Depression Therapists in Lake Isabella, CA

Photo of Joshua Lefler, PsyD, Psychologist
Joshua Lefler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Isabella, CA 93240
Not accepting new clients
(661) 505-6351 View (661) 505-6351

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karen Fischer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Fischer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kernville, CA 93238  (Online Only)
I specialize in assisting you in your recovery from depression, anxiety, OCD and PTSD with proven methods including EMDR, family, DBT, and couples therapies. EMDR targets trauma reactions utilizing the body's natural pathways for reducing emotional distress. DBT works to reduce emotional distress. I also work with adolescents experiencing eating disorders using family based treatment proven to yield the best results in working with your family and your child. I have over 26 years of experience. All services are via telehealth so you can access my services wherever you desire.
I specialize in assisting you in your recovery from depression, anxiety, OCD and PTSD with proven methods including EMDR, family, DBT, and couples therapies. EMDR targets trauma reactions utilizing the body's natural pathways for reducing emotional distress. DBT works to reduce emotional distress. I also work with adolescents experiencing eating disorders using family based treatment proven to yield the best results in working with your family and your child. I have over 26 years of experience. All services are via telehealth so you can access my services wherever you desire.
(760) 906-9440 View (760) 906-9440
Photo of Marsinah Ramirez Buchan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marsinah Ramirez Buchan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kernville, CA 93238
Difficulty Finding A Therapist? Sessions Now Available In Person or Online. When we are stuck in the midst of problems, it is often difficult to have hope. It may feel like things will never change. Being stuck prevents us from seeing our choices, so we may try to resolve a problem by doing something that we have already tried. This is normal, but sometimes normal stops working. So when life gets chaotic - or just plain crazy - and what we have tried has failed, consider therapy to become unstuck. I am here to help you untangle yourself from difficult situations, self-sabotaging behaviors or emotional angst that makes life hard.
Difficulty Finding A Therapist? Sessions Now Available In Person or Online. When we are stuck in the midst of problems, it is often difficult to have hope. It may feel like things will never change. Being stuck prevents us from seeing our choices, so we may try to resolve a problem by doing something that we have already tried. This is normal, but sometimes normal stops working. So when life gets chaotic - or just plain crazy - and what we have tried has failed, consider therapy to become unstuck. I am here to help you untangle yourself from difficult situations, self-sabotaging behaviors or emotional angst that makes life hard.
(760) 492-6662 View (760) 492-6662
Photo of Heather Berry, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kernville, CA 93238
Numb, tired, and wondering where YOU went? Feel like you have worked so hard, giving to others, responding, and literally "pushing rocks uphill". I'm here to help you reconnect and realign to YOU so that you can remember the passion and curiosity for the life you have. It's time for YOU. I help people learn new tools to step onto a fresh path, and find JOY. Specializing in First Responder and Life Trauma, I know how hard it is to let go of the "numbness and the shutdown". I have a deep heart for the family-focused, career soul who feels lost after raising kids and is full of compassion fatigue. It's Your Turn.
Numb, tired, and wondering where YOU went? Feel like you have worked so hard, giving to others, responding, and literally "pushing rocks uphill". I'm here to help you reconnect and realign to YOU so that you can remember the passion and curiosity for the life you have. It's time for YOU. I help people learn new tools to step onto a fresh path, and find JOY. Specializing in First Responder and Life Trauma, I know how hard it is to let go of the "numbness and the shutdown". I have a deep heart for the family-focused, career soul who feels lost after raising kids and is full of compassion fatigue. It's Your Turn.
(760) 977-5201 View (760) 977-5201

Online Therapists

Photo of Michael Obarski, PhD, Psychologist
Michael Obarski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Canada, CA 91011  (Online Only)
I work with people struggling with a variety of specific issues including: life transitions; relationship enhancement; work problems; and codependency; as well as depression and anxiety related problems including phobias, anger, panic, and stress related physiological problems (dermatologic, gastrointestinal, rheumatologic, and cardiac).
My approach to therapy is focused on facilitating change in both perception and behavior leading to enhanced quality of life. The process is focused both historically (looking at early developmental experience) and in the moment (current perceptions, fears, and values that shape our current behavior). I find we each view the world in a unique way related specifically to our own developmental experiences and that view shapes what we expect from ourselves and others. It affects the decisions we make, and the direction our life takes, sometimes without us being fully aware of this powerful influencing force.
I work with people struggling with a variety of specific issues including: life transitions; relationship enhancement; work problems; and codependency; as well as depression and anxiety related problems including phobias, anger, panic, and stress related physiological problems (dermatologic, gastrointestinal, rheumatologic, and cardiac).
My approach to therapy is focused on facilitating change in both perception and behavior leading to enhanced quality of life. The process is focused both historically (looking at early developmental experience) and in the moment (current perceptions, fears, and values that shape our current behavior). I find we each view the world in a unique way related specifically to our own developmental experiences and that view shapes what we expect from ourselves and others. It affects the decisions we make, and the direction our life takes, sometimes without us being fully aware of this powerful influencing force.
(626) 385-8982 View (626) 385-8982
Photo of Jaklin Hayrapetian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jaklin Hayrapetian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sylmar, CA 91342  (Online Only)
I work with adult clients who are dealing with life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, grief, and loss.
My name is Jaklin Hayrapetian and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. My clinical experience includes working with individuals dealing with anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief, and loss. Guiding my clients through these challenging emotions, I have employed various therapeutic approaches tailored to their unique needs. Whether utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, or relaxation exercises, my objective is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your inner strengths, progress towards your goals.
I work with adult clients who are dealing with life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, grief, and loss.
My name is Jaklin Hayrapetian and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in California. My clinical experience includes working with individuals dealing with anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief, and loss. Guiding my clients through these challenging emotions, I have employed various therapeutic approaches tailored to their unique needs. Whether utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, or relaxation exercises, my objective is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your inner strengths, progress towards your goals.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Frank Costello, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frank Costello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91325
My goal is to help people in how they manage the stress and anxieties in life. Often, the way we perceive a problem greatly affects how we deal (or don't deal) with that problem. Building on insight and self-awareness, we can move the mountains in our minds, so we can see a clearer picture of ourselves, and the world around us-- improving our ability to cope, our self esteem, and the quality of our personal relationships. I will help provide you with practical and useful tools to cope with: Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Grief, Communication Issues, Difficult Relationships, and Life Transitions.
My goal is to help people in how they manage the stress and anxieties in life. Often, the way we perceive a problem greatly affects how we deal (or don't deal) with that problem. Building on insight and self-awareness, we can move the mountains in our minds, so we can see a clearer picture of ourselves, and the world around us-- improving our ability to cope, our self esteem, and the quality of our personal relationships. I will help provide you with practical and useful tools to cope with: Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Grief, Communication Issues, Difficult Relationships, and Life Transitions.
(323) 689-5430 View (323) 689-5430
Photo of Bonnie Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bonnie Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Visalia, CA 93292  (Online Only)
Brynn graduated with her master's in social work in 2014. Her philosophy of care is grounded in compassion and curiosity, with a focus on being direct and honest. She uses a strengths-based approach, serving with empathy while also advocating for needed support. Brynn recognizes the courage and resiliency in every client, holding equal respect for their challenges, traumas, triumphs, and achievements. Her expertise is in trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, specializing in diagnoses including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder. She enjoys working with moms, the LGBTQQ+ community, and young adults.
Brynn graduated with her master's in social work in 2014. Her philosophy of care is grounded in compassion and curiosity, with a focus on being direct and honest. She uses a strengths-based approach, serving with empathy while also advocating for needed support. Brynn recognizes the courage and resiliency in every client, holding equal respect for their challenges, traumas, triumphs, and achievements. Her expertise is in trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, specializing in diagnoses including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder. She enjoys working with moms, the LGBTQQ+ community, and young adults.
(323) 205-7088 View (323) 205-7088
Photo of Desiree Ingram-Garcia, MA
Desiree Ingram-Garcia
Registered Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Additionally, I incorporate various therapeutic methods, including Jungian, Expressive Arts, Mindfulness, Meditation, and Visualization, to address anxiety, depression, and addiction.
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Many individuals come to therapy with concerns about how these challenges have shaped their identity. My approach to treatment is non-judgmental, focused on creating a safe space and enhancing clients' lives. I am committed to building a strong therapeutic alliance, guiding clients through their transformative process, and exploring deeper aspects of the self. While I primarily work with adults, my goal is to help clients develop emotional tools that improve their relationships—with themselves, others, and in the workplace.
Additionally, I incorporate various therapeutic methods, including Jungian, Expressive Arts, Mindfulness, Meditation, and Visualization, to address anxiety, depression, and addiction.
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Many individuals come to therapy with concerns about how these challenges have shaped their identity. My approach to treatment is non-judgmental, focused on creating a safe space and enhancing clients' lives. I am committed to building a strong therapeutic alliance, guiding clients through their transformative process, and exploring deeper aspects of the self. While I primarily work with adults, my goal is to help clients develop emotional tools that improve their relationships—with themselves, others, and in the workplace.
(818) 938-2128 View (818) 938-2128
Photo of Penny A. Oliveira, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Penny A. Oliveira
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lemoore, CA 93245  (Online Only)
I offer personalized therapy for anger management, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, relationship issues, and family conflict.
Hello. My name is Penny, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California. I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and confidentiality. In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings. I value the courage it takes to be vulnerable and I ensure my clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Together, we’ll work to uncover insights and develop strategies tailored to you. Your well-being is my top priority, and I’m committed to building a trusting, collaborative relationship.
I offer personalized therapy for anger management, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, relationship issues, and family conflict.
Hello. My name is Penny, and I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California. I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and confidentiality. In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings. I value the courage it takes to be vulnerable and I ensure my clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Together, we’ll work to uncover insights and develop strategies tailored to you. Your well-being is my top priority, and I’m committed to building a trusting, collaborative relationship.
(559) 242-1504 View (559) 242-1504
Photo of Daniel Crosby, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Crosby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
My name is Dan Crosby and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My style of therapy is client driven and more of a partnership focusing on helping you reach your goals. I have extensive experience and training with treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, and a multitude of other diagnoses which I will use to tailor your specific treatment to your needs and goals. I have been working in the field for over 15 years with a variety of clientele ranging from kids, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with a vast variety of diagnoses, trauma histories, life changes, and other stressors that a person may be going through.
My name is Dan Crosby and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My style of therapy is client driven and more of a partnership focusing on helping you reach your goals. I have extensive experience and training with treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, and a multitude of other diagnoses which I will use to tailor your specific treatment to your needs and goals. I have been working in the field for over 15 years with a variety of clientele ranging from kids, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with a vast variety of diagnoses, trauma histories, life changes, and other stressors that a person may be going through.
(562) 669-2344 View (562) 669-2344
Photo of Alysa K Grigsby - Alysa Grigsby, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alysa Grigsby, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
I have training and experience in multiple areas including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, crisis intervention, domestic violence, substance abuse, parenting issues, working with pre-teens and teens and supporting students and parents with IEP's in the school system.
Hi. I have been a licensed therapist for over 20 years; giving me vast knowledge and experience in multiple clinical areas. I enjoy helping my clients reach their own goals by offering support, time tested strategies and tools and even a little bit of humor. I work creatively and flexibly to meet the needs of my clients.
I have training and experience in multiple areas including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, crisis intervention, domestic violence, substance abuse, parenting issues, working with pre-teens and teens and supporting students and parents with IEP's in the school system.
Hi. I have been a licensed therapist for over 20 years; giving me vast knowledge and experience in multiple clinical areas. I enjoy helping my clients reach their own goals by offering support, time tested strategies and tools and even a little bit of humor. I work creatively and flexibly to meet the needs of my clients.
(805) 793-1393 View (805) 793-1393
Photo of Ashley Wilson-Dixon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Wilson-Dixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sylmar, CA 91342  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include trauma, mood disorders such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, as well as high-risk situations like suicidal ideation and self-harm.
I'm Dr. Ashley Wilson-Dixon, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a PhD in psychology. I specialize in trauma-informed care, using evidence-based practices to provide personalized interventions for children, teens, adults (including young adults), and families. My approach integrates holistic and transpersonal methods to foster healing and growth.
My areas of expertise include trauma, mood disorders such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, as well as high-risk situations like suicidal ideation and self-harm.
I'm Dr. Ashley Wilson-Dixon, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a PhD in psychology. I specialize in trauma-informed care, using evidence-based practices to provide personalized interventions for children, teens, adults (including young adults), and families. My approach integrates holistic and transpersonal methods to foster healing and growth.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Anisha Holden, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anisha Holden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hey there! My name is Anisha Holden, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family therapist. I enjoy working with children/teens, adults, couples and families that are interested in working of differing backgrounds/cultures. Often, clients that are in the process of transitioning to a new stage in life are attracted to working with me. Whether it is becoming a spouse or parent, moving into a new position, graduating, or just simply changing from one state of being to another, my aim is to provide the necessary support to do so successfully. With any change, comes anxiety, depression, indecision, and so on.
Hey there! My name is Anisha Holden, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family therapist. I enjoy working with children/teens, adults, couples and families that are interested in working of differing backgrounds/cultures. Often, clients that are in the process of transitioning to a new stage in life are attracted to working with me. Whether it is becoming a spouse or parent, moving into a new position, graduating, or just simply changing from one state of being to another, my aim is to provide the necessary support to do so successfully. With any change, comes anxiety, depression, indecision, and so on.
(661) 768-1257 View (661) 768-1257
Photo of Syreeta Green, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Syreeta Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victorville, CA 92392
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with depression, domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem, marital or family conflict, parenting, educational support, behavior modification, and emotional disturbance.
Currently accepting new clients. Telehealth or In-person sessions available. "Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise again"- Victor Hugo. Life is not easy and sometimes we may face unpredictable challenges, but I am here to help guide you through those difficult times and provide hope and encouragement to get you through those challenges. I have an immense passion to work with individuals, couples, and families to help find solutions to their problems and to enhance their quality of life.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with depression, domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem, marital or family conflict, parenting, educational support, behavior modification, and emotional disturbance.
Currently accepting new clients. Telehealth or In-person sessions available. "Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise again"- Victor Hugo. Life is not easy and sometimes we may face unpredictable challenges, but I am here to help guide you through those difficult times and provide hope and encouragement to get you through those challenges. I have an immense passion to work with individuals, couples, and families to help find solutions to their problems and to enhance their quality of life.
(442) 200-2601 View (442) 200-2601
Photo of Veronica Diaz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Veronica Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hanford, CA 93230
I believe it takes bravery to recognize when we need help, and even more to seek it out. Many are struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, or even parenting. I want you to know that you are not alone and seeking support is ok. Anxiety, Depression, and even Trauma may not look the same for everyone. After all, like Carl Rogers stated, "The shoe that fits one person may pinch another. " You may even appear motivated, determined, and happy from the outside, but your loud inner critic tells you that you are not good enough, constantly compares yourself to others, is stress, and possibly feeling hopeless.
I believe it takes bravery to recognize when we need help, and even more to seek it out. Many are struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, or even parenting. I want you to know that you are not alone and seeking support is ok. Anxiety, Depression, and even Trauma may not look the same for everyone. After all, like Carl Rogers stated, "The shoe that fits one person may pinch another. " You may even appear motivated, determined, and happy from the outside, but your loud inner critic tells you that you are not good enough, constantly compares yourself to others, is stress, and possibly feeling hopeless.
(559) 234-0969 View (559) 234-0969
Photo of Stephen Rivera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephen Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sylmar, CA 91342  (Online Only)
I typically work with adults with depression, anxiety, and grief.
Hello, my name is Stephen Rivera and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I take a client-centered approach to therapy and meet you where you are with openness, acceptance, and a non-judgmental attitude.
I typically work with adults with depression, anxiety, and grief.
Hello, my name is Stephen Rivera and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I take a client-centered approach to therapy and meet you where you are with openness, acceptance, and a non-judgmental attitude.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Jessica Perez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hanford, CA 93230
I'm Jessica Perez (Jess), licensed LMFT 134695. My approach to therapy is direct yet understanding and respectful. I enjoy thinking outside the box and incorporating laughter when appropriate. I am skilled in working with clients who struggle with personality disorders, mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, identity issues, relationship challenges, grief, addiction, and difficulties related to the LGBT+ community.
I'm Jessica Perez (Jess), licensed LMFT 134695. My approach to therapy is direct yet understanding and respectful. I enjoy thinking outside the box and incorporating laughter when appropriate. I am skilled in working with clients who struggle with personality disorders, mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, identity issues, relationship challenges, grief, addiction, and difficulties related to the LGBT+ community.
(559) 272-9197 View (559) 272-9197
Photo of Kathleen Pear, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Pear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, CA 93535
Hello. My name is Kathleen Pear. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Northern California. I work with adult clients statewide via telehealth who are dealing with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and loss. I am committed to supporting my clients through their challenges and helping them improve their emotional well-being and find joy and purpose in their lives. My approach to therapy is eclectic-primarily supportive and client-centered, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and positive psychology modalities.
Hello. My name is Kathleen Pear. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Northern California. I work with adult clients statewide via telehealth who are dealing with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and loss. I am committed to supporting my clients through their challenges and helping them improve their emotional well-being and find joy and purpose in their lives. My approach to therapy is eclectic-primarily supportive and client-centered, drawing from cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and positive psychology modalities.
(661) 762-3689 View (661) 762-3689
Photo of Karmelle Ramillano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karmelle Ramillano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My name is Karmelle Ramillano and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in mood, anxiety, and trauma disorders. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients care for their mental well-being and achieve their mental health goals. I typically work with adults from as young as 18 years old to adults in their 60s who are hoping to process trauma. Other conditions I most often treat include depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, and stress.
My name is Karmelle Ramillano and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in mood, anxiety, and trauma disorders. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients care for their mental well-being and achieve their mental health goals. I typically work with adults from as young as 18 years old to adults in their 60s who are hoping to process trauma. Other conditions I most often treat include depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, and stress.
(916) 378-1780 View (916) 378-1780

Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Lake Isabella

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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.