Photo of Clint Kreider, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92612, CA
Clint Kreider
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612  (Online Only)
I have found that most men would like to be fully present for their lives. They hope to build healthy, satisfying relationships. They desire to freely pursue their passions. I work with men who feel that something is getting in the way of fulfilling these desires. These obstacles most commonly look like depression, anxiety, addiction, or relationship conflict. I help men feel free again regardless of what may be holding them back. I work with clients to help them find joy in living while becoming the best version of themselves.
I have found that most men would like to be fully present for their lives. They hope to build healthy, satisfying relationships. They desire to freely pursue their passions. I work with men who feel that something is getting in the way of fulfilling these desires. These obstacles most commonly look like depression, anxiety, addiction, or relationship conflict. I help men feel free again regardless of what may be holding them back. I work with clients to help them find joy in living while becoming the best version of themselves.
(714) 465-5923 View (714) 465-5923
Photo of Dr. Cassidy Blair, Psychologist in 92612, CA
Dr. Cassidy Blair
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
(424) 888-6124 View (424) 888-6124
Photo of Ashley Zawolik in 92612, CA
Ashley Zawolik
DNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
My ideal client is someone who has truly struggled with depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, migraines…you’ve tried treatments in the past, whether it’s SSRIs or other modalities for these chronic health conditions, and nothing seems to work. You’re looking for a treatment that is effective and will help you live your best life and help you feel like yourself again
My ideal client is someone who has truly struggled with depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, migraines…you’ve tried treatments in the past, whether it’s SSRIs or other modalities for these chronic health conditions, and nothing seems to work. You’re looking for a treatment that is effective and will help you live your best life and help you feel like yourself again
(949) 482-4368 View (949) 482-4368
Photo of Mona K Eakin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92612, CA
Mona K Eakin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
I am experienced with working with adolescents, teens and adults, who are suffering from anxiety, depression and life changes.
I understand how anxiety and overwhelming worries can be debilitating in these uncertain times. I help adolescents and young adults find the peace they desire. I use my experience in anxiety & trauma to reach your goals. I have success working with high-achievers struggling with perfectionism, imposter syndrome, high expectations, overwhelming stress, loneliness, rigid schedules and balance. My approach is warm, caring, compassionate, collaborative, and supportive towards meeting your goals. My clients appreciate how I am REAL in the room, where they can share openly without judgement.
I am experienced with working with adolescents, teens and adults, who are suffering from anxiety, depression and life changes.
I understand how anxiety and overwhelming worries can be debilitating in these uncertain times. I help adolescents and young adults find the peace they desire. I use my experience in anxiety & trauma to reach your goals. I have success working with high-achievers struggling with perfectionism, imposter syndrome, high expectations, overwhelming stress, loneliness, rigid schedules and balance. My approach is warm, caring, compassionate, collaborative, and supportive towards meeting your goals. My clients appreciate how I am REAL in the room, where they can share openly without judgement.
(714) 242-8973 View (714) 242-8973
Photo of Netta Halpern, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92612, CA
Netta Halpern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
The last few years have been especially challenging: COVID, changes in social structure, inflation and other unsettling issues. Do you find yourself with unsettling intrusive thoughts, confused and/or anxious? Do you feel stuck in life? Are depression and anxiety blocking you from living your life? Don't give up. You don't have to do it alone. We can do it together. There is significant strength in seeking support and guidance when you need it.
The last few years have been especially challenging: COVID, changes in social structure, inflation and other unsettling issues. Do you find yourself with unsettling intrusive thoughts, confused and/or anxious? Do you feel stuck in life? Are depression and anxiety blocking you from living your life? Don't give up. You don't have to do it alone. We can do it together. There is significant strength in seeking support and guidance when you need it.
(714) 867-1405 View (714) 867-1405
Photo of Deeann Peterson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92612, CA
Deeann Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
My goal as a therapist is to help you feel better as quickly as possible. I have years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families with a wide range of issues, including anxiety and depression, marital difficulties, and problems with children/adolescents. Also, I have a strong background in Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Bipolar Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. Please give me a call--I am here to help.
My goal as a therapist is to help you feel better as quickly as possible. I have years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families with a wide range of issues, including anxiety and depression, marital difficulties, and problems with children/adolescents. Also, I have a strong background in Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Bipolar Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. Please give me a call--I am here to help.
(949) 439-3880 View (949) 439-3880
Photo of Alysia St. Clair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92612, CA
Alysia St. Clair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
Alysia is a warm, compassionate, caring clinician who provides a calm safe environment to work through life's challenges. Alysia has extensive experience working with a variety of populations including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and trauma. She uses Evidenced-Based Practices including mindfulness, DBT, EMDR, and CBT to help clients work through struggles. She is an expert on addiction and trauma based interventions. Alysia is certified as an Advanced Mindfulness Practitioner. She is genuinely compassionate and engages deeply with her clients.
Alysia is a warm, compassionate, caring clinician who provides a calm safe environment to work through life's challenges. Alysia has extensive experience working with a variety of populations including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and trauma. She uses Evidenced-Based Practices including mindfulness, DBT, EMDR, and CBT to help clients work through struggles. She is an expert on addiction and trauma based interventions. Alysia is certified as an Advanced Mindfulness Practitioner. She is genuinely compassionate and engages deeply with her clients.
(424) 262-1521 View (424) 262-1521
Photo of Lindsay Waite, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92612, CA
Lindsay Waite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
My name is Lindsay Waite, LCSW. My area of focus is treating trauma and I take a client-centered, Positive Psychology, humanistic approach. I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal conflict, and addiction in both adults and teens. I provide a holistic or integrative approach to therapy meaning I may use psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive, or humanistic depending on the background and needs of the client.
My name is Lindsay Waite, LCSW. My area of focus is treating trauma and I take a client-centered, Positive Psychology, humanistic approach. I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal conflict, and addiction in both adults and teens. I provide a holistic or integrative approach to therapy meaning I may use psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive, or humanistic depending on the background and needs of the client.
(831) 777-3817 View (831) 777-3817
Photo of Kathleen (Kay) Wenger, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92612, CA
Kathleen (Kay) Wenger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
I offer Couples Counseling, Marital Counseling, Issues with Depression or Anxiety.
Do you feel out of balance in your life? Having conflicts with important relationships; anxiety about the future; regrets about the past? Feeling as though life is passing you by and the joy you once felt isn't there anymore? Let me help you restore balance and happiness in your life and relationships. I am an experienced, skilled licensed counselor and psychology educator and want to help you regain your life, and live it to the fullest. If you are looking for a better life, or just want to resolve a problem that has you stumped, I can help.
I offer Couples Counseling, Marital Counseling, Issues with Depression or Anxiety.
Do you feel out of balance in your life? Having conflicts with important relationships; anxiety about the future; regrets about the past? Feeling as though life is passing you by and the joy you once felt isn't there anymore? Let me help you restore balance and happiness in your life and relationships. I am an experienced, skilled licensed counselor and psychology educator and want to help you regain your life, and live it to the fullest. If you are looking for a better life, or just want to resolve a problem that has you stumped, I can help.
(949) 357-3587 View (949) 357-3587
Photo of Christine Chae, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92612, CA
Christine Chae
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
Are you feeling helpless in dealing with your child/teen emotional and behavioral issues? Do you feel lost in connecting with your child/teen? You want to help them but don't know how? I have been working with children, adults, and families for over 15 years to bring out their potential in mindfulness, creativity and relationships through individual and family therapy. Through this process, clients get to know themselves better, in a safe and supportive environment. I develop a therapeutic relationship based on their needs and goals. My experience includes treating individuals with depression, anxiety, anger, and trauma.
Are you feeling helpless in dealing with your child/teen emotional and behavioral issues? Do you feel lost in connecting with your child/teen? You want to help them but don't know how? I have been working with children, adults, and families for over 15 years to bring out their potential in mindfulness, creativity and relationships through individual and family therapy. Through this process, clients get to know themselves better, in a safe and supportive environment. I develop a therapeutic relationship based on their needs and goals. My experience includes treating individuals with depression, anxiety, anger, and trauma.
(818) 350-5345 View (818) 350-5345
Photo of Stephanie Lanphier, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92612, CA
Stephanie Lanphier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am Stephanie Lanphier, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use a compassionate and solution-focused approach in my work with adults experiencing disordered eating, body-image issues, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about holistic mental health care and believe that many psychological imbalances can be navigated with a holistic approach as well as commitment and belief in healing from the client. I love educating and empowering my clients to make lifestyle changes that support a vital mind, body, & spirit. I enjoy working with people who prefer to take a natural approach in treating their mental health.
Hi there! I am Stephanie Lanphier, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use a compassionate and solution-focused approach in my work with adults experiencing disordered eating, body-image issues, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about holistic mental health care and believe that many psychological imbalances can be navigated with a holistic approach as well as commitment and belief in healing from the client. I love educating and empowering my clients to make lifestyle changes that support a vital mind, body, & spirit. I enjoy working with people who prefer to take a natural approach in treating their mental health.
(714) 266-1836 View (714) 266-1836
Photo of Sanjeshni Sen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92612, CA
Sanjeshni Sen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
My name is Sanjeshni Sen. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 105067). I utilize a person centered/humanistic approach to therapy. My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, grief, stage of life transitions, interpersonal relationships/conflicts, PTSD, women's issues, coping skills, and addiction/ relapse prevention. I have worked with individuals from varies paths of life. This includes working with individuals with mood disorders, comorbidity, life transitions, self-esteem, family conflict, peer/ romantic relationships, grief, perinatal (pregnancy, postpartum), LGBTQ+ and racial identity.
My name is Sanjeshni Sen. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 105067). I utilize a person centered/humanistic approach to therapy. My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, grief, stage of life transitions, interpersonal relationships/conflicts, PTSD, women's issues, coping skills, and addiction/ relapse prevention. I have worked with individuals from varies paths of life. This includes working with individuals with mood disorders, comorbidity, life transitions, self-esteem, family conflict, peer/ romantic relationships, grief, perinatal (pregnancy, postpartum), LGBTQ+ and racial identity.
(661) 463-9826 View (661) 463-9826
Photo of Babak Govan, Psychologist in 92612, CA
Babak Govan
Psychologist, PhD, MAOB
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping to manage and overcome self-defeating behaviors, relationship problems, depression, and anxiety.
Whether life is going well or you are struggling to feel well, therapy could be a helpful and powerful tool in moving forward. Finding the right therapist, however, could be overwhelming. With investments of energy, time, and money, it is important to select a therapist with whom you feel comfortable—someone that "gets" you and in whom you have trust and confidence. I enjoy helping adults understand their barriers and strengths to help them meet their goals in the various aspects of their lives, such as relationships, work, school, and health.
I specialize in helping to manage and overcome self-defeating behaviors, relationship problems, depression, and anxiety.
Whether life is going well or you are struggling to feel well, therapy could be a helpful and powerful tool in moving forward. Finding the right therapist, however, could be overwhelming. With investments of energy, time, and money, it is important to select a therapist with whom you feel comfortable—someone that "gets" you and in whom you have trust and confidence. I enjoy helping adults understand their barriers and strengths to help them meet their goals in the various aspects of their lives, such as relationships, work, school, and health.
(818) 522-2106 View (818) 522-2106
Photo of Ryan Sauma, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92612, CA
Ryan Sauma
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
Accepting new clients! Life's journey is a remarkable adventure filled with unexpected challenges and pains. I work with teens, adults, and couples to alleviate depression, anxiety, and trauma. I have specialized training and experience working with substance use disorders and addiction. I recognize the allure of quick fixes that offer immediate relief but often lead away from one's true self and cherished connections. In my practice, I employ evidence-based interventions from EMDR therapy, Motivational Interviewing, family systems, and Solution-Based treatment to guide you toward lasting positive change.
Accepting new clients! Life's journey is a remarkable adventure filled with unexpected challenges and pains. I work with teens, adults, and couples to alleviate depression, anxiety, and trauma. I have specialized training and experience working with substance use disorders and addiction. I recognize the allure of quick fixes that offer immediate relief but often lead away from one's true self and cherished connections. In my practice, I employ evidence-based interventions from EMDR therapy, Motivational Interviewing, family systems, and Solution-Based treatment to guide you toward lasting positive change.
(949) 990-6734 View (949) 990-6734
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92612, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-1303 View (562) 268-1303
Photo of Ramon Lawrence Ivey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92612, CA
Ramon Lawrence Ivey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CCPS-C
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
Do you find yourself weighed down by the struggles of your past and/or present? Do these burdens impact you and your relationships? Do you have hurts and/or habits from which you need freedom? I am honored to walk this journey of healing with my clients. During my 17+ years in the field I have received specialized training in the areas of individual and couples Therapy, addiction, sexual addiction, and betrayal Trauma. I feel honored to help individuals/couples gain freedom from personal and relational empasses, identity issues, sexual identity issues, anxiety, depression, abuse history, trauma, grief, and spiritual reconciliation.
Do you find yourself weighed down by the struggles of your past and/or present? Do these burdens impact you and your relationships? Do you have hurts and/or habits from which you need freedom? I am honored to walk this journey of healing with my clients. During my 17+ years in the field I have received specialized training in the areas of individual and couples Therapy, addiction, sexual addiction, and betrayal Trauma. I feel honored to help individuals/couples gain freedom from personal and relational empasses, identity issues, sexual identity issues, anxiety, depression, abuse history, trauma, grief, and spiritual reconciliation.
(714) 500-8702 View (714) 500-8702
Photo of Kristin Canedo, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 92612, CA
Kristin Canedo
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
Are work or school stressors overshadowing other areas of life, like hobbies or friendships? Are you feeling anxious, restless, or depressed and can’t seem to pinpoint why? Are you having difficulty feeling confident in yourself? Perhaps you feel like you're juggling endless responsibilities with little time for yourself. These are all concerns that are regularly experienced by people, especially teens and young adults. Life can bring on many uncertainties, but one thing’s for sure: you’re ready for relief and to be free of anxiety, self-doubt, and stress.
Are work or school stressors overshadowing other areas of life, like hobbies or friendships? Are you feeling anxious, restless, or depressed and can’t seem to pinpoint why? Are you having difficulty feeling confident in yourself? Perhaps you feel like you're juggling endless responsibilities with little time for yourself. These are all concerns that are regularly experienced by people, especially teens and young adults. Life can bring on many uncertainties, but one thing’s for sure: you’re ready for relief and to be free of anxiety, self-doubt, and stress.
(949) 844-3775 View (949) 844-3775
Photo of Dr. Eima Mesgarha Uplyft Psychological Services Inc, Psychologist in 92612, CA
Dr. Eima Mesgarha Uplyft Psychological Services Inc
Psychologist, PsyD , LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Relationships & Intimacy, Trauma & holistic health, full battery psychological testing .
Struggling handling stress? Feeling stuck in your relationship? Searching for your life purpose? You should know that you are NOT alone. So many of us face hardship and challenges at different times throughout our lives. We may need support finding self-awareness and compassion which I believe is the key in the healing process. I enjoy acting as an empowering guide along your journey. I believe in our innate capacity to change and create a meaningful and UPLIFTING life. All you need to start your journey is the WILLINGNESS to take the first step & trust the process.
Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Relationships & Intimacy, Trauma & holistic health, full battery psychological testing .
Struggling handling stress? Feeling stuck in your relationship? Searching for your life purpose? You should know that you are NOT alone. So many of us face hardship and challenges at different times throughout our lives. We may need support finding self-awareness and compassion which I believe is the key in the healing process. I enjoy acting as an empowering guide along your journey. I believe in our innate capacity to change and create a meaningful and UPLIFTING life. All you need to start your journey is the WILLINGNESS to take the first step & trust the process.
(714) 464-6685 View (714) 464-6685
Photo of Zer Alon, Psychologist in 92612, CA
Zer Alon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92612
Are you looking for therapy to help you move toward personal growth and positive change? My psychology practice specializes in providing individual counseling with adults, utilizing a combination of modern therapy and wellness in an embracing environment. I work with many types of clients and can help with anxiety or depression, creating balance during a transition, understanding personal struggles, and increasing self-esteem and self-compassion. By developing a collaborative working relationship, I customize treatment for each client based on individual needs. Now is the time to allow yourself to grow and thrive!
Are you looking for therapy to help you move toward personal growth and positive change? My psychology practice specializes in providing individual counseling with adults, utilizing a combination of modern therapy and wellness in an embracing environment. I work with many types of clients and can help with anxiety or depression, creating balance during a transition, understanding personal struggles, and increasing self-esteem and self-compassion. By developing a collaborative working relationship, I customize treatment for each client based on individual needs. Now is the time to allow yourself to grow and thrive!
(949) 873-4054 View (949) 873-4054
Photo of Maher Sonbol, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92612, CA
Maher Sonbol
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, CPLC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
I provide support for individuals who struggle with episodes of depression, anxiety.
As LMFT, Certified EMDR therapist and certified Anger Management specialist, my focus and passion is to work with both couples to create and maintain a healthy relationship and help individuals develop healthier ways to express and manage their anger. In couples and marriage counseling, I help couples overcome their differences and handle their conflicts and seek better ways to communicate, develop deeper intimacy, and experience joy in each other. Clients struggling with anger and stress related problems, I teach and process the necessary skills needed to express anger in healthier ways.
I provide support for individuals who struggle with episodes of depression, anxiety.
As LMFT, Certified EMDR therapist and certified Anger Management specialist, my focus and passion is to work with both couples to create and maintain a healthy relationship and help individuals develop healthier ways to express and manage their anger. In couples and marriage counseling, I help couples overcome their differences and handle their conflicts and seek better ways to communicate, develop deeper intimacy, and experience joy in each other. Clients struggling with anger and stress related problems, I teach and process the necessary skills needed to express anger in healthier ways.
(657) 223-0850 View (657) 223-0850

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.