Photo of Ruth Houston Barrett, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Ruth Houston Barrett
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Address identity, purpose, relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, and other challenges.
With care, knowledge, and passion, I help my clients achieve the meaningful changes they seek. From the first session, my clients say they feel lighter, happier, and empowered for change. I balance warmth and empathy with extensive education, experience, expertise. Focusing on solutions, strengths, and evidence-based tools, we take concrete steps to enrich lives and relationships, blending therapeutic modalities for conscious-unconscious mind, mindfulness, meaning.
Address identity, purpose, relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, and other challenges.
With care, knowledge, and passion, I help my clients achieve the meaningful changes they seek. From the first session, my clients say they feel lighter, happier, and empowered for change. I balance warmth and empathy with extensive education, experience, expertise. Focusing on solutions, strengths, and evidence-based tools, we take concrete steps to enrich lives and relationships, blending therapeutic modalities for conscious-unconscious mind, mindfulness, meaning.
(310) 879-5173 View (310) 879-5173
Photo of John Raphael, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90277, CA
John Raphael
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I can help clients with depression , anxiety and achieving life goals.
I have been a Therapist for 20 years both in private practice and at Kaiser. Before becoming a therapist (LCSW) I was a professional chef. I have been retired for the past 5 years and would like to reenter the the working world after many years of travel and self exploration. My ideal client is a person with some insight who wants to do the work to resolve their issues and grow from the experience.
I can help clients with depression , anxiety and achieving life goals.
I have been a Therapist for 20 years both in private practice and at Kaiser. Before becoming a therapist (LCSW) I was a professional chef. I have been retired for the past 5 years and would like to reenter the the working world after many years of travel and self exploration. My ideal client is a person with some insight who wants to do the work to resolve their issues and grow from the experience.
(310) 736-2252 View (310) 736-2252
Photo of Andria Allison Bibler, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Andria Allison Bibler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277  (Online Only)
Particular areas of focus: women's wellness, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, parent/child relationships, stress reduction, trauma, and self-care.
My first priority is helping you feel comfortable. Research has shown that the number one most helpful aspect of therapy is having a strong therapeutic relationship where you feel supported, heard, and understood. I strive to meet you where you're at in your life process. My style is client-centered, and I tailor my services to you, focusing on what you decide you want and need to gain from therapy. I am strength-based in my approach; together we will identify what's working in your life and what strengths we can build on to help you achieve your goals, strengthen your relationships, and feel your best.
Particular areas of focus: women's wellness, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, parent/child relationships, stress reduction, trauma, and self-care.
My first priority is helping you feel comfortable. Research has shown that the number one most helpful aspect of therapy is having a strong therapeutic relationship where you feel supported, heard, and understood. I strive to meet you where you're at in your life process. My style is client-centered, and I tailor my services to you, focusing on what you decide you want and need to gain from therapy. I am strength-based in my approach; together we will identify what's working in your life and what strengths we can build on to help you achieve your goals, strengthen your relationships, and feel your best.
(323) 375-3532 View (323) 375-3532
Photo of Jeneba Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Jeneba Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling unsure about yourself? Does something feel off and you can't put your finger on it? I cater to African American millennial women struggling with mother wounds that have led to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, and life transitions. Let's awaken your natural feminine strength, embrace womanhood, and express your inner truths. Are you a worried parent whose child been withdrawn, irritable and you believe they need more help? Look on further I can help. Relating to the younger generation comes easy to me.
Have you been feeling unsure about yourself? Does something feel off and you can't put your finger on it? I cater to African American millennial women struggling with mother wounds that have led to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, and life transitions. Let's awaken your natural feminine strength, embrace womanhood, and express your inner truths. Are you a worried parent whose child been withdrawn, irritable and you believe they need more help? Look on further I can help. Relating to the younger generation comes easy to me.
(424) 328-6700 View (424) 328-6700
Photo of Jennifer Gleizer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Jennifer Gleizer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I have extensive experience in a variety of specializations, such as; Relationship Issues, Family/Couple Conflict, Codependency, Substance Abuse, Childhood Trauma, Grief and Loss, Self Esteem, Anxiety, Depression, and Stress Management.
Hello and welcome; I am Jennifer Gleizer, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My main goal is to help you overcome the obstacles that are preventing you from living a fulfilling, productive, happy life. I believe we all possess the ability to change our thoughts and behaviors no matter what stage of life we are in or how set in our ways we might believe we are. With the proper guidance, motivation, and commitment to the process of change, we can overcome lifelong barriers and live a satisfying, well-balanced, fulfilling life.
I have extensive experience in a variety of specializations, such as; Relationship Issues, Family/Couple Conflict, Codependency, Substance Abuse, Childhood Trauma, Grief and Loss, Self Esteem, Anxiety, Depression, and Stress Management.
Hello and welcome; I am Jennifer Gleizer, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My main goal is to help you overcome the obstacles that are preventing you from living a fulfilling, productive, happy life. I believe we all possess the ability to change our thoughts and behaviors no matter what stage of life we are in or how set in our ways we might believe we are. With the proper guidance, motivation, and commitment to the process of change, we can overcome lifelong barriers and live a satisfying, well-balanced, fulfilling life.
(209) 791-5926 View (209) 791-5926
Photo of Dr. Peter Gleiberman, Psychologist in 90277, CA
Dr. Peter Gleiberman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I work with a diverse clientele on depression, anxiety, life events and changes, relationship problems, and desire for growth and change.
Through my experience I have developed a therapeutic approach rooted in empathy, collaboration, and proactive skill development. My diverse professional background informs my compassionate approach to care. I value understanding clients' experiences and perspectives, working together we can address your mental health concerns, and empowering you with practical skills to cope with challenges and promote well-being. I am passionate about working with adolescents navigating the stressors of school and their teenage years, as well as helping high-achieving adults cope.
I work with a diverse clientele on depression, anxiety, life events and changes, relationship problems, and desire for growth and change.
Through my experience I have developed a therapeutic approach rooted in empathy, collaboration, and proactive skill development. My diverse professional background informs my compassionate approach to care. I value understanding clients' experiences and perspectives, working together we can address your mental health concerns, and empowering you with practical skills to cope with challenges and promote well-being. I am passionate about working with adolescents navigating the stressors of school and their teenage years, as well as helping high-achieving adults cope.
(310) 299-8769 View (310) 299-8769
Photo of Hillside Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Hillside Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
For the past several years, my focus has been to help clients who are having difficulties with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, relationship issues, addictions, school pressures, family stress, and other challenges.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
For the past several years, my focus has been to help clients who are having difficulties with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, relationship issues, addictions, school pressures, family stress, and other challenges.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
(310) 907-8398 View (310) 907-8398
Photo of Mark Shokair, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Mark Shokair
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Mark Shokair LMFT specializing in: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Children and Adolescent issues.
Is something in your life not working? Are you struggling with personal, family or relationship challenges? Is your child causing you stress and you just don't know how to get through to them? Whatever it might be there are answers. Let's work together to get your life moving again. Together we will discover how to overcome obstacles, get things moving and begin the process of blossoming into your best self. Currently accepting new clients. Call now for a free consultation.
Mark Shokair LMFT specializing in: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Children and Adolescent issues.
Is something in your life not working? Are you struggling with personal, family or relationship challenges? Is your child causing you stress and you just don't know how to get through to them? Whatever it might be there are answers. Let's work together to get your life moving again. Together we will discover how to overcome obstacles, get things moving and begin the process of blossoming into your best self. Currently accepting new clients. Call now for a free consultation.
(925) 272-2242 View (925) 272-2242
Photo of Cheryl Maddern, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Cheryl Maddern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277  (Online Only)
I join my clients in their journey to seek happiness and peace by offering a healing relationship and experience as a mental health professional. I listen to what a client's strengths and challenges are to achieving the life they want. I design treatment ideas to specifically address each person. I have extensive experience in successfully treating anxiety, depression, substance abuse, dual diagnosis and bipolar disorder, parenting, divorce, couples therapy and many other issues. I help clients by providing techniques, tools, conversation and support and not to feel alone on the path to wellness.
I join my clients in their journey to seek happiness and peace by offering a healing relationship and experience as a mental health professional. I listen to what a client's strengths and challenges are to achieving the life they want. I design treatment ideas to specifically address each person. I have extensive experience in successfully treating anxiety, depression, substance abuse, dual diagnosis and bipolar disorder, parenting, divorce, couples therapy and many other issues. I help clients by providing techniques, tools, conversation and support and not to feel alone on the path to wellness.
(310) 906-4581 View (310) 906-4581
Photo of Hillside Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Hillside Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
For the past several years, I have worked with individuals, couples, families, children, and groups who have had difficulties with anxiety, depression, PTS, domestic violence, infidelities, addictions, disabilities, pressures, family and financial problems, etc.
If you are struggling in your marriage/relationships or life has become too stressful and you are ready to make a change to bring hope, peace, and balance into your life, I may be able to help. My goal is to provide you with an environment that fosters change. I strive to create a safe place where you can feel free to explore, take risks, and grow in the process. I want you to feel the sense of confidence and peace that we will work on topics that have caused you pain, sadness, frustration, or anxiety. Together, we will embark on a journey towards happiness and fulfillment.
For the past several years, I have worked with individuals, couples, families, children, and groups who have had difficulties with anxiety, depression, PTS, domestic violence, infidelities, addictions, disabilities, pressures, family and financial problems, etc.
If you are struggling in your marriage/relationships or life has become too stressful and you are ready to make a change to bring hope, peace, and balance into your life, I may be able to help. My goal is to provide you with an environment that fosters change. I strive to create a safe place where you can feel free to explore, take risks, and grow in the process. I want you to feel the sense of confidence and peace that we will work on topics that have caused you pain, sadness, frustration, or anxiety. Together, we will embark on a journey towards happiness and fulfillment.
(424) 329-2725 View (424) 329-2725
Photo of Evelyn Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90277, CA
Evelyn Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
A graduate of the University of Southern California, I became involved in trauma and play therapy while at UCLA's Department of Pediatrics. Transitioning to private practice in 2003, I continue to work with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder as an EMDR Certified Therapist, I serve adults, children and adolescents with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Eating Disorders, and ADD/ADHD, as well as individuals and families with grief and loss, stage of life/adjustment, behavioral, attachment, domestic violence and other abuse issues.
A graduate of the University of Southern California, I became involved in trauma and play therapy while at UCLA's Department of Pediatrics. Transitioning to private practice in 2003, I continue to work with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder as an EMDR Certified Therapist, I serve adults, children and adolescents with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Eating Disorders, and ADD/ADHD, as well as individuals and families with grief and loss, stage of life/adjustment, behavioral, attachment, domestic violence and other abuse issues.
(424) 772-3579 View (424) 772-3579
Photo of Thuy Tran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90277, CA
Thuy Tran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Hello, my name is Thuy (Twee) Tran. I'm a licensed clinical social worker who helps individuals identify and utilize their inner resilience to cope with various life stressors or adversities. I have worked with people from all walks of life. Those who struggles with anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. I had the honor to work with survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and various forms of abuse during childhood.
Hello, my name is Thuy (Twee) Tran. I'm a licensed clinical social worker who helps individuals identify and utilize their inner resilience to cope with various life stressors or adversities. I have worked with people from all walks of life. Those who struggles with anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. I had the honor to work with survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and various forms of abuse during childhood.
(559) 663-2333 View (559) 663-2333
Photo of Courtney Hart, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Courtney Hart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
My name is Courtney Hart LMFT and I enjoy assisting client in finding their true potential and life purpose through breaking down barriers caused by and related to mental health symptoms. I have been in the field for over 10 years working with diverse populations and ages. I have worked with individuals suffering from anxiety/depression and those with personality disorders. take a collective approach to therapy and apply interventions from various theories such as person centered, solution focused, CBT, DBT, trauma focused, family systems, positive psychology, and more.
My name is Courtney Hart LMFT and I enjoy assisting client in finding their true potential and life purpose through breaking down barriers caused by and related to mental health symptoms. I have been in the field for over 10 years working with diverse populations and ages. I have worked with individuals suffering from anxiety/depression and those with personality disorders. take a collective approach to therapy and apply interventions from various theories such as person centered, solution focused, CBT, DBT, trauma focused, family systems, positive psychology, and more.
(619) 494-2478 View (619) 494-2478
Photo of Rob Feiner, Licensed Professional Counselor in 90277, CA
Rob Feiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, PPS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I have over a decade of experience working with creative professionals and adolescents coping with issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, relationship dysfunction as well as athletic and performance art potential.
Everyone deserves a compassionate understanding of themselves. As we navigate through life, we are faced with uncertainties, challenges, stagnation, and cyclical internal conflict. Setting a positive, non-judgmental, collaborative environment, I hope to help you build confidence, gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop the emotional tools to find your inner balance achieving a sense of purpose and general wellness. To help you accomplish your therapeutic goals we may draw from Cognitive Behavioral and Emotion Focused approaches and Mindfulness Meditation.
I have over a decade of experience working with creative professionals and adolescents coping with issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, relationship dysfunction as well as athletic and performance art potential.
Everyone deserves a compassionate understanding of themselves. As we navigate through life, we are faced with uncertainties, challenges, stagnation, and cyclical internal conflict. Setting a positive, non-judgmental, collaborative environment, I hope to help you build confidence, gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop the emotional tools to find your inner balance achieving a sense of purpose and general wellness. To help you accomplish your therapeutic goals we may draw from Cognitive Behavioral and Emotion Focused approaches and Mindfulness Meditation.
(213) 988-6511 View (213) 988-6511
Photo of Christal-Joi Whitaker, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Christal-Joi Whitaker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277  (Online Only)
She believes that habitual patterns of thought and behavior result in chronic anxiety, depression, anger, insomnia, poor self-image, addictions, and a number of other unhealthy impulses.
Christal-Joi Whitaker is a marriage and family therapist with over 17 years of clinical experience facilitating transformative life changes in adult and child clients of all cultures and beliefs. Her goal is to help her clients realize their authentic selves, walk in harmony with their true nature, and live stable, healthy lives filled with the love of rich and rewarding relationships. Christal-Joi is able to incorporate a biblical perspective in her clinical interventions with those clients who are seeking a therapist who shares their love for Jesus Christ.
She believes that habitual patterns of thought and behavior result in chronic anxiety, depression, anger, insomnia, poor self-image, addictions, and a number of other unhealthy impulses.
Christal-Joi Whitaker is a marriage and family therapist with over 17 years of clinical experience facilitating transformative life changes in adult and child clients of all cultures and beliefs. Her goal is to help her clients realize their authentic selves, walk in harmony with their true nature, and live stable, healthy lives filled with the love of rich and rewarding relationships. Christal-Joi is able to incorporate a biblical perspective in her clinical interventions with those clients who are seeking a therapist who shares their love for Jesus Christ.
(855) 252-3022 View (855) 252-3022
Cleo Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Waitlist for new clients
I am pleased to announce joining The Effective Therapy Group. My practice includes kids (4+), as well as couples, and individuals. My work with individuals includes anxiety, PTSD (trauma), abuse, depression, grief, and life’s transitions. Transitions that include moving, divorce, change in health, and recovering from the past year’s health crisis, as well as being an addictions specialist.
I am pleased to announce joining The Effective Therapy Group. My practice includes kids (4+), as well as couples, and individuals. My work with individuals includes anxiety, PTSD (trauma), abuse, depression, grief, and life’s transitions. Transitions that include moving, divorce, change in health, and recovering from the past year’s health crisis, as well as being an addictions specialist.
(424) 399-5480 View (424) 399-5480
Photo of Sierra Rose Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90277, CA
Sierra Rose Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
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 Dr. Loree A. Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90277, CA
Dr. Loree A. Johnson, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I believe that our problems don't define us - how we handle them does. You may feel lost because life may not have unfolded as planned, which triggers anxiety, depression, or overwhelming grief. However, with a bit of time and self-reflection, it's entirely possible to build or rebuild a life that is different from what you envisioned. I believe we possess innate strengths derived from early life experiences that shaped us, and I see therapy as a collaborative space to build on those qualities so that you can live the life you dream of living.
I believe that our problems don't define us - how we handle them does. You may feel lost because life may not have unfolded as planned, which triggers anxiety, depression, or overwhelming grief. However, with a bit of time and self-reflection, it's entirely possible to build or rebuild a life that is different from what you envisioned. I believe we possess innate strengths derived from early life experiences that shaped us, and I see therapy as a collaborative space to build on those qualities so that you can live the life you dream of living.
(310) 807-2684 View (310) 807-2684
Photo of Magda S. Herrera, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90277, CA
Magda S. Herrera
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I can help with issues sourced in anxiety, stress, overwhelm, depression, lack of meaning or purpose, self-care, life balance, intergenerational trauma, life transitions and support with parenting.
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 this space on a deeper level to provide a greater understanding about present issues. Together, we can shine a light on 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, life transitions and support with parenting.
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 this space on a deeper level to provide a greater understanding about present issues. Together, we can shine a light on a world of possibilities. I work with adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families.
(310) 905-5431 View (310) 905-5431
Photo of Andrea Jablonski, Psychologist in 90277, CA
Andrea Jablonski
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277  (Online Only)
I can help clients experiencing loss or other significant life changes, depression and loneliness, anxiety, as well as OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and Asperger's, and much more.
Are you looking for some support and comforting validation? Would you like to better understand the problems you encounter in your day-to-day living as well as have a clearer view of the "bigger picture" issues and themes that arise in your life? Do you struggle with moderate to crippling anxiety or fear, and have trouble being fully present or accomplishing some of life's everyday tasks? Are you lonely or feeling down, or beginning to feel as though you'll never find peace or contentment? If any of these questions resonate with you, I welcome the opportunity to be in your service, help you find relief, and get your life back.
I can help clients experiencing loss or other significant life changes, depression and loneliness, anxiety, as well as OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and Asperger's, and much more.
Are you looking for some support and comforting validation? Would you like to better understand the problems you encounter in your day-to-day living as well as have a clearer view of the "bigger picture" issues and themes that arise in your life? Do you struggle with moderate to crippling anxiety or fear, and have trouble being fully present or accomplishing some of life's everyday tasks? Are you lonely or feeling down, or beginning to feel as though you'll never find peace or contentment? If any of these questions resonate with you, I welcome the opportunity to be in your service, help you find relief, and get your life back.
(424) 380-7396 View (424) 380-7396
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.