Photo of Kelsi Elizabeth Dahn, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kelsi Elizabeth Dahn
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
Tired of waking up staring out into the abyss staring back at you? Being a human is hard, no matter how you go about it, and trying to make meaning out of the chaos can be overwhelming. I support my clients to align their lives with their Authentic Self, while collaboratively honoring and transforming anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and other feelings or behaviors that seem out of balance with everyday life. I believe that coming from a place of authenticity opens the door to a wider range of possibilities for your life's path, and makes interpersonal relationships along the journey better and more fulfilling.
Tired of waking up staring out into the abyss staring back at you? Being a human is hard, no matter how you go about it, and trying to make meaning out of the chaos can be overwhelming. I support my clients to align their lives with their Authentic Self, while collaboratively honoring and transforming anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and other feelings or behaviors that seem out of balance with everyday life. I believe that coming from a place of authenticity opens the door to a wider range of possibilities for your life's path, and makes interpersonal relationships along the journey better and more fulfilling.
(424) 283-5570 View (424) 283-5570
Photo of Magda S. Herrera - Magda Herrera Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Magda Herrera Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I can help with issues sourced in anxiety, stress, overwhelm, depression, lack of meaning or purpose, self-care, life balance, intergenerational trauma, phase of life transitions and parenting support.
Hi, I'm Magda! I am a culturally-sensitive Latina therapist and really love what I do. I am ready to help you work through the underlying stuff that may be holding you back from living the life you dream. Life can sometimes feel hard and overwhelming, but when we practice connecting and investing in ourselves, a world of possibilities naturally opens up. I'm passionate about helping you explore on a deeper level to reveal greater understanding about yourself and present issues. Together, we uncover a world of possibilities. I work with adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families.
I can help with issues sourced in anxiety, stress, overwhelm, depression, lack of meaning or purpose, self-care, life balance, intergenerational trauma, phase of life transitions and parenting support.
Hi, I'm Magda! I am a culturally-sensitive Latina therapist and really love what I do. I am ready to help you work through the underlying stuff that may be holding you back from living the life you dream. Life can sometimes feel hard and overwhelming, but when we practice connecting and investing in ourselves, a world of possibilities naturally opens up. I'm passionate about helping you explore on a deeper level to reveal greater understanding about yourself and present issues. Together, we uncover a world of possibilities. I work with adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families.
(310) 905-5431 View (310) 905-5431
Photo of Rachel Harris, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I work with individuals, couples, and families on issues including grief and loss, anxiety and depression, loneliness, self-esteem, relationships, and intimacy.
I am passionate about helping people lead the life they want and deserve. We all need to be seen, heard, and be accepted. But, when these needs are not met we may experience loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which stops us from leading a meaningful life. My diverse life experiences as a top security screener, a specialized groups coordinator, a world traveler, and a philosopher, combined with my professional trainings, enable me with a unique perspective and knowledge on how to nurture, support, and promote a life worth living. I specialize working with adults, teens, and couples, and families.
I work with individuals, couples, and families on issues including grief and loss, anxiety and depression, loneliness, self-esteem, relationships, and intimacy.
I am passionate about helping people lead the life they want and deserve. We all need to be seen, heard, and be accepted. But, when these needs are not met we may experience loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which stops us from leading a meaningful life. My diverse life experiences as a top security screener, a specialized groups coordinator, a world traveler, and a philosopher, combined with my professional trainings, enable me with a unique perspective and knowledge on how to nurture, support, and promote a life worth living. I specialize working with adults, teens, and couples, and families.
(424) 404-6628 View (424) 404-6628
Photo of Spencer B Nieves, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Spencer B Nieves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I treat teens, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, emotional regulation, grief, and more. Some clients, favor confiding in a male therapist. My integrative approach draws from a combination of practices including mindfulness-based interventions, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and somatic practice which focuses on the mind body connection to help my clients cope with their issues, increase self-esteem, and develop emotional regulation and resiliency. In younger children, I use play therapy to facilitate communication and gain a deeper understanding of their needs.
I treat teens, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, emotional regulation, grief, and more. Some clients, favor confiding in a male therapist. My integrative approach draws from a combination of practices including mindfulness-based interventions, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and somatic practice which focuses on the mind body connection to help my clients cope with their issues, increase self-esteem, and develop emotional regulation and resiliency. In younger children, I use play therapy to facilitate communication and gain a deeper understanding of their needs.
(310) 362-9481 View (310) 362-9481
Photo of Elise Hernandez, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Elise Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I work with adults and adolescents and specialize in anxiety, social/relational problems, depression and trauma-informed care.
It can be difficult to navigate change, relationships, and life in general, especially in today's world. We may feel alone, hopeless, or overwhelmed. We may just feel unlike ourselves and not know how we got there. Together we can explore what is coming up for you in order to understand the root issues. With awareness can come acceptance or meaningful change.
I work with adults and adolescents and specialize in anxiety, social/relational problems, depression and trauma-informed care.
It can be difficult to navigate change, relationships, and life in general, especially in today's world. We may feel alone, hopeless, or overwhelmed. We may just feel unlike ourselves and not know how we got there. Together we can explore what is coming up for you in order to understand the root issues. With awareness can come acceptance or meaningful change.
(310) 956-4331 View (310) 956-4331
Photo of Lauren Dollarhide, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Dollarhide
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
My experience within the field has allowed me to work with individuals who experience depressed mood, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum mood disorders, grief and loss, relational struggles, trauma, domestic violence, racial trauma, and life adjustments and transitions.
I believe that to become better versions of ourselves, we must first work towards healing and processing our past wounds. Sometimes our wounds and past traumas can hold us back from being better partners, parents, and individuals. I need to provide you with a safe and nurturing environment to heal and grow. My focus throughout the past years has been providing culturally responsive care as well as LGBTQ+ affirming care while working with clients toward their goals, building upon their strengths, and facilitating an environment for growth toward self-acceptance and self-empowerment.
My experience within the field has allowed me to work with individuals who experience depressed mood, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum mood disorders, grief and loss, relational struggles, trauma, domestic violence, racial trauma, and life adjustments and transitions.
I believe that to become better versions of ourselves, we must first work towards healing and processing our past wounds. Sometimes our wounds and past traumas can hold us back from being better partners, parents, and individuals. I need to provide you with a safe and nurturing environment to heal and grow. My focus throughout the past years has been providing culturally responsive care as well as LGBTQ+ affirming care while working with clients toward their goals, building upon their strengths, and facilitating an environment for growth toward self-acceptance and self-empowerment.
(310) 775-2731 View (310) 775-2731
Photo of Veronica Calkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
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.
(562) 268-0951 View (562) 268-0951
Photo of Sierra Rose Brown, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sierra Rose Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I work with clients presenting with a number of needs including depression, anxiety, personality or behavioral struggles, trauma, grief and other stressors.
I specialize in working with people who have a desire to improve their daily functioning and quality of life. I want to work with clients to determine what will work best for them and their unique circumstances. I offer therapy for children, adolescents, adults and elders alike.
I work with clients presenting with a number of needs including depression, anxiety, personality or behavioral struggles, trauma, grief and other stressors.
I specialize in working with people who have a desire to improve their daily functioning and quality of life. I want to work with clients to determine what will work best for them and their unique circumstances. I offer therapy for children, adolescents, adults and elders alike.
(424) 383-5128 View (424) 383-5128
Photo of Natalie Baker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in residential, partial hospitalization programs, and outpatient levels of care. I have worked with diverse populations within community-based and private settings, primarily treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, personal growth, and women’s issues. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and person-centered as we all have unique backgrounds and needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in residential, partial hospitalization programs, and outpatient levels of care. I have worked with diverse populations within community-based and private settings, primarily treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, personal growth, and women’s issues. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and person-centered as we all have unique backgrounds and needs.
(310) 861-9981 View (310) 861-9981
Photo of Shawn Klein, MFT, Jungian, Analyst, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shawn Klein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, Jungian, Analyst
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, having relationship difficulties or need guidance and support in your life? As a therapist for over 25 years, I have effectively helped many individuals and couples with an insight and solution based therapy. I tailor the therapy to fit each individual’s needs by combining a compassionate approach with expertise and direct feedback. I’m trained in individual therapy, couple and family system dynamics and have an advanced degree in depth psychology.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, having relationship difficulties or need guidance and support in your life? As a therapist for over 25 years, I have effectively helped many individuals and couples with an insight and solution based therapy. I tailor the therapy to fit each individual’s needs by combining a compassionate approach with expertise and direct feedback. I’m trained in individual therapy, couple and family system dynamics and have an advanced degree in depth psychology.
(747) 223-8729 View (747) 223-8729
Photo of Drew Pillsbury, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Drew Pillsbury
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
As an experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction therapist, I believe that you don't have to continue to feel overwhelmed, out of control, or stuck in self-defeating patterns.
My intention as a therapist is to provide support, problem-solving skills and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma (PTSD/complex), relationship difficulties, grief, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, struggles with self-esteem and creative blocks. Many people also find that therapy can be a tremendous asset to aid in personal growth and improve their relationships. I bring a strong sense of compassion to my work and strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space so that we can get clarification on what you would like to be different in your life and how to get you there.
As an experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction therapist, I believe that you don't have to continue to feel overwhelmed, out of control, or stuck in self-defeating patterns.
My intention as a therapist is to provide support, problem-solving skills and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma (PTSD/complex), relationship difficulties, grief, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, struggles with self-esteem and creative blocks. Many people also find that therapy can be a tremendous asset to aid in personal growth and improve their relationships. I bring a strong sense of compassion to my work and strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space so that we can get clarification on what you would like to be different in your life and how to get you there.
(424) 344-5642 View (424) 344-5642
Photo of Vanessa Isetta, PsyD, Psychologist
Vanessa Isetta
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I have a focused approach in assisting individuals coping with trauma, anxiety, depression and complexities of divorce from high-conflict spouses.
In our therapeutic journey together, we'll delve into the depths of your emotions, creating transformative shifts to shape a life that resonates with your authentic self and desires. This isn't just about discussing life stressors or navigating tough choices; it's an exploration of the intricate patterns that may be keeping you feeling stagnant. I create the essential space for you to navigate, evolve, and embrace the changes you seek. Together, we will address the factors constraining your progress, skillfully crafting a narrative of personal growth and authentic living.
I have a focused approach in assisting individuals coping with trauma, anxiety, depression and complexities of divorce from high-conflict spouses.
In our therapeutic journey together, we'll delve into the depths of your emotions, creating transformative shifts to shape a life that resonates with your authentic self and desires. This isn't just about discussing life stressors or navigating tough choices; it's an exploration of the intricate patterns that may be keeping you feeling stagnant. I create the essential space for you to navigate, evolve, and embrace the changes you seek. Together, we will address the factors constraining your progress, skillfully crafting a narrative of personal growth and authentic living.
(424) 217-3769 View (424) 217-3769
Photo of Alexander Smith Douglas
Alexander Smith Douglas
Associate Clinical Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I help males struggling with anger, anxiety, depression, intimacy, defining masculinity, gender and sexual identity, relationships, life transitions, infidelity, and all forms of addiction.
I am a Registered Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW 106791, employed and supervised by Kryss Castle, LMFT 95114 in Hermosa Beach and Marina del Rey.
I help males struggling with anger, anxiety, depression, intimacy, defining masculinity, gender and sexual identity, relationships, life transitions, infidelity, and all forms of addiction.
I am a Registered Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW 106791, employed and supervised by Kryss Castle, LMFT 95114 in Hermosa Beach and Marina del Rey.
(424) 402-5939 View (424) 402-5939
Photo of Sharon Feigenbaum, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon Feigenbaum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I have significant experience with adolescents, adults, couples and families in resolving emotional and relationship problems, such as depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief and loss and trauma.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed or simply less happy? There is hope for resolution and you're here taking the first step. It's difficult to admit that we can't always come up with the solutions to feeling better by ourselves. I am here to help. My approach is to collaborate with you in improving your quality of life.Together we can find the solutions to the barriers of your happiness and gain a deeper understanding, create self-awareness, build self-esteem, regain confidence, and find your inner peace and self-empowerment.
I have significant experience with adolescents, adults, couples and families in resolving emotional and relationship problems, such as depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief and loss and trauma.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed or simply less happy? There is hope for resolution and you're here taking the first step. It's difficult to admit that we can't always come up with the solutions to feeling better by ourselves. I am here to help. My approach is to collaborate with you in improving your quality of life.Together we can find the solutions to the barriers of your happiness and gain a deeper understanding, create self-awareness, build self-esteem, regain confidence, and find your inner peace and self-empowerment.
(310) 601-8097 View (310) 601-8097
Photo of Douglas H Hutton, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Douglas H Hutton
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I have helped numerous patients in the past 25 years overcome major hurdles emotionally and spiritually, helping them discover for themselves who God has truly meant them to be. Living with depression, anxiety, fear, inhibitions, low-self esteem, relationship problems or the like -- your suffering should not be ignored. Life was not meant to be lived in part, but rather in fullness. My interest is in dealing with the deeper issues that underlie problems so that life can be lived in fullness rather than confusion, frustration and regret.
I have helped numerous patients in the past 25 years overcome major hurdles emotionally and spiritually, helping them discover for themselves who God has truly meant them to be. Living with depression, anxiety, fear, inhibitions, low-self esteem, relationship problems or the like -- your suffering should not be ignored. Life was not meant to be lived in part, but rather in fullness. My interest is in dealing with the deeper issues that underlie problems so that life can be lived in fullness rather than confusion, frustration and regret.
(424) 260-2983 View (424) 260-2983
Photo of Sarah Stoker, PhD, Psychologist
Sarah Stoker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I currently practice in Manhattan Beach, and I have been providing psychotherapy since 1996. My orientation blends cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and family systems approaches to healing and change. I have a special interest in women’s issues such as postpartum depression, the transition to motherhood, balance between work and family, and poor body image. I also work with people who need help with relationship issues and life transitions. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families.
I currently practice in Manhattan Beach, and I have been providing psychotherapy since 1996. My orientation blends cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and family systems approaches to healing and change. I have a special interest in women’s issues such as postpartum depression, the transition to motherhood, balance between work and family, and poor body image. I also work with people who need help with relationship issues and life transitions. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families.
(310) 545-9210 View (310) 545-9210
Photo of Shelley Gregory, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelley Gregory
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
Everyone has their own unique story. I believe that being present for you to share your story is a privilege. I will help you explore and process your life experiences and set goals. I will be dedicated to helping you reconcile your past and overcome your fears. If you are struggling due to trauma, difficult relationships, workplace stress, depression, anxiety, transitions in your life, or you have a specific difficult situation that you need help with, I can help you.Together we will address issues that are causing you distress and that may be interfering with other areas of your life.
Everyone has their own unique story. I believe that being present for you to share your story is a privilege. I will help you explore and process your life experiences and set goals. I will be dedicated to helping you reconcile your past and overcome your fears. If you are struggling due to trauma, difficult relationships, workplace stress, depression, anxiety, transitions in your life, or you have a specific difficult situation that you need help with, I can help you.Together we will address issues that are causing you distress and that may be interfering with other areas of your life.
(310) 321-4688 View (310) 321-4688
Photo of Jamie Krause, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Krause
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I have strong strategies for managing ADHD and other learning disabilities, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, work-life-balance, and goal completion.
I believe in meeting my clients where they are. My priority is creating a safe space where authentic and vulnerable collaboration can nurture positive change. I believe that while all individuals possess the ability to be healthy and happy, sometimes life events, obstacles or unhealthy patterns cause us to lose confidence in our ability to achieve our goals. The right support can elevate hope and get us back on track.
I have strong strategies for managing ADHD and other learning disabilities, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, work-life-balance, and goal completion.
I believe in meeting my clients where they are. My priority is creating a safe space where authentic and vulnerable collaboration can nurture positive change. I believe that while all individuals possess the ability to be healthy and happy, sometimes life events, obstacles or unhealthy patterns cause us to lose confidence in our ability to achieve our goals. The right support can elevate hope and get us back on track.
(424) 295-8651 View (424) 295-8651
Photo of Melissa Helene Robertson, PhD, Psychologist
Melissa Helene Robertson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, panic disorders, grief issues, trauma, and parenting, school, and relationship issues.
I am deeply committed to helping people create the most fulfilling lives possible, as they move through and beyond challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, work/life balance, grief reactions, as well as relationship and self-esteem issues. When life has thrown you off your path, I work with you to restore your natural capacity for self compassion and healing, and provide unwavering emotional support as you create a thriving life with healthier relationships.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, panic disorders, grief issues, trauma, and parenting, school, and relationship issues.
I am deeply committed to helping people create the most fulfilling lives possible, as they move through and beyond challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, work/life balance, grief reactions, as well as relationship and self-esteem issues. When life has thrown you off your path, I work with you to restore your natural capacity for self compassion and healing, and provide unwavering emotional support as you create a thriving life with healthier relationships.
(562) 276-2719 View (562) 276-2719
Photo of Sarah C. Wohn - Dr. Sarah C. Wohn Psychotherapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah C. Wohn Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders and the issues that commonly occur with this diagnosis including depression, self-mutilation, compulsive movement, anxiety and body dysmorphia.
Some things about me: I have a conversational style, I'm comfortable and casual in the room and I'm not afraid to ask tough questions. I'm not the therapist for you if you are looking for a "blank slate." This is a team effort and I will do what it takes to get you the help you need. I have seen therapy work for a lot of people who thought it could never help them, so give me a call if you are unsure and we will figure it out together. It's time to take control back.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders and the issues that commonly occur with this diagnosis including depression, self-mutilation, compulsive movement, anxiety and body dysmorphia.
Some things about me: I have a conversational style, I'm comfortable and casual in the room and I'm not afraid to ask tough questions. I'm not the therapist for you if you are looking for a "blank slate." This is a team effort and I will do what it takes to get you the help you need. I have seen therapy work for a lot of people who thought it could never help them, so give me a call if you are unsure and we will figure it out together. It's time to take control back.
(510) 560-7242 View (510) 560-7242
1
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.