Photo of Alan Bisarya, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Alan Bisarya
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdM, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in helping people overcome depression and feel more empowered in life.
Life can bring challenges that are difficult to move past. Feeling stuck, powerless, or fatigued makes sense as you do your best to overcome what’s happening. Meeting responsibilities to family and friends often adds to the burden. I understand the territory of struggling to find a clear sense of direction or motivation, especially after loss. Together we can face these difficulties, and support you in growing into a more aligned version of yourself.
I have extensive experience in helping people overcome depression and feel more empowered in life.
Life can bring challenges that are difficult to move past. Feeling stuck, powerless, or fatigued makes sense as you do your best to overcome what’s happening. Meeting responsibilities to family and friends often adds to the burden. I understand the territory of struggling to find a clear sense of direction or motivation, especially after loss. Together we can face these difficulties, and support you in growing into a more aligned version of yourself.
(415) 403-2886 View (415) 403-2886
Photo of Nicole Evans, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Nicole Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you struggling to find the motivation or focus to get through daily tasks? Do you feel like you are going through life alone or unsure about who you are? Or do you simply just need someone to listen and talk to? If so, I am here to help you. I specialize in working with young adults, and adults with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, I also provide therapy for grief/loss, relationship issues, and self-acceptance.
Are you struggling to find the motivation or focus to get through daily tasks? Do you feel like you are going through life alone or unsure about who you are? Or do you simply just need someone to listen and talk to? If so, I am here to help you. I specialize in working with young adults, and adults with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, I also provide therapy for grief/loss, relationship issues, and self-acceptance.
(323) 498-1297 View (323) 498-1297
Photo of Niaz Khani, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Niaz Khani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I specialize in relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety and adjustment to various life transitions.
I understand that seeking therapy may be a very difficult process, however what you can gain from the process is limitless. If you are feeling stuck and interested in making some changes in your life or just need some support right now, this may be a good time to give therapy a try. It's very important to feel safe and connected to your therapist and I encourage you to shop around for the "best-fit." I welcome you to contact me in order to determine whether we would be a good match.
I specialize in relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety and adjustment to various life transitions.
I understand that seeking therapy may be a very difficult process, however what you can gain from the process is limitless. If you are feeling stuck and interested in making some changes in your life or just need some support right now, this may be a good time to give therapy a try. It's very important to feel safe and connected to your therapist and I encourage you to shop around for the "best-fit." I welcome you to contact me in order to determine whether we would be a good match.
(323) 617-4383 View (323) 617-4383
Photo of Dr. Sarika Seth , Psychologist in 90403, CA
Dr. Sarika Seth
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Challenging life circumstances, traumatic experiences, unanticipated changes, opposing messages, and /or oppressive forces can knock us off our course. We may find ourselves having difficulty navigating through heightened states of anxiety and the depths of depression. Or, we just need to be seen and heard. In this instance, therapy can be a refuge- a place to explore, observe, make sense of, find meaning in, and heal from pain we have long been carrying. We may experience a newfound state of peace as we gradually sit with, accept, let go, move forward, and reconnect with the sweetness of life.
Challenging life circumstances, traumatic experiences, unanticipated changes, opposing messages, and /or oppressive forces can knock us off our course. We may find ourselves having difficulty navigating through heightened states of anxiety and the depths of depression. Or, we just need to be seen and heard. In this instance, therapy can be a refuge- a place to explore, observe, make sense of, find meaning in, and heal from pain we have long been carrying. We may experience a newfound state of peace as we gradually sit with, accept, let go, move forward, and reconnect with the sweetness of life.
(310) 947-8614 View (310) 947-8614
Photo of Stefani Reitter, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Stefani Reitter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Some of my areas of specialization are: couples, trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, mood disorders, divorce and blended families, perinatal therapy, and addiction recovery.
I offer a soft place to land in what can be a confusing world. I'll invite you to slow down, tune in, and explore your quieter and wiser self. It is human to struggle because, let's face it--life is tough. Feeling overwhelmed, trapped, fearful, angry, and sad is par for the course and the result of living in a fast-paced, stressful environment. This reality coupled with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, and/or addiction can sap our resources. We can end up loosing sight of what is important to us and feel a dampening of our spirit.
Some of my areas of specialization are: couples, trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, mood disorders, divorce and blended families, perinatal therapy, and addiction recovery.
I offer a soft place to land in what can be a confusing world. I'll invite you to slow down, tune in, and explore your quieter and wiser self. It is human to struggle because, let's face it--life is tough. Feeling overwhelmed, trapped, fearful, angry, and sad is par for the course and the result of living in a fast-paced, stressful environment. This reality coupled with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, and/or addiction can sap our resources. We can end up loosing sight of what is important to us and feel a dampening of our spirit.
(424) 326-0125 View (424) 326-0125
Photo of Kim Spano, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Kim Spano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CPsych, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Rooted in depth psychology, mind body and complementary practice, integrating trauma based psychotherapy and other evidence based psychological methodologies and modalities, I see adults, teens, couples struggling with personal, emotional, relational, parental challenges, life transitions, anxiety, depression, stress, disillusionment, as well, young adults navigating individuation, contending with middle, high school, university and post graduate adjustments. My approach is to open a present, safe, focused sphere inviting vulnerability and honest expression of true experience moving deeper and deeper into one's own knowing sense.
Rooted in depth psychology, mind body and complementary practice, integrating trauma based psychotherapy and other evidence based psychological methodologies and modalities, I see adults, teens, couples struggling with personal, emotional, relational, parental challenges, life transitions, anxiety, depression, stress, disillusionment, as well, young adults navigating individuation, contending with middle, high school, university and post graduate adjustments. My approach is to open a present, safe, focused sphere inviting vulnerability and honest expression of true experience moving deeper and deeper into one's own knowing sense.
(831) 241-5805 View (831) 241-5805
Photo of Patrick Brian Dickey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Patrick Brian Dickey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
Life keeps rolling on whether we experience depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or conflicts with your loved ones. Getting yourself unstuck can be quite frustrating. For some, the challenge can create feelings of despair and hopelessness. But you can create a life that’s meaningful. Together we will collaborate on building on your existing strengths and create a new, purposeful, and worthwhile future.
(310) 929-6157 View (310) 929-6157
Photo of Jane Bryson, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Jane Bryson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I address many of the concerns that motivate people to call for psychotherapy including depression, anxiety (including panic, phobias, and OCD symptoms) stress, and relationship or work issues.
I provide a caring & objective atmosphere to encourage your self-awareness and emotional growth. One rare, unifying finding among all specialities of psychotherapy is that a strong therapeutic relationship is vital to success. Therefore, I will be your partner throughout the process, both supporting & challenging you along the way. During the over 35 years I have provided therapy, I have developed many approaches tailored to the unique needs of each client. Originally trained in psychodynamic therapy, my therapeutic approach now is eclectic and includes cognitive behavior therapy to facilitate observable change.
I address many of the concerns that motivate people to call for psychotherapy including depression, anxiety (including panic, phobias, and OCD symptoms) stress, and relationship or work issues.
I provide a caring & objective atmosphere to encourage your self-awareness and emotional growth. One rare, unifying finding among all specialities of psychotherapy is that a strong therapeutic relationship is vital to success. Therefore, I will be your partner throughout the process, both supporting & challenging you along the way. During the over 35 years I have provided therapy, I have developed many approaches tailored to the unique needs of each client. Originally trained in psychodynamic therapy, my therapeutic approach now is eclectic and includes cognitive behavior therapy to facilitate observable change.
(310) 935-4521 View (310) 935-4521
Photo of Katrina Paulino, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Katrina Paulino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Utilizing EMDR & other approaches, I work with individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and those going through life transitions looking for change. Because healing and growth occur interpersonally, therapy can be an impactful addition to one's life during difficult and challenging times. If you're feeling overwhelmed by emotions or stress, or feel like you're current life is being impacted by past events, there is absolutely hope out there. Many of the leading brain-body therapies now available are targeted for these types of experiences.
Utilizing EMDR & other approaches, I work with individuals who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and those going through life transitions looking for change. Because healing and growth occur interpersonally, therapy can be an impactful addition to one's life during difficult and challenging times. If you're feeling overwhelmed by emotions or stress, or feel like you're current life is being impacted by past events, there is absolutely hope out there. Many of the leading brain-body therapies now available are targeted for these types of experiences.
(323) 431-5418 View (323) 431-5418
Photo of Joe Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Joe Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Anyone who experiences depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life transitions, issues of identity, or cultural conflicts can benefit from collaborative work with a skilled psychotherapist.
We try to make sense of our lives through telling our stories, but when we are unable to find the words, we express ourselves in other ways, such as in symptoms, dreams, and behaviors that we don't understand. My previous training in fine arts and filmmaking (MFA, USC School of Cinema) make an excellent fit with the type of in-depth therapy I provide. I have a wide range of professional experiences from my private practice, in residential and outpatient clinics, as an adjunct professor of psychology at Antioch University, and as a supervisor training other therapists.
Anyone who experiences depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life transitions, issues of identity, or cultural conflicts can benefit from collaborative work with a skilled psychotherapist.
We try to make sense of our lives through telling our stories, but when we are unable to find the words, we express ourselves in other ways, such as in symptoms, dreams, and behaviors that we don't understand. My previous training in fine arts and filmmaking (MFA, USC School of Cinema) make an excellent fit with the type of in-depth therapy I provide. I have a wide range of professional experiences from my private practice, in residential and outpatient clinics, as an adjunct professor of psychology at Antioch University, and as a supervisor training other therapists.
(310) 879-5964 View (310) 879-5964
Photo of David W. Schreiber, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
David W. Schreiber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My specialties include depression, anxiety, and complex PTSD.
With so many different kinds of therapists and therapy styles, finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting task. I believe the most important factor in finding the right therapist is what we call the "fit" - how comfortable and understood you feel when sitting with a therapist. I offer an initial consultation to see what it would be like for us to work together. If you decide to keep looking, there is no charge for this session.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, and complex PTSD.
With so many different kinds of therapists and therapy styles, finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting task. I believe the most important factor in finding the right therapist is what we call the "fit" - how comfortable and understood you feel when sitting with a therapist. I offer an initial consultation to see what it would be like for us to work together. If you decide to keep looking, there is no charge for this session.
(310) 503-1767 View (310) 503-1767
Photo of Amada Battista, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Amada Battista
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I will collaborate with you in developing problem-solving skills to enhance the coping strategies that will help you deal with depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and other anxiety-producing experiences. I focus on understanding your symptoms within the context of your interpersonal relationships.
(424) 383-7690 View (424) 383-7690
Photo of Holly Hardgrove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90403, CA
Holly Hardgrove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Throughout the many years I have been practicing, the greatest reward has been to help clients better understand themselves and find their own voice. We work together to examine the role their family of origin plays in their current choices and relationships. I have a particular expertise in working with individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma. By providing a safe space to explore relationship issues and limiting thought patterns, I am able to assist clients to better understand and accept themselves, and reduce critical self beliefs.
Throughout the many years I have been practicing, the greatest reward has been to help clients better understand themselves and find their own voice. We work together to examine the role their family of origin plays in their current choices and relationships. I have a particular expertise in working with individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma. By providing a safe space to explore relationship issues and limiting thought patterns, I am able to assist clients to better understand and accept themselves, and reduce critical self beliefs.
(424) 404-6721 View (424) 404-6721
Photo of Eliot Estrin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90403, CA
Eliot Estrin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT, MA
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I have experience working with people who struggle with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, addictions, as well as bi-polar disorders.
My work centers around depth psychology and mindfulness, which means I look beneath the surface and at the deeper patterns in one's life. I believe psychotherapy is about integrating and bringing to consciousness parts of ourselves that have been left behind or ignored. I see psychotherapy as a journey to move forward in life. I help clients gain an understanding of who they are, how life experiences shape patterns that govern their lives, and provide them with practical tools to change those patterns.
I have experience working with people who struggle with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, addictions, as well as bi-polar disorders.
My work centers around depth psychology and mindfulness, which means I look beneath the surface and at the deeper patterns in one's life. I believe psychotherapy is about integrating and bringing to consciousness parts of ourselves that have been left behind or ignored. I see psychotherapy as a journey to move forward in life. I help clients gain an understanding of who they are, how life experiences shape patterns that govern their lives, and provide them with practical tools to change those patterns.
(424) 888-6207 View (424) 888-6207
Photo of Laura Kay Mclauchlin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Laura Kay Mclauchlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Are you struggling with DEPRESSION or ANXIETY? Is your RELATIONSHIP stuck in negative patterns?Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY? Are you going through a stressful LIFE TRANSITION? If you answered "yes" to any these questions, or even "maybe", I might be the help you are looking for. I've been told by my clients that I take a more active, direct approach to therapy, and I believe humor is a great healer. It is my 1st job to help you feel accepted, and listened to. I want to help you achieve your therapeutic goals by learning about what motivates you as a unique individual.
Are you struggling with DEPRESSION or ANXIETY? Is your RELATIONSHIP stuck in negative patterns?Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY? Are you going through a stressful LIFE TRANSITION? If you answered "yes" to any these questions, or even "maybe", I might be the help you are looking for. I've been told by my clients that I take a more active, direct approach to therapy, and I believe humor is a great healer. It is my 1st job to help you feel accepted, and listened to. I want to help you achieve your therapeutic goals by learning about what motivates you as a unique individual.
(310) 484-5715 View (310) 484-5715
Photo of Karen Stewart, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Karen Stewart
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I work with clients on a variety of life's struggles including depression, anxiety, drug/alcohol dependency, life transitions, sexual dysfunction and desire issues, relationship problems, infidelity, and communication difficulties.
We have all had times where we are struggling, feel low or "off", may not even have a real "reason" why these feelings are coming up for us. Or those times where an event, situation, loss, change in our daily functioning has lead us to not feel that we have the right skills to live our best lives and we just don't know what to do. Therapy is an answer for someone who wants to explore these feelings, to work through the difficult times and to learn about oneself in an unbiased, non-judgmental environment.
I work with clients on a variety of life's struggles including depression, anxiety, drug/alcohol dependency, life transitions, sexual dysfunction and desire issues, relationship problems, infidelity, and communication difficulties.
We have all had times where we are struggling, feel low or "off", may not even have a real "reason" why these feelings are coming up for us. Or those times where an event, situation, loss, change in our daily functioning has lead us to not feel that we have the right skills to live our best lives and we just don't know what to do. Therapy is an answer for someone who wants to explore these feelings, to work through the difficult times and to learn about oneself in an unbiased, non-judgmental environment.
(424) 327-9030 View (424) 327-9030
Photo of Vula Baliotis, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Vula Baliotis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Within a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment, I work with: *Depression, anxiety, self-esteem, & relationships *Women's issues (specialize in working with professional women) *Gifted/creative individuals & their families *Adoption issues *Greek/Greek-American individuals (fluent in Greek) *Orthodox Christian individuals *Identity development (e.
The most important thing in working together is building the foundation of a trusting relationship, where you can feel safe to talk openly. You know your life better than anyone else does. Therefore, we will hold great respect for your self-wisdom. Together with my professional knowledge and experience, we can work to help you discover how to live life in a way that is most fitting for you. NOTE: a professional relationship will not be formed until we both agree to do so, and only during/after an initial meeting. Any prior contact is for informational purposes only.
Within a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment, I work with: *Depression, anxiety, self-esteem, & relationships *Women's issues (specialize in working with professional women) *Gifted/creative individuals & their families *Adoption issues *Greek/Greek-American individuals (fluent in Greek) *Orthodox Christian individuals *Identity development (e.
The most important thing in working together is building the foundation of a trusting relationship, where you can feel safe to talk openly. You know your life better than anyone else does. Therefore, we will hold great respect for your self-wisdom. Together with my professional knowledge and experience, we can work to help you discover how to live life in a way that is most fitting for you. NOTE: a professional relationship will not be formed until we both agree to do so, and only during/after an initial meeting. Any prior contact is for informational purposes only.
(424) 226-6838 View (424) 226-6838
Photo of Karen Wiener, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Karen Wiener
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
I also work extensively with people dealing with anxiety and depression, as well as life transitions, such as divorce, grief, empty nest, and career change.
If you are dealing with infidelity, sexual secrets, sex addiction, or drug and alcohol addiction, I am glad you are here. As a licensed therapist specializing in sex addiction (CSAT-C), and trained in EMDR trauma therapy, I also support people with complex trauma and betrayal trauma. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples who are struggling in these areas.
I also work extensively with people dealing with anxiety and depression, as well as life transitions, such as divorce, grief, empty nest, and career change.
If you are dealing with infidelity, sexual secrets, sex addiction, or drug and alcohol addiction, I am glad you are here. As a licensed therapist specializing in sex addiction (CSAT-C), and trained in EMDR trauma therapy, I also support people with complex trauma and betrayal trauma. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples who are struggling in these areas.
(310) 510-6151 View (310) 510-6151
Photo of Mark B. Copeland, Psychologist in 90403, CA
Mark B. Copeland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
At various times in their lives people need help in recognizing what they want and are not getting. In an atmosphere of safety and support, we will look at patterns and beliefs that prevent each person from feeling cohesive and understood. We will also look at patterns that trigger feelings of depression, anger and anxiety, as well as longings that may be shameful and out of awareness. With support and understanding shame can be dealt with and reduced leading to a life that is less isolated and anxiety ridden.
At various times in their lives people need help in recognizing what they want and are not getting. In an atmosphere of safety and support, we will look at patterns and beliefs that prevent each person from feeling cohesive and understood. We will also look at patterns that trigger feelings of depression, anger and anxiety, as well as longings that may be shameful and out of awareness. With support and understanding shame can be dealt with and reduced leading to a life that is less isolated and anxiety ridden.
(424) 294-8921 View (424) 294-8921
Photo of Ali (Alexandria) Wolfe-Grady, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90403, CA
Ali (Alexandria) Wolfe-Grady
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACP, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
I use a warm, direct, and empathetic environment to help with anxiety, depression, transitions, low self-esteem, and trauma.
I find the best way for me to help people reach their goals is to work collaboratively and to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust, honesty, and openness. An individualized therapeutic approach is imperative for helping explore my clients’ unique life experiences. We work together utilizing an eclectic interactive approach that encourages feedback and collaboration to shape treatment to meet a client's individual needs. Together we formulate a plan to address achieving specific short-term goals aimed at improving daily life in addition to long term growth focusing on personal development.
I use a warm, direct, and empathetic environment to help with anxiety, depression, transitions, low self-esteem, and trauma.
I find the best way for me to help people reach their goals is to work collaboratively and to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust, honesty, and openness. An individualized therapeutic approach is imperative for helping explore my clients’ unique life experiences. We work together utilizing an eclectic interactive approach that encourages feedback and collaboration to shape treatment to meet a client's individual needs. Together we formulate a plan to address achieving specific short-term goals aimed at improving daily life in addition to long term growth focusing on personal development.
(805) 608-3474 View (805) 608-3474
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.