Photo of Juli Finch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Juli Finch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(661) 371-7185 View (661) 371-7185
Photo of Sheila Cano, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kern County, CA
Sheila Cano
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(661) 718-4664 View (661) 718-4664
Photo of Sandy Hagan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Sandy Hagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(661) 486-4995 View (661) 486-4995
Photo of Clear Mind Treatment, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Clear Mind Treatment
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Our licensed and Joint Commission accredited program is designed to break through treatment resistant depression, pain, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder using a combination of scientifically validated therapies and treatments.
This program contains an in-person component and a telemedicine component, but is ultimately tailored to meet your individual needs. Depending on your needs, this may consist of some combination of ketamine/esketamine, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, neurofeedback, group therapy (including couples and family therapy), individual therapy, mindfulness, and hypnotherapy. Note that while some of these modalities are optional, attending group therapy is an insurance-mandated requirement to attend our program.
Our licensed and Joint Commission accredited program is designed to break through treatment resistant depression, pain, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder using a combination of scientifically validated therapies and treatments.
This program contains an in-person component and a telemedicine component, but is ultimately tailored to meet your individual needs. Depending on your needs, this may consist of some combination of ketamine/esketamine, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, neurofeedback, group therapy (including couples and family therapy), individual therapy, mindfulness, and hypnotherapy. Note that while some of these modalities are optional, attending group therapy is an insurance-mandated requirement to attend our program.
(424) 328-5535 View (424) 328-5535
Photo of Rachelle Salerno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Rachelle Salerno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(661) 368-0899 View (661) 368-0899
Photo of Yessica Avancena, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Yessica Avancena
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA, CMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
The ideal client is one who is ready for change and open to healing. I work with individuals with a variety of mental health issues, emergent spirituality concerns or finding oneself through life purpose utilizing Mindfulness-based practices, energy work among other techniques to help decrease stress and promote happiness.
The ideal client is one who is ready for change and open to healing. I work with individuals with a variety of mental health issues, emergent spirituality concerns or finding oneself through life purpose utilizing Mindfulness-based practices, energy work among other techniques to help decrease stress and promote happiness.
(661) 218-1760 View (661) 218-1760
Photo of The Mindful Lemon , Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
The Mindful Lemon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
(661) 221-7049 View (661) 221-7049

Online Therapists

Photo of Ryann Walker, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kern County, CA
Ryann Walker
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hawthorne, CA 90250
Ryann J. Walker is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) specializing in depression, anxiety, self-esteem, interpersonal conflict/relationships, life transitions, grief, and trauma. Ryann treats adults (18+). She utilizes a Holistic and Integrative Approach that encompasses Psychodynamic Theory and therapeutic approaches including but not limited to Person Centered, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Ryann has experience counseling adults, seniors, families, and couples in outpatient settings.
Ryann J. Walker is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) specializing in depression, anxiety, self-esteem, interpersonal conflict/relationships, life transitions, grief, and trauma. Ryann treats adults (18+). She utilizes a Holistic and Integrative Approach that encompasses Psychodynamic Theory and therapeutic approaches including but not limited to Person Centered, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Ryann has experience counseling adults, seniors, families, and couples in outpatient settings.
(310) 299-9289 View (310) 299-9289
Photo of Nora Escobedo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Nora Escobedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hawthorne, CA 90250
Nora Escobedo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master's in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach. Nora helps clients through end-of-life issues related to self and family member/close friends and offers support to caregivers who are caring for a loved one with a terminal illness, dementia/Alzheimer's, cognitive impairment, and chronic illness, She assists her clients with parenting skills, coping with anticipatory grief, and reducing anxiety and depression.
Nora Escobedo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master's in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach. Nora helps clients through end-of-life issues related to self and family member/close friends and offers support to caregivers who are caring for a loved one with a terminal illness, dementia/Alzheimer's, cognitive impairment, and chronic illness, She assists her clients with parenting skills, coping with anticipatory grief, and reducing anxiety and depression.
(424) 552-3179 View (424) 552-3179
Photo of Bruce Whitney, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Bruce Whitney
Psychologist, PhD, QME
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I enjoy treating these issues and also specialize in the treatment of PTSD, depression, and issues relating to anxiety, fears, dissociative disorders, and marital discord/divorce.
EVENING APPTS. I chose a PhD in Clinical Psychology in order to help individuals suffering with the emotional pain and upheaval that life's ups and downs can bring. I enjoy a close working relationship and collaborative trust based connection with my patients, which brings the reward of personal growth and stimulates the healing process. With more than 28 years in the mental health profession, and 25+ years in private practice, I continue working to expand my education and experience to include a wide variety of psychotherapeutical skill sets.
I enjoy treating these issues and also specialize in the treatment of PTSD, depression, and issues relating to anxiety, fears, dissociative disorders, and marital discord/divorce.
EVENING APPTS. I chose a PhD in Clinical Psychology in order to help individuals suffering with the emotional pain and upheaval that life's ups and downs can bring. I enjoy a close working relationship and collaborative trust based connection with my patients, which brings the reward of personal growth and stimulates the healing process. With more than 28 years in the mental health profession, and 25+ years in private practice, I continue working to expand my education and experience to include a wide variety of psychotherapeutical skill sets.
(805) 317-4460 View (805) 317-4460
Photo of Marcela Gonzalez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Marcela Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320  (Online Only)
Marcela Gonzalez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the medical and mental health fields. She's passionate about helping individuals find their true, wonderful selves and live more fulfilling lives. She has helped individuals decrease their depression and anxiety symptoms by helping them become more self-aware, allowing them to identify their feelings and emotions. Marcela provides a safe space for her clients to discuss their traumas, grief, relationship issues, and important life transitions. Marcela completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Cal State Long Beach.
Marcela Gonzalez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the medical and mental health fields. She's passionate about helping individuals find their true, wonderful selves and live more fulfilling lives. She has helped individuals decrease their depression and anxiety symptoms by helping them become more self-aware, allowing them to identify their feelings and emotions. Marcela provides a safe space for her clients to discuss their traumas, grief, relationship issues, and important life transitions. Marcela completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Cal State Long Beach.
(805) 429-1228 View (805) 429-1228
Photo of Anastasia Titova, Counselor in Kern County, CA
Anastasia Titova
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
I utilize trauma-informed holistic methods in my practice, and have treated individuals experiencing a wide range of difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, life crises and psychological trauma.
In my approach to therapy I view individuals as whole, complex entities. Together, we will develop a safe and non-judgmental place for self-exploration and reflection on personal values, beliefs and actions. We will work as a team to adjust behaviors and emotional responses that are no longer useful. We will create healthier and more thoughtful ways of living to support inner balance and promote personal grow.
I utilize trauma-informed holistic methods in my practice, and have treated individuals experiencing a wide range of difficulties, such as depression, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, life crises and psychological trauma.
In my approach to therapy I view individuals as whole, complex entities. Together, we will develop a safe and non-judgmental place for self-exploration and reflection on personal values, beliefs and actions. We will work as a team to adjust behaviors and emotional responses that are no longer useful. We will create healthier and more thoughtful ways of living to support inner balance and promote personal grow.
(424) 622-0427 View (424) 622-0427
Photo of Armine Asatryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Armine Asatryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also treat a number of issues including (but not limited to) Mood disorders, loss & grief, depression, OCD, PTSD, panic, boundaries, & trauma/abuse.
Specializing in Anxiety. Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Maybe you are feeling sad, stressed, or stuck. Are you having issues in your relationships? Do you wish to break cycles of behaviors and situations? I am here for you. My approach is integrative and specific to each client. I strive to help guide clients towards self-awareness, insight, and better relationships with themselves and others. I balance listening with practical and structured interventions to help clients both inside and outside of session.
I also treat a number of issues including (but not limited to) Mood disorders, loss & grief, depression, OCD, PTSD, panic, boundaries, & trauma/abuse.
Specializing in Anxiety. Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Maybe you are feeling sad, stressed, or stuck. Are you having issues in your relationships? Do you wish to break cycles of behaviors and situations? I am here for you. My approach is integrative and specific to each client. I strive to help guide clients towards self-awareness, insight, and better relationships with themselves and others. I balance listening with practical and structured interventions to help clients both inside and outside of session.
(818) 697-1227 View (818) 697-1227
Photo of Stefanie Lucia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Stefanie Lucia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
I commonly help with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD/CPTSD, addiction and eating disorders.
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
I commonly help with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD/CPTSD, addiction and eating disorders.
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
(707) 708-4461 View (707) 708-4461
Photo of Maria Ruelas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Maria Ruelas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91105
I provide treatment to individuals with social and emotional concerns such as, social skills, anxiety, aggression, depression, self-esteem, gender identity, impulsivity, hyperactivity, complex traumas and much more.
I am a Bilingual (Spanish speaking) Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes working with children, young adults, and families. I earned my master's degree from USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and my doctorate degree at USC Rossier School of Education. I am a highly motivated and passionate individual who is committed to providing excellent clinical interventions and outreach services regarding mental health and wellness to any of my clients. I am self-aware and culturally competent as I have had the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.
I provide treatment to individuals with social and emotional concerns such as, social skills, anxiety, aggression, depression, self-esteem, gender identity, impulsivity, hyperactivity, complex traumas and much more.
I am a Bilingual (Spanish speaking) Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes working with children, young adults, and families. I earned my master's degree from USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and my doctorate degree at USC Rossier School of Education. I am a highly motivated and passionate individual who is committed to providing excellent clinical interventions and outreach services regarding mental health and wellness to any of my clients. I am self-aware and culturally competent as I have had the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.
(323) 997-8715 View (323) 997-8715
Photo of Rae Hadley, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Rae Hadley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
Dr. Hadley is a clinical psychologist with more than 23 years of experience, specializing in working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with ADHD, chronic medical conditions, grief and loss, death and dying, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and spirituality. She believes that the relationship and connection between a client and therapist are essential to successful therapy. Her goal is to create a welcoming, trusting space where you can explore the deepest parts of yourself, to question, challenge, heal, forgive, and grow.
Dr. Hadley is a clinical psychologist with more than 23 years of experience, specializing in working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with ADHD, chronic medical conditions, grief and loss, death and dying, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and spirituality. She believes that the relationship and connection between a client and therapist are essential to successful therapy. Her goal is to create a welcoming, trusting space where you can explore the deepest parts of yourself, to question, challenge, heal, forgive, and grow.
(323) 870-9329 View (323) 870-9329
Photo of Christine Posadas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Christine Posadas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91105
Her specialities are in anxiety and depression, with a particular focus on intergenerational issues regarding communication, feelings comprehension and expression, boundary-setting and identity.
Christine Posadas is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena with a Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy. Christine's approach is collaborative, person-centered and culturally sensitive; while opening up to a stranger can seem daunting, she strives to create a welcoming professional space that is warm and curious, safe, and without judgment. She has worked with children and adolescents, parents, families, and adults with diverse backgrounds in a variety of settings.
Her specialities are in anxiety and depression, with a particular focus on intergenerational issues regarding communication, feelings comprehension and expression, boundary-setting and identity.
Christine Posadas is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena with a Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy. Christine's approach is collaborative, person-centered and culturally sensitive; while opening up to a stranger can seem daunting, she strives to create a welcoming professional space that is warm and curious, safe, and without judgment. She has worked with children and adolescents, parents, families, and adults with diverse backgrounds in a variety of settings.
(323) 968-5664 View (323) 968-5664
Photo of Foresight Mental Health California, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Foresight Mental Health California
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Our clinicians use different therapies and approaches to help our clients with depression, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, substance use disorders, eating disorders, and more.
Foresight Mental Health’s integrated team of professionals includes licensed therapists, nutritionists, and psychiatric providers dedicated to working with clients to provide individualized and personal care. We believe in providing care that is accessible and affordable, which is why we are in network with most major insurers and provide both telehealth and in-person services.
Our clinicians use different therapies and approaches to help our clients with depression, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, substance use disorders, eating disorders, and more.
Foresight Mental Health’s integrated team of professionals includes licensed therapists, nutritionists, and psychiatric providers dedicated to working with clients to provide individualized and personal care. We believe in providing care that is accessible and affordable, which is why we are in network with most major insurers and provide both telehealth and in-person services.
(916) 545-1120 View (916) 545-1120
Photo of Jenna Torres, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Jenna Torres
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91105
Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and stress management.
Jenna Torres, PsyD is a Clinical Psychologist who has been practicing since 2011. She graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles, CA with a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Health Psychology. Dr. Torres believes in providing therapy from a person-centered, culturally competent, and trauma-focused lens. She incorporates an eclectic approach to mental health treatment, primarily utilizing Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and stress management.
Jenna Torres, PsyD is a Clinical Psychologist who has been practicing since 2011. She graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles, CA with a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Health Psychology. Dr. Torres believes in providing therapy from a person-centered, culturally competent, and trauma-focused lens. She incorporates an eclectic approach to mental health treatment, primarily utilizing Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(323) 676-1497 View (323) 676-1497
Photo of Bruce Watson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Bruce Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BCD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
It can be difficult to ask for help, especially from someone you don't know at a time when you are feeling depressed, anxious, or traumatized. But making a call is your first step towards positive change. My first priority is to provide you with a safe and supportive setting, so we can work together to find the tools you need to solve the issues that brought you into therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neurofeedback if indicated, both are non-drug therapies, scientifically supported methods shown to promote fast, effective and enduring change. Together we will work on your goals for healing, wellbeing, and a sense of purpose.
It can be difficult to ask for help, especially from someone you don't know at a time when you are feeling depressed, anxious, or traumatized. But making a call is your first step towards positive change. My first priority is to provide you with a safe and supportive setting, so we can work together to find the tools you need to solve the issues that brought you into therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Neurofeedback if indicated, both are non-drug therapies, scientifically supported methods shown to promote fast, effective and enduring change. Together we will work on your goals for healing, wellbeing, and a sense of purpose.
(805) 758-6804 View (805) 758-6804

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.