Photo of Sam Elliott Pow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Sam Elliott Pow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hollywood, CA 90068
I use self-compassion training to dismantle the judgment, shame and self-blame that drive depression, anxiety and psychosis.
Healing from trauma, reclaiming power, growing from struggle and learning to work WITH emotions rather than AGAINST them are the goals I strive to support my clients in achieving. I want to help my clients move beyond simply not feeling so depressed, anxious, angry or manic. I want to help them transcend their pain, feel like they are fulfilling their purpose in life, are able to truly love themselves and are cultivating relationships that feed their soul. Narrative Therapy teaches my clients to transform the meaning of what they have been through and techniques from Existential Therapy help clients create or discover their purpose.
I use self-compassion training to dismantle the judgment, shame and self-blame that drive depression, anxiety and psychosis.
Healing from trauma, reclaiming power, growing from struggle and learning to work WITH emotions rather than AGAINST them are the goals I strive to support my clients in achieving. I want to help my clients move beyond simply not feeling so depressed, anxious, angry or manic. I want to help them transcend their pain, feel like they are fulfilling their purpose in life, are able to truly love themselves and are cultivating relationships that feed their soul. Narrative Therapy teaches my clients to transform the meaning of what they have been through and techniques from Existential Therapy help clients create or discover their purpose.
(747) 271-2029 View (747) 271-2029
Photo of Jocelyn Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hollywood, CA
Jocelyn Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90028
Anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, lack of motivation and traumas do not have to rule your life.
“To see and hear what is here, instead of what should be, was, or will be. To say what I feel and think, instead of what I should. To feel what I feel, instead of what I ought. To ask for what I want, instead of always waiting for permission. To take risks on my behalf, instead of choosing to be safe and not rock the boat.” ― Virginia Satir. I want to help you be your authentic self. Together we can uncover what is holding you back from living your truth. Whatever the root, you are in a safe space to release current or past trauma and beliefs not serving you.
Anxiety, depression, feeling stuck, lack of motivation and traumas do not have to rule your life.
“To see and hear what is here, instead of what should be, was, or will be. To say what I feel and think, instead of what I should. To feel what I feel, instead of what I ought. To ask for what I want, instead of always waiting for permission. To take risks on my behalf, instead of choosing to be safe and not rock the boat.” ― Virginia Satir. I want to help you be your authentic self. Together we can uncover what is holding you back from living your truth. Whatever the root, you are in a safe space to release current or past trauma and beliefs not serving you.
(714) 276-1892 View (714) 276-1892
Photo of Daphna Cardinale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Daphna Cardinale
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hollywood, CA 90028  (Online Only)
Therapy works. Emotional relief is possible. Changing your life is possible. It takes hard work, dedication, and support from someone who really cares. That's what I offer. I believe that in looking at how we relate to others and ourselves both now and throughout our lives up until this point, we can come to a greater understanding of ourselves and therefore can change. I cater my approach to the individual, couple, family, or group as I get to know you and your needs. When appropriate, I also use dream analysis, meditation, play therapy, and art therapy.
Therapy works. Emotional relief is possible. Changing your life is possible. It takes hard work, dedication, and support from someone who really cares. That's what I offer. I believe that in looking at how we relate to others and ourselves both now and throughout our lives up until this point, we can come to a greater understanding of ourselves and therefore can change. I cater my approach to the individual, couple, family, or group as I get to know you and your needs. When appropriate, I also use dream analysis, meditation, play therapy, and art therapy.
(310) 331-8504 View (310) 331-8504
Photo of Lea Monreyal, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Lea Monreyal
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90068
Asking for help can be one of the most difficult and even scariest thing for you to do. But therapy doesn't have to be so daunting nor does it have to take years for you to feel better. The therapy space should feel safe and empowering in order for you to be able to share, to learn, to consider a different perspective, to gain insight, to process your experiences, to start healing your emotional wounds, and to grow. You are not alone in feeling lost, helpless, angry, or confused. WE ALL feel this way at some point in, or about some areas of, our lives. A burden shared is a burden less heavy.
Asking for help can be one of the most difficult and even scariest thing for you to do. But therapy doesn't have to be so daunting nor does it have to take years for you to feel better. The therapy space should feel safe and empowering in order for you to be able to share, to learn, to consider a different perspective, to gain insight, to process your experiences, to start healing your emotional wounds, and to grow. You are not alone in feeling lost, helpless, angry, or confused. WE ALL feel this way at some point in, or about some areas of, our lives. A burden shared is a burden less heavy.
(714) 988-6512 View (714) 988-6512
Photo of Dr. Pamela Kaczmarek Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in Hollywood, CA
Dr. Pamela Kaczmarek Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, AS, BA, MA, LPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hollywood, CA 90068
Waitlist for new clients
"Normal is just a setting on the dryer!" Https://pronkcounseling.com/about-pronk FOR DETAILED INFORMATION /// I enjoy working with individuals who are (not always) open to engage in the therapeutic process and allow themselves to transform into the unique, worthy person they’ve always been.....but perhaps have not yet met. I often work with profound unrecognized and misdiagnosed trauma, critical incidents & shame. The benefit about having various "tools" in my arsenal means we don't need to verbally go "into the muck" which can be re-traumatizing and contraindicated.
"Normal is just a setting on the dryer!" Https://pronkcounseling.com/about-pronk FOR DETAILED INFORMATION /// I enjoy working with individuals who are (not always) open to engage in the therapeutic process and allow themselves to transform into the unique, worthy person they’ve always been.....but perhaps have not yet met. I often work with profound unrecognized and misdiagnosed trauma, critical incidents & shame. The benefit about having various "tools" in my arsenal means we don't need to verbally go "into the muck" which can be re-traumatizing and contraindicated.
(262) 891-4924 View (262) 891-4924
Photo of Alejandra Luna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Alejandra Luna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90028  (Online Only)
As non-binary and trans folx we often find ourselves wondering "where do I belong in this world?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we dont feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder when its going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just don't get it. We really want someone who can connect to us &make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
As non-binary and trans folx we often find ourselves wondering "where do I belong in this world?" and "why can't I just be myself?" It seems like we've tried everything but we dont feel like we belong or we are in a safe place to live & work. We often wonder when its going to get better? When can I just live my life fully how I am? Sometimes we feel sad and it can be a very lonely place. We can even forget just how special and unique we are because we are so different and surrounded by those who just don't get it. We really want someone who can connect to us &make our experiences feel validated, reminding us that we are beautiful.
(951) 262-7917 View (951) 262-7917
Photo of Jackie Eppinger, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hollywood, CA
Jackie Eppinger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hollywood, CA 90028  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! I specialize in working with cancer and chronic illness, attachment, and the LGBTQ+ community. I approach all of my counseling through an affirmative approach that creates a sense of safety and security that allows you to feel seen and heard in your unique story. Client that work with me would describe me as an active therapist, someone who engages my clients in exploration in a collaborative way. My favorite sessions are ones in which we can work together to understand deeper parts of you and increase your understanding of your self. I encourage compassion for all versions of you: past, present, and future.
Accepting new clients! I specialize in working with cancer and chronic illness, attachment, and the LGBTQ+ community. I approach all of my counseling through an affirmative approach that creates a sense of safety and security that allows you to feel seen and heard in your unique story. Client that work with me would describe me as an active therapist, someone who engages my clients in exploration in a collaborative way. My favorite sessions are ones in which we can work together to understand deeper parts of you and increase your understanding of your self. I encourage compassion for all versions of you: past, present, and future.
(424) 232-0546 View (424) 232-0546
Photo of Your Counseling Services dba Therapy Corner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hollywood, CA
Your Counseling Services dba Therapy Corner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hollywood, CA 90068  (Online Only)
Do you sometimes feel swallowed up by life's problems? Well, you're not alone. I will make it my priority to address your needs as a child, teen or adult. Through talk therapy, I will help you find or learn coping skills that will enable you to start on the path to healing and feeling good again. You will be empowered to utilize strategies that will assist you in making better choices. You will determine the best avenue for you personally while you deal with challenging situations.
Do you sometimes feel swallowed up by life's problems? Well, you're not alone. I will make it my priority to address your needs as a child, teen or adult. Through talk therapy, I will help you find or learn coping skills that will enable you to start on the path to healing and feeling good again. You will be empowered to utilize strategies that will assist you in making better choices. You will determine the best avenue for you personally while you deal with challenging situations.
(310) 356-3749 View (310) 356-3749

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Torres, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hollywood, CA
Jennifer Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Hello! My name is Jenn Torres Duran (she/they) and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I believe strongly in the innate natural talents we each hold and am ready to help stand with my clients to achieve the goals and ambitions held for their present and future. I utilize many different modalities (SFBT, CBT, EFT, EMDR, and ACT to name a few), depending on what my clients need in order to co-create tools and brainstorm ideas to face intergenerational traumas, depression, anxiety, and more!
Hello! My name is Jenn Torres Duran (she/they) and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I believe strongly in the innate natural talents we each hold and am ready to help stand with my clients to achieve the goals and ambitions held for their present and future. I utilize many different modalities (SFBT, CBT, EFT, EMDR, and ACT to name a few), depending on what my clients need in order to co-create tools and brainstorm ideas to face intergenerational traumas, depression, anxiety, and more!
(747) 281-3498 View (747) 281-3498
Photo of Sophia Ngo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Sophia Ngo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90069  (Online Only)
My specialties include anxiety, depression, life transitions, and working with Asian American/minority issues such as family conflict, intergenerational trauma, and cultural identity.
Are you feeling stuck or maybe even unable to identify what you are feeling? Life can sometimes throw us challenges that can impact our emotional well-being. Anxiety can affect your thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, making it challenging to engage fully in life's activities. Depression can leave you feeling sad, hopeless, and disinterested in things you once enjoyed. It drains your energy and affects your sleep patterns, appetite, and overall motivation. I believe in the power of authentic and empathetic conversations that can help you understand the underlying cause of your problems and transform them for the better.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, life transitions, and working with Asian American/minority issues such as family conflict, intergenerational trauma, and cultural identity.
Are you feeling stuck or maybe even unable to identify what you are feeling? Life can sometimes throw us challenges that can impact our emotional well-being. Anxiety can affect your thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, making it challenging to engage fully in life's activities. Depression can leave you feeling sad, hopeless, and disinterested in things you once enjoyed. It drains your energy and affects your sleep patterns, appetite, and overall motivation. I believe in the power of authentic and empathetic conversations that can help you understand the underlying cause of your problems and transform them for the better.
(909) 610-3172 View (909) 610-3172
Photo of Mallory Kujanek, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hollywood, CA
Mallory Kujanek
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90046
I am accepting new clients now! No one prepares you for how hard it is to be human. One could argue that anxiety and depression are appropriate responses to the absurd conditions of modern life. In order to thrive, human beings need connection with nature and a sense of community. However, so many fixtures of our culture isolate us from the natural world and from each other. It's my pleasure to collaborate with clients and explore how they might live more joyfully and authentically.
I am accepting new clients now! No one prepares you for how hard it is to be human. One could argue that anxiety and depression are appropriate responses to the absurd conditions of modern life. In order to thrive, human beings need connection with nature and a sense of community. However, so many fixtures of our culture isolate us from the natural world and from each other. It's my pleasure to collaborate with clients and explore how they might live more joyfully and authentically.
(626) 226-2439 View (626) 226-2439
Photo of Jacqueline Miranda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Jacqueline Miranda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90029
Hello! My name is Jacqueline Miranda, I'm an LMFT and I have been working in the field 8 years. Some of my areas of focus include working with couples, individuals, and children utilizing a trauma informed approach. I primarily work with children, and I am also comfortable working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma. My approach tends to be person centered, trauma focused, and humanistic.
Hello! My name is Jacqueline Miranda, I'm an LMFT and I have been working in the field 8 years. Some of my areas of focus include working with couples, individuals, and children utilizing a trauma informed approach. I primarily work with children, and I am also comfortable working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma. My approach tends to be person centered, trauma focused, and humanistic.
(858) 463-6719 View (858) 463-6719
Photo of Michael Spitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Michael Spitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90029
Is your child becoming more depressed, anxious or defiant, spending way too much time on devices? Are you experiencing more anxiety, depression, or confusion about where you are at this point in your life and where to go from here? Are you a creative person? As individuals, we can struggle to strike a balance between our careers, our hobbies and interests, and our relationships with our partners and children. You may feel life is getting more difficult. I have extensive experience working with children, teenagers and with artistic people to follow their passions, stay realistic and not let a mental health disorder hinder them.
Is your child becoming more depressed, anxious or defiant, spending way too much time on devices? Are you experiencing more anxiety, depression, or confusion about where you are at this point in your life and where to go from here? Are you a creative person? As individuals, we can struggle to strike a balance between our careers, our hobbies and interests, and our relationships with our partners and children. You may feel life is getting more difficult. I have extensive experience working with children, teenagers and with artistic people to follow their passions, stay realistic and not let a mental health disorder hinder them.
(513) 449-2379 View (513) 449-2379
Photo of Holly A. Freeling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Holly A. Freeling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
It’s natural to feel anxious or isolated during unsure times, and I am working hard to meet to meet the needs of my clients through remote telehealth sessions. I am accepting new clients, so please reach out. My video or call sessions are personal and easy to access. Therapy is both an art and a science, and I am well versed in both. I am also kind, empathetic and fun! I am skilled at several therapeutic modalities including: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (a unique method of healing trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, etc.), Art Therapy, Action-Oriented Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy and more.
It’s natural to feel anxious or isolated during unsure times, and I am working hard to meet to meet the needs of my clients through remote telehealth sessions. I am accepting new clients, so please reach out. My video or call sessions are personal and easy to access. Therapy is both an art and a science, and I am well versed in both. I am also kind, empathetic and fun! I am skilled at several therapeutic modalities including: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (a unique method of healing trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, etc.), Art Therapy, Action-Oriented Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy and more.
(626) 376-3098 View (626) 376-3098
Photo of Luz Elena Flores, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Luz Elena Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
Self development is a strength and it is something we have to constantly dedicate ourselves to do. However, It is not easy to deal with all of the issues that we encounter as being human. Allow me to guide you and help bring forth your unique strengths of resilience. I want to hear about what's important to you and what your needs are. I have worked with clients on various issues such as separation, trauma, depression, anxiety, family issues, relationship issues, and existential crises. I am currently not accepting clients; I can connect you with my colleagues trained in treating trauma, crisis, and couples.
Self development is a strength and it is something we have to constantly dedicate ourselves to do. However, It is not easy to deal with all of the issues that we encounter as being human. Allow me to guide you and help bring forth your unique strengths of resilience. I want to hear about what's important to you and what your needs are. I have worked with clients on various issues such as separation, trauma, depression, anxiety, family issues, relationship issues, and existential crises. I am currently not accepting clients; I can connect you with my colleagues trained in treating trauma, crisis, and couples.
(213) 370-1798 View (213) 370-1798
Photo of Lori Karny LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Lori Karny LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046  (Online Only)
I enjoy assisting adults of all ages to explore relationship concerns, to develop personal autonomy, self-worth - and to explore individual and professional creativity. If you are depressed, anxious, angry, struggling or worried - I want to help you. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals of all ages to articulate and understand psychological problems, to develop insight and individual strategies to thrive in life. I specialize in helping people who are are struggling with trauma, identity, suicidal ideation, emotional pain, social changes, family dynamics, relationship loss, complex grief, and emotional life transitions.
I enjoy assisting adults of all ages to explore relationship concerns, to develop personal autonomy, self-worth - and to explore individual and professional creativity. If you are depressed, anxious, angry, struggling or worried - I want to help you. For over 25 years, I have supported individuals of all ages to articulate and understand psychological problems, to develop insight and individual strategies to thrive in life. I specialize in helping people who are are struggling with trauma, identity, suicidal ideation, emotional pain, social changes, family dynamics, relationship loss, complex grief, and emotional life transitions.
(310) 341-0721 View (310) 341-0721
Photo of Rebecca Hirsch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Rebecca Hirsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90029
I know taking the first step can be challenging, and as your therapist I will always seek to support you. I specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate life’s difficulties, including anxiety, depression, trauma and intergenerational trauma, life transitions and stressors, grief and loss, identity and self esteem issues, parenting, and beyond. I approach therapy through a social justice lens, which has always been central to who I am.
I know taking the first step can be challenging, and as your therapist I will always seek to support you. I specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate life’s difficulties, including anxiety, depression, trauma and intergenerational trauma, life transitions and stressors, grief and loss, identity and self esteem issues, parenting, and beyond. I approach therapy through a social justice lens, which has always been central to who I am.
(310) 361-1243 View (310) 361-1243
Photo of Dave Hunter Fein, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hollywood, CA
Dave Hunter Fein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I am a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 117039 ), working under the supervision of Cristy Pareti, PsyD, LMFT. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University and received my Bachelors Degree from Emerson College. My Clinical experience includes working with individuals whom struggle with anxiety, depression, life skills, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma and interpersonal relationship difficulties.My modality is a mixture of of many psychological techniques as well as creative skills. This includes a blend of existentialism, mindfulness, humor, art and behavioral skills.
I am a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 117039 ), working under the supervision of Cristy Pareti, PsyD, LMFT. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University and received my Bachelors Degree from Emerson College. My Clinical experience includes working with individuals whom struggle with anxiety, depression, life skills, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma and interpersonal relationship difficulties.My modality is a mixture of of many psychological techniques as well as creative skills. This includes a blend of existentialism, mindfulness, humor, art and behavioral skills.
(475) 234-0201 View (475) 234-0201
Photo of Kari Gila Sacks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hollywood, CA
Kari Gila Sacks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I believe you've arrived here for a reason, and we're about to find out why. Together, we can explore the issues that are sacred to you and hopefully release you to a better emotional place. The basis of living strong is having a consciousness of purpose and meaning. I'm here to support this process of discovering heightened meaning within you. I have walked alongside folks facing deeply painful human challenges: grief over loss of all kinds, life transitions, aging, caregiver stress, single motherhood, overcoming depression and anxiety and trauma. I look forward to working with you to make your life better.
I believe you've arrived here for a reason, and we're about to find out why. Together, we can explore the issues that are sacred to you and hopefully release you to a better emotional place. The basis of living strong is having a consciousness of purpose and meaning. I'm here to support this process of discovering heightened meaning within you. I have walked alongside folks facing deeply painful human challenges: grief over loss of all kinds, life transitions, aging, caregiver stress, single motherhood, overcoming depression and anxiety and trauma. I look forward to working with you to make your life better.
(424) 346-8955 View (424) 346-8955
Photo of Natasha Davani, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hollywood, CA
Natasha Davani
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Feelings of stress, insecurity, and sadness are often a part of life. But if feelings like these are becoming so overwhelming that they're affecting your daily well-being and relationships, therapy can help. I work with clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship struggles. In our work together, we'll explore your core beliefs, foster self-compassion, and figure out solutions to come to a place of healing and fulfillment.
Feelings of stress, insecurity, and sadness are often a part of life. But if feelings like these are becoming so overwhelming that they're affecting your daily well-being and relationships, therapy can help. I work with clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship struggles. In our work together, we'll explore your core beliefs, foster self-compassion, and figure out solutions to come to a place of healing and fulfillment.
(805) 515-3484 View (805) 515-3484

See more therapy options for Hollywood


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.