Photo of Annie Leah Lesny, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Annie Leah Lesny
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy for anxiety, depression, relational issues, childhood and lifespan trauma, and more. I understand that sometimes psychotherapy is sought out in a very challenging time of life, and I am here to offer support through that. I have specialized experience working with creatives of all kinds, in being a singer myself. With experience focusing on young adults as well, I offer guidance for the process of individuation that occurs during these formative years. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, gender identities, sexualities, and other intersectional identities.
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy for anxiety, depression, relational issues, childhood and lifespan trauma, and more. I understand that sometimes psychotherapy is sought out in a very challenging time of life, and I am here to offer support through that. I have specialized experience working with creatives of all kinds, in being a singer myself. With experience focusing on young adults as well, I offer guidance for the process of individuation that occurs during these formative years. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, gender identities, sexualities, and other intersectional identities.
(510) 296-3494 View (510) 296-3494
Photo of Brandon Brawner, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Brandon Brawner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I'm here to support teenage youth, parents/families, and adults in meeting their emotional, psychological and practical challenges. If you're a teen struggling with school problems, family difficulties or hoping to improve your mood, confidence and relationships, I can assist you in breaking down obstacles and achieving your goals. If you're a parent trying to manage and communicate with your "coming of age" depressed or rebellious adolescent, I provide counsel and safe opportunities to explore the conflicts and confusion that block resolutions.
I'm here to support teenage youth, parents/families, and adults in meeting their emotional, psychological and practical challenges. If you're a teen struggling with school problems, family difficulties or hoping to improve your mood, confidence and relationships, I can assist you in breaking down obstacles and achieving your goals. If you're a parent trying to manage and communicate with your "coming of age" depressed or rebellious adolescent, I provide counsel and safe opportunities to explore the conflicts and confusion that block resolutions.
(510) 400-4171 View (510) 400-4171
Photo of Mirely Vasquez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Mirely Vasquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
Bienvenidos/Welcome! I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish-speaking therapist located in the East Bay area of California. I have been working with children, teens, and adults of color struggling with an array of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship satisfaction, life purpose, trauma, postpartum depression, and spirituality, related to life transitions, family stress, trauma, and grief. Although my work has focused on the unique needs of minorities and underrepresented individuals, being a member of that community is certainly not a requirement for your personal development.
Bienvenidos/Welcome! I am a bilingual/bicultural Spanish-speaking therapist located in the East Bay area of California. I have been working with children, teens, and adults of color struggling with an array of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship satisfaction, life purpose, trauma, postpartum depression, and spirituality, related to life transitions, family stress, trauma, and grief. Although my work has focused on the unique needs of minorities and underrepresented individuals, being a member of that community is certainly not a requirement for your personal development.
(510) 916-3215 View (510) 916-3215
Photo of Tonya Dowding, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Tonya Dowding
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Some areas of focus include anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship issues, addiction and co-dependence, sexual therapy, etc.
I find it effective to combine behavioral solutions with depth work. Since the unconscious ripples into all aspects of life, I have found that relational therapy addressing unconscious motives can help with most psychological difficulties. In addition to working with individuals, couples & families, I am adjunct faculty at the California Institute of Integral Studies where I teach in the Masters in Counseling Psychology Department and Psychological Services Clinic.
Some areas of focus include anxiety and depression, trauma, relationship issues, addiction and co-dependence, sexual therapy, etc.
I find it effective to combine behavioral solutions with depth work. Since the unconscious ripples into all aspects of life, I have found that relational therapy addressing unconscious motives can help with most psychological difficulties. In addition to working with individuals, couples & families, I am adjunct faculty at the California Institute of Integral Studies where I teach in the Masters in Counseling Psychology Department and Psychological Services Clinic.
(628) 333-6616 View (628) 333-6616
Photo of DBT certified: Myra Altenau, PhD, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
DBT certified: Myra Altenau, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612
I am accepting clients for my Dialectical Behavior Therapy program. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a very effective treatment that helps you build a worthwhile and fulfilling life. You accept that you suffer, but also you learn to accept that you want to get better. I will help you to train your mind and body to peacefulness, and to significantly decrease every day stress. Combining distress tolerance practice, mindfulness skill building, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness skill building, I will guide you to heal the effects of trauma, depression and anxiety and replace that with establishing well-being.
I am accepting clients for my Dialectical Behavior Therapy program. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a very effective treatment that helps you build a worthwhile and fulfilling life. You accept that you suffer, but also you learn to accept that you want to get better. I will help you to train your mind and body to peacefulness, and to significantly decrease every day stress. Combining distress tolerance practice, mindfulness skill building, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness skill building, I will guide you to heal the effects of trauma, depression and anxiety and replace that with establishing well-being.
(707) 709-8039 View (707) 709-8039
Photo of Lori Goldrich, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Lori Goldrich
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Are you looking to find ways to make changes so you can live a more satisfying and meaningful life? Are you finding yourself in repetitive patterns that are no longer working for you? I may be of assistance to you. I bring an in-depth approach that builds on your strengths and aims to untangle the roots to what is causing problems for you. This can lead to reduction in painful symptoms such as anxiety and depression, and to finding more constructive ways for you to address life challenges. I bring a gift in helping you fulfill your life potential.
Are you looking to find ways to make changes so you can live a more satisfying and meaningful life? Are you finding yourself in repetitive patterns that are no longer working for you? I may be of assistance to you. I bring an in-depth approach that builds on your strengths and aims to untangle the roots to what is causing problems for you. This can lead to reduction in painful symptoms such as anxiety and depression, and to finding more constructive ways for you to address life challenges. I bring a gift in helping you fulfill your life potential.
(510) 698-4353 View (510) 698-4353
Photo of Erica S Wheeler-Dubin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Erica S Wheeler-Dubin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I am seeking clients who are open to discovering what makes them unique through a creative and imaginative process; Clients whose goals may range from deeper self knowledge, to decreasing experiences with anxiety and depression, to understanding how trauma plays itself out in their relationships, to being able to resource themselves, etc; Clients interested in exploring their strengths as well as their more scary parts. I believe that pain and suffering are normal emotions and healing happens in connection with others; others who can hold and stay with the difficulty and provide curiosity and support.
I am seeking clients who are open to discovering what makes them unique through a creative and imaginative process; Clients whose goals may range from deeper self knowledge, to decreasing experiences with anxiety and depression, to understanding how trauma plays itself out in their relationships, to being able to resource themselves, etc; Clients interested in exploring their strengths as well as their more scary parts. I believe that pain and suffering are normal emotions and healing happens in connection with others; others who can hold and stay with the difficulty and provide curiosity and support.
(510) 683-5650 View (510) 683-5650
Photo of Abby Maimon, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Abby Maimon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I specialize in working with individuals suffering from symptoms of anxiety and depression, both circumstantial and life-long, perinatal/maternal mental health struggles, challenging life transitions and developmental stages, relationship building/separating, parenting, first-time, brave therapy seekers and an essential desire to be understood. It can be intimidating to begin the process of self-exploration. It is not a simple endeavor. Each individual is unique as is one's process of self discovery and improved mental health. With the right match between psychotherapist and therapy seeker, the process can feel immensely useful.
I specialize in working with individuals suffering from symptoms of anxiety and depression, both circumstantial and life-long, perinatal/maternal mental health struggles, challenging life transitions and developmental stages, relationship building/separating, parenting, first-time, brave therapy seekers and an essential desire to be understood. It can be intimidating to begin the process of self-exploration. It is not a simple endeavor. Each individual is unique as is one's process of self discovery and improved mental health. With the right match between psychotherapist and therapy seeker, the process can feel immensely useful.
(510) 953-5223 View (510) 953-5223
Photo of Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oakland, CA
Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Whether you are seeking immediate support to help cope during this time, or therapy for anxiety, depression, conflicts with your partner or other needs, we are here to help.
Therapy provides such a rich opportunity for growth and learning, helping persons to recover from the aftermaths of trauma, abuse and loss, meet the hardships of their lives and thrive. In times like this, with so much anxiety about our collective welfare, it can be an invaluable lifeline. In response to the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, we are now offering teletherapy (therapy by phone and online by video) for all our clients, whether new or established. Also called telehealth or telebehavioral health, teletherapy can provide vital care and support to individuals, couples and families.
Whether you are seeking immediate support to help cope during this time, or therapy for anxiety, depression, conflicts with your partner or other needs, we are here to help.
Therapy provides such a rich opportunity for growth and learning, helping persons to recover from the aftermaths of trauma, abuse and loss, meet the hardships of their lives and thrive. In times like this, with so much anxiety about our collective welfare, it can be an invaluable lifeline. In response to the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, we are now offering teletherapy (therapy by phone and online by video) for all our clients, whether new or established. Also called telehealth or telebehavioral health, teletherapy can provide vital care and support to individuals, couples and families.
(510) 858-0916 View (510) 858-0916
Photo of Helga Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Helga Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
The current pandemic, environmental conditions, and political situation are overwhelming. Psychotherapy is helpful and transformative in dealing with the challenges that affect our social interactions and emotional well-being. I work with people dealing with depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, and chronic illness. We set goals to redefine personal and professional directions.
The current pandemic, environmental conditions, and political situation are overwhelming. Psychotherapy is helpful and transformative in dealing with the challenges that affect our social interactions and emotional well-being. I work with people dealing with depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, and chronic illness. We set goals to redefine personal and professional directions.
(510) 858-2940 View (510) 858-2940
Photo of Reed A Malcolm Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Reed A Malcolm Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I am a psychotherapist with offices in SF and Oakland, where I treat both adults and couples. I take a relational and collaborative approach to psychotherapy. We are all unique, consciously and unconsciously influenced by the relationships and life-events that leave a lasting impact on how we address our current situation. Difficulties can sometimes arise when the habitual thoughts, emotions, or behaviors that once served us now have us feeling stuck, depressed, and powerless. Fear, ambivalence, compulsivity and patterned thinking can hamper our ability to address the inevitable twists and turns of daily life.
I am a psychotherapist with offices in SF and Oakland, where I treat both adults and couples. I take a relational and collaborative approach to psychotherapy. We are all unique, consciously and unconsciously influenced by the relationships and life-events that leave a lasting impact on how we address our current situation. Difficulties can sometimes arise when the habitual thoughts, emotions, or behaviors that once served us now have us feeling stuck, depressed, and powerless. Fear, ambivalence, compulsivity and patterned thinking can hamper our ability to address the inevitable twists and turns of daily life.
(415) 358-5359 View (415) 358-5359
Photo of Will Hector, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Will Hector
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I work with heterosexual and same-sex couples on issues of communication, integrating families, sexuality, power dynamics, attachment, trust, and infidelity. I also work with individuals on grief, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, spiritual inquiry, life transitions, and vocational calling. I hold an empathetic understanding of every client's unique worldview -- and respect how each individual arrives there. I provide compassionate, holistic, and practical support for your healing journey. Thank you for considering therapy as part of your path.
I work with heterosexual and same-sex couples on issues of communication, integrating families, sexuality, power dynamics, attachment, trust, and infidelity. I also work with individuals on grief, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, spiritual inquiry, life transitions, and vocational calling. I hold an empathetic understanding of every client's unique worldview -- and respect how each individual arrives there. I provide compassionate, holistic, and practical support for your healing journey. Thank you for considering therapy as part of your path.
(608) 719-3657 View (608) 719-3657
Photo of Jane Reynolds, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Jane Reynolds
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I am a psychologist and a certified Jungian analyst. I have been in private practice since 1979, initially as an MFT, then as a psychologist starting in 1989. I became certified as a Jungian analyst in 2010 after seven years of training at the C.G. Jung Institute in San Francisco. It is my privilege to work with many different people, those coping with uncertainties and ambiguities of life transitions, those who suffer a range of painful symptoms such as anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, trauma, divorce, identity issues, spiritual crisis. I value depth, difference and relationship.
I am a psychologist and a certified Jungian analyst. I have been in private practice since 1979, initially as an MFT, then as a psychologist starting in 1989. I became certified as a Jungian analyst in 2010 after seven years of training at the C.G. Jung Institute in San Francisco. It is my privilege to work with many different people, those coping with uncertainties and ambiguities of life transitions, those who suffer a range of painful symptoms such as anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, trauma, divorce, identity issues, spiritual crisis. I value depth, difference and relationship.
(510) 343-5397 View (510) 343-5397
Photo of Dr. Paula B. Holt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Paula B. Holt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
We find unique healing in your own path for change, expansion, and self assurance. My best source is your own psychology. We find the tools within you for our work. We will seek clarification for yourself and understanding of others. Good psychotherapy provides not only a safe haven to relieve anxiety, depression, or any psychological pain, but also provides tools for your continuing growth. We add the richness of Jung to insights from psychoanalytically based psychotherapy. Also note that I have an additional practice in support of conscious dying.
We find unique healing in your own path for change, expansion, and self assurance. My best source is your own psychology. We find the tools within you for our work. We will seek clarification for yourself and understanding of others. Good psychotherapy provides not only a safe haven to relieve anxiety, depression, or any psychological pain, but also provides tools for your continuing growth. We add the richness of Jung to insights from psychoanalytically based psychotherapy. Also note that I have an additional practice in support of conscious dying.
(415) 799-7680 View (415) 799-7680
Photo of Marel Grunt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Marel Grunt, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601
I have worked with adults and youth for 25 years to help calm anxiety and lift depressed feelings and to find a way out of being limited by difficult emotions. My specialties include helping clients through life changes, issues related to work, school and personal relationships, anxiety and depression. Painful experiences or feelings from the past can cause us to feel disconnected from the relationships and opportunities in the world around us. I can work with you to help shift the unhelpful patterns of thinking and feeling to allow that valuable mental and emotional energy to be redirected towards positive change.
I have worked with adults and youth for 25 years to help calm anxiety and lift depressed feelings and to find a way out of being limited by difficult emotions. My specialties include helping clients through life changes, issues related to work, school and personal relationships, anxiety and depression. Painful experiences or feelings from the past can cause us to feel disconnected from the relationships and opportunities in the world around us. I can work with you to help shift the unhelpful patterns of thinking and feeling to allow that valuable mental and emotional energy to be redirected towards positive change.
(510) 270-2416 View (510) 270-2416
Photo of Trasie Marie Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Trasie Marie Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EAP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
The majority of short-term therapy is Depression and Anxiety.
Private pay sessions for 60$ dollars, couples 75$, I take most insurance and the insurance I accept is increasing. I have experience of over 35 years expert professional, licensed in 3 states, CA, VA and WA. Currently in the Wash DC area on assignment with the DOD working with Military Families and providing therapy virtually to clients in California and Washington State. I'm a certified expert provider in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Drug and Alcohol Recovery, Family Dynamics and specialist and a DOD consult in Combat, childhood trauma, PTSD Psychotherapy. I also provided Christian counseling upon request.
The majority of short-term therapy is Depression and Anxiety.
Private pay sessions for 60$ dollars, couples 75$, I take most insurance and the insurance I accept is increasing. I have experience of over 35 years expert professional, licensed in 3 states, CA, VA and WA. Currently in the Wash DC area on assignment with the DOD working with Military Families and providing therapy virtually to clients in California and Washington State. I'm a certified expert provider in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Drug and Alcohol Recovery, Family Dynamics and specialist and a DOD consult in Combat, childhood trauma, PTSD Psychotherapy. I also provided Christian counseling upon request.
(540) 386-1336 View (540) 386-1336
Photo of Scott Gordon, Registered Psychological Associate in Oakland, CA
Scott Gordon
Registered Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I’m especially passionate about supporting life transitions, anxiety/depression, chronic health issues, intimacy/vulnerability, and matters of identity.
My approach as a relational and somatic therapist is to create a collaborative space to explore your relationship with yourself, others, and the world. We will unearth unconscious beliefs and patterns to help you live a more connected and fulfilling life. Our work together will, hopefully, help you relieve suffering, foster growth, and develop insight in all dimensions of your life.
I’m especially passionate about supporting life transitions, anxiety/depression, chronic health issues, intimacy/vulnerability, and matters of identity.
My approach as a relational and somatic therapist is to create a collaborative space to explore your relationship with yourself, others, and the world. We will unearth unconscious beliefs and patterns to help you live a more connected and fulfilling life. Our work together will, hopefully, help you relieve suffering, foster growth, and develop insight in all dimensions of your life.
(415) 965-3599 View (415) 965-3599
Photo of Lisa Case, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lisa Case
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals who experience chronic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal/ inter-familial conflicts. My aim is to support you in a safe and non-judgmental container, where we can explore the roots of your issues, as well as provide you skills which can help to alleviate any symptoms/ conflicts you may have. I believe that you are the expert of your story and hold a space that is of compassion and unconditional positive regard. I also offer online ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, when indicated for various diagnoses that may have been treatment-resistant with traditional forms of talk therapy.
I specialize in helping individuals who experience chronic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal/ inter-familial conflicts. My aim is to support you in a safe and non-judgmental container, where we can explore the roots of your issues, as well as provide you skills which can help to alleviate any symptoms/ conflicts you may have. I believe that you are the expert of your story and hold a space that is of compassion and unconditional positive regard. I also offer online ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, when indicated for various diagnoses that may have been treatment-resistant with traditional forms of talk therapy.
(510) 949-5329 View (510) 949-5329
Photo of Elaina Barulic, MFT, Therapist & Jungian Candidate, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Elaina Barulic, MFT, Therapist & Jungian Candidate
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I work with anxiety, depression, life changes, loss, early trauma, spiritual concerns, and bodily/somatic symptoms of emotional distress.
I offer therapy as a reliable space where you can slow down, really meet your inner world and learn to relate to what you discover there. Your symptoms have a story to tell. They can cause suffering when you don’t understand their language, or what they're asking you to find out about yourself. When given the attention they ask for, your emotions can reconnect you to your instincts and guide you in useful directions. Jungian therapy works to help you face inward towards your imagination, where you can begin to recover and revive what feels dormant, lost, unworthy, or just undiscovered.
I work with anxiety, depression, life changes, loss, early trauma, spiritual concerns, and bodily/somatic symptoms of emotional distress.
I offer therapy as a reliable space where you can slow down, really meet your inner world and learn to relate to what you discover there. Your symptoms have a story to tell. They can cause suffering when you don’t understand their language, or what they're asking you to find out about yourself. When given the attention they ask for, your emotions can reconnect you to your instincts and guide you in useful directions. Jungian therapy works to help you face inward towards your imagination, where you can begin to recover and revive what feels dormant, lost, unworthy, or just undiscovered.
(628) 241-1097 View (628) 241-1097
Photo of Claire Greenwood, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Claire Greenwood
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
I provide contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy, focusing on individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges, and with an emphasis on queer, trans and non-binary experiences. My approach integrates a keen understanding of queer and gender issues, recognizing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in these contexts. I believe that our psychological symptoms are deeply connected to our early experiences, family histories, and the broader societal systems we inhabit, including those related to race and gender identity, class, and sexual orientation. I also offer EMDR for trauma and phobias.
I provide contemporary psychoanalytic psychotherapy, focusing on individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges, and with an emphasis on queer, trans and non-binary experiences. My approach integrates a keen understanding of queer and gender issues, recognizing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in these contexts. I believe that our psychological symptoms are deeply connected to our early experiences, family histories, and the broader societal systems we inhabit, including those related to race and gender identity, class, and sexual orientation. I also offer EMDR for trauma and phobias.
(415) 341-9809 View (415) 341-9809
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.