Photo of Telehealth of California, Marriage & Family Therapist in Folsom, CA
Telehealth of California
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630  (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 Jamie Pedersen, Counselor in Folsom, CA
Jamie Pedersen
Counselor, LPCC, PPSC, NCC
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I see children, adolescents, and adults in individual therapy who are struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life cycle challenges, and trauma. At times the way people try to cope with and manage their past or present difficulties create additional barriers to feeling good, and fulfilling their hopes and goals. As a conscientious, professional, and compassionate clinician, I strive to provide a therapeutic relationship in which together we can think about, understand and help you work through those feelings and thoughts that are troubling, confusing and worrisome, and are perhaps getting in your way.
I see children, adolescents, and adults in individual therapy who are struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, life cycle challenges, and trauma. At times the way people try to cope with and manage their past or present difficulties create additional barriers to feeling good, and fulfilling their hopes and goals. As a conscientious, professional, and compassionate clinician, I strive to provide a therapeutic relationship in which together we can think about, understand and help you work through those feelings and thoughts that are troubling, confusing and worrisome, and are perhaps getting in your way.
(916) 520-6276 View (916) 520-6276
Photo of Angie Swarthout, Psychologist in Folsom, CA
Angie Swarthout
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630  (Online Only)
My expertise lies in guiding you through some of your most difficult life transitions and in helping you to reach and to honor your fullest potential. I have experience treating addiction and substance use disorders, anxiety and depression, domestic violence (both perpetrator and victim), other relationship issues, and issues around self-esteem. I can also help you to navigate the complex issues around coming out as LBGTQI.
My expertise lies in guiding you through some of your most difficult life transitions and in helping you to reach and to honor your fullest potential. I have experience treating addiction and substance use disorders, anxiety and depression, domestic violence (both perpetrator and victim), other relationship issues, and issues around self-esteem. I can also help you to navigate the complex issues around coming out as LBGTQI.
(707) 289-6799 View (707) 289-6799
Photo of Christopher Schell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Folsom, CA
Christopher Schell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
My name is Christopher Schell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in San Diego, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. My passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing.
My name is Christopher Schell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in San Diego, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. My passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing.
(916) 656-0495 View (916) 656-0495
Photo of Mark Hayman-Martinez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Folsom, CA
Mark Hayman-Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Hello! This is Mark Hayman-Martinez, RN LMFT. I am both a Registered Nurse and a Psychotherapist who has been in the helping professions since 1992. I consider myself warm and personable. Because of my training and experience, I prioritize safety and stability before pushing for change. For most acute anxieties and depression issues, I usually work in a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy mode at first. Are you using your self-talk to coach yourself or to beat yourself down? It has appeared to me that many people benefit from some focused and goal-oriented work, with more short term follow ups as circumstance call for.
Hello! This is Mark Hayman-Martinez, RN LMFT. I am both a Registered Nurse and a Psychotherapist who has been in the helping professions since 1992. I consider myself warm and personable. Because of my training and experience, I prioritize safety and stability before pushing for change. For most acute anxieties and depression issues, I usually work in a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy mode at first. Are you using your self-talk to coach yourself or to beat yourself down? It has appeared to me that many people benefit from some focused and goal-oriented work, with more short term follow ups as circumstance call for.
(916) 507-0768 View (916) 507-0768
Photo of Alicia Audino, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Folsom, CA
Alicia Audino
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Alicia Audino is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Chico. Alicia has worked with both youth and adults that have struggled with trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, academic concerns, relationship difficulties, and much more. She enjoys working alongside her clients to help them find their own paths to healing and happiness.
Alicia Audino is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Chico. Alicia has worked with both youth and adults that have struggled with trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, academic concerns, relationship difficulties, and much more. She enjoys working alongside her clients to help them find their own paths to healing and happiness.
(916) 659-7289 View (916) 659-7289
Photo of Courtney Hedges, Marriage & Family Therapist in Folsom, CA
Courtney Hedges
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630  (Online Only)
I specialize in the transitioning into parenthood, pregnancy and birth, reparenting yourself, relationships, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ, self love, stress, ADHD, and finding life purpose/inner-guidance.
My philosophy is to encourage individuals and couples to locate and strengthen their mindset, and relationship to develop healthy understanding of your needs and how to begin to meet those needs. My approach is utilizing traditional talk therapy, with mindfulness, and meeting you were you are now. Assisting you in creating the goals of your desires for your life.
I specialize in the transitioning into parenthood, pregnancy and birth, reparenting yourself, relationships, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ, self love, stress, ADHD, and finding life purpose/inner-guidance.
My philosophy is to encourage individuals and couples to locate and strengthen their mindset, and relationship to develop healthy understanding of your needs and how to begin to meet those needs. My approach is utilizing traditional talk therapy, with mindfulness, and meeting you were you are now. Assisting you in creating the goals of your desires for your life.
(916) 304-1554 View (916) 304-1554
Photo of Nancy Kolo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Folsom, CA
Nancy Kolo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC-S, RPTS
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630  (Online Only)
I provide Telemental Health sessions for Individuals, Couples, and Families struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, adoption, and grief and loss to all genders and lifestyles for adults, teens, and children older than 8 years of age.
I work with individuals, couples, and families. My approach begins with creating a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship in order to identify your strengths, prioritize your goals, reflect on your patterns and relationships that are not working well, explore your feelings and to find alternative ways to get your needs met. Collaboratively, we will work on identifying and strengthening your inner self. The goal is to assist you to achieve a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life with enriching relationships.
I provide Telemental Health sessions for Individuals, Couples, and Families struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, adoption, and grief and loss to all genders and lifestyles for adults, teens, and children older than 8 years of age.
I work with individuals, couples, and families. My approach begins with creating a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship in order to identify your strengths, prioritize your goals, reflect on your patterns and relationships that are not working well, explore your feelings and to find alternative ways to get your needs met. Collaboratively, we will work on identifying and strengthening your inner self. The goal is to assist you to achieve a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life with enriching relationships.
(916) 237-9202 View (916) 237-9202
Photo of Christine A. Volker, Psychologist in Folsom, CA
Christine A. Volker
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults - from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder to relationship and family issues.
Dr. Volker has over 25 years of clinical experience and will provide a safe, warm and healing environment for you and your loved ones. I believe in collaborating with you to select treatment goals that bring health, happiness and success to your life. Therapy can help when you are feeling sad, empty or hopeless; experiencing anxiety; feeling irritable and annoyed; experiencing conflict in a relationship; experiencing intrusive or upsetting memories; grieving the loss of a loved one; repeating familiar unsuccessful patterns; or adjusting to a transition in your life.
I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults - from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder to relationship and family issues.
Dr. Volker has over 25 years of clinical experience and will provide a safe, warm and healing environment for you and your loved ones. I believe in collaborating with you to select treatment goals that bring health, happiness and success to your life. Therapy can help when you are feeling sad, empty or hopeless; experiencing anxiety; feeling irritable and annoyed; experiencing conflict in a relationship; experiencing intrusive or upsetting memories; grieving the loss of a loved one; repeating familiar unsuccessful patterns; or adjusting to a transition in your life.
(916) 546-1178 View (916) 546-1178
Photo of Mary Guzik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Folsom, CA
Mary Guzik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Areas of special training and experience include relationship problems, anger management, parenting struggles, child/sexual abuse, domestic violence, conflict resolution, co-parenting, depression/anxiety, substance abuse as well as other areas of life's challenges.
Do you need help with your relationship? Are you wondering what to do next? Do you love someone, but don't like him/her right now? Well, I am here to help. I specialize in relationship issues. As an experienced licensed therapist, I can work with you to identify the problem areas in your relationship(s). Together, we can create a plan for change, develop new skills for a stronger connection, and create healthier interactions in your relationship(s). Yes, I know counseling can be costly. However, therapy is an investment. The investment is in improving your emotional well-being.
Areas of special training and experience include relationship problems, anger management, parenting struggles, child/sexual abuse, domestic violence, conflict resolution, co-parenting, depression/anxiety, substance abuse as well as other areas of life's challenges.
Do you need help with your relationship? Are you wondering what to do next? Do you love someone, but don't like him/her right now? Well, I am here to help. I specialize in relationship issues. As an experienced licensed therapist, I can work with you to identify the problem areas in your relationship(s). Together, we can create a plan for change, develop new skills for a stronger connection, and create healthier interactions in your relationship(s). Yes, I know counseling can be costly. However, therapy is an investment. The investment is in improving your emotional well-being.
(916) 512-6381 View (916) 512-6381
Photo of Jennifer A Alexander, Marriage & Family Therapist in Folsom, CA
Jennifer A Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
I am honored to serve anyone struggling with any type of trauma/PTSD, addiction, depression, or anxiety who wants life to be a little different. Total healing IS possible! I have a passion for non-judgemental connection with people who are nervous about being vulnerable, don’t want therapy, or have had a bad experience in the past. It can be fun and is worth the work! I like to partner with you to discover your strengths and help you reach YOUR goals. My ideal client is someone who has a good sense of humor, a desire for change, an open mind, ok w/an occassional bad word (or two), and MUST love dogs. I do animal assisted therapy.
I am honored to serve anyone struggling with any type of trauma/PTSD, addiction, depression, or anxiety who wants life to be a little different. Total healing IS possible! I have a passion for non-judgemental connection with people who are nervous about being vulnerable, don’t want therapy, or have had a bad experience in the past. It can be fun and is worth the work! I like to partner with you to discover your strengths and help you reach YOUR goals. My ideal client is someone who has a good sense of humor, a desire for change, an open mind, ok w/an occassional bad word (or two), and MUST love dogs. I do animal assisted therapy.
(916) 461-5853 View (916) 461-5853
Photo of Shelly S Goscha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Folsom, CA
Shelly S Goscha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, PTSD, relationships, identity, grief and loss, substance use and life transitions.
Life entails times of joy, happiness, growth, change, pain, and loss. Life can be hard and sometimes we need help to cope through difficult experiences and learn new ways of navigating the challenges we face. I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change, reduce emotional suffering, access strengths, change negative patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and further movement toward a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, PTSD, relationships, identity, grief and loss, substance use and life transitions.
Life entails times of joy, happiness, growth, change, pain, and loss. Life can be hard and sometimes we need help to cope through difficult experiences and learn new ways of navigating the challenges we face. I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change, reduce emotional suffering, access strengths, change negative patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and further movement toward a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.
(916) 226-9443 View (916) 226-9443
Photo of Sanctuary Counseling & Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Folsom, CA
Sanctuary Counseling & Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, addictions and emotional challenges can disrupt our lives and everything we hold dear. I will work with you to develop a plan and set reachable goals to improve your quality of life.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, addictions and emotional challenges can disrupt our lives and everything we hold dear. I will work with you to develop a plan and set reachable goals to improve your quality of life.
(669) 273-1905 View (669) 273-1905
Photo of Horizon Counseling Center Group Practice, Marriage & Family Therapist in Folsom, CA
Horizon Counseling Center Group Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, MFT, Trainee
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
Offices in Folsom, Roseville, Sacramento and West Sacramento. Check out our website for address locations. Our group of therapists are available to see adults, teens, children, couples, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, hoarding, co-parenting, panic attacks, school issues, relationship issues, family communication, conflict management, parent/teen conflict, and anger management. They also have experience working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and the family who support them. We have therapists trained in Gottman Level 1 and 2, Brain Spotting, Sand-tray and EMDR.
Offices in Folsom, Roseville, Sacramento and West Sacramento. Check out our website for address locations. Our group of therapists are available to see adults, teens, children, couples, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, hoarding, co-parenting, panic attacks, school issues, relationship issues, family communication, conflict management, parent/teen conflict, and anger management. They also have experience working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and the family who support them. We have therapists trained in Gottman Level 1 and 2, Brain Spotting, Sand-tray and EMDR.
(916) 347-4472 View (916) 347-4472
Photo of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy at KAP Wellness, Psychologist in Folsom, CA
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy at KAP Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Our team specializes in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, where Ketamine is used in conjunction with therapy to treat depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other conditions. A lot of research backs this cutting-edge treatment. If talk therapy, antidepressants, or other approaches did not reduce or eliminate your symptoms, please get in touch with us. Clients experience profound and transformational results with Ketamine. You can too!
Our team specializes in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, where Ketamine is used in conjunction with therapy to treat depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other conditions. A lot of research backs this cutting-edge treatment. If talk therapy, antidepressants, or other approaches did not reduce or eliminate your symptoms, please get in touch with us. Clients experience profound and transformational results with Ketamine. You can too!
(916) 603-2247 View (916) 603-2247
Photo of Heather Moss, Marriage & Family Therapist in Folsom, CA
Heather Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
I work with children, teens, and adults seeking support in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, emotional distress, life stressors, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, and the aftermath of trauma.
I provide couples in-person/virtual therapy throughout California. Interactions with a loved one can bring out the very best and worst in us. If the dynamic with your spouse or partner is a repeated source of pain, I am here to help. Instead of trying to understand each other, most partners make accusations & get defensive. l help couples to uncover feelings driving their interactions and reactions and then teach communication skills to help them transform the way they relate and connect. I truly believe that a loving and supportive relationship/family is one the most amazing gifts we can give to ourselves, children, and loved ones.
I work with children, teens, and adults seeking support in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, emotional distress, life stressors, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, and the aftermath of trauma.
I provide couples in-person/virtual therapy throughout California. Interactions with a loved one can bring out the very best and worst in us. If the dynamic with your spouse or partner is a repeated source of pain, I am here to help. Instead of trying to understand each other, most partners make accusations & get defensive. l help couples to uncover feelings driving their interactions and reactions and then teach communication skills to help them transform the way they relate and connect. I truly believe that a loving and supportive relationship/family is one the most amazing gifts we can give to ourselves, children, and loved ones.
(916) 764-3689 View (916) 764-3689
Photo of Melissa E Drivon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Folsom, CA
Melissa E Drivon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95762
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I specialize in providing therapy to teens, couples and individuals. I am also certified to provide services to veterans and their families. I believe in utilizing a variety of theoretical approaches in therapy to best meet the client's needs. Some of these therapies include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused and EMDR. I work with a wide variety of individuals including those suffering from anxiety, depression, bi-polar, trauma, low self-esteem and more.
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I specialize in providing therapy to teens, couples and individuals. I am also certified to provide services to veterans and their families. I believe in utilizing a variety of theoretical approaches in therapy to best meet the client's needs. Some of these therapies include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused and EMDR. I work with a wide variety of individuals including those suffering from anxiety, depression, bi-polar, trauma, low self-esteem and more.
(916) 347-5224 View (916) 347-5224
Photo of Kathleen Gallagher Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Folsom, CA
Kathleen Gallagher Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
If you've tried other types of therapy unsuccessfully, or if you or someone you love is experiencing anxiety, depression, or is self-soothing in unhealthy ways, it may be related to past trauma.
I feel incredibly fortunate to help my clients find the freedom to live a life of their choosing, improve their relationship with self and others, and find peace. I use brain-based therapies proven to uncover and address issues that talk therapy can take years to heal. In doing so I help children, teens and adults overcome challenges that keep them stuck in negative patterns. Often traumas are at the root of these negative patterns. By offering Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy that evolved from EMDR, trauma is accessed, processed and released. This is life-changing. This is freedom.
If you've tried other types of therapy unsuccessfully, or if you or someone you love is experiencing anxiety, depression, or is self-soothing in unhealthy ways, it may be related to past trauma.
I feel incredibly fortunate to help my clients find the freedom to live a life of their choosing, improve their relationship with self and others, and find peace. I use brain-based therapies proven to uncover and address issues that talk therapy can take years to heal. In doing so I help children, teens and adults overcome challenges that keep them stuck in negative patterns. Often traumas are at the root of these negative patterns. By offering Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy that evolved from EMDR, trauma is accessed, processed and released. This is life-changing. This is freedom.
(916) 461-8985 View (916) 461-8985
Photo of Ashley Robin Jimenez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Folsom, CA
Ashley Robin Jimenez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I believe that with patience, time, insight, awareness and understanding; progress and healing can be achieved. From my 15 years experience working with children, teens and adults -I have gained a strong passion to help individuals whom struggle with self-esteem issues, trauma, anxiety and depression. I also have a strong passion and extensive experience working with children and their behaviors, along with providing parenting support. As a mother of two small children, I understand the impact of juggling it all and the importance of support and practicing self-care. I’m here to provide insight, understanding and coping skills.
I believe that with patience, time, insight, awareness and understanding; progress and healing can be achieved. From my 15 years experience working with children, teens and adults -I have gained a strong passion to help individuals whom struggle with self-esteem issues, trauma, anxiety and depression. I also have a strong passion and extensive experience working with children and their behaviors, along with providing parenting support. As a mother of two small children, I understand the impact of juggling it all and the importance of support and practicing self-care. I’m here to provide insight, understanding and coping skills.
(279) 201-5445 View (279) 201-5445
Photo of Dr. Nicolette Bautista, Psychologist in Folsom, CA
Dr. Nicolette Bautista
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I specialize in PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, bereavement/grief, depression, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, and codependency.
Maybe something terrible happened to you or someone you love, and you wonder how to live with the triggers, grief, and anger. Your relationships are likely affected - maybe you overreact or feel numb and detached from others. You learned coping skills but are frankly tired of coping. There is good news - the brain can heal itself, called neuroplasticity. I experienced trauma first-hand and healed. I can help you do the same and heal your brain. If you tried other things to heal and found little relief, there is a good chance you have undischarged traumatic stress. Let's get to the trauma root and extract it once and for all!
I specialize in PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, bereavement/grief, depression, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, and codependency.
Maybe something terrible happened to you or someone you love, and you wonder how to live with the triggers, grief, and anger. Your relationships are likely affected - maybe you overreact or feel numb and detached from others. You learned coping skills but are frankly tired of coping. There is good news - the brain can heal itself, called neuroplasticity. I experienced trauma first-hand and healed. I can help you do the same and heal your brain. If you tried other things to heal and found little relief, there is a good chance you have undischarged traumatic stress. Let's get to the trauma root and extract it once and for all!
(916) 312-1352 View (916) 312-1352
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.