Photo of Ryan Rix, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Ryan Rix
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
My Name is Ryan Rix, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work statewide in California via telehealth. I work mostly with individual adults and specialize in anxiety, OCD, relationship issues (romantic partners, difficult parents), and existential struggles. I use a somewhat eclectic approach to therapy but rely heavily on a combination of Cognitive behavioral therapy and Dialectical Behavioral therapy to help clients reach their goals. I have found that I work best with adults on an individual basis who are experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, or just generally feeling feeling stuck or unsatisfied.
My Name is Ryan Rix, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work statewide in California via telehealth. I work mostly with individual adults and specialize in anxiety, OCD, relationship issues (romantic partners, difficult parents), and existential struggles. I use a somewhat eclectic approach to therapy but rely heavily on a combination of Cognitive behavioral therapy and Dialectical Behavioral therapy to help clients reach their goals. I have found that I work best with adults on an individual basis who are experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, or just generally feeling feeling stuck or unsatisfied.
(657) 571-3338 View (657) 571-3338
Photo of Carl Andrew (Drew) Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Carl Andrew (Drew) Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
Waitlist for new clients
Focus areas include trauma resolution, anxiety/depression, and self-integration.
Do you find yourself longing for something more in life? Are you surviving, just getting by, but feeling disconnected from your heart? I am here to support you! I offer a warm, empathic presence, as well as a safe space to process your emotions and work toward greater emotional health and wholeness. My goal for every client is to foster a deeper sense of peace, hope, and personal freedom. I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families in a clinical setting to address a variety of interpersonal and emotional concerns.
Focus areas include trauma resolution, anxiety/depression, and self-integration.
Do you find yourself longing for something more in life? Are you surviving, just getting by, but feeling disconnected from your heart? I am here to support you! I offer a warm, empathic presence, as well as a safe space to process your emotions and work toward greater emotional health and wholeness. My goal for every client is to foster a deeper sense of peace, hope, and personal freedom. I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families in a clinical setting to address a variety of interpersonal and emotional concerns.
(714) 587-3855 View (714) 587-3855
Photo of W. Michael Organistko, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
W. Michael Organistko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92887
Starting now, you can begin a new journey toward a brighter path for yourself – one filled with acceptance, growth, empowerment and well-being. I am inspired by the courage it takes to make a step toward bettering your life. You are already on your way to uncovering your potential and creating the life you want for yourself. Whatever obstacles and struggles someone may be going through in life, I consider it a privilege to help them deal with them. I understand that the clients I see are entrusting me to give them the right resources to guide them down a new path, with a new perspective, so they can achieve their own goals.
Starting now, you can begin a new journey toward a brighter path for yourself – one filled with acceptance, growth, empowerment and well-being. I am inspired by the courage it takes to make a step toward bettering your life. You are already on your way to uncovering your potential and creating the life you want for yourself. Whatever obstacles and struggles someone may be going through in life, I consider it a privilege to help them deal with them. I understand that the clients I see are entrusting me to give them the right resources to guide them down a new path, with a new perspective, so they can achieve their own goals.
(657) 298-4534 View (657) 298-4534
Photo of George Anthony Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
George Anthony Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92686
Life sucks at times. It has a way of not working the way it ought to work. We all DESERVE to find ways to make life work a little bit better. In therapy, George enters into life's most confusing, overwhelming, and shame-ridden experiences and helps people discover their inner-strengths to break free from crippling and paralyzing fears and pains. He knows that each person is uniquely designed with strengths and abilities that empower them to overcome their struggles and thrive emotionally and relationally. Pulling from his personal story of grief and pain, George guides people into rediscovering their true worth and potential.
Life sucks at times. It has a way of not working the way it ought to work. We all DESERVE to find ways to make life work a little bit better. In therapy, George enters into life's most confusing, overwhelming, and shame-ridden experiences and helps people discover their inner-strengths to break free from crippling and paralyzing fears and pains. He knows that each person is uniquely designed with strengths and abilities that empower them to overcome their struggles and thrive emotionally and relationally. Pulling from his personal story of grief and pain, George guides people into rediscovering their true worth and potential.
(657) 571-4527 View (657) 571-4527

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Erick Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92831
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.
(949) 403-6424 View (949) 403-6424
Photo of Jason Valdez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Jason Valdez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Whether the topics centered around anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I ensured the tools we developed were done collaboratively and in a safe space.
Navigating the ups and downs of life can be difficult. And then you add complex thoughts and emotions to the mix, all the while attempting to find a therapist that can be a good fit for you? Phew, that’s tough. My name is Jason and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I had the privilege of working with clients who all had very diverse backgrounds and were in very different life stages.
Whether the topics centered around anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I ensured the tools we developed were done collaboratively and in a safe space.
Navigating the ups and downs of life can be difficult. And then you add complex thoughts and emotions to the mix, all the while attempting to find a therapist that can be a good fit for you? Phew, that’s tough. My name is Jason and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I had the privilege of working with clients who all had very diverse backgrounds and were in very different life stages.
(657) 387-0894 View (657) 387-0894
Photo of Starr Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Starr Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92805
My name is Starr Lee, a licensed marriage family therapist (LMFT), working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy to help my clients to regain health, wholeness, and wellness. I work to help my clients to develop a more positive and adaptive way of thinking, feeling, behaving and to empower my clients to take an active role in their own lives. My communication style is calm, personable, and collaborative. I want my clients to know I am empathetic and genuine.
My name is Starr Lee, a licensed marriage family therapist (LMFT), working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy to help my clients to regain health, wholeness, and wellness. I work to help my clients to develop a more positive and adaptive way of thinking, feeling, behaving and to empower my clients to take an active role in their own lives. My communication style is calm, personable, and collaborative. I want my clients to know I am empathetic and genuine.
(714) 844-7985 View (714) 844-7985
Photo of Mike L Migdat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Mike L Migdat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92832  (Online Only)
I have assisted clients with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, PTSD, internal homophobia, gender dysphoria, sexuality, relationships, spirituality, and grief.
Everyone deserves an enriching life full of meaning and purpose regardless of the difficulties that may come our way. My goal is to provide an affirming space for you to develop a deep understanding of yourself, explore challenges you’re facing both internally and externally, and discover healthy ways to achieve your goals. No matter where our work together takes us, you will always receive unconditional acceptance, respect, and care.
I have assisted clients with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, PTSD, internal homophobia, gender dysphoria, sexuality, relationships, spirituality, and grief.
Everyone deserves an enriching life full of meaning and purpose regardless of the difficulties that may come our way. My goal is to provide an affirming space for you to develop a deep understanding of yourself, explore challenges you’re facing both internally and externally, and discover healthy ways to achieve your goals. No matter where our work together takes us, you will always receive unconditional acceptance, respect, and care.
(424) 389-5092 View (424) 389-5092
Photo of William Perry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
William Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92805
My name is William Perry, M.S., and I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFC 31552) for the past 30 years. I have vast knowledge and experience working with individuals, couples, and families throughout the lifespan with specializations in EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, and TFT. I am well versed in working with individuals who have anxiety, depression trauma of all types, phobias such as fear of flying, public speaking, driving, performance, etc. I also have an extensive history of treating those with substance use and other addictive or behavioral challenges.
My name is William Perry, M.S., and I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFC 31552) for the past 30 years. I have vast knowledge and experience working with individuals, couples, and families throughout the lifespan with specializations in EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, and TFT. I am well versed in working with individuals who have anxiety, depression trauma of all types, phobias such as fear of flying, public speaking, driving, performance, etc. I also have an extensive history of treating those with substance use and other addictive or behavioral challenges.
(916) 666-6504 View (916) 666-6504
Photo of James Fishback, Psychologist in Yorba Linda, CA
James Fishback
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Placentia, CA 92870
I have treated many clients who suffer from stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, poor intimacy (sexual and non-sexual), abuse, and simply not knowing where you are going in life.
Hi, I am Dr. James Fishback, a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I have been working with adults and children in private practice, schools, prisons, outdoor settings, and courts for 33 years. My therapy approach is first to deal with any immediate stress to help set up support for my clients and then work on the cause and resolution of their problems and issues at a pace they select. I think my strengths as a therapist are working with individuals and couples who are ready to work on understanding and acknowledging how each of them contributes to their own issues and to the resolution of them.
I have treated many clients who suffer from stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, poor intimacy (sexual and non-sexual), abuse, and simply not knowing where you are going in life.
Hi, I am Dr. James Fishback, a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I have been working with adults and children in private practice, schools, prisons, outdoor settings, and courts for 33 years. My therapy approach is first to deal with any immediate stress to help set up support for my clients and then work on the cause and resolution of their problems and issues at a pace they select. I think my strengths as a therapist are working with individuals and couples who are ready to work on understanding and acknowledging how each of them contributes to their own issues and to the resolution of them.
(831) 830-0293 View (831) 830-0293
Photo of William Dexter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
William Dexter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92869
I have experience working with substance abuse disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and healing relationships.
My name is William Dexter I am a LMFT licensed marriage family therapist. I am devoted to the health, well-being, and safety of clients and have lived a clean and sober lifestyle for over thirty years. My approach to therapy is to focus on relationships with yourself, with others, and with your Higher Power or GOD as you understand him. I believe the problem is not knowing who you are, and the solution is finding out who you are.
I have experience working with substance abuse disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and healing relationships.
My name is William Dexter I am a LMFT licensed marriage family therapist. I am devoted to the health, well-being, and safety of clients and have lived a clean and sober lifestyle for over thirty years. My approach to therapy is to focus on relationships with yourself, with others, and with your Higher Power or GOD as you understand him. I believe the problem is not knowing who you are, and the solution is finding out who you are.
(747) 302-6816 View (747) 302-6816
Photo of Bijan Madjlessi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Bijan Madjlessi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Many individuals aspire to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, yet often find themselves trapped in a cycle of confusion, anxiety, depression, anger, feelings of worthlessness, and hopelessness. It is precisely during these challenging times that reaching out for support becomes essential. I firmly believe that by equipping ourselves with healthy coping mechanisms and formulating a practical plan for daily life, we can cultivate the life we aspire to lead.
Many individuals aspire to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, yet often find themselves trapped in a cycle of confusion, anxiety, depression, anger, feelings of worthlessness, and hopelessness. It is precisely during these challenging times that reaching out for support becomes essential. I firmly believe that by equipping ourselves with healthy coping mechanisms and formulating a practical plan for daily life, we can cultivate the life we aspire to lead.
(213) 493-8078 View (213) 493-8078
Photo of Alex Osorio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Alex Osorio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92831
I help clients unlock their true potential and work through issues of low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, difficult life transitions, relationship issues and more.
I believe that we have within us, the power to create the life we desire. We possess inner strengths and skills that can help us overcome challenges and live a fulfilled life. However, accessing this power can be an overwhelming task that may require support. Allow me to be an unbiased, compassionate and caring partner in your journey. I help individuals explore their thoughts and emotions, reframe distorted beliefs, replace unhealthy patterns and unblock past traumas. I use elements of CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Parts Work, Brainspotting, and other modalities to help you achieve your goals.
I help clients unlock their true potential and work through issues of low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, difficult life transitions, relationship issues and more.
I believe that we have within us, the power to create the life we desire. We possess inner strengths and skills that can help us overcome challenges and live a fulfilled life. However, accessing this power can be an overwhelming task that may require support. Allow me to be an unbiased, compassionate and caring partner in your journey. I help individuals explore their thoughts and emotions, reframe distorted beliefs, replace unhealthy patterns and unblock past traumas. I use elements of CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Parts Work, Brainspotting, and other modalities to help you achieve your goals.
(562) 242-3353 View (562) 242-3353
Photo of Daniel Fong, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Daniel Fong
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92835
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California with over 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship distress, parenting challenges, addiction struggles, and intimacy-related issues. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and culturally sensitive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California with over 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship distress, parenting challenges, addiction struggles, and intimacy-related issues. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and culturally sensitive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels.
(562) 539-4018 View (562) 539-4018
Photo of Tamer Mostafa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Tamer Mostafa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Tamer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly 10 years of experience in disability rights, substance use recovery, community health, and LGBTQIA+ centered care. I believe in person-centered approaches to understand the role that stories play in shaping our everyday lives. My work draws from Narrative therapy, which allows us to deconstruct how these stories show up in the context of anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma. Together, we will harness your ideas, skills, beliefs, and experiences to reclaim the story you want to live.
Welcome! My name is Tamer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly 10 years of experience in disability rights, substance use recovery, community health, and LGBTQIA+ centered care. I believe in person-centered approaches to understand the role that stories play in shaping our everyday lives. My work draws from Narrative therapy, which allows us to deconstruct how these stories show up in the context of anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma. Together, we will harness your ideas, skills, beliefs, and experiences to reclaim the story you want to live.
(916) 634-0889 View (916) 634-0889
Photo of Nick Ulrich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Nick Ulrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Beginning in therapy can be a way for you to start to put together the pieces of your life and who you are. And ultimately, you deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you're someone that struggles with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, LGBTQIA issues, and past trauma, I'd love to help you work through those challenges. I want to be the therapist that helps you along that journey.
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Beginning in therapy can be a way for you to start to put together the pieces of your life and who you are. And ultimately, you deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you're someone that struggles with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, LGBTQIA issues, and past trauma, I'd love to help you work through those challenges. I want to be the therapist that helps you along that journey.
(714) 924-3032 View (714) 924-3032
Photo of Mark Evan Fishman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Mark Evan Fishman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or substance abuse, and what I have described here connects and resonates with you, we just might be the right fit to form such a relationship.
As trite as it may sound, life is complex. It is in our nature to work unconsciously to avoid re-experiencing our most distressing past experiences, and the painful feelings resulting from them. Unfortunately, as our psyche tries to protect us, we unwittingly develop patterns of thinking, feeling, behaving, and relating to others that become painful road-blocks towards personal growth, and undermine our sense of well-being. Thankfully, the process of psychotherapy can work to unknot these patterns, create emotional healing, and empower us to forge new paths-ways leading towards lives of fulfillment and ongoing personal growth.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or substance abuse, and what I have described here connects and resonates with you, we just might be the right fit to form such a relationship.
As trite as it may sound, life is complex. It is in our nature to work unconsciously to avoid re-experiencing our most distressing past experiences, and the painful feelings resulting from them. Unfortunately, as our psyche tries to protect us, we unwittingly develop patterns of thinking, feeling, behaving, and relating to others that become painful road-blocks towards personal growth, and undermine our sense of well-being. Thankfully, the process of psychotherapy can work to unknot these patterns, create emotional healing, and empower us to forge new paths-ways leading towards lives of fulfillment and ongoing personal growth.
(424) 377-2112 View (424) 377-2112
Photo of Farhad Ghodsi MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Farhad Ghodsi MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with relationship challenges or cycles of anxiety, depression and addiction, I can help.
Are you experiencing some roadblocks that are preventing you from getting where you want to be in life whether it be in your work, school, or relationships with others? When you’re feeling overwhelmed therapy can make the difference between feeling stuck and moving forward. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist located in San Francisco, specializing in psychotherapy for adult individuals. I’ve had the privilege of working within various multidisciplinary teams providing psychotherapy for over a decade.
Whether you're dealing with relationship challenges or cycles of anxiety, depression and addiction, I can help.
Are you experiencing some roadblocks that are preventing you from getting where you want to be in life whether it be in your work, school, or relationships with others? When you’re feeling overwhelmed therapy can make the difference between feeling stuck and moving forward. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist located in San Francisco, specializing in psychotherapy for adult individuals. I’ve had the privilege of working within various multidisciplinary teams providing psychotherapy for over a decade.
(415) 996-1861 View (415) 996-1861
Photo of Gregory Haymon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Gregory Haymon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chino, CA 91710
I have experience with a wide range of social and emotional issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and substance abuse.
I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work with children, families, and individuals in a variety of settings. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. As a Therapist therapeutic communication is a collection of techniques that prioritize the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of patients. As the Therapist I provide Clients with support and information while maintaining a level of professional distance and objectivity.
I have experience with a wide range of social and emotional issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and substance abuse.
I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work with children, families, and individuals in a variety of settings. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. As a Therapist therapeutic communication is a collection of techniques that prioritize the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of patients. As the Therapist I provide Clients with support and information while maintaining a level of professional distance and objectivity.
(951) 904-3509 View (951) 904-3509
Photo of Arnold Acquah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
Arnold Acquah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chino Hills, CA 91709  (Online Only)
I have worked with adults struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
My goals as a therapist are to help my clients recognize their capacity for self-sufficiency and self-advocacy, ultimately recognizing the power that they wield. This work is done through the development of a relationship based on acceptance, respect, and collaboration. My job is to help you navigate through the complexities of life so that we can understand the underlying factors that contribute to your current struggles. This understanding may pave the way for us to work towards decreasing the distress you may be experiencing and begin working towards healing the relationships that we have with ourselves and our community.
I have worked with adults struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
My goals as a therapist are to help my clients recognize their capacity for self-sufficiency and self-advocacy, ultimately recognizing the power that they wield. This work is done through the development of a relationship based on acceptance, respect, and collaboration. My job is to help you navigate through the complexities of life so that we can understand the underlying factors that contribute to your current struggles. This understanding may pave the way for us to work towards decreasing the distress you may be experiencing and begin working towards healing the relationships that we have with ourselves and our community.
(213) 354-8592 View (213) 354-8592

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.