Photo of Alex Barragan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Alex Barragan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I have extensive experience in addressing LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, anxiety, stress, ADHD, grief, loss, immigrant and first-generation concerns, relationship dynamics, adjustment difficulties, behavioral challenges, and trauma.
Hey there! I'm all about creating a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and make some positive changes. I use an evidence-based approach to help you tackle whatever challenges life throws your way. We'll work together to unravel the complexities of life and get you back in control, living a more fulfilling life. Life can throw some tough stuff at us, but I'm here to help you navigate through it in a relaxed and collaborative way. I aim to give you the tools to face life head-on and find fulfillment and self-discovery. We'll team up and use personalized strategies to get you on a path to a more resilient and satisfying life.
I have extensive experience in addressing LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, anxiety, stress, ADHD, grief, loss, immigrant and first-generation concerns, relationship dynamics, adjustment difficulties, behavioral challenges, and trauma.
Hey there! I'm all about creating a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and make some positive changes. I use an evidence-based approach to help you tackle whatever challenges life throws your way. We'll work together to unravel the complexities of life and get you back in control, living a more fulfilling life. Life can throw some tough stuff at us, but I'm here to help you navigate through it in a relaxed and collaborative way. I aim to give you the tools to face life head-on and find fulfillment and self-discovery. We'll team up and use personalized strategies to get you on a path to a more resilient and satisfying life.
(323) 310-9646 View (323) 310-9646
Photo of Mario Victor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Mario Victor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Hello, my name is Mario W. Victor, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Offering a holistic approach in supporting clients using skills developed in 20 years as a therapist. I focus on assisting clients of any age in learning the best ways for them to cope with life’s challenges. I have expertise in working with the adolescent population, as well as the adult population. I offer consultations for parents with concerns about their child(ren). I have significant experience assisting individuals with stress/anxiety, depression, and helping them to develop coping skills.
Hello, my name is Mario W. Victor, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Offering a holistic approach in supporting clients using skills developed in 20 years as a therapist. I focus on assisting clients of any age in learning the best ways for them to cope with life’s challenges. I have expertise in working with the adolescent population, as well as the adult population. I offer consultations for parents with concerns about their child(ren). I have significant experience assisting individuals with stress/anxiety, depression, and helping them to develop coping skills.
(323) 716-1796 View (323) 716-1796
Photo of Brian Fernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Brian Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
By far the majority of clients I've worked with have been young adults struggling with anxiety and/or depression.
Hello, my name is Brian Fernandez. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). My approach in therapy is focused on providing you with coping skills to help you manage stressors, while at the same time helping you identify changes you may want to make that enable you to lead a more genuine and fulfilling life. My areas of practice focus on depression, anxiety, grief, and interpersonal relationships. By far the majority of clients I've worked with have been young adults struggling with anxiety and/or depression. I've also been privileged to have helped many people dealing with grief, as well as interpersonal relationships.
By far the majority of clients I've worked with have been young adults struggling with anxiety and/or depression.
Hello, my name is Brian Fernandez. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). My approach in therapy is focused on providing you with coping skills to help you manage stressors, while at the same time helping you identify changes you may want to make that enable you to lead a more genuine and fulfilling life. My areas of practice focus on depression, anxiety, grief, and interpersonal relationships. By far the majority of clients I've worked with have been young adults struggling with anxiety and/or depression. I've also been privileged to have helped many people dealing with grief, as well as interpersonal relationships.
(323) 825-6865 View (323) 825-6865
Photo of Mike L Migdat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Mike L Migdat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (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 Marston James, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Marston James
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I assist individuals & couples in learning to address their inner life through an approach that helps work with "unfinished family business" from childhood that shows up today as unstable/conflictual relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, etc. I bring over 21 years of experience working with individuals of various self-identities who seek to address either short-term issues/conflicts or desire to work on a deeper level psychologically. I specialize in working with gays & lesbians, though my approach is ideal for all persons, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, who seek a more authentic lived experience.
I assist individuals & couples in learning to address their inner life through an approach that helps work with "unfinished family business" from childhood that shows up today as unstable/conflictual relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, etc. I bring over 21 years of experience working with individuals of various self-identities who seek to address either short-term issues/conflicts or desire to work on a deeper level psychologically. I specialize in working with gays & lesbians, though my approach is ideal for all persons, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, who seek a more authentic lived experience.
(323) 302-4788 View (323) 302-4788
Photo of Philip “Tad” King, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Philip “Tad” King
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and addiction. In recent years I have developed a focus on work with couples, utilizing the science of human bonding and love. I have a strength in helping couples decode negative patterns or cycles that keep them feeling disconnected and alone. I will help you build a strong and lasting bond with your partner or spouse that provides a deeper sense of safety and connection.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and addiction. In recent years I have developed a focus on work with couples, utilizing the science of human bonding and love. I have a strength in helping couples decode negative patterns or cycles that keep them feeling disconnected and alone. I will help you build a strong and lasting bond with your partner or spouse that provides a deeper sense of safety and connection.
(760) 280-6023 View (760) 280-6023
Photo of Thomas Roslak, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Thomas Roslak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
“I’m having an existential crisis” & “I’m struggling with my goals” are oftentimes one of the first sentences that a person says to me when seeking therapy. My clients are vibrant, smart, creative individuals who want to increase their quality of life. People who come in for therapy are struggling with life transitions, grief & loss, career issues, artistic blocks, anxiety, disappointment, depression, anger, frustration, addiction issues, and interpersonal, or romantic challenges. They are looking to feel better, make strides in their personal lives and careers, understand themselves, and seek opportunities to change their lives.
“I’m having an existential crisis” & “I’m struggling with my goals” are oftentimes one of the first sentences that a person says to me when seeking therapy. My clients are vibrant, smart, creative individuals who want to increase their quality of life. People who come in for therapy are struggling with life transitions, grief & loss, career issues, artistic blocks, anxiety, disappointment, depression, anger, frustration, addiction issues, and interpersonal, or romantic challenges. They are looking to feel better, make strides in their personal lives and careers, understand themselves, and seek opportunities to change their lives.
(424) 233-1590 View (424) 233-1590
Photo of Walter Bowles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Walter Bowles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
Hi! I offer individual therapy to California residents. I utilize an eclectic relational therapy style and specialize in working with adults who are creatives, artists, the LGBTQIA+ community who are experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, personality disorders, entertainment business stress, in recovery or struggling with substance use and/or disordered eating, and issues with sex, sexuality, trauma, chem-sex, inner child wounds, and body image by using exploratory harm reduction techniques. Connecting with satisfaction and contentment can lead to balance, fulfilling potential, discovering meaning, and joy.
Hi! I offer individual therapy to California residents. I utilize an eclectic relational therapy style and specialize in working with adults who are creatives, artists, the LGBTQIA+ community who are experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, personality disorders, entertainment business stress, in recovery or struggling with substance use and/or disordered eating, and issues with sex, sexuality, trauma, chem-sex, inner child wounds, and body image by using exploratory harm reduction techniques. Connecting with satisfaction and contentment can lead to balance, fulfilling potential, discovering meaning, and joy.
(323) 208-0954 View (323) 208-0954
Photo of Dina Parvaneh, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Dina Parvaneh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
I work with individuals struggling with depression/anxiety disorders, personality disorders, couples therapy, substance abuse & addiction.
"Out beyond ideas of wrong doing and right doing there is a field. I'll meet you there." Rumi. I have over 15 years of experience dealing with individuals, couples, groups in various issues. The heart of my work is to assist you to live an emotionally authentic life in relationship to yourself and others. In the process of discovering your true self you will learn how certain emotions, behaviors and beliefs have affected your life and your relationships and you will become empowered to make important changes. My style is warm, non-judgmental and at the same time direct and confrontative.
I work with individuals struggling with depression/anxiety disorders, personality disorders, couples therapy, substance abuse & addiction.
"Out beyond ideas of wrong doing and right doing there is a field. I'll meet you there." Rumi. I have over 15 years of experience dealing with individuals, couples, groups in various issues. The heart of my work is to assist you to live an emotionally authentic life in relationship to yourself and others. In the process of discovering your true self you will learn how certain emotions, behaviors and beliefs have affected your life and your relationships and you will become empowered to make important changes. My style is warm, non-judgmental and at the same time direct and confrontative.
(323) 997-8385 View (323) 997-8385
Photo of Sofi Gelvan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90046, CA
Sofi Gelvan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family dynamics, self-esteem/identity & life transitions.
Change is hard, especially when we feel stuck in old patterns, challenging relationships or unsatisfying careers . It can feel like a really lonely place to be. But you don't have to experience this alone. Therapy can help you make the changes you've been struggling to make on your own. We will explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors from the past and present, to understand the patterns that may be making you feel stuck on a loop. We will work to gain awareness and insight into barriers that may be standing in your way and preventing you from achieving your goals, while also identifying your strengths and how to use them.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family dynamics, self-esteem/identity & life transitions.
Change is hard, especially when we feel stuck in old patterns, challenging relationships or unsatisfying careers . It can feel like a really lonely place to be. But you don't have to experience this alone. Therapy can help you make the changes you've been struggling to make on your own. We will explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors from the past and present, to understand the patterns that may be making you feel stuck on a loop. We will work to gain awareness and insight into barriers that may be standing in your way and preventing you from achieving your goals, while also identifying your strengths and how to use them.
(323) 894-9235 View (323) 894-9235
Photo of Kevin Phillips, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Kevin Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
My name is Kevin Phillips, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Reality Therapy. My practice is focused on adolescents, young adults, individuals, and couples. I work with adolescents struggling with behavioral issues, as well as young adults and individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and other issues. I also work with couples seeking help with relationships difficulties. I utilize an eclectic approach, borrowing useful techniques and interventions from multiple modalities. I primarily focus on reality therapy.
My name is Kevin Phillips, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Reality Therapy. My practice is focused on adolescents, young adults, individuals, and couples. I work with adolescents struggling with behavioral issues, as well as young adults and individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and other issues. I also work with couples seeking help with relationships difficulties. I utilize an eclectic approach, borrowing useful techniques and interventions from multiple modalities. I primarily focus on reality therapy.
(650) 747-6380 View (650) 747-6380
Photo of Julie Blair Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Julie Blair Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Are you struggling in your relationships or in other areas of your life? Are you depressed or anxious and don't understand why? In therapy we can focus on getting relief from your symptoms while exploring the underlying causes ultimately leading to meaningful changes. Behavior patterns formed in the past do not need to dictate the quality of your life in the present. Identifying these patterns in a highly interactive therapeutic relationship can lead you to a path of improved relationships and enhanced wellbeing.
Are you struggling in your relationships or in other areas of your life? Are you depressed or anxious and don't understand why? In therapy we can focus on getting relief from your symptoms while exploring the underlying causes ultimately leading to meaningful changes. Behavior patterns formed in the past do not need to dictate the quality of your life in the present. Identifying these patterns in a highly interactive therapeutic relationship can lead you to a path of improved relationships and enhanced wellbeing.
(424) 235-1936 View (424) 235-1936
Photo of Jonathan Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Jonathan Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Speak your heart, live your truth! Are you feeling overwhelmed with the direction of your life? Is your job not emotionally or financially satisfying? Do you find yourself having difficult, short-lived relationships, or worse - none at all? Is depression and/or anxiety wearing you down? It is my experience that our difficulties and problems are primarily determined by reactions to how we think and feel. I can help you understand how your thoughts and feelings prevent you from getting what you want, and then help you find ways of creating more success in the areas you desire to change.
Speak your heart, live your truth! Are you feeling overwhelmed with the direction of your life? Is your job not emotionally or financially satisfying? Do you find yourself having difficult, short-lived relationships, or worse - none at all? Is depression and/or anxiety wearing you down? It is my experience that our difficulties and problems are primarily determined by reactions to how we think and feel. I can help you understand how your thoughts and feelings prevent you from getting what you want, and then help you find ways of creating more success in the areas you desire to change.
(323) 606-9015 View (323) 606-9015
Photo of Lori Karny LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Lori Karny LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I enjoy assisting adults of all ages to explore relationship concerns, to develop personal autonomy, self-worth - and to explore individual and professional creativity. If you are depressed, anxious, angry, struggling or worried - I want to help you. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals of all ages to articulate and understand psychological problems, to develop insight and individual strategies to thrive in life. I specialize in helping people who are are struggling with trauma, identity, suicidal ideation, emotional pain, social changes, family dynamics, relationship loss, complex grief, and emotional life transitions.
I enjoy assisting adults of all ages to explore relationship concerns, to develop personal autonomy, self-worth - and to explore individual and professional creativity. If you are depressed, anxious, angry, struggling or worried - I want to help you. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals of all ages to articulate and understand psychological problems, to develop insight and individual strategies to thrive in life. I specialize in helping people who are are struggling with trauma, identity, suicidal ideation, emotional pain, social changes, family dynamics, relationship loss, complex grief, and emotional life transitions.
(310) 341-0721 View (310) 341-0721
Photo of Charles V Rosasco, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Charles V Rosasco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CIRT, SILC
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90046  (Online Only)
Taking the step into therapy is an act of courage to face what is holding you back. Are you suffering from depression or anxiety? Having trouble forming intimate relationships? Having a challenge in your relationship? Can't find a meaningful career? Faced with an addiction problem? Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Self Compassion, Psychodynamic Therapy, and, if needed, group therapy, we will dismantle the unconscious problems resulting in these problems so that you you can finally ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS and experience the joy you deserve in life.
Taking the step into therapy is an act of courage to face what is holding you back. Are you suffering from depression or anxiety? Having trouble forming intimate relationships? Having a challenge in your relationship? Can't find a meaningful career? Faced with an addiction problem? Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Self Compassion, Psychodynamic Therapy, and, if needed, group therapy, we will dismantle the unconscious problems resulting in these problems so that you you can finally ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS and experience the joy you deserve in life.
(424) 352-8153 View (424) 352-8153
Photo of Gay Therapy LA (Ken Howard, LCSW, CST), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Gay Therapy LA (Ken Howard, LCSW, CST)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
Are you a gay man who is trying to reduce conflict in your relationship? Do you have concerns about sexual frequency or performance/satisfaction? Do you want help in how to grow your career/income, cope with workplace stress, gain self-confidence in sex and dating, or cope with a medical or psychiatric challenge (depression, anxiety, ADD, OCD, PTSD)? Support for healing from a traumatic experience (violent crime, illness, accident), or recovering from difficult past experiences in your Family of Origin or past relationships? Recover from substance issues? I help gay men with all of these issues and more in my long (32 years) career.
Are you a gay man who is trying to reduce conflict in your relationship? Do you have concerns about sexual frequency or performance/satisfaction? Do you want help in how to grow your career/income, cope with workplace stress, gain self-confidence in sex and dating, or cope with a medical or psychiatric challenge (depression, anxiety, ADD, OCD, PTSD)? Support for healing from a traumatic experience (violent crime, illness, accident), or recovering from difficult past experiences in your Family of Origin or past relationships? Recover from substance issues? I help gay men with all of these issues and more in my long (32 years) career.
(310) 905-8997 View (310) 905-8997
Photo of Jon Maher, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Jon Maher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I have helped people heal through Depression, Addiction, and various developmental and Life Issues.
Most people seek a therapist when they feel stuck in some way. My goal is to help you find the tools and resources to get answers. Hopefully, with answers, come solutions. This can help a person feel motivated and empowered to move forward in their life. I try to provide a space that allows for improved happiness, self esteem, and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
I have helped people heal through Depression, Addiction, and various developmental and Life Issues.
Most people seek a therapist when they feel stuck in some way. My goal is to help you find the tools and resources to get answers. Hopefully, with answers, come solutions. This can help a person feel motivated and empowered to move forward in their life. I try to provide a space that allows for improved happiness, self esteem, and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
(310) 736-2775 View (310) 736-2775
Photo of Dr Joseph Boodaghi, PhD, Psychologist in 90046, CA
Dr Joseph Boodaghi, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
My essential approach is rooted in Cognitive-Behavioral and Transformative Psychology. I observe thought and emotion patterns, self-narratives that originate , in childhood, and hard-wired in adulthood, creating depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms, and obsessional thinking. Clinical studies indicate that conceptual information are minimally effective, because they do not create the necessary experiential and Limbic shift required for long-term breakthroughs. Neurons that wire together will fire together , creating healthy neural wiring, that will result in living a more optimal life, a kinder relationship with Self and others.
My essential approach is rooted in Cognitive-Behavioral and Transformative Psychology. I observe thought and emotion patterns, self-narratives that originate , in childhood, and hard-wired in adulthood, creating depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms, and obsessional thinking. Clinical studies indicate that conceptual information are minimally effective, because they do not create the necessary experiential and Limbic shift required for long-term breakthroughs. Neurons that wire together will fire together , creating healthy neural wiring, that will result in living a more optimal life, a kinder relationship with Self and others.
(310) 231-6516 View (310) 231-6516
Photo of Danielle Feinerman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90046, CA
Danielle Feinerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression and difficult life transitions, whether it’s with work, school, or relationships. Having received specialized training in EMDR, I am especially passionate about trauma recovery. I work with clients to help them heal from low self-esteem, toxic relationship patterns, debilitating fears, & negative self-beliefs that can result from painful childhood or adult experiences such as neglect, bullying, domestic violence or sexual assault. I take special care in helping my clients gain self-compassion and reconnect with their sense of self and inner resilience.
I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression and difficult life transitions, whether it’s with work, school, or relationships. Having received specialized training in EMDR, I am especially passionate about trauma recovery. I work with clients to help them heal from low self-esteem, toxic relationship patterns, debilitating fears, & negative self-beliefs that can result from painful childhood or adult experiences such as neglect, bullying, domestic violence or sexual assault. I take special care in helping my clients gain self-compassion and reconnect with their sense of self and inner resilience.
(310) 929-6310 View (310) 929-6310
Photo of Leslie Kolb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90046, CA
Leslie Kolb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
I have experience working with individuals, couples, and groups on issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, adjustment disorders, self-esteem, and trauma.
Are you having a difficult time navigating changes in life that others seem to take in stride? Do you feel stuck in the same patterns that are no longer serving you? Are you struggling to maintain personal or professional relationships? You don't have to figure this out alone! I provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment in which to set goals, identify and process emotions, increase healthy communication skills, deepen insight, expand your sense of self, and affect positive change in your life. Together we will tailor your therapy sessions to fit your individual needs.
I have experience working with individuals, couples, and groups on issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, adjustment disorders, self-esteem, and trauma.
Are you having a difficult time navigating changes in life that others seem to take in stride? Do you feel stuck in the same patterns that are no longer serving you? Are you struggling to maintain personal or professional relationships? You don't have to figure this out alone! I provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment in which to set goals, identify and process emotions, increase healthy communication skills, deepen insight, expand your sense of self, and affect positive change in your life. Together we will tailor your therapy sessions to fit your individual needs.
(424) 353-3572 View (424) 353-3572
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.