Photo of Dr. Joung-Woo John Kim, MA, PsyD, PhD, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dr. Joung-Woo John Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, PsyD, PhD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Whether you are a teenager in pain, a pre-college student agonizing to find your major and career, a high-performing professional suddenly searching for meaning of life or transition, a premarital couple wanting to check out their relationship before tying the knot, or depressed about self and others, John will work with you in a safe and friendly space.
Mental health is as important as physical health. So if you need professional help with your mind, just as you would seek a doctor for your physical health, you need to see a mental health therapist. John is passionate about working with individuals and couples on mental issues including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, disconnection with self and others, hopelessness, abandonment, rejection, betrayal, losses/grief, self value and (pre)marital issues. I am also a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and can help couple get the relationship analyzed across 14 dimensions including communication, finance, sex, parenting, religion, etc.
Whether you are a teenager in pain, a pre-college student agonizing to find your major and career, a high-performing professional suddenly searching for meaning of life or transition, a premarital couple wanting to check out their relationship before tying the knot, or depressed about self and others, John will work with you in a safe and friendly space.
Mental health is as important as physical health. So if you need professional help with your mind, just as you would seek a doctor for your physical health, you need to see a mental health therapist. John is passionate about working with individuals and couples on mental issues including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, disconnection with self and others, hopelessness, abandonment, rejection, betrayal, losses/grief, self value and (pre)marital issues. I am also a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and can help couple get the relationship analyzed across 14 dimensions including communication, finance, sex, parenting, religion, etc.
(626) 900-0964 View (626) 900-0964
Photo of Dr. Donsha Robinson-McClain, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Dr. Donsha Robinson-McClain
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
I specialize in both long and short term models of therapy to address depression, anxiety, body image issues, relationship problems and identity issues.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I believe that a collaborative therapeutic relationship that incorporates all aspects of the client's life is key. I view therapy as a journey of self-discovery, and personal growth. I view my role as a facilitator of change, and it is my goal to assist client's in becoming their own facilitators of their personal change. I believe my strengths include an ability to build a strong rapport that helps client to feel empowered to meet their desired goals.
I specialize in both long and short term models of therapy to address depression, anxiety, body image issues, relationship problems and identity issues.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I believe that a collaborative therapeutic relationship that incorporates all aspects of the client's life is key. I view therapy as a journey of self-discovery, and personal growth. I view my role as a facilitator of change, and it is my goal to assist client's in becoming their own facilitators of their personal change. I believe my strengths include an ability to build a strong rapport that helps client to feel empowered to meet their desired goals.
(626) 209-9976 View (626) 209-9976
Photo of Kayt Pattee - 333 Mind Body Spirit Psychotherapy and Reiki, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
333 Mind Body Spirit Psychotherapy and Reiki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
I help you build tools to overcome your anxiety and depression.
You're feeling blocked; emotionally, spiritually or creatively. You're worried about the future and yearning to feel like you again. You are ready to let go of all that no longer serves you so you can freely move forward in your life and live up to your highest potential. You're tired of the chatter inside your head and want to feel confident listening to the guidence of your true self. Whether this is a solo journey, or includes your partner, you are ready to evolve. We are all creative beings with the potential to manifest the life and relationships we want for ourselves.
I help you build tools to overcome your anxiety and depression.
You're feeling blocked; emotionally, spiritually or creatively. You're worried about the future and yearning to feel like you again. You are ready to let go of all that no longer serves you so you can freely move forward in your life and live up to your highest potential. You're tired of the chatter inside your head and want to feel confident listening to the guidence of your true self. Whether this is a solo journey, or includes your partner, you are ready to evolve. We are all creative beings with the potential to manifest the life and relationships we want for ourselves.
(424) 329-1929 View (424) 329-1929
Photo of Jennifer Hayes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
I provide a safe and sacred space to help clients wade through feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship and existential issues.
Life can be challenging and complex. At times we are faced with situations that feel overwhelming and seemingly insurmountable. Trauma can result in a loss of a sense of self and hopelessness. Engaging in therapy is a personal decision; one that requires commitment and hard work to attain life changes. I believe therapy tailored to meet individual needs can facilitate increased self-awareness leading to emotional, as well as, relational attunement and enhancement. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, offering sensitivity to experiences of marginalization, ableism, discrimination, racism, or other 'isms encountered.
I provide a safe and sacred space to help clients wade through feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship and existential issues.
Life can be challenging and complex. At times we are faced with situations that feel overwhelming and seemingly insurmountable. Trauma can result in a loss of a sense of self and hopelessness. Engaging in therapy is a personal decision; one that requires commitment and hard work to attain life changes. I believe therapy tailored to meet individual needs can facilitate increased self-awareness leading to emotional, as well as, relational attunement and enhancement. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, offering sensitivity to experiences of marginalization, ableism, discrimination, racism, or other 'isms encountered.
(626) 774-8204 View (626) 774-8204
Photo of Ricardo Robles, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ricardo Robles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Most of my clients are young professionals or college and high school students who want to do in-depth, transformative therapy. I enjoy helping people who wish to heal from past trauma or loss, depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. I believe therapy serves as a way of liberating ourselves from problems and wounds of the past so that we can go out into the world to relate and live in newer, more meaningful, ways.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Most of my clients are young professionals or college and high school students who want to do in-depth, transformative therapy. I enjoy helping people who wish to heal from past trauma or loss, depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. I believe therapy serves as a way of liberating ourselves from problems and wounds of the past so that we can go out into the world to relate and live in newer, more meaningful, ways.
(626) 498-1293 View (626) 498-1293
Photo of Masood Moghaddam, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Masood Moghaddam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
I work with adults across the lifespan through individual and couples therapy, and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and life transitions.
You’ve taken a courageous step in searching for a therapist and I’m glad you’re here. I’m Masood Maghaddam, a bicultural/bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker supporting clients’ goals toward positive change. I use an integrative approach, utilizing both behavioral and psychodynamic methods that’s personalized to your specific needs. Whether you’re wanting to improve your quality of life and strengthen relationships or facing anxiety or depression, I’m here to help and empower you on this healing journey.
I work with adults across the lifespan through individual and couples therapy, and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and life transitions.
You’ve taken a courageous step in searching for a therapist and I’m glad you’re here. I’m Masood Maghaddam, a bicultural/bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker supporting clients’ goals toward positive change. I use an integrative approach, utilizing both behavioral and psychodynamic methods that’s personalized to your specific needs. Whether you’re wanting to improve your quality of life and strengthen relationships or facing anxiety or depression, I’m here to help and empower you on this healing journey.
(925) 588-7656 View (925) 588-7656
Photo of Alexandra Jackson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
My name is Alexandra Jackson. My license is LCSW22763. I have worked in various settings and age 2 years old to 90 years old. Expertise is age-related issues, death and dying, multigenerational communication problems and issues related to living and honoring multi cultures within family and/or self, violence in family and community, refugee issues, trauma, communication skills, caregiver issues, anxiety, depression, and self. I work with children, adults, and the elderly who have depression and/or anxiety. Some clients have long-term depression/anxiety others are acute. I evaluate for previous trauma and risk assessment.
My name is Alexandra Jackson. My license is LCSW22763. I have worked in various settings and age 2 years old to 90 years old. Expertise is age-related issues, death and dying, multigenerational communication problems and issues related to living and honoring multi cultures within family and/or self, violence in family and community, refugee issues, trauma, communication skills, caregiver issues, anxiety, depression, and self. I work with children, adults, and the elderly who have depression and/or anxiety. Some clients have long-term depression/anxiety others are acute. I evaluate for previous trauma and risk assessment.
(909) 324-2057 View (909) 324-2057
Photo of Tamika Wyatt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tamika Wyatt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With my specializations in trauma, anxiety, depression, in conjunction with practices in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused, and Humanistic approaches we can begin to put you back in control of your life.
Is your sink full of dirty dishes? What is your smallest dish? We all know that feeling of looking at a sink full of dirty dishes and just not knowing where to start so when things become distressing the best way to move forward is to “wash the smallest dish”. I know many of us can relate to this simple but profound metaphor, at times we become so overwhelmed by the nuances of life that gaining mastery in managing some of the “dishes” in our lives related to trauma, anxiety, depression, and stress can leave us feeling stuck or unsure of just what to do because all we can see is the sink full of dishes.
With my specializations in trauma, anxiety, depression, in conjunction with practices in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused, and Humanistic approaches we can begin to put you back in control of your life.
Is your sink full of dirty dishes? What is your smallest dish? We all know that feeling of looking at a sink full of dirty dishes and just not knowing where to start so when things become distressing the best way to move forward is to “wash the smallest dish”. I know many of us can relate to this simple but profound metaphor, at times we become so overwhelmed by the nuances of life that gaining mastery in managing some of the “dishes” in our lives related to trauma, anxiety, depression, and stress can leave us feeling stuck or unsure of just what to do because all we can see is the sink full of dishes.
(626) 649-3946 View (626) 649-3946
Photo of Elizabeth Munoz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Munoz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
I work with individuals facing anxiety, depression, grief, and life adjustments.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Muñoz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering telehealth services to individuals above the age of 18. I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC). I have been practicing for 7 years. My services are available in both English and Spanish. My therapeutic style and approach have been a good fit for adults who may be dealing with challenges or life transitions. Oftentimes, this will present in the form of depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, among other things.
I work with individuals facing anxiety, depression, grief, and life adjustments.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Muñoz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering telehealth services to individuals above the age of 18. I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC). I have been practicing for 7 years. My services are available in both English and Spanish. My therapeutic style and approach have been a good fit for adults who may be dealing with challenges or life transitions. Oftentimes, this will present in the form of depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, among other things.
(760) 478-0974 View (760) 478-0974
Photo of Herson Mojica, PsyD, Psychologist
Herson Mojica
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
I extend a warm welcome to individuals grappling with a diverse spectrum of challenges and diagnoses. My expertise lies in providing support to those navigating issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment difficulties, and provide affirmative therapy to those who identify as LGBTQ+. Additionally, I specialize in conducting psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessments, which are designed to comprehensively evaluate cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects. These assessments are offered to individuals of all ages, aiding in better understanding and addressing a wide range of psychological and cognitive concerns.
I extend a warm welcome to individuals grappling with a diverse spectrum of challenges and diagnoses. My expertise lies in providing support to those navigating issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment difficulties, and provide affirmative therapy to those who identify as LGBTQ+. Additionally, I specialize in conducting psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessments, which are designed to comprehensively evaluate cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects. These assessments are offered to individuals of all ages, aiding in better understanding and addressing a wide range of psychological and cognitive concerns.
(323) 615-1365 View (323) 615-1365
Photo of Daniel Fenton, PhD, Psychologist
Daniel Fenton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Fenton is experienced in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Currently licensed in California (In-Person & Virtual) and Nevada (Virtual Only). Dr. Daniel Fenton is a Neuropsychologist and Psychotherapist who works with individuals across the lifespan. He provides neurocognitive and psychological evaluation, in addition to psychotherapy. His specialty is the interaction between medical illness and psychological symptoms/conditions such as, depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. He is passionate about working with individuals experiencing chronic and acute medical conditions, marital and relational conflict, career stress, as well as challenging life transitions.
Fenton is experienced in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Currently licensed in California (In-Person & Virtual) and Nevada (Virtual Only). Dr. Daniel Fenton is a Neuropsychologist and Psychotherapist who works with individuals across the lifespan. He provides neurocognitive and psychological evaluation, in addition to psychotherapy. His specialty is the interaction between medical illness and psychological symptoms/conditions such as, depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. He is passionate about working with individuals experiencing chronic and acute medical conditions, marital and relational conflict, career stress, as well as challenging life transitions.
(626) 723-3934 View (626) 723-3934
Photo of Donald Vergara Martinez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donald Vergara Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Choosing a therapist is deeply personal and usually comes down to an unexplainable sense or feeling that it's right. Of course it's difficult to develop that sense from a web profile so I provide a free initial consultation to support a more personal and informed process of choosing a therapist. The catalyst for therapy is often a debilitating chronic anxiety or depression that "is not me", or pain in a relationship that we care deeply about, or an addiction that hurts the ones that matter most to us.
Choosing a therapist is deeply personal and usually comes down to an unexplainable sense or feeling that it's right. Of course it's difficult to develop that sense from a web profile so I provide a free initial consultation to support a more personal and informed process of choosing a therapist. The catalyst for therapy is often a debilitating chronic anxiety or depression that "is not me", or pain in a relationship that we care deeply about, or an addiction that hurts the ones that matter most to us.
(626) 507-6628 View (626) 507-6628
Photo of Denise Pham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Pham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
If you or your child/teen is struggling with depression, anxiety, or trauma, please reach out so we can begin working towards positive change together.
Your overall wellness extends beyond your physical health and, by taking this first step to find a therapist, you are showing yourself love and compassion. Thank you for making your emotional and mental well-being a priority. Change takes time, is difficult, and can be scary but is ultimately, liberating and transformative. When we make changes in our lives, we open ourselves up to growth and new possibilities. Ghandi believed “the future depends on what you do today.” I believe each of us can overcome the obstacles that impact our relationships, happiness, quality of life, and keep us from being our most authentic selves.
If you or your child/teen is struggling with depression, anxiety, or trauma, please reach out so we can begin working towards positive change together.
Your overall wellness extends beyond your physical health and, by taking this first step to find a therapist, you are showing yourself love and compassion. Thank you for making your emotional and mental well-being a priority. Change takes time, is difficult, and can be scary but is ultimately, liberating and transformative. When we make changes in our lives, we open ourselves up to growth and new possibilities. Ghandi believed “the future depends on what you do today.” I believe each of us can overcome the obstacles that impact our relationships, happiness, quality of life, and keep us from being our most authentic selves.
(626) 298-7569 View (626) 298-7569
Photo of Tamika Damond - Believe Psychology Group, Inc., PhD, Psychologist
Believe Psychology Group, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
I provide compassionate support & guidance when struggling with symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, or going through a life transition.
Are you seeking Healing, Personal Growth & Empowerment? Are you a teen or young adult (age 18-35). This period in your life has the potential to be filled with the best memories of youth and freedom but are often weighed down by anxiety and feelings of sadness. Have you experienced difficulties in being a student, an early career professional, a new parent/spouse or an artist (actor, musician or creative soul)? Now is the time to move past your past, embrace your present and design your future. Learn how to develop emotional safety, remove creative blocks, recapture your purpose and focus, and improve your performance skills.
I provide compassionate support & guidance when struggling with symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, or going through a life transition.
Are you seeking Healing, Personal Growth & Empowerment? Are you a teen or young adult (age 18-35). This period in your life has the potential to be filled with the best memories of youth and freedom but are often weighed down by anxiety and feelings of sadness. Have you experienced difficulties in being a student, an early career professional, a new parent/spouse or an artist (actor, musician or creative soul)? Now is the time to move past your past, embrace your present and design your future. Learn how to develop emotional safety, remove creative blocks, recapture your purpose and focus, and improve your performance skills.
(213) 297-3921 View (213) 297-3921
Photo of La Cresheia Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist
La Cresheia Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
La Cresheia Lee, MA MFT, LMFT I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California, with over 12 years of experience (combined licensed and intern hours), and I hold BA degrees in Psychology and Africana Studies. I have worked with diverse clients experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, cultural & racial identity, stress management, and grief and loss. I have also helped many clients who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, and those struggling with suicide ideation and co-occurring disorders.
La Cresheia Lee, MA MFT, LMFT I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California, with over 12 years of experience (combined licensed and intern hours), and I hold BA degrees in Psychology and Africana Studies. I have worked with diverse clients experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, cultural & racial identity, stress management, and grief and loss. I have also helped many clients who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, and those struggling with suicide ideation and co-occurring disorders.
(820) 204-0541 View (820) 204-0541
Photo of David Talavera, PhD, Psychologist
David Talavera
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Hi, I’m Dr. David Talavera! I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults seeking growth, connection, and resilience. Whether you’re facing burnout, stress, anxiety, communication issues, comparisons challenges, grief, depression, or trauma, I am here to guide you through it with warmth and compassion. My approach to therapy is all about you. I take a client-centered approach, working with you to develop a deeper understanding of life's struggles and finding ways to overcome and grow stronger. Together, we’ll develop strategies to cope with hardships, promote healing, and ultimately empower you to be your own therapist.
Hi, I’m Dr. David Talavera! I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults seeking growth, connection, and resilience. Whether you’re facing burnout, stress, anxiety, communication issues, comparisons challenges, grief, depression, or trauma, I am here to guide you through it with warmth and compassion. My approach to therapy is all about you. I take a client-centered approach, working with you to develop a deeper understanding of life's struggles and finding ways to overcome and grow stronger. Together, we’ll develop strategies to cope with hardships, promote healing, and ultimately empower you to be your own therapist.
(805) 323-9492 View (805) 323-9492
Photo of Andrew Aytona, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew Aytona
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
Everyone seeks the feeling of being understood and accepted, but sometimes we become comfortable with being unhappy. As a therapist, my goal is to provide empathy, support, safety, and cultural sensitivity. I will assist in helping you work through various issues to achieve a more productive approach to the way you think, make decisions, and relate to others. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process and I strive to create an environment that allows for authenticity, support, and trust between us.
Everyone seeks the feeling of being understood and accepted, but sometimes we become comfortable with being unhappy. As a therapist, my goal is to provide empathy, support, safety, and cultural sensitivity. I will assist in helping you work through various issues to achieve a more productive approach to the way you think, make decisions, and relate to others. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process and I strive to create an environment that allows for authenticity, support, and trust between us.
(626) 542-1121 View (626) 542-1121
Photo of Shannon Couture O'Flinn, PhD, Psychologist
Shannon Couture O'Flinn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Do you struggle with constant worry and perfectionism? Does anxiety affect your ability to connect with others and your life in a meaningful way? Are you going through a current life transition or stressor with which you are struggling to adapt? Difficulty in your current relationships? Through my years providing therapy and supervising students who are learning how to become therapists, I have developed an expertise in these areas. I provide Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and exposure therapy.
Do you struggle with constant worry and perfectionism? Does anxiety affect your ability to connect with others and your life in a meaningful way? Are you going through a current life transition or stressor with which you are struggling to adapt? Difficulty in your current relationships? Through my years providing therapy and supervising students who are learning how to become therapists, I have developed an expertise in these areas. I provide Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and exposure therapy.
(626) 869-2043 View (626) 869-2043
Photo of Michael E Farinha, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Michael E Farinha
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
As your psychologist/therapist I will help you in anyway that I can. I will provide you a supportive and comforting environment in which you will able to share and process your feelings. We will also look at ways that we can improve your psychological health and well-being by applying cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, as well as recovery, spirituality, and grief and loss issues. We will identify any illnesses and issues, and will work towards full recovery. I see individuals, couples and families for psychotherapy, intervention and consultation. I specialize in mood, anxiety, addictive and relationship disorders.
As your psychologist/therapist I will help you in anyway that I can. I will provide you a supportive and comforting environment in which you will able to share and process your feelings. We will also look at ways that we can improve your psychological health and well-being by applying cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, as well as recovery, spirituality, and grief and loss issues. We will identify any illnesses and issues, and will work towards full recovery. I see individuals, couples and families for psychotherapy, intervention and consultation. I specialize in mood, anxiety, addictive and relationship disorders.
(626) 325-0766 View (626) 325-0766
Photo of Jayne Han, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jayne Han
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have served clients of all ages, in all life stages, and of various backgrounds. My therapeutic skills have been honed by solid training, my own emotional work, and from walking with clients who have allowed me into their sacred process of growth for the last 27 years.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have served clients of all ages, in all life stages, and of various backgrounds. My therapeutic skills have been honed by solid training, my own emotional work, and from walking with clients who have allowed me into their sacred process of growth for the last 27 years.
(626) 594-9470 View (626) 594-9470
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.