Photo of Sheela Joshi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Sheela Joshi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
That means I see a full spectrum of people from their teens to their 70s or 80s but most patients are experiencing some depression, anxiety, loss, conflict, life change, relationship conflicts and a longing to feel alive.
My objective is to make your life better now and into the future. Therapists helped me over the years, taught and inspired me to become one. I pivoted to my career as a therapist 16 years after earning a B.A. in Economics at University of Chicago. I earned my LCSW at Smith College. I'm a mother of two and a first-generation child of immigrants. In my practice I want you to make the most of your time with me. I work with a range of clients, from executives to college students. My office is tucked into hills and trees. Clients are from my town, Mill Valley, Sausalito, Kentfield, Tiburon, San Francisco and the South Bay. I Zoom too.
That means I see a full spectrum of people from their teens to their 70s or 80s but most patients are experiencing some depression, anxiety, loss, conflict, life change, relationship conflicts and a longing to feel alive.
My objective is to make your life better now and into the future. Therapists helped me over the years, taught and inspired me to become one. I pivoted to my career as a therapist 16 years after earning a B.A. in Economics at University of Chicago. I earned my LCSW at Smith College. I'm a mother of two and a first-generation child of immigrants. In my practice I want you to make the most of your time with me. I work with a range of clients, from executives to college students. My office is tucked into hills and trees. Clients are from my town, Mill Valley, Sausalito, Kentfield, Tiburon, San Francisco and the South Bay. I Zoom too.
(617) 275-3982 x617275 View (617) 275-3982 x617275

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gustav Helzberg Human Being Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Gustav Helzberg Human Being Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I relate especially well with those with ADHD, depression/anxiety, & individuals on a mindful path, offering a trauma-sensitive, insight-yielding relationship.
Some of us are plagued by a sense that something is inherently wrong with us, with life. Some of us feel something is somehow 'off'; we are struggling and aren't exactly sure why. Our pain and problems are alchemized when we uncover compassion for our ailing parts. I understand this because I continue to experience its truth. In our sessions, I help create the safe, supportive feel necessary for exploring the darker, more challenging aspects within. This is done by providing a kind, gentle, interactive listening space- an atmosphere where you can feel heard, understood, & accepted as you are. This allows the magic to work.
I relate especially well with those with ADHD, depression/anxiety, & individuals on a mindful path, offering a trauma-sensitive, insight-yielding relationship.
Some of us are plagued by a sense that something is inherently wrong with us, with life. Some of us feel something is somehow 'off'; we are struggling and aren't exactly sure why. Our pain and problems are alchemized when we uncover compassion for our ailing parts. I understand this because I continue to experience its truth. In our sessions, I help create the safe, supportive feel necessary for exploring the darker, more challenging aspects within. This is done by providing a kind, gentle, interactive listening space- an atmosphere where you can feel heard, understood, & accepted as you are. This allows the magic to work.
(510) 680-1628 View (510) 680-1628
Photo of Claudia Franzosi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Claudia Franzosi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MPEC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121  (Online Only)
Working with a very experienced therapist makes a difference! When you know you need to take action, but can't get yourself to do it, I'll help you get it done. Anxiety, Codependency, Affairs, Trauma, Depression? Recovering and 12 stepper? We will explore effective ways to navigate through your obstacles. +Do you need a psych eval in a rush? +Personal injury case? +Accident? +Animal bite? Let me help you restore your sanity and get you unstuck. Enough talking, let's do it!
Working with a very experienced therapist makes a difference! When you know you need to take action, but can't get yourself to do it, I'll help you get it done. Anxiety, Codependency, Affairs, Trauma, Depression? Recovering and 12 stepper? We will explore effective ways to navigate through your obstacles. +Do you need a psych eval in a rush? +Personal injury case? +Accident? +Animal bite? Let me help you restore your sanity and get you unstuck. Enough talking, let's do it!
(310) 668-1530 View (310) 668-1530
Photo of Jennifer A Norstrom, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Jennifer A Norstrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Do you long for safe, intimate connections? Let me be your coach and guide. Your healing journey can begin today. I help women and couples clear hurts from the past that interfere with building safe, loving relationships. Through relationship counseling, EMDR, and IFS/Parts work therapy, I help both women and couples to heal from early relational trauma and painful intimacy experiences, and teach them how to develop loving and satisfying relationships today.
Do you long for safe, intimate connections? Let me be your coach and guide. Your healing journey can begin today. I help women and couples clear hurts from the past that interfere with building safe, loving relationships. Through relationship counseling, EMDR, and IFS/Parts work therapy, I help both women and couples to heal from early relational trauma and painful intimacy experiences, and teach them how to develop loving and satisfying relationships today.
(415) 980-4579 View (415) 980-4579
Photo of India B. Gomez, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
India B. Gomez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I am accepting clients for therapy, coaching, and testing. E-mail is the best way to reach me for a consultation. As a clinical psychologist, I offer therapy and coaching for personal/professional growth. I work with clients to enhance coping with stress, bolster resiliency, and overcome obstacles to living more fully. I also specialize in psychological/personality and intellectual/academic testing and assessment. I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting ethnic, racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds, as well as a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities.
I am accepting clients for therapy, coaching, and testing. E-mail is the best way to reach me for a consultation. As a clinical psychologist, I offer therapy and coaching for personal/professional growth. I work with clients to enhance coping with stress, bolster resiliency, and overcome obstacles to living more fully. I also specialize in psychological/personality and intellectual/academic testing and assessment. I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting ethnic, racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds, as well as a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities.
(925) 392-3428 View (925) 392-3428
Photo of Jennifer Leupp: Therapy For Overwhelmed People Pleasers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Jennifer Leupp: Therapy For Overwhelmed People Pleasers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tiburon, CA 94920  (Online Only)
You’ve been putting everything into your job and relationships since you can remember and you are TIRED. Tired of saying yes when you already have too much on your plate, tired of the exhausting task of managing other people’s lives, and just plain tired of not having enough room for YOU in your life. It’s been so long since you prioritized your own needs that you aren’t even sure what having time for yourself would look like or how to get it. Part of you is terrified that people won't like you if you start saying no to their requests and part of you even feels guilty delegating some of these tasks.
You’ve been putting everything into your job and relationships since you can remember and you are TIRED. Tired of saying yes when you already have too much on your plate, tired of the exhausting task of managing other people’s lives, and just plain tired of not having enough room for YOU in your life. It’s been so long since you prioritized your own needs that you aren’t even sure what having time for yourself would look like or how to get it. Part of you is terrified that people won't like you if you start saying no to their requests and part of you even feels guilty delegating some of these tasks.
(562) 276-2479 View (562) 276-2479
Photo of Charvee Goel, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Corte Madera, CA
Charvee Goel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94129
My approach to therapy is focused on creating a curated template that suits your needs. This involves collaboratively working together to develop the skills and putting them to use in your daily life. This process will allow you to liberate yourself from the hurdles that are stopping you from reaching your goals. I incorporate thoughtful questions, metaphors, and coping strategies in session to support growth and development.
My approach to therapy is focused on creating a curated template that suits your needs. This involves collaboratively working together to develop the skills and putting them to use in your daily life. This process will allow you to liberate yourself from the hurdles that are stopping you from reaching your goals. I incorporate thoughtful questions, metaphors, and coping strategies in session to support growth and development.
(415) 857-2453 View (415) 857-2453
Photo of Nita Batta, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Corte Madera, CA
Nita Batta
Associate Clinical Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
East meets West. It is a phrase we hear often but how does it translate into practice? The pull lies in the strength of the familiar; the push is an urge to create space and jump into the unfamiliar. As an individual who was raised between two cultures, I offer a warm and safe space to discuss cultural competency as it relates to your life. Retaining your cultural values and traditions while simultaneously assimilating to the societal norms of your geographic upbringing can lead to many questions about ourselves in the past, present and future. I believe strongly in your ability to grow if nurtured in an encouraging environment.
East meets West. It is a phrase we hear often but how does it translate into practice? The pull lies in the strength of the familiar; the push is an urge to create space and jump into the unfamiliar. As an individual who was raised between two cultures, I offer a warm and safe space to discuss cultural competency as it relates to your life. Retaining your cultural values and traditions while simultaneously assimilating to the societal norms of your geographic upbringing can lead to many questions about ourselves in the past, present and future. I believe strongly in your ability to grow if nurtured in an encouraging environment.
(341) 222-3526 View (341) 222-3526
Photo of Sonia Amin, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
Sonia Amin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
(628) 600-0975 View (628) 600-0975

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Randi Fredricks, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Dr. Randi Fredricks, PhD, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95125
First and foremost, therapy should make you feel cared for. A therapist needs to be insightful and honest with a huge dose of compassion. I always remember that it’s not easy for someone to reach out for help. I have over 17 years experience providing psychotherapy and counseling. I provide therapy for adults with anxiety, depression, self-confidence issues, grief and loss, addiction, intimacy, spiritual growth, and difficult life transitions. In addition to being a psychotherapist, I’m a best-selling author of several books and a published researcher. My approach to therapy is person-centered. I work in collaboration with clients,
First and foremost, therapy should make you feel cared for. A therapist needs to be insightful and honest with a huge dose of compassion. I always remember that it’s not easy for someone to reach out for help. I have over 17 years experience providing psychotherapy and counseling. I provide therapy for adults with anxiety, depression, self-confidence issues, grief and loss, addiction, intimacy, spiritual growth, and difficult life transitions. In addition to being a psychotherapist, I’m a best-selling author of several books and a published researcher. My approach to therapy is person-centered. I work in collaboration with clients,
(408) 351-0938 View (408) 351-0938
Photo of Sheetal Shah, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
Sheetal Shah
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I work with a wide range of concerns and have particular interest in working with depression, stress, major life transitions, relationship struggles, multicultural concerns, self-esteem issues, identity development, grief/loss, trauma, and intergenerational trauma.
My hope is that you leave therapy with a new sense of vitality, feeling empowered with a sense of congruency. I want you have an increased awareness and understanding about yourself and feel more interpersonally connected. I will strive to know who you are and how you see the world while we collaborate and work toward healing. We will focus on your emotional experience, honor your multiple identities, be in the moment, learn new skills, and help you "sit in the struggle." Therapy is a brave endeavor, and I will do my best to support this journey.
I work with a wide range of concerns and have particular interest in working with depression, stress, major life transitions, relationship struggles, multicultural concerns, self-esteem issues, identity development, grief/loss, trauma, and intergenerational trauma.
My hope is that you leave therapy with a new sense of vitality, feeling empowered with a sense of congruency. I want you have an increased awareness and understanding about yourself and feel more interpersonally connected. I will strive to know who you are and how you see the world while we collaborate and work toward healing. We will focus on your emotional experience, honor your multiple identities, be in the moment, learn new skills, and help you "sit in the struggle." Therapy is a brave endeavor, and I will do my best to support this journey.
(916) 526-3253 View (916) 526-3253
Photo of Karen Lau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Karen Lau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Depression and anxiety tend to co-occur, thus I also work with clients in managing their depression and/or grief.
Clients come to me due to anxiety, grief and trauma related concerns while facing stressors and life transitions. Life is difficult when you are experiencing mental health struggles due to health, family or marital situations, dating hardships, work conflict and/or past life experiences. It affects self confidence. You could be struggling while navigating the impact of immigration, cultural background, identity, inter-generational differences, interpersonal challenges, and career demands on your worldview and yourself. As an Asian therapist, I not only have familiarity but also cultural competency in helping APIDA individuals.
Depression and anxiety tend to co-occur, thus I also work with clients in managing their depression and/or grief.
Clients come to me due to anxiety, grief and trauma related concerns while facing stressors and life transitions. Life is difficult when you are experiencing mental health struggles due to health, family or marital situations, dating hardships, work conflict and/or past life experiences. It affects self confidence. You could be struggling while navigating the impact of immigration, cultural background, identity, inter-generational differences, interpersonal challenges, and career demands on your worldview and yourself. As an Asian therapist, I not only have familiarity but also cultural competency in helping APIDA individuals.
(925) 304-3846 View (925) 304-3846
Photo of Robin Pittman in Corte Madera, CA
Robin Pittman
PsyD, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Napa, CA 94559
I enjoy working with clients who are sensitive and seek help understanding and coping with the lessons behind their current problems. I teach coping strategies. I have worked with many issues including depression, anxiety, stress, and overcoming body image dissatisfaction. I have published a book to help people in this area called, "Roll With It" available on Amazon and most bookstores. I help people connect to their higher spiritual nature and their purpose in this life. I am a Reiki Master and natural intuitive, and I have been seeing clients for more than 40 years.
I enjoy working with clients who are sensitive and seek help understanding and coping with the lessons behind their current problems. I teach coping strategies. I have worked with many issues including depression, anxiety, stress, and overcoming body image dissatisfaction. I have published a book to help people in this area called, "Roll With It" available on Amazon and most bookstores. I help people connect to their higher spiritual nature and their purpose in this life. I am a Reiki Master and natural intuitive, and I have been seeing clients for more than 40 years.
(707) 512-9294 View (707) 512-9294
Photo of Telehealth of California, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Telehealth of California
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
At Telehealth of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
At Telehealth of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
(213) 319-2513 View (213) 319-2513
Photo of Meghana Tembe, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
Meghana Tembe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gold River, CA 95670
I blend insights from Brain Science & Buddhist Psychology/ Mindfulness Wisdom Traditions for healing Depression, Anxiety, Past Traumas by integrating traditional psychotherapy with Mindfulness, Self-Compassion & Loving-Kindness practices for cultivating love & intimacy with self/others.
The wound is the place where the Light enters you.... Rumi. "Are you experiencing sadness, anxiety/fear, or chronic unhappiness"? "Feeling unloved or unvalued in your relationships"? I believe that our wounds, our suffering & challenges can be a profound catalyst for awakening, for learning to love more deeply and for healing & transformation. And it will be my privilege to assist you in your healing journey...to alleviate suffering, awaken the heart towards self-compassion/loving-kindness and shape the brain towards greater joy & happiness!
I blend insights from Brain Science & Buddhist Psychology/ Mindfulness Wisdom Traditions for healing Depression, Anxiety, Past Traumas by integrating traditional psychotherapy with Mindfulness, Self-Compassion & Loving-Kindness practices for cultivating love & intimacy with self/others.
The wound is the place where the Light enters you.... Rumi. "Are you experiencing sadness, anxiety/fear, or chronic unhappiness"? "Feeling unloved or unvalued in your relationships"? I believe that our wounds, our suffering & challenges can be a profound catalyst for awakening, for learning to love more deeply and for healing & transformation. And it will be my privilege to assist you in your healing journey...to alleviate suffering, awaken the heart towards self-compassion/loving-kindness and shape the brain towards greater joy & happiness!
(916) 866-7530 View (916) 866-7530
Photo of Sheela Kamath, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Corte Madera, CA
Sheela Kamath
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94524
I work with adults, teens, couples, and families on issues including depression, anxiety, complex trauma, relational conflict, domestic violence, and work stress.
Are you struggling with your relationships, questions of personal identity, and where you belong? Have you made all the "right" life choices but still find yourself adrift and unfulfilled? Psychotherapy can provide a safe environment to process the complex emotions, self-defeating patterns, and past wounds blocking you from creating the life you want. As a therapist, I aim to be a compassionate ally who accompanies you on your journey toward self-awareness and healing. My style is warm and supportive, and I encourage you to bring your authentic self, even the parts that make you uncomfortable, to sessions without fear of judgment.
I work with adults, teens, couples, and families on issues including depression, anxiety, complex trauma, relational conflict, domestic violence, and work stress.
Are you struggling with your relationships, questions of personal identity, and where you belong? Have you made all the "right" life choices but still find yourself adrift and unfulfilled? Psychotherapy can provide a safe environment to process the complex emotions, self-defeating patterns, and past wounds blocking you from creating the life you want. As a therapist, I aim to be a compassionate ally who accompanies you on your journey toward self-awareness and healing. My style is warm and supportive, and I encourage you to bring your authentic self, even the parts that make you uncomfortable, to sessions without fear of judgment.
(925) 690-1710 View (925) 690-1710
Photo of Dr. Alisha Saxena, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
Dr. Alisha Saxena
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
We all have moments of feeling isolated and “stuck.” This can stem from the difference between what your life looks like now and how you would like it to be. The stress of this disconnection can seep into all aspects of your world: socially withdrawing or getting into more arguments can lead to depression and relationship conflict. You might feel like what you do is never “good enough,” increasing anxiety. You might hide your stress by focusing on what you can control, particularly after traumatic events. Therapy can help bring back joy and spontaneity into your life, helping you feel more fulfilled and energized.
We all have moments of feeling isolated and “stuck.” This can stem from the difference between what your life looks like now and how you would like it to be. The stress of this disconnection can seep into all aspects of your world: socially withdrawing or getting into more arguments can lead to depression and relationship conflict. You might feel like what you do is never “good enough,” increasing anxiety. You might hide your stress by focusing on what you can control, particularly after traumatic events. Therapy can help bring back joy and spontaneity into your life, helping you feel more fulfilled and energized.
(415) 449-9588 View (415) 449-9588
Photo of Archana Neelmegh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Archana Neelmegh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MHRS, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
Hi I'm Archana! Many of my clients are facing anxiety/depression that is in some ways appears manageable to the outsider but in actuality they are struggling internally from day to day. Whether it is trauma, eating disorders, difficult relationships or the high demands of college, work, and/or the journey into and in parenthood, I apply my extensive experience as an eclectic therapist drawing from multiple east and western modalities to provide support to fit my clients needs. My approach is warm, creative, collaborative, but also I take pride in gently challenging you for deep reflection. After all, you are here for change right?
Hi I'm Archana! Many of my clients are facing anxiety/depression that is in some ways appears manageable to the outsider but in actuality they are struggling internally from day to day. Whether it is trauma, eating disorders, difficult relationships or the high demands of college, work, and/or the journey into and in parenthood, I apply my extensive experience as an eclectic therapist drawing from multiple east and western modalities to provide support to fit my clients needs. My approach is warm, creative, collaborative, but also I take pride in gently challenging you for deep reflection. After all, you are here for change right?
(925) 744-6762 View (925) 744-6762
Photo of Shiveta Gandotra Phd., Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Shiveta Gandotra Phd.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94040
I specialize in evidence-based CBT focusing on the concerns of: anxiety, depression, habits and addictions, stress, and panic disorders.
In today's fast-paced world, taking care of our mental health is more important than ever. As Helen Keller once said, 'Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.' I believe that seeking support and guidance can make all the difference in our well-being. I am dedicated to offering compassionate and effective therapy to children, adults, and couples. With a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind and heart, I am committed to helping my clients find healing, growth, and resilience. Together, let's navigate life's challenges and cultivate mental wellness.
I specialize in evidence-based CBT focusing on the concerns of: anxiety, depression, habits and addictions, stress, and panic disorders.
In today's fast-paced world, taking care of our mental health is more important than ever. As Helen Keller once said, 'Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.' I believe that seeking support and guidance can make all the difference in our well-being. I am dedicated to offering compassionate and effective therapy to children, adults, and couples. With a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind and heart, I am committed to helping my clients find healing, growth, and resilience. Together, let's navigate life's challenges and cultivate mental wellness.
(650) 539-6989 View (650) 539-6989
Photo of Geeta Davjani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Geeta Davjani
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
I typically work with clients with a history of childhood trauma, victims of domestic violence and struggles with prepartum or postpartum depression.
I'm Geeta Devjani, LMFT, and I'm a bilingual/bi-cultural clinician. I am able to provide clinically and culturally sensitive outpatient mental health services to adults and children. I have experience working with clients from a multi-ethnic, underserved population who present with a range of emotional and behavioral difficulties (e.g., post-traumatic stress responses, attachment difficulties, regulatory and sensory challenges, depression and anxiety). I can support you in your struggle with challenging life transitions, processing of traumatic experiences and challenges with emotional regulation.
I typically work with clients with a history of childhood trauma, victims of domestic violence and struggles with prepartum or postpartum depression.
I'm Geeta Devjani, LMFT, and I'm a bilingual/bi-cultural clinician. I am able to provide clinically and culturally sensitive outpatient mental health services to adults and children. I have experience working with clients from a multi-ethnic, underserved population who present with a range of emotional and behavioral difficulties (e.g., post-traumatic stress responses, attachment difficulties, regulatory and sensory challenges, depression and anxiety). I can support you in your struggle with challenging life transitions, processing of traumatic experiences and challenges with emotional regulation.
(562) 632-4562 View (562) 632-4562

See more therapy options for Corte Madera

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.