Depression Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA

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Photo of Leah DeRose, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Leah DeRose
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified
10 Endorsed
Verified
10 Endorsed
I work with all ages and specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety and/or depression , processing through past or current trauma and those working through life changes.
The heart of the work we will do together centers around supporting you to heal, work towards changing your thought process and to help you develop skills to work through challenging life situations. The decision to look for a therapist takes strength and courage. Therapy is a resource that promotes healing and growth; and as amazing as that is, it can also be intimidating. I use a combination of therapeutic techniques to help support you to identify and process through areas that you feel are impacted negatively. Working together, I will support you towards healing and empower and guide you to move forward in a healthier way.
(805) 293-7481
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Priscilla Kiessig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Priscilla Kiessig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
My areas of focus include depression , anxiety, children/adolsecents/families, major life transitions, trauma/PTSD and stress management.
We all face moments that test our foundations. Seasons where we find ourselves struggling, often feeling alone and quietly wishing things would get better. It’s important for you to know that there’s no need to suffer. Hope is here. As therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), warmth, empathy, and growth are what you can expect from our time together. I believe in a compassionate, integrated approach to care, specifically tailored to meet your individual needs.
(805) 703-2161
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93406
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Amanda Dalbey, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in San Luis Obispo, CA
Amanda Dalbey
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
In a time where distractions and uncertainties are omnipresent. Where isolation is fostered by "screen connections", anxiety that keeps us from achieving our true potential, or depression that makes it difficult to get out of bed in the morning. We are more alone than ever before and in need of true, meaningful connections. Reaching out for support is the first step in rebuilding and reclaiming our lives. In my practice, I strive to cultivate a safe space where you can begin your healing journey through a trauma-informed lens. You will learn how to fully regain control of your life and create the life you have always wanted.
(805) 261-4949
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Photo of Alyn Bartick, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Alyn Bartick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified
Verified
There is no need to suffer depression , anxiety, relationship struggles, grief, or loneliness alone.
Now is the time to remove the barriers to the life you desire. Using a supportive, strength-based, and straightforward approach, I will guide you to the more richly experienced life you deserve. I offer solution-focused sessions that achieve results quickly. From our first meetings, you will be less stuck and more prepared to move forward. After more than twenty-five years, I continue to find immense joy in helping clients to live healthy lives filled with meaning and contentment.
(805) 246-9493
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Christine Pirruccello, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Christine Pirruccello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PPSC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I work with children, adolescents and adults in areas of trauma, anxiety, depression , grief and loss, intimate partner violence, child abuse and neglect, relationships, parenting, and coping skills.
Life can be very challenging, unpredictable and stressful. Feelings of worry, fear, and hopelessness may lead to a sense of confusion and isolation. Sometimes we wish there were a road map given to us to find our optimal path and guide us in the safest direction. I am here to listen and together we can explore your hopes, needs, and goals to promote an authentic acceptance of who you are. I provide a supportive, safe and non-judgmental environment for you to look into all areas of your life. Therapy can be a platform for growth, work and self discovery.
(805) 719-7137
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Monica Serrao Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Monica Serrao Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Only Virtual Sessions Available. Monica runs a remote private practice based in San Luis Obispo, CA. With a diverse professional background, she specializes in treating various mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression , grief, and trauma. Additionally, Monica has a particular interest in addressing women's mental health issues, including family planning, baby ambivalence, difficulty conceiving, infertility, involuntary childlessness, and role transitions. She provides a supportive and non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts and emotions concerning these complex topics.
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Photo of Ann Edwards, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Ann Edwards
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
Verified
Areas of specialization include ADHD, Depression , Anxiety, ODD, OCD, Trauma/Abuse.
Ann is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
(805) 465-6403
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
& Online
Photo of Amy Liston, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Amy Liston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 32 years of practice. I currently provide individual psychotherapy to college students and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression , trauma, grief/bereavement, family issues, peer issues, relationship issues and/or life transitions. I offer a personalized therapy experience in a safe and inclusive space that honors your uniqueness as an individual. My approach is strength-based and client-centered with a humanistic/existential orientation.
(805) 334-8522
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Photo of Benny R Martin, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Benny R Martin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
Do you experience depression , anxiety, or have trouble with powerful emotions, that seem to interfere with your life goals? You will benefit from my approach to therapy. Perhaps, you feel overwhelmed and uncertain of what to do. Together, we could explore your problems and issues and find effective solutions. I believe change begins with acceptance. You are truly unique. Lets bring harmony to your thoughts, feelings and behaviors to help "You" be your very best "You"! Please feel free to call or email me, so we can talk.
(805) 467-7168
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Photo of Marissa E Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Marissa E Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified
3 Endorsed
Verified
3 Endorsed
Everyone can benefit from additional support and guidance, and my goal is to partner with others to assist them in reaching their optimal health and potential. I have experience working with adults and couples managing anxiety, depression , trauma, grief, relationship issues and stress. I work to understand each individual's unique needs and identify strengths to assist in overcoming obstacles and challenges. I work to assist clients in alleviating the impact of various stressors and symptoms, by incorporating practical tools that can be used everyday.
(805) 316-7096
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Photo of Alexis Gibson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo, CA
Alexis Gibson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and families with issues including trauma, depression , family and relationship conflict, existential fears, sexuality, life changes, pregnancy, parenting, and dreamwork.
I practice depth psychotherapy and I strive to be a guide and partner in exploring your inner world. I believe that you know the landscape best and that every part of you is there for a reason. Together, we can be curious and warm towards the aspects of your experience that have been too painful to acknowledge, invite in parts of you that have been rejected, and make insightful connections between the past and present which will allow you to live with vibrancy and self-compassion.
(805) 823-1948
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Photo of Julia Davison in San Luis Obispo, CA
Julia Davison
PA-C, CAQ
Verified
Verified
Ms. Davison is a physician assistant with over 35 years of experience in a wide variety of psychiatric treatment settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and correctional facilities. She treats older teenagers and adults, has a particular interest in women's issues, including PTSD, postpartum depression , problems of menopause.
(805) 819-5881
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Photo of Anne Appel, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Anne Appel, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
Verified
Over the past 25+ years its been my privilege to assist individuals and couples work through obstacles that have prevented them from experiencing meaningful and peaceful lives and relationships. My clients are coping with the everyday stress of marriage and family concerns, parenting, aging, health issues, career and financial challenges, loss or other critical and stressful situations. With those stressors often come depression , anxiety and a whole host of other symptoms.
(805) 351-4457
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Photo of Cassie Ueberrhein Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Cassie Ueberrhein Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified
3 Endorsed
Verified
3 Endorsed
My focus is young adults 18+, college students and LGBTQ+ folx. I have extensive experience working with college students. I aim to support and guide those who may be struggling with adjusting to college, coping with depression and/or anxiety, forming their identity, exploring their sexuality, working on relational patterns, etc. Decreasing stigma of mental illness as well as suicide prevention and LGBTQ+ rights are important causes to me as an individual, LGBTQ+ ally and professional. I am also a sex-positive therapist, who is not here to judge you. :)
(805) 800-8581
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Photo of Emily Maddox, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Luis Obispo, CA
Emily Maddox
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CRC, M-RAS
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
Her areas of expertise are anxiety, depression , women's trauma and addiction related issues.
Challenging experiences often lead us to a feeling of being stuck, confused and frustrated. We can feel lost and unfulfilled trying to find purpose, meaning and happiness. Emily provides, a place to explore these questions and sort through the confusion and conflict, clearing the path to more fulfilling, satisfying experiences. Emily's approach is supportive, down to earth, and always interested in harnessing your strengths and resiliency.
(559) 754-0205
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Cortney Wagner, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Cortney Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
Verified
I work with adults and youth who have experienced trauma (physical/sexual/emotional abuse, attachment disruption, domestic violence, divorce), grief/loss, depression , anxiety and women's issues (infertility, body image , life transitions).
We all have challenges and experiences throughout our life span that can cause pain, frustration, feeling stuck and other difficult emotions. These experiences can result in us becoming disconnected with our true selves and unable to live life to the fullest. I am here to help you connect with your true self so that you can not only heal from difficult experiences but grow from them and create a sense of empowerment. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment offering a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs.
(805) 567-4255
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Jaclyn Woods, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Jaclyn Woods
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
15 Endorsed
Verified
15 Endorsed
I have experience working with those who are affected by trauma, abuse, depression , anxiety, life transitions, hardships and couples.
Painful feelings, experiences, losses, and transitions in your life and those around you can sometimes feel too overwhelming to walk through alone, my job as your therapist is to walk with you. Together we can create a path on your journey towards healing and wholeness. If you have felt deep sadness, then you also have the capacity to feel great joy. I am continually humbled by the human spirit and it's ability to seek integration and healing and I believe therapy can be one of the most powerful practices available to create transformations from the inside out.
(805) 209-0595
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93402
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Desiree M Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Desiree M Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
3 Endorsed
Verified
3 Endorsed
I specialize in anxiety, depression , trauma, bipolar disorder, chronic illness, divorce and relationship issues.
As individuals we all walk through difficult times in our lives and sometimes, having someone by our side makes all the difference. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space for you to grow, heal, and work through the areas of your life that you are wanting to address. For fifteen years I have had the privilege of working with individuals going through some of the most difficult times in their lives. I have witnessed the resiliency of individuals committed to making changes. I wholeheartedly believe that we all have the ability to overcome, heal and grow.
(805) 219-7893
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Photo of Erika La Frano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Erika La Frano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
I have over a decade of experience working with adults from diverse backgrounds. I utilize strength-based and evidence-based methods to promote healing and personal growth. My approach to psychotherapy is holistic, culturally responsive, and collaborative. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, depression , burn out, relational stress, and difficulty coping with change, you are not alone. Together, we will work to set measurable and realistic goals that align with your values and cultural beliefs. I am licensed in California and Illinois.
(805) 273-8779
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
& Online
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Bettina Hodel, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Bettina Hodel
Psychologist, PhD, JD
Verified
Verified
You feel anxious and depressed . You are told that you are insecure or that you are always "on the edge".
(805) 549-5067
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San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Not accepting new clients

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.