Photo of Hernan Garza, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hernan Garza
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028  (Online Only)
Unresolved pain can be overwhelming and make it difficult to move forward, leaving us with a lingering sense of hopelessness, anxiety and facing a roadblock. Therapy can provide the clarity and healing needed to regain balance. I specialize in supporting individuals through the complexities of trauma, particularly those stemming from early life experiences. My practice addresses depression, anxiety, grief, self-esteem, and challenges associated with religious trauma. Whether you're dealing with a strict upbringing, exploring your identity, or facing spiritual struggles, I'm here to help you find peace and reclaim your sense of self.
Unresolved pain can be overwhelming and make it difficult to move forward, leaving us with a lingering sense of hopelessness, anxiety and facing a roadblock. Therapy can provide the clarity and healing needed to regain balance. I specialize in supporting individuals through the complexities of trauma, particularly those stemming from early life experiences. My practice addresses depression, anxiety, grief, self-esteem, and challenges associated with religious trauma. Whether you're dealing with a strict upbringing, exploring your identity, or facing spiritual struggles, I'm here to help you find peace and reclaim your sense of self.
(323) 613-2229 View (323) 613-2229
Photo of Stara Shakti, MA, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stara Shakti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are you seeking a safe space where your unique identity is understood and celebrated? Do you straddle the complexities of multiple marginalized identities, i.e.: LGBTQIA+, POC/BIPOC, ADHD/neurodivergent, 1st-gen American or adult child of immigrant (or narcissistic) parents? Does the weight from social pressure to conform to family roles or expectations—especially the “minority model” stereotype and resulting perfectionism—leave you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, and/or even suicidal? Navigating these challenges can be stressful and daunting, but you'll find the answers / guidance you seek here.
Are you seeking a safe space where your unique identity is understood and celebrated? Do you straddle the complexities of multiple marginalized identities, i.e.: LGBTQIA+, POC/BIPOC, ADHD/neurodivergent, 1st-gen American or adult child of immigrant (or narcissistic) parents? Does the weight from social pressure to conform to family roles or expectations—especially the “minority model” stereotype and resulting perfectionism—leave you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, and/or even suicidal? Navigating these challenges can be stressful and daunting, but you'll find the answers / guidance you seek here.
(310) 919-5877 View (310) 919-5877
Photo of Patricia Anderson - Telehealth of California, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Telehealth of California
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90012  (Online Only)
At Telehealth of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
At Telehealth of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
(213) 319-2513 View (213) 319-2513
Photo of Amy Kim, PsyD, Psychologist
Amy Kim
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
My expertise is in treating stress/overwhelm, anxiety, depression, identity (cultural, career, sexual) and relationship (peers, intimates, family) issues, negative habits/behaviors, and difficulties with food/body/exercise.
In finding a therapist, it's important to feel heard, respected, and understood, while feeing confident that they have the expertise to help you. I invite you to meet with me to see if I am the right therapist for you. I combine psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), and mindfulness approaches to provide effective high-quality therapy; this means that you will develop greater awareness of your struggles while being given direct and practical guidance on how to feel better and improve your life as quickly as possible.
My expertise is in treating stress/overwhelm, anxiety, depression, identity (cultural, career, sexual) and relationship (peers, intimates, family) issues, negative habits/behaviors, and difficulties with food/body/exercise.
In finding a therapist, it's important to feel heard, respected, and understood, while feeing confident that they have the expertise to help you. I invite you to meet with me to see if I am the right therapist for you. I combine psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), and mindfulness approaches to provide effective high-quality therapy; this means that you will develop greater awareness of your struggles while being given direct and practical guidance on how to feel better and improve your life as quickly as possible.
(310) 789-2079 View (310) 789-2079
Janice Tourtouropoulos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
My approach best serves adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, work stress, boundary setting, substance use/abuse, self-care, and self-esteem.
Hi there! I'm Jani Tourtouropoulos, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT, working in Telehealth with clients in California. I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use and abuse, life transitions, and relationship troubles. My approach is eclectic and varies based on my client's needs. I work from a humanistic, client-centered approach to support the therapeutic relationship and current dynamics. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness.
My approach best serves adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, work stress, boundary setting, substance use/abuse, self-care, and self-esteem.
Hi there! I'm Jani Tourtouropoulos, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT, working in Telehealth with clients in California. I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use and abuse, life transitions, and relationship troubles. My approach is eclectic and varies based on my client's needs. I work from a humanistic, client-centered approach to support the therapeutic relationship and current dynamics. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness.
(818) 928-3155 View (818) 928-3155
Photo of Kat Chan | Emdr Specialist To Unlock Your Best Self, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kat Chan | Emdr Specialist To Unlock Your Best Self
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR therapist who helps strong, independent and sensitive people get unstuck from the same rollercoaster of emotions and patterns. On your good days, you feel positive about yourself and where you're headed in life. Other times, you are weighed down by anxiety, depression, worry, and negative thoughts about yourself or something that happened to you in the past. And this impacts your work, school, or relationships. Maybe you've even gone to therapy before in the past; while it did help, you still feel stuck in a loop of negative emotions and are just ready to move forward!
I am an EMDR therapist who helps strong, independent and sensitive people get unstuck from the same rollercoaster of emotions and patterns. On your good days, you feel positive about yourself and where you're headed in life. Other times, you are weighed down by anxiety, depression, worry, and negative thoughts about yourself or something that happened to you in the past. And this impacts your work, school, or relationships. Maybe you've even gone to therapy before in the past; while it did help, you still feel stuck in a loop of negative emotions and are just ready to move forward!
(323) 990-7198 View (323) 990-7198
Photo of Albert Bonfil - Dr. Albert Bonfil, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Albert Bonfil
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I find immense joy in helping individuals overcome obstacles like stress, anxiety, and depression.
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, OCD, or attention-related challenges? I’m a nationally recognized expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), the research-based treatment of choice for quickly and effectively treating depression, anxiety, and related problems. If you're in search of a personalized and collaborative therapeutic journey, I'm here to help you. My commitment as a psychologist is to understand your unique needs and collaborate with you to provide you with the most effective therapy science has to offer.
I find immense joy in helping individuals overcome obstacles like stress, anxiety, and depression.
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, OCD, or attention-related challenges? I’m a nationally recognized expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), the research-based treatment of choice for quickly and effectively treating depression, anxiety, and related problems. If you're in search of a personalized and collaborative therapeutic journey, I'm here to help you. My commitment as a psychologist is to understand your unique needs and collaborate with you to provide you with the most effective therapy science has to offer.
(424) 688-9247 x1 View (424) 688-9247 x1
Photo of Lorne Lieberman, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lorne Lieberman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Feeling overwhelmed by life's complexities? You're not alone. Many people seek therapy to overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship/intimacy challenges. They also yearn to build a more fulfilling and authentic life. Whether you're a couple facing communication issues, an individual struggling with self-esteem, or a family desiring deeper connections, I can help.
Feeling overwhelmed by life's complexities? You're not alone. Many people seek therapy to overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship/intimacy challenges. They also yearn to build a more fulfilling and authentic life. Whether you're a couple facing communication issues, an individual struggling with self-esteem, or a family desiring deeper connections, I can help.
(818) 806-0428 View (818) 806-0428
Photo of Tara Vatankhah, MA, LMFT, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tara Vatankhah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049
My areas of focus include relationship issues, female mental health, self-esteem, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
The natural ebb & flow of life can at times make us feel disconnected, lost or confused. Therapy can facilitate in building self-awareness & help put the pieces back together. I would feel honored to be part of your healing journey. The suffering we experience can become a gift if we work through it. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on the idea that wisdom lives within all of us. My hope is to help you tap into & live from that place of connection to your own unique inner compass. I utilize mindfulness, somatic, narrative, CBT & family systems theoretical frameworks to help you create & lead a more fulfilling life.
My areas of focus include relationship issues, female mental health, self-esteem, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
The natural ebb & flow of life can at times make us feel disconnected, lost or confused. Therapy can facilitate in building self-awareness & help put the pieces back together. I would feel honored to be part of your healing journey. The suffering we experience can become a gift if we work through it. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on the idea that wisdom lives within all of us. My hope is to help you tap into & live from that place of connection to your own unique inner compass. I utilize mindfulness, somatic, narrative, CBT & family systems theoretical frameworks to help you create & lead a more fulfilling life.
(213) 376-3065 View (213) 376-3065
Photo of Steven Laska, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Steven Laska
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90047
My name is Steven Laska and am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I am currently working with clients via telehealth. For many years I have worked with adolescents and adults who have come from diverse sub-cultures of society who are experiencing a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, fertility, adoption, parenting, living/dying transitioning, and cross-cultural relationships. My clients have ranged in age from adolescents to seniors and have come from various backgrounds with a diversity of issues.
My name is Steven Laska and am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I am currently working with clients via telehealth. For many years I have worked with adolescents and adults who have come from diverse sub-cultures of society who are experiencing a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, fertility, adoption, parenting, living/dying transitioning, and cross-cultural relationships. My clients have ranged in age from adolescents to seniors and have come from various backgrounds with a diversity of issues.
(213) 348-7466 View (213) 348-7466
Photo of Michelle Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028
I have extensive training in evidence-based treatments and have spent the majority of my career working with the following: Self-Esteem, Relationship/Peer/School Issues, Family Systems/Multicultural, Depression, Anxiety, and Educational and Learning Disability.
My name is Michelle Lee and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (145797). I have been working with children, teens, adults, and families since 2015 and I am passionate about mental health. I support individuals to understand that they are not their symptoms and focus on empowering them to meet the unmet needs behind these symptoms and realize strengths, on their journey to creating more life satisfaction. My therapeutic approach is centered around the belief that each individual is unique and therefore has a unique set of underlying needs and values that deserve to be nurtured.
I have extensive training in evidence-based treatments and have spent the majority of my career working with the following: Self-Esteem, Relationship/Peer/School Issues, Family Systems/Multicultural, Depression, Anxiety, and Educational and Learning Disability.
My name is Michelle Lee and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (145797). I have been working with children, teens, adults, and families since 2015 and I am passionate about mental health. I support individuals to understand that they are not their symptoms and focus on empowering them to meet the unmet needs behind these symptoms and realize strengths, on their journey to creating more life satisfaction. My therapeutic approach is centered around the belief that each individual is unique and therefore has a unique set of underlying needs and values that deserve to be nurtured.
(323) 310-9710 View (323) 310-9710
Photo of Kathryn Williams, PhD , Psychologist
Kathryn Williams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am passionate about empowering people to live their big beautiful lives. Do you have anxiety about 'getting it all done' or being perfect? Do you feel overwhelmed & that it's never enough? Do you feel empty, stuck, or depressed? Maybe you are not energized by your life and your work anymore. You may be running from a feeling or trying not to feel at all. On the outside, you look strong, competent, & like you have it all together. On the inside, you are struggling to keep all the balls in the air. You desire a deeper connection with yourself & in your relationships. You want to flourish in your life & you deserve more.
I am passionate about empowering people to live their big beautiful lives. Do you have anxiety about 'getting it all done' or being perfect? Do you feel overwhelmed & that it's never enough? Do you feel empty, stuck, or depressed? Maybe you are not energized by your life and your work anymore. You may be running from a feeling or trying not to feel at all. On the outside, you look strong, competent, & like you have it all together. On the inside, you are struggling to keep all the balls in the air. You desire a deeper connection with yourself & in your relationships. You want to flourish in your life & you deserve more.
(424) 239-1873 View (424) 239-1873
Photo of Seva Burmaka, AMFT, APCC, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Seva Burmaka
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Psychotherapy and counseling help people gain fresh insights into themselves, cultivate fulfilling relationships, authentically express themselves, and lead happier, more fulfilling lives. Some are looking for help in navigating depression, anxiety, life changes, relationship difficulties, or improving emotional regulation.
Psychotherapy and counseling help people gain fresh insights into themselves, cultivate fulfilling relationships, authentically express themselves, and lead happier, more fulfilling lives. Some are looking for help in navigating depression, anxiety, life changes, relationship difficulties, or improving emotional regulation.
(310) 362-9516 View (310) 362-9516
Photo of Katherine Chan, MS, LMFT, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I specialize in folks who are struggling with the impact of past relational trauma. This means you might have had a difficult relationship with a parent, struggled with friendships, or have a hard time feeling like you belong or are "good enough." This often shows up in your life today as chronic anxiety and worry, depression and low self-esteem, as well as unfulfilling relationships or a lack of direction in life. You also struggle with difficult emotions, noticing yourself getting triggered by seemingly mundane moments. Overall, you're feeling lost in life and unsure of how to get past this.
I specialize in folks who are struggling with the impact of past relational trauma. This means you might have had a difficult relationship with a parent, struggled with friendships, or have a hard time feeling like you belong or are "good enough." This often shows up in your life today as chronic anxiety and worry, depression and low self-esteem, as well as unfulfilling relationships or a lack of direction in life. You also struggle with difficult emotions, noticing yourself getting triggered by seemingly mundane moments. Overall, you're feeling lost in life and unsure of how to get past this.
(424) 326-8617 View (424) 326-8617
Photo of Albert Bonfil - Dr. Albert Bonfil, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Albert Bonfil
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I’m an expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. As a clinical faculty member in UCLA’s Psychology Ph.D. program, I train graduate students in evidence-based therapy. I am also the director of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles, a group practice dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy. I have a deep, personal commitment to providing the most cutting-edge, science-based therapy interventions to my clients so they get better faster.
I’m an expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. As a clinical faculty member in UCLA’s Psychology Ph.D. program, I train graduate students in evidence-based therapy. I am also the director of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Los Angeles, a group practice dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy. I have a deep, personal commitment to providing the most cutting-edge, science-based therapy interventions to my clients so they get better faster.
(424) 396-6501 x1 View (424) 396-6501 x1
Photo of Susan Horvat, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Susan Horvat
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
It takes courage to start/restart therapy - well done for taking the first step! Whether your therapeutic needs are straightforward or complex, my ultimate goal is to empower you. I specialize in treating BPD and complex trauma. Many of my clients identify as creative, sensitive, and/or neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism) and tend to struggle with some combination of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and/or substance abuse. Whatever you're facing, we will customize your treatment plan together in order to get you the best, most efficient results possible.
It takes courage to start/restart therapy - well done for taking the first step! Whether your therapeutic needs are straightforward or complex, my ultimate goal is to empower you. I specialize in treating BPD and complex trauma. Many of my clients identify as creative, sensitive, and/or neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism) and tend to struggle with some combination of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and/or substance abuse. Whatever you're facing, we will customize your treatment plan together in order to get you the best, most efficient results possible.
(714) 408-7006 View (714) 408-7006
Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
If you are suffering from Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Complex Trauma or phobia and anxiety and are looking for EMDR therapy approach then please contact me.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
If you are suffering from Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Complex Trauma or phobia and anxiety and are looking for EMDR therapy approach then please contact me.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(323) 366-3016 View (323) 366-3016
Photo of Sharon S Dunas, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon S Dunas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
When mental illness strikes a family, it is as if 'someone threw a hand grenade into the family.' I can help you deal with your family member with a brain disorder. Let me help you learn to cope and advocate for your relative with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, depression with psychotic features, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder. You deserve a life even though your relative has a brain disorder. I am President of the National Alliance on Mental Illness for Westside Los Angeles. Check out what we can offer you: website www.namila.org
When mental illness strikes a family, it is as if 'someone threw a hand grenade into the family.' I can help you deal with your family member with a brain disorder. Let me help you learn to cope and advocate for your relative with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, depression with psychotic features, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder. You deserve a life even though your relative has a brain disorder. I am President of the National Alliance on Mental Illness for Westside Los Angeles. Check out what we can offer you: website www.namila.org
(310) 207-3505 View (310) 207-3505
Photo of Kevin Stansbury, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Stansbury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90033
I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, existential issues, spirituality issues, sexual issues, and foundational identity issues (really getting at who you are, what you want, and how you operate).
Hi, I’m Kevin. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working in the mental health field. I’m passionate about helping my clients come to a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships with others, their perception of life and the world, and discover how to move forward on their own path into an ever-expanding sense of connectivity, meaning, purpose, and fulfillment.
I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, existential issues, spirituality issues, sexual issues, and foundational identity issues (really getting at who you are, what you want, and how you operate).
Hi, I’m Kevin. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working in the mental health field. I’m passionate about helping my clients come to a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships with others, their perception of life and the world, and discover how to move forward on their own path into an ever-expanding sense of connectivity, meaning, purpose, and fulfillment.
(323) 616-2406 View (323) 616-2406
Photo of Alina Mikolaitis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alina Mikolaitis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Hello! My name is Alina Mikolaitis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in the field of mental health and psychology since 2000. My approach in therapy is to focus on building organic relationships, process and resolve identified issues, and ultimately support you in reaching your goals to live a more positive and fulfilling life. I mainly work with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, postpartum, addiction, an array of mental health issues, familial and relationship issues.
Hello! My name is Alina Mikolaitis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in the field of mental health and psychology since 2000. My approach in therapy is to focus on building organic relationships, process and resolve identified issues, and ultimately support you in reaching your goals to live a more positive and fulfilling life. I mainly work with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, postpartum, addiction, an array of mental health issues, familial and relationship issues.
(424) 372-8193 View (424) 372-8193
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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.