Depression Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Gregory Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Gregory Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045  (Online Only)
My specialties are in anxiety, depression and substance use disorders.
Have you found yourself struggling with your day to day and personal relationships. I believe in empowering clients to take control of their life. In the therapeutic relationship I believe my job is to give you the skills to get where you would like to go. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 7 years experience.
My specialties are in anxiety, depression and substance use disorders.
Have you found yourself struggling with your day to day and personal relationships. I believe in empowering clients to take control of their life. In the therapeutic relationship I believe my job is to give you the skills to get where you would like to go. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 7 years experience.
(424) 667-5260 View (424) 667-5260
Photo of Adrianne Averbukh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Adrianne Averbukh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
My experience has been working at Adult Day Health Care Centers that provide services to individuals with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Acute stress disorder, and many others with one on one counseling and group work.
Mind-Body-Soul connection is what gives us the power to transform. When we transform, we meet our authentic selves that just want to be seen, heard and understood I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who strongly believes that the clients are the experts of their lives. Therefore, it is my passion to provide empowerment, emotional support and mindfulness based practices to help my clients create meaningful and healthy lifestyles. Through understanding of the "self", developing compassion and challenging our thought/belief systems we can restore balance and create positive changes.
My experience has been working at Adult Day Health Care Centers that provide services to individuals with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Acute stress disorder, and many others with one on one counseling and group work.
Mind-Body-Soul connection is what gives us the power to transform. When we transform, we meet our authentic selves that just want to be seen, heard and understood I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who strongly believes that the clients are the experts of their lives. Therefore, it is my passion to provide empowerment, emotional support and mindfulness based practices to help my clients create meaningful and healthy lifestyles. Through understanding of the "self", developing compassion and challenging our thought/belief systems we can restore balance and create positive changes.
(310) 751-0030 View (310) 751-0030
Photo of Jennifer Shotwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jennifer Shotwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
As a strengths-based, client-centered therapist, my goal is to join you in uncovering, discovering, and developing your assets and strengths. By applying eclectic and well-rounded therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will work together in creating a plan that suits your needs and desires. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services to adults experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief and response to trauma/crises. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a personalized approach tailored to your individual needs to help you attain personal growth and wellness.
As a strengths-based, client-centered therapist, my goal is to join you in uncovering, discovering, and developing your assets and strengths. By applying eclectic and well-rounded therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will work together in creating a plan that suits your needs and desires. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services to adults experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief and response to trauma/crises. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a personalized approach tailored to your individual needs to help you attain personal growth and wellness.
(323) 861-3968 View (323) 861-3968
Photo of Nicole Logan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90015
I utilize a client-centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client-centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(213) 267-6620 View (213) 267-6620
Photo of Online Only, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Online Only
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90230  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult, and we all find ourselves at times struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings. Past traumas or current stressors can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, or disconnected from ourselves and others. As a psychotherapist, I provide a compassionate, safe, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore with curiosity their feelings, thoughts, behaviors, and how they serve them and where they would like to bring in change.
Life can be difficult, and we all find ourselves at times struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings. Past traumas or current stressors can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, or disconnected from ourselves and others. As a psychotherapist, I provide a compassionate, safe, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore with curiosity their feelings, thoughts, behaviors, and how they serve them and where they would like to bring in change.
(323) 784-6644 View (323) 784-6644
Photo of Patricia Diane Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Patricia Diane Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90015  (Online Only)
My expertise also includes treating Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Divorce, Parenting, Addiction, Trauma, Domestic Violence, Loss/Grief, and LGBTQ+ Issues.
Have you been suddenly hit with overwhelming fear, worry, anxiety, leaving you feeling out of control? Are you feeling sad and lonely but you are too ashamed or reluctant to tell anyone about it? These experiences can leave a person feeling helpless and hopeless. There are ways to alleviate these intense feelings. There are many mental health professionals from whom to choose, but what really matters now is, "Who can help me?" Entering psychotherapy can be confusing. In an empathic and safe environment, I help each client understand how their past affects their present so that they may achieve the desired change in their life.
My expertise also includes treating Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Divorce, Parenting, Addiction, Trauma, Domestic Violence, Loss/Grief, and LGBTQ+ Issues.
Have you been suddenly hit with overwhelming fear, worry, anxiety, leaving you feeling out of control? Are you feeling sad and lonely but you are too ashamed or reluctant to tell anyone about it? These experiences can leave a person feeling helpless and hopeless. There are ways to alleviate these intense feelings. There are many mental health professionals from whom to choose, but what really matters now is, "Who can help me?" Entering psychotherapy can be confusing. In an empathic and safe environment, I help each client understand how their past affects their present so that they may achieve the desired change in their life.
(818) 990-9008 View (818) 990-9008
Photo of Amy Jaffe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Amy Jaffe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I work with challenges including anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, as well as with assisting parents with strengthening their parenting skills.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience, both in private practice and as the Senior Vice President at Vista Del Mar Child and Family Services. My approach is supportive, collaborative, nonjudgmental, empathic, and strength based. I believe that it can be helpful to examine past family of origin issues to gain an understanding of the dynamics of your current relationships while also focusing on the present and reducing current symptoms. My goal is to help you feel better and fulfilled in your life.
I work with challenges including anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, as well as with assisting parents with strengthening their parenting skills.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience, both in private practice and as the Senior Vice President at Vista Del Mar Child and Family Services. My approach is supportive, collaborative, nonjudgmental, empathic, and strength based. I believe that it can be helpful to examine past family of origin issues to gain an understanding of the dynamics of your current relationships while also focusing on the present and reducing current symptoms. My goal is to help you feel better and fulfilled in your life.
(424) 230-3628 View (424) 230-3628
Photo of Afsoun (Angie) Zarrabian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Afsoun (Angie) Zarrabian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90007
Hi there, my name is Afsoun (Angie) Zarrabian and I am Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). I am current member of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapist (CAMFT). I speak Farsi and I am fluent in American Sign Language. My style and approach is a good fit for young adults and individuals who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, trauma, and social pressures. I help my clients to learn how to navigate these transition periods, to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and to develop a more positive outlook on life.
Hi there, my name is Afsoun (Angie) Zarrabian and I am Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). I am current member of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapist (CAMFT). I speak Farsi and I am fluent in American Sign Language. My style and approach is a good fit for young adults and individuals who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, trauma, and social pressures. I help my clients to learn how to navigate these transition periods, to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and to develop a more positive outlook on life.
(323) 375-2607 View (323) 375-2607
Photo of Lawrence Price, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Lawrence Price
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
One of the strongest choices you can make is to ask for help when you really need it. Connecting with an objective, non-judgmental person can help you from feeling stuck as you find answers to questions like: How do I deal with a complicated relationship? What is my true calling? How do I navigate my way through anxiety, stress, depression and addiction? Why do I keep making the same old choices? What do I need to do to feel better? Therapy is a profound step in creating the clarity you're seeking to lead a more stable, sustainable life.
One of the strongest choices you can make is to ask for help when you really need it. Connecting with an objective, non-judgmental person can help you from feeling stuck as you find answers to questions like: How do I deal with a complicated relationship? What is my true calling? How do I navigate my way through anxiety, stress, depression and addiction? Why do I keep making the same old choices? What do I need to do to feel better? Therapy is a profound step in creating the clarity you're seeking to lead a more stable, sustainable life.
(424) 294-8894 View (424) 294-8894
Photo of Cindy J Stanberry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Cindy J Stanberry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
I work with a variety of issues including depression, addictions, grief, mid-life crisis, relationships, parenting, spirituality.
I provide a safe environment in which to explore and develop insight into patterns in your life. I am a Certified Jungian Analyst, working from a Jungian-oriented perspective, helping to develop a relationship between the conscious and unconscious. People often seek a therapist due to a crisis, or possibly because they've developed an awareness that something is not working in their lives anymore. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of yourself, so that you can change old patterns and live your life with integrity, authenticity and meaning. Thus, our work becomes a practice that tends to soul.
I work with a variety of issues including depression, addictions, grief, mid-life crisis, relationships, parenting, spirituality.
I provide a safe environment in which to explore and develop insight into patterns in your life. I am a Certified Jungian Analyst, working from a Jungian-oriented perspective, helping to develop a relationship between the conscious and unconscious. People often seek a therapist due to a crisis, or possibly because they've developed an awareness that something is not working in their lives anymore. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of yourself, so that you can change old patterns and live your life with integrity, authenticity and meaning. Thus, our work becomes a practice that tends to soul.
(424) 294-8203 View (424) 294-8203
Photo of Alyse Rose, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Alyse Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with adults, teens, and young adults who are going through life transitions, struggling with depression, self esteem, anxiety, relationship issues and more.
Starting therapy can be both exciting and relieving, as well as initially daunting. Many people avoid therapy for fear of judgement, not thinking their issues are "that bad", or are afraid of facing themselves. When there's avoidance or lack of help, these problems tend to keep getting worse. I believe that therapy is all about creating a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can work together to help you shift your mindset, make better choices, and improve aspects of your life that may not be working. My approach is all about working as a team to help you reach your personal goals.
I have experience working with adults, teens, and young adults who are going through life transitions, struggling with depression, self esteem, anxiety, relationship issues and more.
Starting therapy can be both exciting and relieving, as well as initially daunting. Many people avoid therapy for fear of judgement, not thinking their issues are "that bad", or are afraid of facing themselves. When there's avoidance or lack of help, these problems tend to keep getting worse. I believe that therapy is all about creating a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can work together to help you shift your mindset, make better choices, and improve aspects of your life that may not be working. My approach is all about working as a team to help you reach your personal goals.
(213) 516-6262 View (213) 516-6262
Photo of Catherine Steverson-Bush, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Catherine Steverson-Bush
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
My interest is working with adults from diverse backgrounds in the areas of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relational issues, life stressors, life transitions and spiritual issues.
Hello I’m Catherine Do you feel as though life has become a place where you have lost the value of who you are and struggle to manage relationships, personal boundaries, work, health, and your overall well-being? Your choice to seek mental health services at this time is an important step in creating your journey towards a healthy mind, body, and spirit.
My interest is working with adults from diverse backgrounds in the areas of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relational issues, life stressors, life transitions and spiritual issues.
Hello I’m Catherine Do you feel as though life has become a place where you have lost the value of who you are and struggle to manage relationships, personal boundaries, work, health, and your overall well-being? Your choice to seek mental health services at this time is an important step in creating your journey towards a healthy mind, body, and spirit.
(562) 837-2730 View (562) 837-2730
Photo of Christine Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Christine Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004  (Online Only)
I work with people on a wide array of issues, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship difficulties, parenting, family building, identify formation, grief, and loss.
The decision to seek therapy can sometimes be a difficult one. However, the challenges that motivate us towards change can often become opportunities to create a deeper awareness of who we are, and who we are striving to become. I truly believe we grow in connection to others, it’s in these relationships we often learn the most about ourselves. It is hard to look at ourselves from another person’s perspective and to see ourselves in ways that we haven’t before. It can be messy work, but it can also be truly liberating and rewarding. .
I work with people on a wide array of issues, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship difficulties, parenting, family building, identify formation, grief, and loss.
The decision to seek therapy can sometimes be a difficult one. However, the challenges that motivate us towards change can often become opportunities to create a deeper awareness of who we are, and who we are striving to become. I truly believe we grow in connection to others, it’s in these relationships we often learn the most about ourselves. It is hard to look at ourselves from another person’s perspective and to see ourselves in ways that we haven’t before. It can be messy work, but it can also be truly liberating and rewarding. .
(213) 429-7881 View (213) 429-7881
Photo of COPE Psychological Center, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
COPE Psychological Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
We are a mental health clinic that treats depression, trauma, anxiety, and addiction in individuals, couples, and families.
COPE Psychological Center is an outpatient mental health treatment center focused on providing individualized evidence-based treatment for a variety of presenting concerns. We are a generalist treatment center that is able to provide a breadth of services, but our providers have particular specialties in treating trauma, addiction, and general mood disorders (e.g. depression and anxiety) for both individuals, couples, and families. We know how difficult it can be to find the right therapist and to find the right treatment, which is why our goal is to create a safe space where you get both in one place. Our providers are trained and certified in many treatments designed to help meet your needs. We aim to integrate the skills and foundations of these treatments to your personalized needs, so that you can have the skills, tools, and insights necessary for you to move your life in the direction you desire.
We are a mental health clinic that treats depression, trauma, anxiety, and addiction in individuals, couples, and families.
COPE Psychological Center is an outpatient mental health treatment center focused on providing individualized evidence-based treatment for a variety of presenting concerns. We are a generalist treatment center that is able to provide a breadth of services, but our providers have particular specialties in treating trauma, addiction, and general mood disorders (e.g. depression and anxiety) for both individuals, couples, and families. We know how difficult it can be to find the right therapist and to find the right treatment, which is why our goal is to create a safe space where you get both in one place. Our providers are trained and certified in many treatments designed to help meet your needs. We aim to integrate the skills and foundations of these treatments to your personalized needs, so that you can have the skills, tools, and insights necessary for you to move your life in the direction you desire.
(310) 361-6299 View (310) 361-6299
Photo of Esther Bang, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Esther Bang
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001
My specialty is in working with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, cultural issues, ethnic identity, and integration of psychology and Christian faith.
Often times we experience distress in life without understanding the factors that may contribute to it. We become overwhelmed and frustrated as we try to navigate life's challenges on our own and experience tremendous emotional pain. I am a psychologist with 20 years of clinical experience. My goal is to help you explore obstacles to your growth, gain insight, and provide support and guidance to make necessary changes to alleviate emotional pain, gain self-esteem, and improve your quality of life.
My specialty is in working with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, cultural issues, ethnic identity, and integration of psychology and Christian faith.
Often times we experience distress in life without understanding the factors that may contribute to it. We become overwhelmed and frustrated as we try to navigate life's challenges on our own and experience tremendous emotional pain. I am a psychologist with 20 years of clinical experience. My goal is to help you explore obstacles to your growth, gain insight, and provide support and guidance to make necessary changes to alleviate emotional pain, gain self-esteem, and improve your quality of life.
(213) 444-4238 View (213) 444-4238
Photo of Sani Patel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sani Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049
Hello, my name is Sani. I have been working in the mental health field for the past 4+ years now helping individuals find direction, path, healing, and light in the midst of despair in life. As an empath and highly intuitive individual, my goal is to provide efficient, concrete, and genuine services to individuals who are suffering from mental illness-anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, addiction, life coaching, developmental issues, and so forth in overcoming life challenges to help bring forth healing in all aspects of life.
Hello, my name is Sani. I have been working in the mental health field for the past 4+ years now helping individuals find direction, path, healing, and light in the midst of despair in life. As an empath and highly intuitive individual, my goal is to provide efficient, concrete, and genuine services to individuals who are suffering from mental illness-anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, addiction, life coaching, developmental issues, and so forth in overcoming life challenges to help bring forth healing in all aspects of life.
(310) 982-2652 View (310) 982-2652
Photo of Cynthia Levy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Cynthia Levy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90065
My name is Cindy Levy, LMFT. I specialize in complex trauma and mood disorders often related to growing up in abusive, neglectful family systems or experiencing unhealthy relationships where needs were not met. I explore old survival patterns that are no longer serving you, with the goal of integrating new skills that align with your authentic core values. I work with adults and couples. I treat Complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, and relationship issues. My hope is to contribute something that can make our world (both internal and external) a better place!
My name is Cindy Levy, LMFT. I specialize in complex trauma and mood disorders often related to growing up in abusive, neglectful family systems or experiencing unhealthy relationships where needs were not met. I explore old survival patterns that are no longer serving you, with the goal of integrating new skills that align with your authentic core values. I work with adults and couples. I treat Complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, and relationship issues. My hope is to contribute something that can make our world (both internal and external) a better place!
(323) 918-5705 View (323) 918-5705
Photo of Kaela Stambor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kaela Stambor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90016  (Online Only)
Welcome! In my over 10 years of clinical practice I have worked with diverse populations in the outpatient, inpatient, community and private practice setting. I work to build a trusting, safe, empathic therapeutic relationship to assist you in meeting your treatment goals. My experience has been focused on helping clients with issues pertaining to anxiety, depression, major life changes, and stress management. Together we can work on building the skills, processing the past and developing coping mechanisms to help you in the future.
Welcome! In my over 10 years of clinical practice I have worked with diverse populations in the outpatient, inpatient, community and private practice setting. I work to build a trusting, safe, empathic therapeutic relationship to assist you in meeting your treatment goals. My experience has been focused on helping clients with issues pertaining to anxiety, depression, major life changes, and stress management. Together we can work on building the skills, processing the past and developing coping mechanisms to help you in the future.
(310) 496-0048 View (310) 496-0048
Photo of Dr. Geri Zuniga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Geri Zuniga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045  (Online Only)
Hello! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I can guide you to manage anxiety and depression.
Hello! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I can guide you to manage anxiety and depression.
(424) 377-0572 View (424) 377-0572
Photo of Molly Binenfeld, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Molly Binenfeld
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
I create a space for you to bring your authentic self into the room without feeling like you have to show up in the "right" way. My approach is direct, compassionate, practical, and personalized towards your values, goals, and experience. My lived and professional experience allows me to help you create a more fulfilling and congruent life while supporting you in coping with daily stressors, relationship dissatisfaction, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about helping you overcome the challenges you face in today's society, including diet culture, body image, social media pressure, and unrealistic beauty standards.
I create a space for you to bring your authentic self into the room without feeling like you have to show up in the "right" way. My approach is direct, compassionate, practical, and personalized towards your values, goals, and experience. My lived and professional experience allows me to help you create a more fulfilling and congruent life while supporting you in coping with daily stressors, relationship dissatisfaction, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about helping you overcome the challenges you face in today's society, including diet culture, body image, social media pressure, and unrealistic beauty standards.
(310) 861-7350 View (310) 861-7350

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.