Photo of Mitra H Elmi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Mitra H Elmi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I have experience working with those who have a specific presenting issues such as: depression, bereavement, anxiety, elderly (Immigration), relationship problems, marital problems as well as premarital consultation.
Being in the helping field is where I belong, and helping others is my priority. I initially began my career as a teacher, and then decided to pursue a deeper role in helping others learn, grow, and become their best self. During the past 8 years of being a clinical therapist, I have worked in both a clinic and school setting. I've worked with a diverse population, including people of all ages, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I welcome anyone who is willing to work with me, together, to improve relationships, self, family, and/or overall well-being.
I have experience working with those who have a specific presenting issues such as: depression, bereavement, anxiety, elderly (Immigration), relationship problems, marital problems as well as premarital consultation.
Being in the helping field is where I belong, and helping others is my priority. I initially began my career as a teacher, and then decided to pursue a deeper role in helping others learn, grow, and become their best self. During the past 8 years of being a clinical therapist, I have worked in both a clinic and school setting. I've worked with a diverse population, including people of all ages, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I welcome anyone who is willing to work with me, together, to improve relationships, self, family, and/or overall well-being.
(949) 682-3843 View (949) 682-3843
Photo of Shirin Shenasi Azari, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
Shirin Shenasi Azari
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626  (Online Only)
I see individuals with a broad area of clinical issues, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, relationship, and self-esteem issues.
Do you want a more healthy, productive and satisfying life? Sometimes, people may feel overwhelmed by what is happening in their lives and need help sorting out their feelings, finding solutions to their problems, or just feeling better. I can help by providing a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic experience. I strive to help people to find a new perspective on their problems and provide tools to help them change old patterns so they can increase the joy and peace in their lives.
I see individuals with a broad area of clinical issues, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, relationship, and self-esteem issues.
Do you want a more healthy, productive and satisfying life? Sometimes, people may feel overwhelmed by what is happening in their lives and need help sorting out their feelings, finding solutions to their problems, or just feeling better. I can help by providing a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic experience. I strive to help people to find a new perspective on their problems and provide tools to help them change old patterns so they can increase the joy and peace in their lives.
(949) 536-7368 View (949) 536-7368
Photo of Behzad Bernous, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
Behzad Bernous
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Professor of Psychology. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety to parenting support, couples counseling, individual therapy, and psychological testing. I offer my services in a comfortable, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere in English and Farsi.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Professor of Psychology. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety to parenting support, couples counseling, individual therapy, and psychological testing. I offer my services in a comfortable, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere in English and Farsi.
(949) 238-6705 View (949) 238-6705
Photo of The Weichman Clinic, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
The Weichman Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
We diagnose and serve children and adolescents coping with: * Abusive Dating Relationships * Academic Challenges * ADHD * Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders * Austism and Spectrum-Related Disorders * Bipolar Disorder * Body Image Issues * Chronic Headaches * Concussions * Cutting and Self-Mutilation * Depression * Epilepsy * Family Relational Problems * Learning Disorders * Low Self Esteem * Movement Disorders * Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder * Oppositional Defiance and Behavioral Problems * Substance Abuse * Trauma and PTSD.
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
We diagnose and serve children and adolescents coping with: * Abusive Dating Relationships * Academic Challenges * ADHD * Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders * Austism and Spectrum-Related Disorders * Bipolar Disorder * Body Image Issues * Chronic Headaches * Concussions * Cutting and Self-Mutilation * Depression * Epilepsy * Family Relational Problems * Learning Disorders * Low Self Esteem * Movement Disorders * Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder * Oppositional Defiance and Behavioral Problems * Substance Abuse * Trauma and PTSD.
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
(949) 537-2393 View (949) 537-2393
Photo of Premier Family Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Premier Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Welcome! It would be a pleasure to work with you on your therapeutic journey! It takes a lot of strength and courage to be able to seek help! We work with individuals, couples, and families, including but not limited to depression/anxiety, trauma, addiction/substance abuse, premarital counseling, and relationship issues. We specialize in trauma work and integrate EMDR therapy and somatic experiencing to work through unresolved trauma and adverse events from the past that may leave you stuck we well.
Welcome! It would be a pleasure to work with you on your therapeutic journey! It takes a lot of strength and courage to be able to seek help! We work with individuals, couples, and families, including but not limited to depression/anxiety, trauma, addiction/substance abuse, premarital counseling, and relationship issues. We specialize in trauma work and integrate EMDR therapy and somatic experiencing to work through unresolved trauma and adverse events from the past that may leave you stuck we well.
(562) 534-9018 View (562) 534-9018
Photo of Laili Beheshti, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Costa Mesa, CA
Laili Beheshti
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
I work with individuals and couples that are dealing with anxiety, depression, relational issues, and life transitions.
Life is constantly moving and sometimes we feel lost or stuck in the movement. We may feel like a bystander in our own lives. It is normal to want to slow down, pause, reassess, but many times guilt, comparison, or even habit interfere. As your therapist, it is my hope to co-create a space where you feel empowered to reflect on what is happening around you. Is this the pace you want to move at? Is this the way you want to move, in your relationships, in your personal life, at work? What is your preference?
I work with individuals and couples that are dealing with anxiety, depression, relational issues, and life transitions.
Life is constantly moving and sometimes we feel lost or stuck in the movement. We may feel like a bystander in our own lives. It is normal to want to slow down, pause, reassess, but many times guilt, comparison, or even habit interfere. As your therapist, it is my hope to co-create a space where you feel empowered to reflect on what is happening around you. Is this the pace you want to move at? Is this the way you want to move, in your relationships, in your personal life, at work? What is your preference?
(949) 538-2931 View (949) 538-2931
Photo of Dr. Shaleise Collier, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
Dr. Shaleise Collier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Dr. Collier is a licensed neuropsychologist with particular expertise in brain structures and their impact on learning/behavior. Dr. Collier provides psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults with a variety of concerns, including (but not limited to): anxiety, OCD, depression, executive dysfunction (e.g., procrastination, impulsivity, motivation), social skills deficits and behavior challenges. Dr. Collier also specializes in the assessment and treatment of ADHD and has extensive experience providing behavior therapy to parents with children with ADHD and disruptive/oppositional behaviors.
Dr. Collier is a licensed neuropsychologist with particular expertise in brain structures and their impact on learning/behavior. Dr. Collier provides psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults with a variety of concerns, including (but not limited to): anxiety, OCD, depression, executive dysfunction (e.g., procrastination, impulsivity, motivation), social skills deficits and behavior challenges. Dr. Collier also specializes in the assessment and treatment of ADHD and has extensive experience providing behavior therapy to parents with children with ADHD and disruptive/oppositional behaviors.
(949) 696-5720 View (949) 696-5720
Photo of Hessam Motamedian, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
Hessam Motamedian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Self Love Therapy is informed by the presence of compassionate consultation, experiential learning for self-healing and brain-based body interventions. In my experience, this integration not only accelerates recovery, also influences more growth areas in vital brain centers for a balanced self-led living.
Self Love Therapy is informed by the presence of compassionate consultation, experiential learning for self-healing and brain-based body interventions. In my experience, this integration not only accelerates recovery, also influences more growth areas in vital brain centers for a balanced self-led living.
(310) 919-4719 View (310) 919-4719
Photo of Sanaz Motamedi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Sanaz Motamedi
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Are you tired of trying to change your life and not succeed? Do you feel under-valued and misunderstood by others? Are you looking for someone trustworthy with experience handling sensitive emotional issues to provide deep understanding, empathy and help you change your life and relationships? Life can be difficult but you don't have to go through it alone. Great job taking the initial step! I have helped countless people for more than 15 years in therapy and have seen astounding changes in people's lives including their relationships and others. I look forward to our journey of healing, integration and growth together!
Are you tired of trying to change your life and not succeed? Do you feel under-valued and misunderstood by others? Are you looking for someone trustworthy with experience handling sensitive emotional issues to provide deep understanding, empathy and help you change your life and relationships? Life can be difficult but you don't have to go through it alone. Great job taking the initial step! I have helped countless people for more than 15 years in therapy and have seen astounding changes in people's lives including their relationships and others. I look forward to our journey of healing, integration and growth together!
(949) 531-7068 View (949) 531-7068
Photo of Orange Coast Psychological Associates, P.C. in Costa Mesa, CA
Orange Coast Psychological Associates, P.C.
PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Founded in 2008, Orange Coast Psychological Associates consists of a highly trained multidisciplinary group of independently practicing Clinical Psychologists; each of who bring a unique level of skill, expertise and clinical experience. We provide a range of psychological services and assessment to children, adolescents and adults.
Founded in 2008, Orange Coast Psychological Associates consists of a highly trained multidisciplinary group of independently practicing Clinical Psychologists; each of who bring a unique level of skill, expertise and clinical experience. We provide a range of psychological services and assessment to children, adolescents and adults.
(714) 643-8386 View (714) 643-8386
Photo of Bijan Amirshahi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Bijan Amirshahi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627  (Online Only)
My practice emphasizes on helping clients resolve immediate situations, while healing from difficult life experiences and developing strong personal and intimate relationships. I believe successful relationships are the key to having a healthy and rewarding life. The process of psychotherapy can strengthen one's sense of confidence, self-acceptance, and responsibility in daily life. It can also lead to a greater capacity for intimacy, to a more productive use of innate skills, and to experiencing more meaning and pleasure in life.
My practice emphasizes on helping clients resolve immediate situations, while healing from difficult life experiences and developing strong personal and intimate relationships. I believe successful relationships are the key to having a healthy and rewarding life. The process of psychotherapy can strengthen one's sense of confidence, self-acceptance, and responsibility in daily life. It can also lead to a greater capacity for intimacy, to a more productive use of innate skills, and to experiencing more meaning and pleasure in life.
(949) 533-3177 View (949) 533-3177
Photo of Sahar Sara Teimoori, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Sahar Sara Teimoori
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
The ideal client is someone who comes to therapy with a willingness to work on his/her issues. I am experienced in child, adolescent, family and individual. It is possible that you've been to therapists and counselors in the past, and you've been disappointed by the lack of concern and care. It is my firm belief that no one deserves to endure the pain of psychological affliction, especially when real help is available. I do everything within my means to ensure my clients' success, and if you happen to be struggling, I want to extend the same help to you.
The ideal client is someone who comes to therapy with a willingness to work on his/her issues. I am experienced in child, adolescent, family and individual. It is possible that you've been to therapists and counselors in the past, and you've been disappointed by the lack of concern and care. It is my firm belief that no one deserves to endure the pain of psychological affliction, especially when real help is available. I do everything within my means to ensure my clients' success, and if you happen to be struggling, I want to extend the same help to you.
(949) 485-4198 View (949) 485-4198
Photo of Ari Shahabaldiny Sex Therapist Emdr, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Ari Shahabaldiny Sex Therapist Emdr
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I help my clients by empowering them to become in charge of their lives. My role is to illuminate the path to your ideal future. I believe YOU are the expert of your life and YOU are the only one who can create your ideal change. We all go through times when life's challenges seem to get the best of us. Problems in life are inevitable, and strong coping skills are tools we need in overcoming such difficult times. WE will find your path and get you back on track.
I help my clients by empowering them to become in charge of their lives. My role is to illuminate the path to your ideal future. I believe YOU are the expert of your life and YOU are the only one who can create your ideal change. We all go through times when life's challenges seem to get the best of us. Problems in life are inevitable, and strong coping skills are tools we need in overcoming such difficult times. WE will find your path and get you back on track.
(949) 829-4841 View (949) 829-4841
Photo of Azizeh Chamani, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Costa Mesa, CA
Azizeh Chamani
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Do you find yourself repeating patterns and dynamics in your relationships that don’t feel authentic to how you want to live your life? We all experience painful and difficult emotions but we don’t have to go through them alone. I work from a trauma-informed perspective, with the belief that your childhood, conditioning, and past experiences have all influenced the way you show up in your current life. Coping skills that were once necessary for survival are no longer efficient and sometimes even work against you as an adult.
Do you find yourself repeating patterns and dynamics in your relationships that don’t feel authentic to how you want to live your life? We all experience painful and difficult emotions but we don’t have to go through them alone. I work from a trauma-informed perspective, with the belief that your childhood, conditioning, and past experiences have all influenced the way you show up in your current life. Coping skills that were once necessary for survival are no longer efficient and sometimes even work against you as an adult.
(949) 881-5391 View (949) 881-5391
Photo of Ava Mohtashemi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Costa Mesa, CA
Ava Mohtashemi
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I'm Ava. I understand how difficult and isolating navigating mental health challenges can be. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, wanting to build more self-confidence, or finally ready to process past traumas, I am here. I am passionate about this work because I truly believe in our individual and collective healing. My approach to therapy is always strengths-based and collaborative.
Welcome! I'm Ava. I understand how difficult and isolating navigating mental health challenges can be. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, wanting to build more self-confidence, or finally ready to process past traumas, I am here. I am passionate about this work because I truly believe in our individual and collective healing. My approach to therapy is always strengths-based and collaborative.
(657) 530-5512 View (657) 530-5512

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sara Nowparast Counseling & Coaching Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Sara Nowparast Counseling & Coaching Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
تراپی چیست و تراپیست چگونه می تواند به شما کمک کند؟ شايد خيلي از ما تصوري كه از جلسه تراپي داريم ، همراه بردن كوله باري از سؤالات و تصميمات معلقي است كه مدتهاست دنبال جواب آنها مي گرديم و با توجه به اينكه با داناترين ويا شايد مهربانترين دوستان و اقوام هم مشورت كرده ايم هنوز جواب قانع كننده يا مورد نظر خود را پيدا نكرده ايم. بنابر اين تراپيست همان حلال مشكلات و يا پاسخگوي تمامي آن سؤالها خواهد بود. اما تراپي و آنچه در جلسات تراپي مي گذرد وراي سؤال هاي شما و جواب هاي مشاور است. جالب است كه بدانيد يك مشاور متخصص هرگز براي شما تصميمي نمي گيرد و شما را مجبور به تصميمي نمي كند.
تراپی چیست و تراپیست چگونه می تواند به شما کمک کند؟ شايد خيلي از ما تصوري كه از جلسه تراپي داريم ، همراه بردن كوله باري از سؤالات و تصميمات معلقي است كه مدتهاست دنبال جواب آنها مي گرديم و با توجه به اينكه با داناترين ويا شايد مهربانترين دوستان و اقوام هم مشورت كرده ايم هنوز جواب قانع كننده يا مورد نظر خود را پيدا نكرده ايم. بنابر اين تراپيست همان حلال مشكلات و يا پاسخگوي تمامي آن سؤالها خواهد بود. اما تراپي و آنچه در جلسات تراپي مي گذرد وراي سؤال هاي شما و جواب هاي مشاور است. جالب است كه بدانيد يك مشاور متخصص هرگز براي شما تصميمي نمي گيرد و شما را مجبور به تصميمي نمي كند.
(714) 622-7497 View (714) 622-7497
Photo of Aram Amini Nejad, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
Aram Amini Nejad
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I work with adults, adolescents, couples and families who struggle with a wide range of behavioral, emotional and adjustment issues such as depression, anxiety, and relational difficulties.
Welcome... Do you ever find it difficult stop the exhausting ongoing negative thoughts on your mind? Do you dream of having a peaceful harmonious relationship with yourself and other important figures in your life? Or, do you simply wonder if therapy works?! Comprehensive research in the effectiveness of therapy versus no therapy indicate that, in fact therapy does work! However, you may wonder how one can possibly talk to a "stranger" about his/her very inner thoughts and feelings? The answer is that it may not be easy for some but it certainly worth a try!
I work with adults, adolescents, couples and families who struggle with a wide range of behavioral, emotional and adjustment issues such as depression, anxiety, and relational difficulties.
Welcome... Do you ever find it difficult stop the exhausting ongoing negative thoughts on your mind? Do you dream of having a peaceful harmonious relationship with yourself and other important figures in your life? Or, do you simply wonder if therapy works?! Comprehensive research in the effectiveness of therapy versus no therapy indicate that, in fact therapy does work! However, you may wonder how one can possibly talk to a "stranger" about his/her very inner thoughts and feelings? The answer is that it may not be easy for some but it certainly worth a try!
(949) 309-5102 View (949) 309-5102
Photo of Soheila Norolouni, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Soheila Norolouni
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with seven years of experience treating individuals, couples and families to overcome and manage their daily stress, anxiety, depression, substance use, behavioral issues, relational distress, anger, compulsiveness, complex grief, unresolved past trauma, attachment wounds and other mental health challenges.
I admire people who seek therapy for the purpose of gaining insight into their relational issues with self and others. They choose to embrace vulnerability and work steadily to reach their goals. Despite the discomfort and ambiguity of the process, they stay focused on their intention of creating a healthier life. I believe that not every modality works for all. By catering to each client’s specific needs, I utilize the appropriate approach in order to help them move past their struggles and to gain a sense of strength to fulfill their mental health needs.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with seven years of experience treating individuals, couples and families to overcome and manage their daily stress, anxiety, depression, substance use, behavioral issues, relational distress, anger, compulsiveness, complex grief, unresolved past trauma, attachment wounds and other mental health challenges.
I admire people who seek therapy for the purpose of gaining insight into their relational issues with self and others. They choose to embrace vulnerability and work steadily to reach their goals. Despite the discomfort and ambiguity of the process, they stay focused on their intention of creating a healthier life. I believe that not every modality works for all. By catering to each client’s specific needs, I utilize the appropriate approach in order to help them move past their struggles and to gain a sense of strength to fulfill their mental health needs.
(949) 989-5595 View (949) 989-5595
Photo of Mandana Shahoveisi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Mandana Shahoveisi
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you overwhelmed with negative feelings causing you to have depression and anxiety? Are you repeating the same behavioral patterns in your relationships? Would you like to learn new life skills such as coping skills, problem solving skills, and communication skills? Do you like to build up your self-esteem, self-confidence, self-love, and self-esteem? Or simply do you need to talk to someone objective and non-judgmental outside the circle of your family and friends? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, please pick up the phone and call me at: 949-350-5780
Are you overwhelmed with negative feelings causing you to have depression and anxiety? Are you repeating the same behavioral patterns in your relationships? Would you like to learn new life skills such as coping skills, problem solving skills, and communication skills? Do you like to build up your self-esteem, self-confidence, self-love, and self-esteem? Or simply do you need to talk to someone objective and non-judgmental outside the circle of your family and friends? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, please pick up the phone and call me at: 949-350-5780
(949) 484-0552 View (949) 484-0552
Photo of Shamim Bahrani-Madi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Costa Mesa, CA
Shamim Bahrani-Madi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. This can be achieved by providing a neutral safe environment and customizing an individualized treatment plan that best fits our lives' challenges and difficulties. Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, depression, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. Overcoming these symptoms can be possible by collaborating with you through the process of grief and healing and help you recover the motivation, perspective, and joy.
My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. This can be achieved by providing a neutral safe environment and customizing an individualized treatment plan that best fits our lives' challenges and difficulties. Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, depression, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. Overcoming these symptoms can be possible by collaborating with you through the process of grief and healing and help you recover the motivation, perspective, and joy.
(949) 390-6312 View (949) 390-6312
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.