Photo of Patricia Banchik Rothschild, LMFT, CMHIMP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Banchik Rothschild
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Waitlist for new clients
I also work with children , teenagers and adults who are suffering from depression and anxiety.
My experience comes from 31 years of helping children, adults, couples and families in both Community Mental Health and Private Practice. My approach is eclectic and tailored to each individual's needs to facilitate healing and growth. Through my years of experience I have witnessed over and over again people coming into therapy with great pain, discomfort and despair but with time, (sometimes within a very short time) their symptoms diminish and a whole new person emerges. Crisis times can be extremely painful and distressful but they can also be opportunities for growth and healing through therapy.
I also work with children , teenagers and adults who are suffering from depression and anxiety.
My experience comes from 31 years of helping children, adults, couples and families in both Community Mental Health and Private Practice. My approach is eclectic and tailored to each individual's needs to facilitate healing and growth. Through my years of experience I have witnessed over and over again people coming into therapy with great pain, discomfort and despair but with time, (sometimes within a very short time) their symptoms diminish and a whole new person emerges. Crisis times can be extremely painful and distressful but they can also be opportunities for growth and healing through therapy.
(510) 403-8151 View (510) 403-8151
Photo of Brandon Brawner, PhD, Psychologist
Brandon Brawner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I'm here to support teenage youth, parents/families, and adults in meeting their emotional, psychological and practical challenges. If you're a teen struggling with school problems, family difficulties or hoping to improve your mood, confidence and relationships, I can assist you in breaking down obstacles and achieving your goals. If you're a parent trying to manage and communicate with your "coming of age" depressed or rebellious adolescent, I provide counsel and safe opportunities to explore the conflicts and confusion that block resolutions.
I'm here to support teenage youth, parents/families, and adults in meeting their emotional, psychological and practical challenges. If you're a teen struggling with school problems, family difficulties or hoping to improve your mood, confidence and relationships, I can assist you in breaking down obstacles and achieving your goals. If you're a parent trying to manage and communicate with your "coming of age" depressed or rebellious adolescent, I provide counsel and safe opportunities to explore the conflicts and confusion that block resolutions.
(510) 400-4171 View (510) 400-4171
Photo of Anna M Musco, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna M Musco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Damaged relationships with the world and our families can affect us deeply throughout our lives leaving us feeling isolated, uncomfortable in our bodies and generally unsafe. Our energy begins to decline along with our enthusiasm for life. Its confusing. We quietly stonewall everything and everyone while wishing for the right partner, right career and right friends. Feelings of insecurity, loneliness or shame can spiral into deep bouts of depression, acting out, despair and suicide. Prioritizing the needs of everyone else can lead to unhealthy behaviors and choices supplanting authenticity and joy, while swapping virtual reality for real relationships and happiness.
Damaged relationships with the world and our families can affect us deeply throughout our lives leaving us feeling isolated, uncomfortable in our bodies and generally unsafe. Our energy begins to decline along with our enthusiasm for life. Its confusing. We quietly stonewall everything and everyone while wishing for the right partner, right career and right friends. Feelings of insecurity, loneliness or shame can spiral into deep bouts of depression, acting out, despair and suicide. Prioritizing the needs of everyone else can lead to unhealthy behaviors and choices supplanting authenticity and joy, while swapping virtual reality for real relationships and happiness.
(510) 466-1346 View (510) 466-1346
Photo of Genevieve Vidal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Genevieve Vidal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I have successfully helped clients address issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship troubles, self- criticism, grief, and changing family roles.
Many people seek therapy to alleviate painful symptoms and suffering. In my experience, insight about oneself can often be the best healer. And while therapy can lead to change, it can also bring the satisfaction of becoming even more fully oneself. My approach is warm, interactive, and non-judgmental. I strive to help you understand the meaning of your troubles and their origins, which may be familiar or altogether new to you. I welcome many forms of communication - although talking may be the primary vehicle for our explorations, much can be learned from the body sensations, images, and fantasies that appear in your sessions.
I have successfully helped clients address issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship troubles, self- criticism, grief, and changing family roles.
Many people seek therapy to alleviate painful symptoms and suffering. In my experience, insight about oneself can often be the best healer. And while therapy can lead to change, it can also bring the satisfaction of becoming even more fully oneself. My approach is warm, interactive, and non-judgmental. I strive to help you understand the meaning of your troubles and their origins, which may be familiar or altogether new to you. I welcome many forms of communication - although talking may be the primary vehicle for our explorations, much can be learned from the body sensations, images, and fantasies that appear in your sessions.
(341) 888-6304 View (341) 888-6304
Photo of Lotus Do, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lotus Do
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless? Facing a crossroads? Exhausted by endless responsibilities? Relief may seem impossible when you are faced with chronic stress or extreme difficulties... but it is possible. My name is Lotus and I may be able to help. I am a Licensed Therapist and Gender Specialist with nearly a decade of experience specializing in Gender Dysphoria, complex trauma, depression, anxiety and disordered eating across the entire lifespan. Whether you are seeking support for you or your child, no topic is "too much" for me. I have supported hundreds of children and their families and adults build balanced, joyful lives.
Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless? Facing a crossroads? Exhausted by endless responsibilities? Relief may seem impossible when you are faced with chronic stress or extreme difficulties... but it is possible. My name is Lotus and I may be able to help. I am a Licensed Therapist and Gender Specialist with nearly a decade of experience specializing in Gender Dysphoria, complex trauma, depression, anxiety and disordered eating across the entire lifespan. Whether you are seeking support for you or your child, no topic is "too much" for me. I have supported hundreds of children and their families and adults build balanced, joyful lives.
(619) 383-3284 View (619) 383-3284
Photo of Dax Glasson-Darling, LCSW, MT-BC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dax Glasson-Darling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I am a licensed clincial social worker and board-certified music therapist. I aim to provide therapy that is anti-racist, accessible, queer affirming, sex and body positive, kink aware, trauma informed, and accepting of all relationship styles. My current focus is providing individual teletherapy to LGBTQIA2S+ adults experiencing life transitions and wanting to heal from trauma, depression, and anxiety. I am also passionate about working with people who are exploring sexuality, gender expression, and gender identity. I am able to provide letters for gender-affirming medical services if that is a part of your journey.
I am a licensed clincial social worker and board-certified music therapist. I aim to provide therapy that is anti-racist, accessible, queer affirming, sex and body positive, kink aware, trauma informed, and accepting of all relationship styles. My current focus is providing individual teletherapy to LGBTQIA2S+ adults experiencing life transitions and wanting to heal from trauma, depression, and anxiety. I am also passionate about working with people who are exploring sexuality, gender expression, and gender identity. I am able to provide letters for gender-affirming medical services if that is a part of your journey.
(510) 680-2176 View (510) 680-2176
Photo of Lisa Case, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Case
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals who experience chronic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and interrelational/ interfamilial conflicts. My aim is to support you in a safe and non-judgmental container, where we can explore the roots of your issues, as well as provide you skills which can help to alleviate any symptoms/ conflicts you may have. I believe that you are the expert of your story and hold a space that is of compassion and unconditional positive regard. I also offer online ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, when indicated for various diagnoses that may have been treatment-resistant with traditional forms of talk therapy.
I specialize in helping individuals who experience chronic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and interrelational/ interfamilial conflicts. My aim is to support you in a safe and non-judgmental container, where we can explore the roots of your issues, as well as provide you skills which can help to alleviate any symptoms/ conflicts you may have. I believe that you are the expert of your story and hold a space that is of compassion and unconditional positive regard. I also offer online ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, when indicated for various diagnoses that may have been treatment-resistant with traditional forms of talk therapy.
(510) 949-5329 View (510) 949-5329
Photo of Dr. Jadu Malcolm Jagel, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jadu Malcolm Jagel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I specialize in treating depression and anxiety, and a range of relationship and self-esteem issues related to developmental wounds/ trauma.
Therapy offers the chance to become more present with ourselves. Together we contemplate the human journey. We can get familiar with our innate mindfulness and compassion. On my journey I've realized that well being can be learned; achieved with a level of skillfulness, a window of tolerance. Getting triggered helps us learn. I help individuals and couples study their nervous systems and their "parts" -- a complex legacy of neurobiological attachment wiring. With a manner that is warm, relatable, and active yet non-invasive, I help my clients find meaning, hope, and the freedom to become who they were meant to be.
I specialize in treating depression and anxiety, and a range of relationship and self-esteem issues related to developmental wounds/ trauma.
Therapy offers the chance to become more present with ourselves. Together we contemplate the human journey. We can get familiar with our innate mindfulness and compassion. On my journey I've realized that well being can be learned; achieved with a level of skillfulness, a window of tolerance. Getting triggered helps us learn. I help individuals and couples study their nervous systems and their "parts" -- a complex legacy of neurobiological attachment wiring. With a manner that is warm, relatable, and active yet non-invasive, I help my clients find meaning, hope, and the freedom to become who they were meant to be.
(808) 435-4893 View (808) 435-4893
Photo of Lucy Collier, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lucy Collier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychotherapist in private practice in the East Bay since 1996. I offer a non-judgmental therapeutic relationship where individuals, couples or families can find self acceptance, safety, access insight and intuition, and cultivate an attitude of kindness toward the self and others. Recovery from trauma, working on communication and relationships, overcoming addiction, spiritual self-development and healing, and coping with depression/stress from major life transitions are common themes. I have taught and supervised therapists in training at various local agencies. I also have a background in holistic and shamanic healing.
I am a psychotherapist in private practice in the East Bay since 1996. I offer a non-judgmental therapeutic relationship where individuals, couples or families can find self acceptance, safety, access insight and intuition, and cultivate an attitude of kindness toward the self and others. Recovery from trauma, working on communication and relationships, overcoming addiction, spiritual self-development and healing, and coping with depression/stress from major life transitions are common themes. I have taught and supervised therapists in training at various local agencies. I also have a background in holistic and shamanic healing.
(510) 403-8133 View (510) 403-8133
Photo of Pooja Sharma, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Pooja Sharma
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I have extensive training and experience working with children, families, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, behavioral and educational issues, life and career transitions, family conflict, parenting, motherhood, pregnancy, emotional dysregulation, and divorce.
I recognize that seeking therapy means that you or a loved one have determined a need for connection beyond that of friends and family. Knowing how difficult and intimidating this outreach can be, as a psychologist I strive to establish a safe space where clients can speak freely and be listened to intently. The work we do together is about creating an alliance that allows you to delve into painful memories and face feelings that can be frightening or uncomfortable. We do this work in collaboration, so I can hear your stories, and create a meaningful relationship.
I have extensive training and experience working with children, families, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, behavioral and educational issues, life and career transitions, family conflict, parenting, motherhood, pregnancy, emotional dysregulation, and divorce.
I recognize that seeking therapy means that you or a loved one have determined a need for connection beyond that of friends and family. Knowing how difficult and intimidating this outreach can be, as a psychologist I strive to establish a safe space where clients can speak freely and be listened to intently. The work we do together is about creating an alliance that allows you to delve into painful memories and face feelings that can be frightening or uncomfortable. We do this work in collaboration, so I can hear your stories, and create a meaningful relationship.
(510) 824-8019 View (510) 824-8019
Photo of Freddie Barahona, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Freddie Barahona
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
In order to give you a corrective emotional experience, it is important to understand shame and how it binds to us in our trauma, fear, anxiety, depression, addictions, etc.
Hello. Bienvenidos. If you find yourself in a difficult place in life and need extra support then you have come to the right place. I specialize in helping individuals seeking to heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have training in numerous modalities of therapy and I am committed to finding the one that works for you. Yo me especializo en tratar ansiedad, depresion, trauma, y problemas de relaciones. Incorporo muchas tecnicas distintas muy efectivas para que ud. pueda volver a retomar las riendas en su vida.
In order to give you a corrective emotional experience, it is important to understand shame and how it binds to us in our trauma, fear, anxiety, depression, addictions, etc.
Hello. Bienvenidos. If you find yourself in a difficult place in life and need extra support then you have come to the right place. I specialize in helping individuals seeking to heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have training in numerous modalities of therapy and I am committed to finding the one that works for you. Yo me especializo en tratar ansiedad, depresion, trauma, y problemas de relaciones. Incorporo muchas tecnicas distintas muy efectivas para que ud. pueda volver a retomar las riendas en su vida.
(510) 945-3412 View (510) 945-3412
Photo of Susan Futterman, MS, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Futterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I am primarily focused on working with bereaved individuals and/or families who have lost someone to suicide as well as working with individuals who have made suicide attempts in the past or are considering an attempt. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with emotional/psychological trauma of all types, as well as with depression and grief. I also have experience working with people dealing with challenges such as bipolar disorder. I provide both individual and group therapy.
I am primarily focused on working with bereaved individuals and/or families who have lost someone to suicide as well as working with individuals who have made suicide attempts in the past or are considering an attempt. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with emotional/psychological trauma of all types, as well as with depression and grief. I also have experience working with people dealing with challenges such as bipolar disorder. I provide both individual and group therapy.
(415) 870-8056 View (415) 870-8056
Photo of Pay Rose, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pay Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Psychotherapy is one of many ways to improve the quality of your life and your relationships with others. While emotional wounds from the past are often the source of challenging symptoms, our sessions focus on the present as well as the past. I place great value on a solid therapeutic relationship and through this relationship, insights will surface and positive changes can occur. My style is collaborative, interactive, and supportive. I work with an open caring heart and humbly bring my authentic self to our sessions. I welcome individuals and couples of all ages and from all walks of life.
Psychotherapy is one of many ways to improve the quality of your life and your relationships with others. While emotional wounds from the past are often the source of challenging symptoms, our sessions focus on the present as well as the past. I place great value on a solid therapeutic relationship and through this relationship, insights will surface and positive changes can occur. My style is collaborative, interactive, and supportive. I work with an open caring heart and humbly bring my authentic self to our sessions. I welcome individuals and couples of all ages and from all walks of life.
(510) 323-4326 View (510) 323-4326
Photo of Henna Cho, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Henna Cho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Are you feeling alone, unheard, or stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, fatigue, and excessive worrying that impact your relationships and career? I’m glad you’re taking the time to notice these changes and to invest in yourself to become a better version of yourself. In sessions, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help identify ways to incorporate positive changes for your negative thought patterns. Thus, you will learn to become better equipped in maintaining your personal or professional goals. I am committed to helping my clients decrease anxiety and manage healthy relationships.
Are you feeling alone, unheard, or stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, fatigue, and excessive worrying that impact your relationships and career? I’m glad you’re taking the time to notice these changes and to invest in yourself to become a better version of yourself. In sessions, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help identify ways to incorporate positive changes for your negative thought patterns. Thus, you will learn to become better equipped in maintaining your personal or professional goals. I am committed to helping my clients decrease anxiety and manage healthy relationships.
(213) 516-6404 View (213) 516-6404
Photo of Acacia Hasina Chidi #lmft111125, MA, LMFT, CEO, Marriage & Family Therapist
Acacia Hasina Chidi #lmft111125
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEO
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Welcome! I’m Acacia Hasina Chidi, I am known to help inspire change in individual’s lives and relationships. Experience has demonstrated to me that change is possible and necessary. If you are ready to initiate change, I’d like to work with you through the process of therapy which can allow you to grow, and realize aspects of yourself you may not be aware of, or that you are aware of, but have been unable to manage. Years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and specialized groups have enabled me tools and techniques that help people achieve a deeper understanding of relational patterns needing repair.
Welcome! I’m Acacia Hasina Chidi, I am known to help inspire change in individual’s lives and relationships. Experience has demonstrated to me that change is possible and necessary. If you are ready to initiate change, I’d like to work with you through the process of therapy which can allow you to grow, and realize aspects of yourself you may not be aware of, or that you are aware of, but have been unable to manage. Years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and specialized groups have enabled me tools and techniques that help people achieve a deeper understanding of relational patterns needing repair.
(415) 729-2118 View (415) 729-2118
Photo of Britt Gunnison, PsyD, Psychologist
Britt Gunnison
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Welcome to Authentic Path Psychology, my queer- and gender-affirming therapy practice. Beginning the process of therapy and reaching out for help can feel vulnerable and even scary, so I celebrate you taking this first step. I prioritize getting to know you and your specific needs intentionally, and my objective is to witness and support you in the unique way you deserve. My approach is relational and collaborative, and I strive to develop a relationship with my clients that will help to empower inner strength, expand capacity for self-compassion, and support in healing wounds that are impacting overall health and quality of life.
Welcome to Authentic Path Psychology, my queer- and gender-affirming therapy practice. Beginning the process of therapy and reaching out for help can feel vulnerable and even scary, so I celebrate you taking this first step. I prioritize getting to know you and your specific needs intentionally, and my objective is to witness and support you in the unique way you deserve. My approach is relational and collaborative, and I strive to develop a relationship with my clients that will help to empower inner strength, expand capacity for self-compassion, and support in healing wounds that are impacting overall health and quality of life.
(415) 322-5374 View (415) 322-5374
Photo of Laurie Margaritonda, PsyD, MSW, Psychologist
Laurie Margaritonda
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
We live in powerful times, filled with much opportunity and yet so much pressure to succeed that it can be difficult to navigate our personal challenges amidst the demands that come with it. We want to feel connected, whole, and in our purpose, but often feel separate, isolated, and fragmented instead. In order to heal, awareness, compassion and courage are needed to meet the painful spaces and shed light on our shadows, transforming them into opportunities for more presence, fulfillment and joy. I aim to empower the healer within you. As we heal, we serve ourselves and the world around us for the better.
We live in powerful times, filled with much opportunity and yet so much pressure to succeed that it can be difficult to navigate our personal challenges amidst the demands that come with it. We want to feel connected, whole, and in our purpose, but often feel separate, isolated, and fragmented instead. In order to heal, awareness, compassion and courage are needed to meet the painful spaces and shed light on our shadows, transforming them into opportunities for more presence, fulfillment and joy. I aim to empower the healer within you. As we heal, we serve ourselves and the world around us for the better.
(628) 265-6983 View (628) 265-6983
Photo of Michael Boykin, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Michael Boykin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Feeling overwhelmed, disempowered, lost, or simply ready to start making changes? It can be tough to handle these challenges alone. That's where I come in. I help teens, adults, and couples navigate through these issues, bringing awareness, insight, growth, and coping skills to the table. Together, we'll unpack and make sense of the underlying issues, so you can find meaningful ways to address what stands in your way.
Feeling overwhelmed, disempowered, lost, or simply ready to start making changes? It can be tough to handle these challenges alone. That's where I come in. I help teens, adults, and couples navigate through these issues, bringing awareness, insight, growth, and coping skills to the table. Together, we'll unpack and make sense of the underlying issues, so you can find meaningful ways to address what stands in your way.
(415) 985-6852 View (415) 985-6852
Photo of Erin B Harrell, PsyD, Psychologist
Erin B Harrell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Our society often moves fast, and it is easy to get caught up and not allow the time to address the thoughts and emotional reactions that may emerge with challenges and changing life circumstances. With over 10 years of experience serving individuals across the lifespan, I provide an affirmative space for individuals to explore areas in their life where they would like to see growth and change. I also value the opportunities to notice areas of life that feel fulfilling, to explore strengths and reflect on positives. My style is warm and thoughtful. and interactive.
Our society often moves fast, and it is easy to get caught up and not allow the time to address the thoughts and emotional reactions that may emerge with challenges and changing life circumstances. With over 10 years of experience serving individuals across the lifespan, I provide an affirmative space for individuals to explore areas in their life where they would like to see growth and change. I also value the opportunities to notice areas of life that feel fulfilling, to explore strengths and reflect on positives. My style is warm and thoughtful. and interactive.
(510) 400-4990 View (510) 400-4990
Photo of Molly Merson, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Merson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
You’re seeking psychotherapy or psychoanalysis because you're in the midst of, or wanting to make, a big change. Maybe you’re facing a decision about a life path, or your body is changing due to age, illness, pregnancy, gender transition, disability, or something else. Maybe you hope to shift your relationship to money, love and work. Maybe you’re needing a new perspective on an old habit, or you need help articulating yourself and disentangling mixed messages. You may be ready for something new in work, relationships, your self-esteem, or something else, and you are hoping that talking things through with someone could help you.
You’re seeking psychotherapy or psychoanalysis because you're in the midst of, or wanting to make, a big change. Maybe you’re facing a decision about a life path, or your body is changing due to age, illness, pregnancy, gender transition, disability, or something else. Maybe you hope to shift your relationship to money, love and work. Maybe you’re needing a new perspective on an old habit, or you need help articulating yourself and disentangling mixed messages. You may be ready for something new in work, relationships, your self-esteem, or something else, and you are hoping that talking things through with someone could help you.
(510) 858-2471 View (510) 858-2471
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.