrano, CA
Karen Smith Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 (Online Only)
I typically work with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, addiction, college life, relationship/dating issues, grief, family problems, women's issues, low self-esteem, codependency, and more.
My name is Karen Smith, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT138686), who is passionate about helping clients discover, or rediscover, their inner strength, and heal anything that is unresolved. My approach to providing therapy is taking a look at the whole picture, including the client's childhood, worldview, and current problem areas, and clearing out anything that could be holding them back from happiness and peace. I use EMDR, CBT, DBT, Psychoanalysis, and more, to uncover what led to the current undesirable thoughts and behaviors.
I typically work with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, addiction, college life, relationship/dating issues, grief, family problems, women's issues, low self-esteem, codependency, and more.
My name is Karen Smith, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT138686), who is passionate about helping clients discover, or rediscover, their inner strength, and heal anything that is unresolved. My approach to providing therapy is taking a look at the whole picture, including the client's childhood, worldview, and current problem areas, and clearing out anything that could be holding them back from happiness and peace. I use EMDR, CBT, DBT, Psychoanalysis, and more, to uncover what led to the current undesirable thoughts and behaviors.
Dianna Stark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMS, CAMF
Verified Verified
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
I am a psychotherapist with 20 years experience. I am licensed to practice in 3 states, CA, NY and NJ. I provide in person therapy in beautiful San Juan Capistrano. Online therapy services are also available for some clients. I hold numerous specialty certifications and I have extensive training in, cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic (insight oriented) psychotherapy. I provide short and long term treatment, depending on a client's needs and wishes. Some of my specialties include: Anxiety disorders and stress management, physician burnout, eating disorders, substance abuse, anger management, depression, communication issues, relationship/marital issues, special education advocacy and learning disabilities
I am a psychotherapist with 20 years experience. I am licensed to practice in 3 states, CA, NY and NJ. I provide in person therapy in beautiful San Juan Capistrano. Online therapy services are also available for some clients. I hold numerous specialty certifications and I have extensive training in, cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic (insight oriented) psychotherapy. I provide short and long term treatment, depending on a client's needs and wishes. Some of my specialties include: Anxiety disorders and stress management, physician burnout, eating disorders, substance abuse, anger management, depression, communication issues, relationship/marital issues, special education advocacy and learning disabilities
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Dr. Kwonta Phatiphong
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691 (Online Only)
I am well versed in working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma (including sexual assault survivors), self-esteem, relationship problems, and conduct low cost psychological assessments as well as educational testing for students of all ages.
Do you struggle to find a safe place to express how you truly feel? Have there been times you have felt misunderstood? Or times you’ve felt you just can’t pinpoint why you haven’t fully healed? Or even pinpoint why you can’t seem to stay focused or excel in school, work or life the way you’ve imagined? Here is your sign that you’ve found someone who will be by your side to figure it out together. In therapy and/or psychological assessments/ educational testing, I aim to identify the root of the problem in order to help guide you to the life you want to live.
I am well versed in working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma (including sexual assault survivors), self-esteem, relationship problems, and conduct low cost psychological assessments as well as educational testing for students of all ages.
Do you struggle to find a safe place to express how you truly feel? Have there been times you have felt misunderstood? Or times you’ve felt you just can’t pinpoint why you haven’t fully healed? Or even pinpoint why you can’t seem to stay focused or excel in school, work or life the way you’ve imagined? Here is your sign that you’ve found someone who will be by your side to figure it out together. In therapy and/or psychological assessments/ educational testing, I aim to identify the root of the problem in order to help guide you to the life you want to live.
Dr. Jennifer Tansey
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92690
**Virtual Therapy**&" In Office" In this unique time of uncertainty there are many moments of anxiety and uncertainty. Don't do it alone! If you are struggling please reach out & get the support you need to navigate this time. I've been helping others for 35+ years. I'm a Clinical Psychologist trained in many different modalities. My life experience combined with my training & education has equipped me to serve a variety of people. I work effectively with people challenged by traumatic memories, anxiety, depression, social fears, relationship problem or low self-esteem. I have a strong interest in the spiritual dimensions of growth.
**Virtual Therapy**&" In Office" In this unique time of uncertainty there are many moments of anxiety and uncertainty. Don't do it alone! If you are struggling please reach out & get the support you need to navigate this time. I've been helping others for 35+ years. I'm a Clinical Psychologist trained in many different modalities. My life experience combined with my training & education has equipped me to serve a variety of people. I work effectively with people challenged by traumatic memories, anxiety, depression, social fears, relationship problem or low self-esteem. I have a strong interest in the spiritual dimensions of growth.
Julie A Davis
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
My specialities are Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Infidelity, Divorce Recovery, Stage of life (empty nest and retirement), Grief and loss, Mood Disorders, Adult and Pediatric Bipolar disorder.
For the past 20 years, I have worked in Hospitals, Inpatient and Outpatient, Eating Disorder Clinics, a Women and Children's Domestic Violence Crisis Shelter, non-profit counseling centers for families and in an extremely challenging College setting with ages 17-65.In my private practice I see Individuals, couples, children and families. My experience working in numerous settings with people from diverse backgrounds with mild to severe mental health issues, has helped me develop a level of professional competence to help you and your family members with the highest level of care. Your well-being is my highest priority.
My specialities are Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Infidelity, Divorce Recovery, Stage of life (empty nest and retirement), Grief and loss, Mood Disorders, Adult and Pediatric Bipolar disorder.
For the past 20 years, I have worked in Hospitals, Inpatient and Outpatient, Eating Disorder Clinics, a Women and Children's Domestic Violence Crisis Shelter, non-profit counseling centers for families and in an extremely challenging College setting with ages 17-65.In my private practice I see Individuals, couples, children and families. My experience working in numerous settings with people from diverse backgrounds with mild to severe mental health issues, has helped me develop a level of professional competence to help you and your family members with the highest level of care. Your well-being is my highest priority.
Dr. Mandy Neeble-Diamond
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I'm a licensed Clinical Forensic Psychologist. I have extensive experience providing individual therapy, group therapy, couples/family therapy, crisis counseling, forensic evaluations and diagnostic testing. I specialize in alcohol/substance-abuse, addiction, trauma, bi-polar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, anxiety disorders, grief & loss, sexual issues, and marriage and family issues.
I'm a licensed Clinical Forensic Psychologist. I have extensive experience providing individual therapy, group therapy, couples/family therapy, crisis counseling, forensic evaluations and diagnostic testing. I specialize in alcohol/substance-abuse, addiction, trauma, bi-polar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, anxiety disorders, grief & loss, sexual issues, and marriage and family issues.
Kristen Wheldon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92673
Many clients come in for anxiety, depression, or performance enhancement.
At the core of the human experience are questions. Who am I? Who am I in relevance to others? We live our lives as an expression of that narrative. If you've found yourself struggling to navigate life's challenges, let's work together to ask the hard questions and find ways to improve your quality of life. I work with individuals, couples, and families using evidence-based psychological interventions. Over the years, I have seen my clients break through old and unhealthy patterns to develop new perspectives and confidence for the future.
Many clients come in for anxiety, depression, or performance enhancement.
At the core of the human experience are questions. Who am I? Who am I in relevance to others? We live our lives as an expression of that narrative. If you've found yourself struggling to navigate life's challenges, let's work together to ask the hard questions and find ways to improve your quality of life. I work with individuals, couples, and families using evidence-based psychological interventions. Over the years, I have seen my clients break through old and unhealthy patterns to develop new perspectives and confidence for the future.
Dr. Rumana Mansur
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92675
Hi there,- I'm Dr. Mansur, a licensed Clinical Psychologist. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, loss experiences or re-emerging past trauma? Are you experiencing stress from work, school, friends or family? Are you looking for emotional relief or a path to achieve personal growth? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, I can help you. You can learn new ways to think and develop new skills. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to share challenges you may be facing. We start by identifying an attainable goal and understanding your distress in context.
Hi there,- I'm Dr. Mansur, a licensed Clinical Psychologist. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, loss experiences or re-emerging past trauma? Are you experiencing stress from work, school, friends or family? Are you looking for emotional relief or a path to achieve personal growth? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, I can help you. You can learn new ways to think and develop new skills. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to share challenges you may be facing. We start by identifying an attainable goal and understanding your distress in context.
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
Kaizen Conscious Living & Family Therapy, PLCC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92692
Kimberly has been working with a broad spectrum of clients ranging from anxiety/depression to more severe psychiatric care in both Inpatient and outpatient Psychiatric Hospitals since 2001. Currently, in private practice- specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Narcissistic Abuse &Trauma bonding Recovery, Rebuilding self-esteem Post-Breakup, Codependency, Attachment disorders & Identity, Abuse recovery & identity (LGBT-friendly). She is Certified in Hypnotherapist, (N.E.T) & has completely Extensive post/graduate studies at e Cornell University in Plant based nutrition & medicine.
Kimberly has been working with a broad spectrum of clients ranging from anxiety/depression to more severe psychiatric care in both Inpatient and outpatient Psychiatric Hospitals since 2001. Currently, in private practice- specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Narcissistic Abuse &Trauma bonding Recovery, Rebuilding self-esteem Post-Breakup, Codependency, Attachment disorders & Identity, Abuse recovery & identity (LGBT-friendly). She is Certified in Hypnotherapist, (N.E.T) & has completely Extensive post/graduate studies at e Cornell University in Plant based nutrition & medicine.
Samira Vafadar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Would you like a full assessment including psychological testing? Perhaps for ADHD? Is stress or anxiety impacting your sleep, work, health & your relationships? Perhaps you're wondering if it's ever going to get better. You may fear that you are "going crazy." You've tried to do it on your own with different coping skills but it does not seem to work. You are not alone! Anxiety and depression is a brain disease and it is quite common, but there is hope! There are many successful and evidence-based ways I can help you experience a sense of peace and get back to doing the things you want to do!
Would you like a full assessment including psychological testing? Perhaps for ADHD? Is stress or anxiety impacting your sleep, work, health & your relationships? Perhaps you're wondering if it's ever going to get better. You may fear that you are "going crazy." You've tried to do it on your own with different coping skills but it does not seem to work. You are not alone! Anxiety and depression is a brain disease and it is quite common, but there is hope! There are many successful and evidence-based ways I can help you experience a sense of peace and get back to doing the things you want to do!
Dr. Regine V Muradian
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
Are you feeling unfulfilled in work, or relationships? Do you have trouble sleeping, focusing or completing tasks? Are you having a hard time with your child's/teen's behavior? My name is Dr. Regine Muradian, and I have been practicing for the last 15 years. I'm a Clinical Psychologist and expert working with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD Testing and Executive Functioning related issues for children, adolescents, families and adults. We often face many internal conflicts holding us back and I'm here to help you achieve your goals and bring positive change. I use a solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy approach.
Are you feeling unfulfilled in work, or relationships? Do you have trouble sleeping, focusing or completing tasks? Are you having a hard time with your child's/teen's behavior? My name is Dr. Regine Muradian, and I have been practicing for the last 15 years. I'm a Clinical Psychologist and expert working with anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD Testing and Executive Functioning related issues for children, adolescents, families and adults. We often face many internal conflicts holding us back and I'm here to help you achieve your goals and bring positive change. I use a solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy approach.
Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92694 (Online Only)
I am an Attachment based therapist well versed with severe levels of trauma, anxiety and depression due to family systems, addiction, adoption or other struggles. I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy and fresh approach to understanding my clients. I am also fortunate enough to work collaborately with another therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners to provide wraparound services for clients all in our beautiful office space. I believe in exploring all avenues and taking innovative approaches in therapy to aid the client in healing and personal growth.
I am an Attachment based therapist well versed with severe levels of trauma, anxiety and depression due to family systems, addiction, adoption or other struggles. I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy and fresh approach to understanding my clients. I am also fortunate enough to work collaborately with another therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners to provide wraparound services for clients all in our beautiful office space. I believe in exploring all avenues and taking innovative approaches in therapy to aid the client in healing and personal growth.
Cristy Pareti
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92672
Therapy can be challenging, but together we can safely work through long-standing struggles with anxiety, depression, obsessions, compulsions, loss, or distressed relationships.
I am passionate about helping clients raise their level of self-awareness and transform themselves and their relationships into the level they have always wanted. Whether anxiety, depression, past traumas or failed relationships are currently making you or your relationships feel stuck, I am dedicated to helping you discover new ways of challenging old patterns of thoughts and behaviors. You can create a renewed sense of empowerment and increase your overall sense of well-being.
Therapy can be challenging, but together we can safely work through long-standing struggles with anxiety, depression, obsessions, compulsions, loss, or distressed relationships.
I am passionate about helping clients raise their level of self-awareness and transform themselves and their relationships into the level they have always wanted. Whether anxiety, depression, past traumas or failed relationships are currently making you or your relationships feel stuck, I am dedicated to helping you discover new ways of challenging old patterns of thoughts and behaviors. You can create a renewed sense of empowerment and increase your overall sense of well-being.
Renee Michelle
MA
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
As a Faith-based Spiritual Director and Counselor, I help women get unstuck spiritually, relationally, and emotionally. After doing my Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and completing my Masters in Spiritual Formation and Soul Care, I wanted to help women grow in their emotional, spiritual and relational lives. I help individuals that are experiencing grief, life transitions, wanting healthier relationships, wanting to experience more of their true self and worth, and who are experiencing anxiety, or depression. I help individuals create a healthier spiritual life and help women discover their voice and true self.
As a Faith-based Spiritual Director and Counselor, I help women get unstuck spiritually, relationally, and emotionally. After doing my Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and completing my Masters in Spiritual Formation and Soul Care, I wanted to help women grow in their emotional, spiritual and relational lives. I help individuals that are experiencing grief, life transitions, wanting healthier relationships, wanting to experience more of their true self and worth, and who are experiencing anxiety, or depression. I help individuals create a healthier spiritual life and help women discover their voice and true self.
Leyla Sadr Rasooli
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I have extensive experience and interest in working with depression, anxiety, Trauma, and Adjustment to life changes.
Are you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, unsettled, or unbalanced with life, in relationships, or even at work? Are you struggling to get better, But it feels that no matter how much you try, things seem to remain the same; you can’t seem to move forward. Have you found yourself asking: “why me? Am I the problem? Is it my past? My family? Why am I feeling this way? Will it ever end? Is there a way out?... It would be great to find peace. It would be great to “unload” the emotional “hurt,” be heard, and find answers and options to inner peace. You are not alone, and there is “hope” for happiness, Let’s find it together!
I have extensive experience and interest in working with depression, anxiety, Trauma, and Adjustment to life changes.
Are you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, unsettled, or unbalanced with life, in relationships, or even at work? Are you struggling to get better, But it feels that no matter how much you try, things seem to remain the same; you can’t seem to move forward. Have you found yourself asking: “why me? Am I the problem? Is it my past? My family? Why am I feeling this way? Will it ever end? Is there a way out?... It would be great to find peace. It would be great to “unload” the emotional “hurt,” be heard, and find answers and options to inner peace. You are not alone, and there is “hope” for happiness, Let’s find it together!
Debbie Jason
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
As a UCLA trainer, I train and provide therapy using advanced scientific support for decreasing depression and anxiety, improving emotional control and coping skills, and enhancing relationships.
Relationships are challenging - even in the best circumstances. This is certainly true when building or maintaining a relationship with someone who feels stressed, sad, or acting out in anger. Many people today feel overwhelmed, alone, judged or misunderstood. There is hope, though, in that you can be the solution! Through a unique approach, I work with children, teenagers, and adults to develop their sense of selves, decrease stress, and establish rewarding relationships. Having this space has helped many people better understand and manage their lives. Also proficient in complex psychological testing for Autism, ADHD, PTSD, BPD.
As a UCLA trainer, I train and provide therapy using advanced scientific support for decreasing depression and anxiety, improving emotional control and coping skills, and enhancing relationships.
Relationships are challenging - even in the best circumstances. This is certainly true when building or maintaining a relationship with someone who feels stressed, sad, or acting out in anger. Many people today feel overwhelmed, alone, judged or misunderstood. There is hope, though, in that you can be the solution! Through a unique approach, I work with children, teenagers, and adults to develop their sense of selves, decrease stress, and establish rewarding relationships. Having this space has helped many people better understand and manage their lives. Also proficient in complex psychological testing for Autism, ADHD, PTSD, BPD.
Ellie Miraftabi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
I have worked in a variety of settings from mental health centers to private agencies and outpatient program, gaining experience in many areas including depression, addiction, co-dependency, adolescents issues, grief and loss, parent education, and unification of mind, body & spirit.
Life's everyday problems can cause stress,anxiety, confusion and a feeling of hopelessness and similar conditions increasingly lead to physical and emotional disorders that often lead to difficulties in relating to others and even to oneself.
I am a multicultural licensed psychotherapist and a strong advocate for psychological and social human services, working with adolescent, adult and families. For more than tweleve years I have been helping people face their most difficult challenges with insight, compassion and understanding. I help clients reach greater potential, improve their relationships, heal from past hurts and deal with current life issues.
I have worked in a variety of settings from mental health centers to private agencies and outpatient program, gaining experience in many areas including depression, addiction, co-dependency, adolescents issues, grief and loss, parent education, and unification of mind, body & spirit.
Life's everyday problems can cause stress,anxiety, confusion and a feeling of hopelessness and similar conditions increasingly lead to physical and emotional disorders that often lead to difficulties in relating to others and even to oneself.
I am a multicultural licensed psychotherapist and a strong advocate for psychological and social human services, working with adolescent, adult and families. For more than tweleve years I have been helping people face their most difficult challenges with insight, compassion and understanding. I help clients reach greater potential, improve their relationships, heal from past hurts and deal with current life issues.
Nadia Abou-Seda Licensed Somatic Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, BSW, MA , SEP, LPCC
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Dwell on a future in which you revive your true self, regain control and stop trauma from hijacking your life! As a trauma survivor, I can relate! You were not supported as you deserve! I strive to support you throughout your healing path! Do you suffer from chronic pain or ongoing medical/physical issues? Have you experienced developmental trauma i.e. childhood abuse, neglect, witnessed violence, etc.? Or shock trauma i.e. vehicle accidents, sudden losses, wars, natural disasters, medical procedures i.e. dental, surgical? Have you experienced violence, inescapable attack, anxiety, depression, grief, cultural & relational issues?
Dwell on a future in which you revive your true self, regain control and stop trauma from hijacking your life! As a trauma survivor, I can relate! You were not supported as you deserve! I strive to support you throughout your healing path! Do you suffer from chronic pain or ongoing medical/physical issues? Have you experienced developmental trauma i.e. childhood abuse, neglect, witnessed violence, etc.? Or shock trauma i.e. vehicle accidents, sudden losses, wars, natural disasters, medical procedures i.e. dental, surgical? Have you experienced violence, inescapable attack, anxiety, depression, grief, cultural & relational issues?
Annette Chan Han
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92603 (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in the state of California. A few of my specialties include high functioning depression & anxiety, trauma & PTSD, young adults identity development, spiritual integration in therapy. I help my clients move through “stuck-ness” and find balance in their inner world. During our session, we try to figure out how to find rest while making practical changes; look into past history and also move toward the future; honor your own values while finding ways to meet expectations from others.
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in the state of California. A few of my specialties include high functioning depression & anxiety, trauma & PTSD, young adults identity development, spiritual integration in therapy. I help my clients move through “stuck-ness” and find balance in their inner world. During our session, we try to figure out how to find rest while making practical changes; look into past history and also move toward the future; honor your own values while finding ways to meet expectations from others.
See more therapy options for San Juan Capistrano
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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.