Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
If you are near the Southern area of Los Angeles County, you may want to consider psychotherapy or counseling in Long Beach. I work evening hours, as well as day time, and have experience with most mental health needs. I work in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. I have extensive experience with problems in living using Evidence Based Therapy models and Mindfulness with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, as well as major mental illness including schizophrenia, , and other thought disorders. I work with family problems , including sexual dysfunction. Performing psychological assessments are offered when necessary to set new goals.
(562) 526-0592 View (562) 526-0592
Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional in Long Beach, CA
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734
Photo of Erika Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Erika Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
(424) 381-0277 View (424) 381-0277
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD,
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
(562) 303-5525 View (562) 303-5525
Photo of Christine Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Christine Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CDAAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
Online, phone, and office sessions. Fees are tax deductible donations. News causing stress? More conflict at home? Let me help you to navigate this difficult time, take care of yourself, find ways to meet your social needs, and restore some peace and joy in your home and family. You can have this. We can work together to find the relief and answers you need. If you want to reduce stress and worry, survive AND thrive, and find wholeness in the midst of uncertainty, CALL me. Life CAN be better. Don't spend another day suffering, or let anything stop you from getting the help you need. Other specialties: Trauma, Grief, Kids, Families.
Online, phone, and office sessions. Fees are tax deductible donations. News causing stress? More conflict at home? Let me help you to navigate this difficult time, take care of yourself, find ways to meet your social needs, and restore some peace and joy in your home and family. You can have this. We can work together to find the relief and answers you need. If you want to reduce stress and worry, survive AND thrive, and find wholeness in the midst of uncertainty, CALL me. Life CAN be better. Don't spend another day suffering, or let anything stop you from getting the help you need. Other specialties: Trauma, Grief, Kids, Families.
(949) 537-2252 View (949) 537-2252
Photo of Pacific Therapy Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Pacific Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
Currently accepting new clients for appointments next week! Pacific Pain & Wellness Group treats mental health and pain conditions using a variety of effective treatments including medications, psychotherapy, telemedicine, ketamine infusions, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Our mission is to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you on a path towards better living and emotional relief. Through diagnostic evaluations, we construct a treatment plan aligned with meeting your current goals towards resiliency and healing.
(310) 868-2264 View (310) 868-2264
Photo of Ilana S Wasserman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Ilana S Wasserman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP, CMT, VMP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked with. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences in order for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. While we take our time bonding, I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, in order to discover the origins of your issues.
Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked with. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences in order for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. While we take our time bonding, I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, in order to discover the origins of your issues.
(949) 328-5710 View (949) 328-5710

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
(310) 421-2863 View (310) 421-2863

Online Therapists

Photo of Veronica Miele, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Veronica Miele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91502
Life is unpredictable & can be challenging at times, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you are struggling to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, fear, or acceptance, these emotions can directly impact all areas of your life. Do you what to enhance your family, personal or professional relationships? Decrease stress, or guilt? Increase peace of mind, personal growth, & become your best self? We all go through tough times in our lives when we feel like something is too difficult to manage or feel like we'll never overcome what’s getting in the way of enjoying life. You're not alone & things can improve.
Life is unpredictable & can be challenging at times, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you are struggling to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, fear, or acceptance, these emotions can directly impact all areas of your life. Do you what to enhance your family, personal or professional relationships? Decrease stress, or guilt? Increase peace of mind, personal growth, & become your best self? We all go through tough times in our lives when we feel like something is too difficult to manage or feel like we'll never overcome what’s getting in the way of enjoying life. You're not alone & things can improve.
(747) 529-7980 View (747) 529-7980
Photo of Pauline Manavi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Pauline Manavi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I have worked extensively with children & adults of all ages, to address ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent-child conflict, self-harm, behavioral challenges, parenting skills, & suicidal ideation.
My primary goals are to help clients utilize their strengths, effectively cope with challenges and harness the best versions of themselves. I strive to provide a space in which clients can feel safe and heard. I will listen and use my knowledge to help address the parts of your life that feel challenging. In this healing environment, you will have the opportunity to gain greater self understanding, self-acceptance and self-compassion. When this happens, positive change can occur. Together we will seek to unlock creative blocks, move past trauma, let go of self-criticism, comprehend challenging relationships and celebrate strengths.
I have worked extensively with children & adults of all ages, to address ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent-child conflict, self-harm, behavioral challenges, parenting skills, & suicidal ideation.
My primary goals are to help clients utilize their strengths, effectively cope with challenges and harness the best versions of themselves. I strive to provide a space in which clients can feel safe and heard. I will listen and use my knowledge to help address the parts of your life that feel challenging. In this healing environment, you will have the opportunity to gain greater self understanding, self-acceptance and self-compassion. When this happens, positive change can occur. Together we will seek to unlock creative blocks, move past trauma, let go of self-criticism, comprehend challenging relationships and celebrate strengths.
(925) 272-4746 View (925) 272-4746
Photo of Dr. Cam Nguyen, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Dr. Cam Nguyen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92804  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with specializations in depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, phobias, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, interpersonal effectiveness, and social skills training. I provide individual psychotherapy for adults. I also have experience working with high-functioning adults on the spectrum. I am in-network for the listed insurances.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with specializations in depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, phobias, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, interpersonal effectiveness, and social skills training. I provide individual psychotherapy for adults. I also have experience working with high-functioning adults on the spectrum. I am in-network for the listed insurances.
(714) 276-6005 View (714) 276-6005
Photo of West Valley Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
West Valley Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Our diverse staff are trained to address the specific needs of you and/or your family including trauma recovery, marital and family issues, life transitions and loss, depression, anxiety, abandonment, self-esteem issues, career confusion, and many more.
West Valley Counseling Center (WVCC) offers a wide range of therapeutic interventions and services to bring affordable mental health services to the San Fernando Valley. WVCC is a non-profit community mental health center that has been serving the Greater Los Angeles region for well over a decade. Our qualified therapists work with individuals, relationships, traditional families, and non-traditional families to help ease life's burdens and to provide specialty services.
Our diverse staff are trained to address the specific needs of you and/or your family including trauma recovery, marital and family issues, life transitions and loss, depression, anxiety, abandonment, self-esteem issues, career confusion, and many more.
West Valley Counseling Center (WVCC) offers a wide range of therapeutic interventions and services to bring affordable mental health services to the San Fernando Valley. WVCC is a non-profit community mental health center that has been serving the Greater Los Angeles region for well over a decade. Our qualified therapists work with individuals, relationships, traditional families, and non-traditional families to help ease life's burdens and to provide specialty services.
(805) 620-8046 View (805) 620-8046
Photo of Leslie Munguia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Leslie Munguia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I believe everyone is capable of change. Regardless of what has occurred in the past, it’s never too late to create a fulfilling and meaningful future. My experience in psychotherapy has led me to understand that we are all human and continuing to grow throughout different phases of life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, parenting distress, or other mental health issues, together I can help you to overcome your current struggles. Through the therapeutic process, we will work to help you live fully in the present regardless of what has occurred in your past.
I believe everyone is capable of change. Regardless of what has occurred in the past, it’s never too late to create a fulfilling and meaningful future. My experience in psychotherapy has led me to understand that we are all human and continuing to grow throughout different phases of life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, parenting distress, or other mental health issues, together I can help you to overcome your current struggles. Through the therapeutic process, we will work to help you live fully in the present regardless of what has occurred in your past.
(747) 269-6106 View (747) 269-6106
Photo of Iren Fellegvari, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Iren Fellegvari
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
As a life coach I help you to reach your full potential in your business or in your personal life. Biofeedback helps to decrease stress. As a psychologist working with individuals and families I use talk therapy: CBT, DBT, Solution Focused brief therapy or EMDR and ETT, EFT based on the person's choice and comfort level. During my 15 years of praxis I have helped people with anxiety, PTSD, OCD, depression, codependency, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, eating disorder and addictions. Lots of couples regained their love for each other. Teenagers and their parents learnt to solve their problems.
As a life coach I help you to reach your full potential in your business or in your personal life. Biofeedback helps to decrease stress. As a psychologist working with individuals and families I use talk therapy: CBT, DBT, Solution Focused brief therapy or EMDR and ETT, EFT based on the person's choice and comfort level. During my 15 years of praxis I have helped people with anxiety, PTSD, OCD, depression, codependency, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, eating disorder and addictions. Lots of couples regained their love for each other. Teenagers and their parents learnt to solve their problems.
(858) 386-7291 View (858) 386-7291
Photo of Kendal Maxwell, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Kendal Maxwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
My specialties include cognitive behavioral therapy for depression and anxiety.
I am accepting new clients via private pay. My background is neuropsychology and health psychology, therefore, I specialize with understanding the complexity of interactions between neurological illnesses and psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, etc. I have worked with several illnesses such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke, TBI & adjustment to these medical conditions. Additionally, I believe in mindfulness meditation. You can access my "21 day Positive Mindfulness Meditation Challenge" on Spotify, Apple podcast, as well as Google podcasts.
My specialties include cognitive behavioral therapy for depression and anxiety.
I am accepting new clients via private pay. My background is neuropsychology and health psychology, therefore, I specialize with understanding the complexity of interactions between neurological illnesses and psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, etc. I have worked with several illnesses such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke, TBI & adjustment to these medical conditions. Additionally, I believe in mindfulness meditation. You can access my "21 day Positive Mindfulness Meditation Challenge" on Spotify, Apple podcast, as well as Google podcasts.
(734) 339-2170 View (734) 339-2170
Photo of Belinda Nunez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Belinda Nunez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
This means I have very effective tools to help you cope with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, substance use, etc and that I am adaptable to the needs of my clients, especially children.
I have dedicated myself over the last decade to providing efficient, empathetic, and supportive services to countless clients with various needs and circumstances from differing backgrounds and of various ages. I have worked with children in the foster system, teens on probation, babies and parents struggling with attachment, victims of domestic violence, older adults with memory loss, individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities and countless other mental health needs in various social/family/ environmental circumstances. I have over a year experience in providing therapy via Telehealth.
This means I have very effective tools to help you cope with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, substance use, etc and that I am adaptable to the needs of my clients, especially children.
I have dedicated myself over the last decade to providing efficient, empathetic, and supportive services to countless clients with various needs and circumstances from differing backgrounds and of various ages. I have worked with children in the foster system, teens on probation, babies and parents struggling with attachment, victims of domestic violence, older adults with memory loss, individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities and countless other mental health needs in various social/family/ environmental circumstances. I have over a year experience in providing therapy via Telehealth.
(909) 316-5843 View (909) 316-5843
Photo of Donald J. Cook, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Donald J. Cook
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, CA 92307
I seek to treat all people; i see the person, not the age, weight, shape, hair-colour, skin, diagnosis, politics, or life-problem. Every client is my respected teacher. We are all valid and worthy human beings--even if we don't believe it! You are Wonderful! i treat PTSD, ADD/HD, school-related issues, anxiety, panic Disorders, depression, age-related issues, legal-related personal issues, and will also perform therapy with stabilized Bipolar, and Schizophrenic sufferers. i perform individual, couples, marital/pre-marital, family, and group sessions. i also perform individual/group parenting, and anger management sessions.
I seek to treat all people; i see the person, not the age, weight, shape, hair-colour, skin, diagnosis, politics, or life-problem. Every client is my respected teacher. We are all valid and worthy human beings--even if we don't believe it! You are Wonderful! i treat PTSD, ADD/HD, school-related issues, anxiety, panic Disorders, depression, age-related issues, legal-related personal issues, and will also perform therapy with stabilized Bipolar, and Schizophrenic sufferers. i perform individual, couples, marital/pre-marital, family, and group sessions. i also perform individual/group parenting, and anger management sessions.
(760) 203-4580 View (760) 203-4580
Photo of Leah Stryer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Leah Stryer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I hold a Master’s Degree in Psychology from Pepperdine University and treat children, teenagers, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional and behavioral disorders, and trauma.
I became a psychotherapist because everyone needs “that person” in their life who will always believe in them, support them, and not judge them based on their past. As we all continue to navigate life’s transitions and changes, there are points where we find ourselves needing extra guidance and support. Whether you are currently thriving or struggling in life, deciding to seek therapy can be a challenging, rewarding, and life-changing experience. As a therapist, I strive to be “that person” by providing a non-judgmental, warm, and compassionate environment that fosters growth.
I hold a Master’s Degree in Psychology from Pepperdine University and treat children, teenagers, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional and behavioral disorders, and trauma.
I became a psychotherapist because everyone needs “that person” in their life who will always believe in them, support them, and not judge them based on their past. As we all continue to navigate life’s transitions and changes, there are points where we find ourselves needing extra guidance and support. Whether you are currently thriving or struggling in life, deciding to seek therapy can be a challenging, rewarding, and life-changing experience. As a therapist, I strive to be “that person” by providing a non-judgmental, warm, and compassionate environment that fosters growth.
(747) 252-5554 View (747) 252-5554
Photo of Bernadette M. Di Toro, Psychologist in Long Beach, CA
Bernadette M. Di Toro
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I bring together the heart and science of psychology to my practice and 19 years experience in the field of mental health. I have worked as a researcher and clinician in inpatient and outpatient settings (including UCSD and the VA) and focused on trauma, grief, depression, dementia, Alzheimer's disease and forensics. I received a B.A. from Lehigh University in Psychology and Health & Human Development, an M.S.Degree from SDSU in Gerontology (the study of aging), and an M.A. Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
I bring together the heart and science of psychology to my practice and 19 years experience in the field of mental health. I have worked as a researcher and clinician in inpatient and outpatient settings (including UCSD and the VA) and focused on trauma, grief, depression, dementia, Alzheimer's disease and forensics. I received a B.A. from Lehigh University in Psychology and Health & Human Development, an M.S.Degree from SDSU in Gerontology (the study of aging), and an M.A. Degree and a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
(858) 348-4139 View (858) 348-4139
Photo of Mindful Health Solutions, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Long Beach, CA
Mindful Health Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I practice general psychology and works with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, prenatal and postpartum issues, anger, parenting challenges, and couples issues. I also have a concentrated interest in the family of origin trauma.
I practice general psychology and works with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, prenatal and postpartum issues, anger, parenting challenges, and couples issues. I also have a concentrated interest in the family of origin trauma.
(323) 529-0824 View (323) 529-0824
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.