Depression Therapists in 95350

Photo of Allison Konefal-Schonwald, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Konefal-Schonwald
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
My primary focus is on working with couples who are struggling in their marriage or individuals who are trying to overcome depression, anxiety, or difficult life life transitions.
Is your marriage struggling and hanging on by a thread? Do you find yourself trying to work through your marriage struggles but it continuously leaves you feeling frustrated or hopeless? Are you trying to leave an abusive relationship and need someone to guide you through the process of leaving? I am a Christian based therapist that dedicates my life to helping couples work through their marital difficulties through the help of biblical principles. There is no need to struggle in silence! I am here to guide and support you through this journey! I am currently accepting new clients in person.
My primary focus is on working with couples who are struggling in their marriage or individuals who are trying to overcome depression, anxiety, or difficult life life transitions.
Is your marriage struggling and hanging on by a thread? Do you find yourself trying to work through your marriage struggles but it continuously leaves you feeling frustrated or hopeless? Are you trying to leave an abusive relationship and need someone to guide you through the process of leaving? I am a Christian based therapist that dedicates my life to helping couples work through their marital difficulties through the help of biblical principles. There is no need to struggle in silence! I am here to guide and support you through this journey! I am currently accepting new clients in person.
(209) 497-5760 View (209) 497-5760
Photo of Tim Quinn - Tim Quinn, LMFT, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tim Quinn, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95350  (Online Only)
Although I work with clients to resolve a wide variety of concerns, some specialties include: Depression, anxiety, bipolar, internet/gaming addictions, sexual concerns, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Personality Disorders.
I enjoy working collaboratively with individuals and couples to resolve concerns related to work/school, relationships, and life goals, among others. To accomplish this, I utilize scientifically-validated treatments such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused, and Reality Therapy while also utilizing movies, music, books, video games, and other creative interventions to engage clients and compliment traditional treatment modalities.
Although I work with clients to resolve a wide variety of concerns, some specialties include: Depression, anxiety, bipolar, internet/gaming addictions, sexual concerns, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Personality Disorders.
I enjoy working collaboratively with individuals and couples to resolve concerns related to work/school, relationships, and life goals, among others. To accomplish this, I utilize scientifically-validated treatments such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused, and Reality Therapy while also utilizing movies, music, books, video games, and other creative interventions to engage clients and compliment traditional treatment modalities.
(209) 780-0873 View (209) 780-0873
Photo of Cheryl Fink, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheryl Fink
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
Infant/pregnancy loss, adult ADHD, trauma, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, self-esteem building, coping skills/emotion regulation, communication, relationship issues, phase of life issues, and many other issues.
I know that making that first step to coming to therapy can be scary. My first goal is to make clients feel and safe and supported, to do the work they are wanting to do. Together we can uncover solutions to help you live the happy, healthy life you want. Whether it's too much sadness, too much worry, grief and loss, problems with relationships, being unable heal from past events, not feeling good about yourself, trouble coping, or any other issue. Therapy can be a great way to find solutions and gain the support you need to make changes. You don't have to feel alone or helpless. Help can be just a phone call or email away!
Infant/pregnancy loss, adult ADHD, trauma, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, self-esteem building, coping skills/emotion regulation, communication, relationship issues, phase of life issues, and many other issues.
I know that making that first step to coming to therapy can be scary. My first goal is to make clients feel and safe and supported, to do the work they are wanting to do. Together we can uncover solutions to help you live the happy, healthy life you want. Whether it's too much sadness, too much worry, grief and loss, problems with relationships, being unable heal from past events, not feeling good about yourself, trouble coping, or any other issue. Therapy can be a great way to find solutions and gain the support you need to make changes. You don't have to feel alone or helpless. Help can be just a phone call or email away!
(209) 676-8559 View (209) 676-8559
Photo of April Winczner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
April Winczner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
Hello and welcome! My name is April Winczner and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Northern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in working with mothers, women, and older adults. I find fulfillment in assisting those grappling with life-stage changes such as parenting, childrearing, career change, aging, and loss, as well as a variety of mental health issues specifically, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
Hello and welcome! My name is April Winczner and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Northern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in working with mothers, women, and older adults. I find fulfillment in assisting those grappling with life-stage changes such as parenting, childrearing, career change, aging, and loss, as well as a variety of mental health issues specifically, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
(209) 309-4748 View (209) 309-4748
Photo of Imelda Avila, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Imelda Avila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
Hi Everyone, my name is Imelda Avila, and I'm a licensed clinical social worker. I am truly passionate about helping individuals during a difficult period in life. I believe everyone deserves a safe environment to begin healing. I have experience working with a variety of age groups, socioeconomic backgrounds, experiences, and diversity. I have worked with individuals during the hardest time of their life; dealing with end-of-life, new medical diagnosis, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, crisis intervention, grief/loss, and family dynamics.
Hi Everyone, my name is Imelda Avila, and I'm a licensed clinical social worker. I am truly passionate about helping individuals during a difficult period in life. I believe everyone deserves a safe environment to begin healing. I have experience working with a variety of age groups, socioeconomic backgrounds, experiences, and diversity. I have worked with individuals during the hardest time of their life; dealing with end-of-life, new medical diagnosis, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, crisis intervention, grief/loss, and family dynamics.
(209) 583-3550 View (209) 583-3550
Photo of Jeanne Abbott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeanne Abbott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, couples therapy and issues with life transitions.
My work with individuals and couples starts with getting to know each person and developing a unique plan for treatment. It is my goal to provide a safe and comfortable environment where you can explore issues and learn tools for growth. I utilize many forms of therapy based on my 20 plus years in the field of counseling. At all times, respect for the individual and confidentiality remain foremost.
My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, couples therapy and issues with life transitions.
My work with individuals and couples starts with getting to know each person and developing a unique plan for treatment. It is my goal to provide a safe and comfortable environment where you can explore issues and learn tools for growth. I utilize many forms of therapy based on my 20 plus years in the field of counseling. At all times, respect for the individual and confidentiality remain foremost.
(209) 322-1458 View (209) 322-1458
Photo of Rachel Carey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Carey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
Life can be difficult, and we can all use some support sometimes. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe place where we can collaboratively develop goals that are important to you. I have experience working with people who are facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship struggles, trauma symptoms, grief, and more. My approach involves integrating evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, and ACT. Additionally, Mindfulness and attention paid to relevant past experiences/relationships can also be helpful. Together we can determine a path that makes sense to you as the client.
Life can be difficult, and we can all use some support sometimes. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe place where we can collaboratively develop goals that are important to you. I have experience working with people who are facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship struggles, trauma symptoms, grief, and more. My approach involves integrating evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, and ACT. Additionally, Mindfulness and attention paid to relevant past experiences/relationships can also be helpful. Together we can determine a path that makes sense to you as the client.
(562) 566-3869 View (562) 566-3869
Photo of Emily Perrine, PYSD, Psychologist
Emily Perrine
Psychologist, PYSD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95350
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in treating anxiety and mood disorders, especially OCD, trauma-related responses, and other anxiety-related problems such as hoarding and depression. I work with patients to help them love themselves again and rediscover living purposefully and with contentment, eliminating the need for fear and doubt-driven behaviors.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in treating anxiety and mood disorders, especially OCD, trauma-related responses, and other anxiety-related problems such as hoarding and depression. I work with patients to help them love themselves again and rediscover living purposefully and with contentment, eliminating the need for fear and doubt-driven behaviors.
(209) 252-3217 View (209) 252-3217
Photo of La Tanya Takla, EdD, LMFT, LPCC, Psychologist
La Tanya Takla
Psychologist, EdD, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95350
I can help you tackle a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges, and I have specialized experience supporting those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, parenting/family conflict, and relationships.
Today you're a step closer to making meaningful changes in your life and carving your own path toward growth, fulfillment, and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, I'll collaborate with and support you to cope more effectively with anxiety and depression, uncover and develop your potential, build a sense of belonging and strengthen healthy relationships, and accomplish what's uniquely important to you. While you can't change what's happened in the past, it's never too late to reach a better understanding of the life patterns that are limiting you and begin to create a better life aligned with your values and goals.
I can help you tackle a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges, and I have specialized experience supporting those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, parenting/family conflict, and relationships.
Today you're a step closer to making meaningful changes in your life and carving your own path toward growth, fulfillment, and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, I'll collaborate with and support you to cope more effectively with anxiety and depression, uncover and develop your potential, build a sense of belonging and strengthen healthy relationships, and accomplish what's uniquely important to you. While you can't change what's happened in the past, it's never too late to reach a better understanding of the life patterns that are limiting you and begin to create a better life aligned with your values and goals.
(916) 652-9522 View (916) 652-9522
Photo of Ron G Gilbert, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ron G Gilbert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma/PTSD, transitional problems, substance use disorders, and struggles with effective communication.
I find that one of the keys to successful therapy is the ability to be heard and understood. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice with over 23 years of experience, providing support and skill development to couples, families, individuals, and children, at least 12 years of age. I believe that therapy is a collaborative effort and should occur in a safe, trusting environment to help explore beliefs, thoughts, feelings and behaviors that may be getting in the way of your ability to develop and maintain happiness and peace of mind.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma/PTSD, transitional problems, substance use disorders, and struggles with effective communication.
I find that one of the keys to successful therapy is the ability to be heard and understood. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in private practice with over 23 years of experience, providing support and skill development to couples, families, individuals, and children, at least 12 years of age. I believe that therapy is a collaborative effort and should occur in a safe, trusting environment to help explore beliefs, thoughts, feelings and behaviors that may be getting in the way of your ability to develop and maintain happiness and peace of mind.
(209) 364-3293 View (209) 364-3293
Photo of Kelley J Herrin, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelley J Herrin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
I have experience working with adults of all ages who have situational or long term relationship, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, as well as occupational stressors.
I believe the purpose of counseling is to give you a place to honor and express all of your feelings especially when events don't occur in your life as planned. I look forward to talking with you about how you are feeling, and as equally important, how you would like to feel. I counsel adults and couples.
I have experience working with adults of all ages who have situational or long term relationship, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, as well as occupational stressors.
I believe the purpose of counseling is to give you a place to honor and express all of your feelings especially when events don't occur in your life as planned. I look forward to talking with you about how you are feeling, and as equally important, how you would like to feel. I counsel adults and couples.
(209) 502-6139 View (209) 502-6139
Photo of David Lopez - David Lopez, MS, MFT, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Lopez, MS, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of various common conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger, and impulse control problems.
I began my professional training in 2005 with a focus to provide quality and skilled services that will assist clients in achieving their goals and ambitions in a way that is welcoming and meaningful. Whether it pertains to learning how to cope with particular emotional symptoms, or trying to figure out how to problem-solve life's most difficult challenges, I aim to partner with you in discovering new and effective strategies to living your life to it's full potential.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of various common conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger, and impulse control problems.
I began my professional training in 2005 with a focus to provide quality and skilled services that will assist clients in achieving their goals and ambitions in a way that is welcoming and meaningful. Whether it pertains to learning how to cope with particular emotional symptoms, or trying to figure out how to problem-solve life's most difficult challenges, I aim to partner with you in discovering new and effective strategies to living your life to it's full potential.
(209) 794-4346 View (209) 794-4346
Photo of Dr. Julianna Lyell, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Julianna Lyell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95350  (Online Only)
I enjoy and have experience working with many issues, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, gay and lesbian identity, infertility, aging and trauma.
We all need extra support sometimes. Therapy can be a place to explore solutions to life problems and to know you are not alone. I strive to create an envirmonment that is safe and non-judgemental so that we can figure out together what needs to happen for you to feel happier and more fulfilled. Through my work, I have seen many people improve their lives and feel better about themselves. In sessions, we will focus on your current situation and explore your past to further understand what may be preventing you from living a happy and fulfilled life.
I enjoy and have experience working with many issues, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, gay and lesbian identity, infertility, aging and trauma.
We all need extra support sometimes. Therapy can be a place to explore solutions to life problems and to know you are not alone. I strive to create an envirmonment that is safe and non-judgemental so that we can figure out together what needs to happen for you to feel happier and more fulfilled. Through my work, I have seen many people improve their lives and feel better about themselves. In sessions, we will focus on your current situation and explore your past to further understand what may be preventing you from living a happy and fulfilled life.
(562) 221-4141 View (562) 221-4141
Photo of Robert Brittain, MS, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert Brittain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
Hello! I enjoy working with clients of all ages, from young people to seniors. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and stress, grief, parenting issues, relationship distress, religious trauma, LGBTQ relationships & identity, and general life dissatisfaction.
Hello! I enjoy working with clients of all ages, from young people to seniors. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and stress, grief, parenting issues, relationship distress, religious trauma, LGBTQ relationships & identity, and general life dissatisfaction.
(209) 330-8237 View (209) 330-8237
Photo of Fernando Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fernando Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
Hi, my name is Fernando Hernandez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Bakersfield, CA working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work primarily with adults with a specialty in anxiety, stress management, and depression utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support my clients in their journey towards recovery. I provide a listening ear, a calm demeanor, and accommodating. I strive to ensure my patients feel comfortable to share anything in therapy and ensure to provide active listening while in session with clients.
Hi, my name is Fernando Hernandez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Bakersfield, CA working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work primarily with adults with a specialty in anxiety, stress management, and depression utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support my clients in their journey towards recovery. I provide a listening ear, a calm demeanor, and accommodating. I strive to ensure my patients feel comfortable to share anything in therapy and ensure to provide active listening while in session with clients.
(858) 758-7716 View (858) 758-7716
Photo of Cynthia Gonzalez, LPCC
Cynthia Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Cynthia Gonzalez and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Seeking Safety, PEARLS, and Phase 1 Brain spotting. I have experience with issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, PTSD, and anger.
Hi! My name is Cynthia Gonzalez and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Seeking Safety, PEARLS, and Phase 1 Brain spotting. I have experience with issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, PTSD, and anger.
(951) 337-4691 View (951) 337-4691
Photo of Stephen Keenan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephen Keenan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
Hello. My name is Stephen Keenan. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in CA. I have worked with a wide range of clients, from poverty-stricken to affluent, depressed and suicidal to angry and homicidal, geriatric to pediatric. I can help with anxiety, coping skills, depression, psychosis, and more. I use a humanistic, strengths based, supportive therapy approach for solution focused results. Of course, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is key to reframe and see things from a different lens, i.e. "I never thought if it that way." Therapy is about getting you the help you need and helping you reach your goals in treatment.
Hello. My name is Stephen Keenan. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in CA. I have worked with a wide range of clients, from poverty-stricken to affluent, depressed and suicidal to angry and homicidal, geriatric to pediatric. I can help with anxiety, coping skills, depression, psychosis, and more. I use a humanistic, strengths based, supportive therapy approach for solution focused results. Of course, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is key to reframe and see things from a different lens, i.e. "I never thought if it that way." Therapy is about getting you the help you need and helping you reach your goals in treatment.
(415) 792-0504 View (415) 792-0504
Photo of Andrew Cuevas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Cuevas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350  (Online Only)
I provide a confidential and safe space for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction or even if you don’t know what your struggling with and need support I am here to help you cope and make positive changes in your life.
Hello! Feeling stressed out? Dealing with conflicts in your relationships? Struggling to cope with trauma? Often times i see people who are struggling with something and you would never know it. They hold down stressful jobs, take care of the kids, or even ill family members. You would never know looking at them that they struggle with not feeling good enough, daily anxiety, consistent feelings of sadness and even they don’t know where these feelings are coming from. If this describes you then I invite you to reach out I offer an empathetic ear, and a safe space as we process and work through lives challenges!
I provide a confidential and safe space for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction or even if you don’t know what your struggling with and need support I am here to help you cope and make positive changes in your life.
Hello! Feeling stressed out? Dealing with conflicts in your relationships? Struggling to cope with trauma? Often times i see people who are struggling with something and you would never know it. They hold down stressful jobs, take care of the kids, or even ill family members. You would never know looking at them that they struggle with not feeling good enough, daily anxiety, consistent feelings of sadness and even they don’t know where these feelings are coming from. If this describes you then I invite you to reach out I offer an empathetic ear, and a safe space as we process and work through lives challenges!
(209) 862-6705 View (209) 862-6705
Photo of Yvette Allivato (De Los Santos), LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yvette Allivato (De Los Santos)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
I specialize in working with children and individuals to heal from trauma, manage depression and anxiety, parents and families on skills such as parenting, and couples on marital issues.
Welcome! Are you ready to make positive changes in yourself and in relationships? If you are not sure that’s okay too. You took the first step by coming here. I am a Marriage Family Therapist with over 9 years of experience, working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track and support you on your journey. Therapy is a process that leads to self-discovery and change, let me assist you in gaining the skills you need to be a better version of you and reaching your goals and gaining a positive outlook on life.
I specialize in working with children and individuals to heal from trauma, manage depression and anxiety, parents and families on skills such as parenting, and couples on marital issues.
Welcome! Are you ready to make positive changes in yourself and in relationships? If you are not sure that’s okay too. You took the first step by coming here. I am a Marriage Family Therapist with over 9 years of experience, working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track and support you on your journey. Therapy is a process that leads to self-discovery and change, let me assist you in gaining the skills you need to be a better version of you and reaching your goals and gaining a positive outlook on life.
(209) 850-7646 View (209) 850-7646
Photo of Karina Barela, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karina Barela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
My client focus is working with people dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and life transitions.
Hi, my name is Karina Barela. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in southern California. I work with people ages 18 and above and am excited to work with clients throughout the state of California via telehealth. My approach to therapy is tailored to your unique needs. I utilize a variety of client centered approaches but most commonly use Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM) and psychodynamic talk therapy.
My client focus is working with people dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and life transitions.
Hi, my name is Karina Barela. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in southern California. I work with people ages 18 and above and am excited to work with clients throughout the state of California via telehealth. My approach to therapy is tailored to your unique needs. I utilize a variety of client centered approaches but most commonly use Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM) and psychodynamic talk therapy.
(341) 348-8763 View (341) 348-8763
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.