Photo of Paul Wilcox, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Paul Wilcox
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Sometimes we feel alone and confused in our lives. Our world does not always feel safe to express authentically and be ourselves. Social, environmental, work, and political aspects in our lives are both influential to our well-being and confusing to navigate. I offer a safe container to explore your inner Self and external identity. Whether you are experiencing, traumatic memory, racial or sexual identity oppression, abuse, anxiety, depression, burnout, addiction, helplessness, or relationship stressors, I Can Help you through the darkness at hand. Allow me to be your ally on your mental health journey.
Sometimes we feel alone and confused in our lives. Our world does not always feel safe to express authentically and be ourselves. Social, environmental, work, and political aspects in our lives are both influential to our well-being and confusing to navigate. I offer a safe container to explore your inner Self and external identity. Whether you are experiencing, traumatic memory, racial or sexual identity oppression, abuse, anxiety, depression, burnout, addiction, helplessness, or relationship stressors, I Can Help you through the darkness at hand. Allow me to be your ally on your mental health journey.
(626) 389-1105 View (626) 389-1105
Photo of Timothy Connely, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Timothy Connely
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Hi there, I'm Tim Connely, LMFT. I work hard to create a safe and secure environment in order to support my clients in doing the work of understanding their thoughts and the effects they have on our life. I work with people across the lifespan encouraging them in any way I can. I have worked with clients across the lifespan. I have worked with people as young as 4 all the way to people in their 70's and 80's. I am most comfortable treating people that have experienced trauma, dealing with life events, depression, anxiety, and many more.
Hi there, I'm Tim Connely, LMFT. I work hard to create a safe and secure environment in order to support my clients in doing the work of understanding their thoughts and the effects they have on our life. I work with people across the lifespan encouraging them in any way I can. I have worked with clients across the lifespan. I have worked with people as young as 4 all the way to people in their 70's and 80's. I am most comfortable treating people that have experienced trauma, dealing with life events, depression, anxiety, and many more.
(323) 395-5253 View (323) 395-5253
Photo of Elizabeth Chase, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Elizabeth Chase
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
My specialties include trauma, depression, identity, and caregiver stress.
We all arrive to therapy with unique needs, hurts, and wishes. We may not even know what we are seeking, just that life is not feeling good. My goal as a therapist is to be a partner in the journey – we may not know the path, or even the destination. Therapy can help reveal forks in the road, grieve parts of the trail, or even give us the courage to trek on. We can process trauma and define what it means to heal. We can develop a greater sense of self and a deeper connection with others. My ideal client is someone who wants to learn about themselves, but maybe feels unsure of where to start.
My specialties include trauma, depression, identity, and caregiver stress.
We all arrive to therapy with unique needs, hurts, and wishes. We may not even know what we are seeking, just that life is not feeling good. My goal as a therapist is to be a partner in the journey – we may not know the path, or even the destination. Therapy can help reveal forks in the road, grieve parts of the trail, or even give us the courage to trek on. We can process trauma and define what it means to heal. We can develop a greater sense of self and a deeper connection with others. My ideal client is someone who wants to learn about themselves, but maybe feels unsure of where to start.
(310) 507-1879 View (310) 507-1879
Photo of Jennifer Lara, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma-related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma-related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
(818) 351-1769 View (818) 351-1769
Photo of Patrick Murray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Patrick Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping students, creatives, and professionals gain skills and master effective techniques to manage negative emotions, destructive behaviors, and intrusive thoughts that get in the way of living a happy and fulfilling life. Do you need concrete and reliable tools to let go of negative thoughts, increase motivation, and feel confident and assertive in your daily life? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or past trauma? Since 2015 I have been working with a diverse population of children, adolescents, adults, and families find relief from symptoms, overcome obstacles, and achieve their therapeutic goals.
I specialize in helping students, creatives, and professionals gain skills and master effective techniques to manage negative emotions, destructive behaviors, and intrusive thoughts that get in the way of living a happy and fulfilling life. Do you need concrete and reliable tools to let go of negative thoughts, increase motivation, and feel confident and assertive in your daily life? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or past trauma? Since 2015 I have been working with a diverse population of children, adolescents, adults, and families find relief from symptoms, overcome obstacles, and achieve their therapeutic goals.
(818) 722-6991 View (818) 722-6991
Photo of Keisha Libbrecht, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Keisha Libbrecht
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034
You feel stuck emotionally, or feel anxious or depressed. You are struggling with feeling more at ease with your intimate relationships, your career, or other areas. Somehow, life is not feeling fulfilled in the ways that you want it to. I want to help you achieve whatever goals you are looking for. I know that the first step can be a little intimidating and I hope you will take a moment, and maybe a deep breath, to contact me and see how I can help.
You feel stuck emotionally, or feel anxious or depressed. You are struggling with feeling more at ease with your intimate relationships, your career, or other areas. Somehow, life is not feeling fulfilled in the ways that you want it to. I want to help you achieve whatever goals you are looking for. I know that the first step can be a little intimidating and I hope you will take a moment, and maybe a deep breath, to contact me and see how I can help.
(424) 835-5752 View (424) 835-5752
Photo of Cazzie Emily Marzwell, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Cazzie Emily Marzwell
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Sometimes we must take a look at the painful or stressful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction. Obstacles may stand in the way of leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or helpless to take important steps, work toward goals and improve relationships. If you can relate, feeling anxious, sad, depressed, stressed, etc., perhaps it’s time for therapy. Anxiety is overwhelming, depression is often debilitating, and maybe you are wondering if therapy can help. Therapy provides the opportunity to explore feelings of depression, anxiety, helplessness or hopelessness.
Sometimes we must take a look at the painful or stressful feelings that complicate our lives and prevent us from finding satisfaction. Obstacles may stand in the way of leading more meaningful lives. We may feel stuck or helpless to take important steps, work toward goals and improve relationships. If you can relate, feeling anxious, sad, depressed, stressed, etc., perhaps it’s time for therapy. Anxiety is overwhelming, depression is often debilitating, and maybe you are wondering if therapy can help. Therapy provides the opportunity to explore feelings of depression, anxiety, helplessness or hopelessness.
(310) 361-9569 View (310) 361-9569
Photo of Suzanne Glickman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Suzanne Glickman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027
If you are feeling frustrated, stuck or unfulfilled you are not alone. Therapy can help you gain insight into your emotional triggers; make healthier choices in the moment and feel seen, understood and accepted. Therapy can also improve your relationships and help you experience relief from symptoms including overwhelm, anxiety, anger and depression. Effective therapy works on levels. My holistic sensory approach can help you start healing now with an integrated exploration of your emotions, sensory feelings and the mental perceptions surrounding your challenging issue. Your self discovery and emotional healing process begins by calling me.
If you are feeling frustrated, stuck or unfulfilled you are not alone. Therapy can help you gain insight into your emotional triggers; make healthier choices in the moment and feel seen, understood and accepted. Therapy can also improve your relationships and help you experience relief from symptoms including overwhelm, anxiety, anger and depression. Effective therapy works on levels. My holistic sensory approach can help you start healing now with an integrated exploration of your emotions, sensory feelings and the mental perceptions surrounding your challenging issue. Your self discovery and emotional healing process begins by calling me.
(310) 400-5216 View (310) 400-5216
Photo of Christina Ahumada, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Christina Ahumada
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, severe mental illness, transitions/loss, and chemical dependency with a particular interest in childhood trauma and its impact in adulthood.
Therapy is a dynamic process where old wounds can begin to heal and new experiences can become more meaningful and fulfilling. Yes, it can be difficult and painful, but it can also be extremely rewarding and life-changing. Through insight, empathy, support, and understanding, as well as through the relationship you and I will share, I approach the therapeutic process as an avenue to explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and trusting environment. As a result of this process, you can gain more self-awareness, which can help foster deeper connections in relationships with yourself and others.
I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, severe mental illness, transitions/loss, and chemical dependency with a particular interest in childhood trauma and its impact in adulthood.
Therapy is a dynamic process where old wounds can begin to heal and new experiences can become more meaningful and fulfilling. Yes, it can be difficult and painful, but it can also be extremely rewarding and life-changing. Through insight, empathy, support, and understanding, as well as through the relationship you and I will share, I approach the therapeutic process as an avenue to explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe and trusting environment. As a result of this process, you can gain more self-awareness, which can help foster deeper connections in relationships with yourself and others.
(323) 370-0634 View (323) 370-0634
Photo of Arthur Binder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Arthur Binder
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90044
Hello, I'm Arthur Binder and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 34 years of experience. I like working with adults of all ages and backgrounds who seek to tackle their problems head-on, who have some curiosity about themselves, and who respond to the idea that problems themselves do not need to be a source of self-blame, shame, or guilt and who want to work in this effort to overcome them. I specialize in areas including anxiety, depression, grief, aging, family conflict, and relationship issues, amongst others.
Hello, I'm Arthur Binder and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 34 years of experience. I like working with adults of all ages and backgrounds who seek to tackle their problems head-on, who have some curiosity about themselves, and who respond to the idea that problems themselves do not need to be a source of self-blame, shame, or guilt and who want to work in this effort to overcome them. I specialize in areas including anxiety, depression, grief, aging, family conflict, and relationship issues, amongst others.
(213) 861-4198 View (213) 861-4198
Photo of Jingbo Wang, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Jingbo Wang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, domestic violence (DV), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder I and II (BP), eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and families and couples.
Many are on a journey to find themselves, and this journey can be difficult and arduous. Especially when growing up in homes without feelings of safety and security. Many children have never received the message that they are true miracles. I am here to help you restore your inner peace, face your challenges, accept who you truly are, and to help heal internal wounds. If you are on this journey, you are not alone. You do not have to forget about your past, but together, I would like to help you heal from your past and move forward.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, domestic violence (DV), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder I and II (BP), eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and families and couples.
Many are on a journey to find themselves, and this journey can be difficult and arduous. Especially when growing up in homes without feelings of safety and security. Many children have never received the message that they are true miracles. I am here to help you restore your inner peace, face your challenges, accept who you truly are, and to help heal internal wounds. If you are on this journey, you are not alone. You do not have to forget about your past, but together, I would like to help you heal from your past and move forward.
(310) 294-8701 View (310) 294-8701
Photo of Jayce Matthew Geesey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jayce Matthew Geesey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
My perspective is shaped by my own journey of healing from previous experiences of depression, historical family trauma, and identity struggles as a mixed-race Japanese American musician.
I help creative and driven individuals who are struggling with self-esteem, anxiety/burnout, trauma, and difficulty in relationships. If you desire to live more authentically and to be freed from the burden of not feeling "good enough," therapy can be a helpful and safe space to work on shifting out of patterns that keep you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You won't be alone in the process as we will work collaboratively to help you discover a new path forward that leads to healing and growth.
My perspective is shaped by my own journey of healing from previous experiences of depression, historical family trauma, and identity struggles as a mixed-race Japanese American musician.
I help creative and driven individuals who are struggling with self-esteem, anxiety/burnout, trauma, and difficulty in relationships. If you desire to live more authentically and to be freed from the burden of not feeling "good enough," therapy can be a helpful and safe space to work on shifting out of patterns that keep you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You won't be alone in the process as we will work collaboratively to help you discover a new path forward that leads to healing and growth.
(213) 725-2735 View (213) 725-2735
Photo of Dr. Susan Shapiro, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Susan Shapiro
Psychologist, PhD, MS, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with sadness, depression, relationship issues or stress? Do you attempt to compensate with food, alcohol, drugs, other substances or behaviors? I provide therapy for people who are struggling emotionally in any area of their life. My approach to therapy is tailored to the person in front of me, as each person's needs and history are unique. I know that reaching out for professional help can be difficult for many. That is why I have developed a practice that is kind and compassionate. My long experience has taught me that therapy must be dynamic, interactive, non-judgmental, along with a healthy sense of humor.
Do you struggle with sadness, depression, relationship issues or stress? Do you attempt to compensate with food, alcohol, drugs, other substances or behaviors? I provide therapy for people who are struggling emotionally in any area of their life. My approach to therapy is tailored to the person in front of me, as each person's needs and history are unique. I know that reaching out for professional help can be difficult for many. That is why I have developed a practice that is kind and compassionate. My long experience has taught me that therapy must be dynamic, interactive, non-judgmental, along with a healthy sense of humor.
(310) 905-8953 View (310) 905-8953
Photo of Miwa Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Miwa Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
Sometimes we need help managing anxiety, depression, stressors of life, relationship struggles, self-esteem, trauma, loss, or alcohol use. It's more than okay to ask for help. Are you hoping to learn how to manage your anxiety or depression? Do you need help navigating relationships? Are you hard on yourself and struggling with self-love? Do you ever wonder how past hurts are affecting your current life? Do you need a safe space to process your life apart from friends and family? As a therapist, I enjoy helping people find the tools to improve their mental health and help them find happiness in their day-to-day lives.
Sometimes we need help managing anxiety, depression, stressors of life, relationship struggles, self-esteem, trauma, loss, or alcohol use. It's more than okay to ask for help. Are you hoping to learn how to manage your anxiety or depression? Do you need help navigating relationships? Are you hard on yourself and struggling with self-love? Do you ever wonder how past hurts are affecting your current life? Do you need a safe space to process your life apart from friends and family? As a therapist, I enjoy helping people find the tools to improve their mental health and help them find happiness in their day-to-day lives.
(213) 376-5409 View (213) 376-5409
Photo of Angelica Quinones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Angelica Quinones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome, my name is Angelica and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My specialty is working with adults coping with depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship issues, family dynamics, feeling disconnected, life changes, grief and loss, and overall feelings of “feeling stuck” and overwhelmed. I am here to provide you with a listening ear and a warm and nonjudgmental space.
Hello and welcome, my name is Angelica and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My specialty is working with adults coping with depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship issues, family dynamics, feeling disconnected, life changes, grief and loss, and overall feelings of “feeling stuck” and overwhelmed. I am here to provide you with a listening ear and a warm and nonjudgmental space.
(213) 510-1794 View (213) 510-1794
Photo of Kelly Aguirre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kelly Aguirre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Are you finding the transition into motherhood challenging or overwhelming? Whether it be infertility, miscarriage, peri-natal/postpartum depression and anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self as you care for your family, the most important thing you can do is seek support through this transitional time of your life. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients through each stage of transition. Whether it be a new job, a child, a relationship, or the loss associated with life transitions, I provide a safe space to explore one's feelings and get unstuck.
Are you finding the transition into motherhood challenging or overwhelming? Whether it be infertility, miscarriage, peri-natal/postpartum depression and anxiety, or simply the challenges of maintaining a sense of self as you care for your family, the most important thing you can do is seek support through this transitional time of your life. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients through each stage of transition. Whether it be a new job, a child, a relationship, or the loss associated with life transitions, I provide a safe space to explore one's feelings and get unstuck.
(626) 275-2872 View (626) 275-2872
Photo of Melanie Siegel, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Melanie Siegel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Other specializations include working with adults, adolescents, and LGBTQ clients in the areas of depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
Change and growth are possible. Whether you are feeling stuck in a tiny dusty corner or lost in an enormous ocean, I'll meet you right where you are and help get you where you want to be. Taking the first step can be difficult, but will be rewarding as, together, the work that we begin now will expand your relationship to yourself and the world around you.
Other specializations include working with adults, adolescents, and LGBTQ clients in the areas of depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
Change and growth are possible. Whether you are feeling stuck in a tiny dusty corner or lost in an enormous ocean, I'll meet you right where you are and help get you where you want to be. Taking the first step can be difficult, but will be rewarding as, together, the work that we begin now will expand your relationship to yourself and the world around you.
(424) 249-9172 View (424) 249-9172
Photo of Michele Goldberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michele Goldberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ESQ
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
We support those dealing with anxiety, depression, social phobia, trauma, patterns of unhealthy romantic entanglements, life transitions, challenging relationships, and compulsivity relating to dating, love, sex, or pornography.
We are here to help you heal and grow. We are genuine, real people, and we believe that actual, loving feedback is more useful than simply listening and repeating. That is why we partner concrete take-home skills with open, active listening. Our style incorporates humor and play. We tailor every single session to your unique needs. We want to be by your side, to listen, support, and challenge you every step of the way. You are not in this alone. Together, we will discover untapped purpose, passion, clarity, and courage.
We support those dealing with anxiety, depression, social phobia, trauma, patterns of unhealthy romantic entanglements, life transitions, challenging relationships, and compulsivity relating to dating, love, sex, or pornography.
We are here to help you heal and grow. We are genuine, real people, and we believe that actual, loving feedback is more useful than simply listening and repeating. That is why we partner concrete take-home skills with open, active listening. Our style incorporates humor and play. We tailor every single session to your unique needs. We want to be by your side, to listen, support, and challenge you every step of the way. You are not in this alone. Together, we will discover untapped purpose, passion, clarity, and courage.
(818) 276-9754 View (818) 276-9754
Photo of Casey Mouton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Casey Mouton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, related to life transitions.
I help clients through life's biggest transitions. From starting a new job, to beginning a new relationship, or becoming a parent, I build a trusting relationship with my clients in order to help them heal, understand, & process these life experiences. I know how critical nonjudgemental support can be, & I aim to create an environment that makes vulnerability feel safe. I primarily work with adults and teens struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, & perinatal mood disorders. I often utilize EMDR to help clients who feel "stuck". I meet the client where they are & collaborate on an individualized therapeutic care plan.
My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, related to life transitions.
I help clients through life's biggest transitions. From starting a new job, to beginning a new relationship, or becoming a parent, I build a trusting relationship with my clients in order to help them heal, understand, & process these life experiences. I know how critical nonjudgemental support can be, & I aim to create an environment that makes vulnerability feel safe. I primarily work with adults and teens struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, & perinatal mood disorders. I often utilize EMDR to help clients who feel "stuck". I meet the client where they are & collaborate on an individualized therapeutic care plan.
(818) 873-5612 View (818) 873-5612
Photo of Lauren Harb, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Lauren Harb
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
I work with adults and couples and I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and body image issues.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship and self-insight are key to change in treatment. My approach is warm but active, direct and honest. I especially appreciate the benefits of long-term, depth-oriented therapy, and I have years of experience using evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, eating disorders and relationship issues.
I work with adults and couples and I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and body image issues.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship and self-insight are key to change in treatment. My approach is warm but active, direct and honest. I especially appreciate the benefits of long-term, depth-oriented therapy, and I have years of experience using evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, eating disorders and relationship issues.
(323) 694-3269 View (323) 694-3269

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.