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 Lucy Collier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lucy Collier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychotherapist in private practice in the East Bay since 1996. I offer a non-judgmental therapeutic relationship where individuals, couples or families can find self acceptance, safety, access insight and intuition, and cultivate an attitude of kindness toward the self and others. Recovery from trauma, working on communication and relationships, overcoming addiction, spiritual self-development and healing, and coping with depression/stress from major life transitions are common themes. I have taught and supervised therapists in training at various local agencies. I also have a background in holistic and shamanic healing.
I am a psychotherapist in private practice in the East Bay since 1996. I offer a non-judgmental therapeutic relationship where individuals, couples or families can find self acceptance, safety, access insight and intuition, and cultivate an attitude of kindness toward the self and others. Recovery from trauma, working on communication and relationships, overcoming addiction, spiritual self-development and healing, and coping with depression/stress from major life transitions are common themes. I have taught and supervised therapists in training at various local agencies. I also have a background in holistic and shamanic healing.
(510) 403-8133 View (510) 403-8133
Photo of Vivek Anand, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Vivek Anand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MArch, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
You are hurting, or anxious, are considering psychotherapy and whether to trust me to facilitate your healing. My experience with adults, couples and children will support your inner journey and that of loved ones. We will create space for you to contemplate internal, external and relationship challenges. Through an attuned therapeutic relationship, I will help you address internal challenges - depression, anxiety and trauma. Empathically, I help you face external challenges - discrimination, immigration and life transitions. I also support you in navigating relationships, in which your internal worlds connect with those of others.
You are hurting, or anxious, are considering psychotherapy and whether to trust me to facilitate your healing. My experience with adults, couples and children will support your inner journey and that of loved ones. We will create space for you to contemplate internal, external and relationship challenges. Through an attuned therapeutic relationship, I will help you address internal challenges - depression, anxiety and trauma. Empathically, I help you face external challenges - discrimination, immigration and life transitions. I also support you in navigating relationships, in which your internal worlds connect with those of others.
(415) 965-7434 View (415) 965-7434
Photo of Lilly Hanson, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lilly Hanson, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
If you are looking for a therapist for yourself or your child, it is likely that some part of your or your child's life is not going the way you expected or would like it to be. Some things that seemed they should work perhaps aren't, or not as well as you'd like. Perhaps your child's feelings are stronger than you had expected, or they are not developing in other ways, and are missing developmental opportunities you know would be healthy for them and want them to have. Perhaps it seemed they might grow out of some of their difficult behaviors or feelings, yet it is hard to determine if they are on that path of growth.
If you are looking for a therapist for yourself or your child, it is likely that some part of your or your child's life is not going the way you expected or would like it to be. Some things that seemed they should work perhaps aren't, or not as well as you'd like. Perhaps your child's feelings are stronger than you had expected, or they are not developing in other ways, and are missing developmental opportunities you know would be healthy for them and want them to have. Perhaps it seemed they might grow out of some of their difficult behaviors or feelings, yet it is hard to determine if they are on that path of growth.
(510) 822-8074 View (510) 822-8074
Photo of Sandra L Goozée, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sandra L Goozée
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Most therapists will say they specialize in what you’re dealing with. Given my decades of experience, I have become fairly scrupulous about the clients I choose to work with. I see therapy as collaborative. If you’re ready to put in the work necessary for change, you’ve come to the right place. If the following sounds like you, feel free to reach out to me now: You know what you want to change in your life; you realize that a commitment to change means that most of the work is going to be on your end; and you're ready to trust in someone to partner with you.
Most therapists will say they specialize in what you’re dealing with. Given my decades of experience, I have become fairly scrupulous about the clients I choose to work with. I see therapy as collaborative. If you’re ready to put in the work necessary for change, you’ve come to the right place. If the following sounds like you, feel free to reach out to me now: You know what you want to change in your life; you realize that a commitment to change means that most of the work is going to be on your end; and you're ready to trust in someone to partner with you.
(415) 236-3193 View (415) 236-3193
Photo of Nanyonjo Mukungu, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Nanyonjo Mukungu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
My framework as a psychotherapist is inspired by black feminist sci-fi writer, Octavia E. Butler who saw the possibility of many more worlds than just our own. I believe that transformative internal healing is critical to envisioning and building these worlds without the presence of imperialism, white supremacy, capitalism and cishet-patriarchy. The tools I use to support the exploration of individual, interpersonal and intergenerational trauma are shaped by abolition that rejects punitive and scarcity mindsets and disability justice which strives to value every body.
My framework as a psychotherapist is inspired by black feminist sci-fi writer, Octavia E. Butler who saw the possibility of many more worlds than just our own. I believe that transformative internal healing is critical to envisioning and building these worlds without the presence of imperialism, white supremacy, capitalism and cishet-patriarchy. The tools I use to support the exploration of individual, interpersonal and intergenerational trauma are shaped by abolition that rejects punitive and scarcity mindsets and disability justice which strives to value every body.
View
Photo of Esther Ehrensaft, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Esther Ehrensaft
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Most people seek out a psychologist when they have truly done their best to resolve their difficulties on their own. When you can't see your own emotional blind spots, feeling stuck and distressed can ripple through many areas of your life. Perhaps this is your first time seeking out a therapist, or perhaps you are returning to psychotherapy for a fresh perspective. As a psychologist with over 17 years of experience, I have a seasoned understanding of what leads people to hit roadblocks in their lives, in areas including work, school, marriage, parenting, family, and intimate relationships.
Most people seek out a psychologist when they have truly done their best to resolve their difficulties on their own. When you can't see your own emotional blind spots, feeling stuck and distressed can ripple through many areas of your life. Perhaps this is your first time seeking out a therapist, or perhaps you are returning to psychotherapy for a fresh perspective. As a psychologist with over 17 years of experience, I have a seasoned understanding of what leads people to hit roadblocks in their lives, in areas including work, school, marriage, parenting, family, and intimate relationships.
(415) 578-7673 View (415) 578-7673
Photo of Robert H Hopcke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Robert H Hopcke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
For three decades I have been privileged as a marriage and family therapist to make a difference in people's lives. Though I am most known for being a Jungian-oriented therapist and author, my training in pastoral counseling and spiritual direction, my experience in long-term psychodynamic treatment, and my long-standing interest in all the many forms and expressions of human sexuality, as an "out" gay therapist and activist, are areas of expertise that come together in my work to help clients find a way to be their deepest, healthiest and most authentic selves.
For three decades I have been privileged as a marriage and family therapist to make a difference in people's lives. Though I am most known for being a Jungian-oriented therapist and author, my training in pastoral counseling and spiritual direction, my experience in long-term psychodynamic treatment, and my long-standing interest in all the many forms and expressions of human sexuality, as an "out" gay therapist and activist, are areas of expertise that come together in my work to help clients find a way to be their deepest, healthiest and most authentic selves.
(510) 788-2626 View (510) 788-2626

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Wilshire Valley Therapy Centers, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Wilshire Valley Therapy Centers
Psychologist
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94107
Our therapists at Wilshire Valley Therapy Center offer a wide range of treatment modalities addressing a range of issues including but not limited to Depression, Panic, Anxiety, & Trauma, Co-parenting, Divorce , Addictions & relationship issues.
Wilshire Valley Therapy offers state-of-the-art mental health services in person or via Telemedicine in LA, Burbank, Santa Clarita, Encino & Ventura, & Telemed in both SoCal & Northern Calif. Our highly qualified therapists engage & collaborate with clients whose goals & treatment directions seek to achieve more authentic, productive lives. A safe space created where clients personal & professional relationships are strengthened & a range of phase of life issues are explored in a supportive setting. We assist clients in discovering their unique value & strengths, creating a solid foundation, for a better life & a hopeful future.
Our therapists at Wilshire Valley Therapy Center offer a wide range of treatment modalities addressing a range of issues including but not limited to Depression, Panic, Anxiety, & Trauma, Co-parenting, Divorce , Addictions & relationship issues.
Wilshire Valley Therapy offers state-of-the-art mental health services in person or via Telemedicine in LA, Burbank, Santa Clarita, Encino & Ventura, & Telemed in both SoCal & Northern Calif. Our highly qualified therapists engage & collaborate with clients whose goals & treatment directions seek to achieve more authentic, productive lives. A safe space created where clients personal & professional relationships are strengthened & a range of phase of life issues are explored in a supportive setting. We assist clients in discovering their unique value & strengths, creating a solid foundation, for a better life & a hopeful future.
(747) 207-4245 View (747) 207-4245
Photo of Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108  (Online Only)
Our wide variety of specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Child and Teen Behaviors, Family Issues, Couples, Divorce, Co-parenting, Communication, Dating, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Racial/Ethnic Identity, and clinicians who are trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, ERP, ACT, and Brain Spotting.
Find your best therapist match with us! We are highly skilled, diverse, well-trained and inclusive therapists. We empower you to live the life you want and do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to care. Additional benefits include a concierge billing service for PPO insurance and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekday and weekend mornings, afternoons, and evenings. We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages as individuals, couples, and families.
Our wide variety of specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Child and Teen Behaviors, Family Issues, Couples, Divorce, Co-parenting, Communication, Dating, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Racial/Ethnic Identity, and clinicians who are trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, ERP, ACT, and Brain Spotting.
Find your best therapist match with us! We are highly skilled, diverse, well-trained and inclusive therapists. We empower you to live the life you want and do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to care. Additional benefits include a concierge billing service for PPO insurance and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekday and weekend mornings, afternoons, and evenings. We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages as individuals, couples, and families.
(628) 299-7866 View (628) 299-7866
Photo of Richard Hill, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Richard Hill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549  (Online Only)
Although most people are depressed or angry at times, they generally find a way to deal with the situation. There are times, however, when a person loses hope or is overwhelmed. They or others decide they might use some help. Sometimes a woman or a man decides that they would like to adjust their life style and emphasize their sense of self. If you work in Silicon Valley, I can use my experience in industry to help you unblock your potential and design effective strategies for greater satisfaction. If you seek spiritual depth, my years as a guide may help unfold meaning.
Although most people are depressed or angry at times, they generally find a way to deal with the situation. There are times, however, when a person loses hope or is overwhelmed. They or others decide they might use some help. Sometimes a woman or a man decides that they would like to adjust their life style and emphasize their sense of self. If you work in Silicon Valley, I can use my experience in industry to help you unblock your potential and design effective strategies for greater satisfaction. If you seek spiritual depth, my years as a guide may help unfold meaning.
(408) 641-5167 View (408) 641-5167
Photo of Susan Bolea, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Susan Bolea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94703
Do you find yourself at a crossroads, with recent events or longstanding issues to sort through and understand? Are you experiencing a challenged relationship, a sadness lingering from Covid isolation, anxieties, a shake up of self esteem, or a desire to re-calibrate life/career goals? What do you want to release and what to retain as learning? I offer compassionate, supportive, resourceful, pragmatic collaboration to help you balance these awarenesses. Together, we will set achievable goals and reclaim your resources within, so that you, and your relationships can move forward in a positive way.
Do you find yourself at a crossroads, with recent events or longstanding issues to sort through and understand? Are you experiencing a challenged relationship, a sadness lingering from Covid isolation, anxieties, a shake up of self esteem, or a desire to re-calibrate life/career goals? What do you want to release and what to retain as learning? I offer compassionate, supportive, resourceful, pragmatic collaboration to help you balance these awarenesses. Together, we will set achievable goals and reclaim your resources within, so that you, and your relationships can move forward in a positive way.
(341) 444-2172 View (341) 444-2172
Photo of Monika S Broecker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Monika S Broecker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94703  (Online Only)
I am the therapist for the working professional and their families. I am available to accept new clients. I provide Problem Solving Strategic Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy, Career and work related Coaching and Leadership Development. I work with high functioning adults and adolescents, individuals and families; with students on performance and anxiety issues; with couples to improve communication and emotional connection/intimacy. Trying to conceive, Pregnancy, Postpartum and Parenting. I work in California for therapy; globally for coaching.
I am the therapist for the working professional and their families. I am available to accept new clients. I provide Problem Solving Strategic Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy, Career and work related Coaching and Leadership Development. I work with high functioning adults and adolescents, individuals and families; with students on performance and anxiety issues; with couples to improve communication and emotional connection/intimacy. Trying to conceive, Pregnancy, Postpartum and Parenting. I work in California for therapy; globally for coaching.
(650) 241-1330 View (650) 241-1330

Online Therapists

Photo of 'Mind Your Stories & Live Well' in Oakland, CA
'Mind Your Stories & Live Well'
PhD, MA
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94403
Mon approche à la psychothérapie est diversifié. Tout dépend du besoin de mon client et de ses espérances. Mon point le plus fort se trouve dans la psychologie des profondeurs et la spirituale, parce que je suis aussi un professionnel en hypnotherapy et psycho synthèse. Je tiens beaucoup plus compte de la cause du problème que de son effet. J'ai travaillé avec les clients de différentes cultures et traditions. A cela, je croix fermement en la capacité de mes clients à pouvoir venir à terme avec leurs predicaments s'lls/elles reçoivent le support et les stratégies nécessaires. Je serai toujours à leur côté pour qu'il en soit ainsi
Mon approche à la psychothérapie est diversifié. Tout dépend du besoin de mon client et de ses espérances. Mon point le plus fort se trouve dans la psychologie des profondeurs et la spirituale, parce que je suis aussi un professionnel en hypnotherapy et psycho synthèse. Je tiens beaucoup plus compte de la cause du problème que de son effet. J'ai travaillé avec les clients de différentes cultures et traditions. A cela, je croix fermement en la capacité de mes clients à pouvoir venir à terme avec leurs predicaments s'lls/elles reçoivent le support et les stratégies nécessaires. Je serai toujours à leur côté pour qu'il en soit ainsi
(650) 618-2204 View (650) 618-2204
Photo of Rachael Vaughan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rachael Vaughan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
La thérapie ouvre la possibilité d’enfin mettre son passé derrière soi et avancer sur une nouvelle route plus dégagée, affranchie du stress et l’anxiété qui avait tendance à la gouverner.
La thérapie ouvre la possibilité d’enfin mettre son passé derrière soi et avancer sur une nouvelle route plus dégagée, affranchie du stress et l’anxiété qui avait tendance à la gouverner.
(415) 799-3702 View (415) 799-3702
Photo of Monique Jost-Vazire, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Monique Jost-Vazire
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Mountain View, CA 94040
Do you sometimes ask yourself: I feel angry, disappointed, or depressed. What can I do? I tried everything, nothing works in the long term. Why are my relationships so unfulfilling? During sessions, you are guided to discover the parts of your Self that are in conflict. They have conflicting goals, perspectives, and beliefs. Those "parts" often pull you in opposite directions - "I want to eat, but I also want to lose weight" for example. Then you criticize yourself for not being more responsible, productive, etc... Get to understand why they pull you in opposite directions and how to negotiate with them.
Do you sometimes ask yourself: I feel angry, disappointed, or depressed. What can I do? I tried everything, nothing works in the long term. Why are my relationships so unfulfilling? During sessions, you are guided to discover the parts of your Self that are in conflict. They have conflicting goals, perspectives, and beliefs. Those "parts" often pull you in opposite directions - "I want to eat, but I also want to lose weight" for example. Then you criticize yourself for not being more responsible, productive, etc... Get to understand why they pull you in opposite directions and how to negotiate with them.
(650) 741-1646 View (650) 741-1646
Photo of Lucia Thomas Olson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lucia Thomas Olson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Murphys, CA 95247
I have worked with clients with depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD and eating disorders.
I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing transitions: divorce, separation, a new diagnosis of a mental illness or chronic physical illness, coming out as an LGBTQ individual, and discovering you have a child with a learning disability, ADD/ADHD, or a child on the autism spectrum. I also enjoy working from the perspective of narrative therapy, because we always have the opportunity to "rewrite" our life story at any time. Part of therapy is rewriting our life story and narrative, and I greatly enjoy being part of this rewriting process with clients.
I have worked with clients with depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD and eating disorders.
I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing transitions: divorce, separation, a new diagnosis of a mental illness or chronic physical illness, coming out as an LGBTQ individual, and discovering you have a child with a learning disability, ADD/ADHD, or a child on the autism spectrum. I also enjoy working from the perspective of narrative therapy, because we always have the opportunity to "rewrite" our life story at any time. Part of therapy is rewriting our life story and narrative, and I greatly enjoy being part of this rewriting process with clients.
(209) 353-8903 View (209) 353-8903
Photo of Laura Plottier-Ramirez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Laura Plottier-Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
My specialty areas include high-acuity trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, substance use/dependency, foster-care and adoption, & probation.
Accepting NEW Clients! I'm a LMFT, first-gen immigrant, single mother of 2 beautiful biracial children, a creative artist & a director of a crisis program at a nonprofit org. Through my personal experience, I've navigated the challenges of adapting to a new culture after moving from France at 12. I experienced the struggles of displacement, longing, & searching for belonging that many first-gen immigrants face. I'm dedicated to helping you overcome obstacles, embrace your identity and find wholeness. Together, we'll explore narratives, uncover puzzle pieces, and embark on a transformative journey towards self-acceptance & resilience
My specialty areas include high-acuity trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, substance use/dependency, foster-care and adoption, & probation.
Accepting NEW Clients! I'm a LMFT, first-gen immigrant, single mother of 2 beautiful biracial children, a creative artist & a director of a crisis program at a nonprofit org. Through my personal experience, I've navigated the challenges of adapting to a new culture after moving from France at 12. I experienced the struggles of displacement, longing, & searching for belonging that many first-gen immigrants face. I'm dedicated to helping you overcome obstacles, embrace your identity and find wholeness. Together, we'll explore narratives, uncover puzzle pieces, and embark on a transformative journey towards self-acceptance & resilience
(408) 901-8072 View (408) 901-8072
Photo of Melissa Sipolt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Melissa Sipolt, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk Grove, CA 95758  (Online Only)
Making the decision to begin therapy/counseling is a big step, and I truly understand and respect the bravery and vulnerability that it takes for clients to reach out to a prospective therapist. Over the past 23 years, I have successfully helped thousands of individual adults, adolescents, children, couples and families to heal from issues related to anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, family and couple relationships, divorce, infertility, parenting, adoption, addiction, self-esteem, bullying, life transitions, grief, trauma, and adverse childhood events.
Making the decision to begin therapy/counseling is a big step, and I truly understand and respect the bravery and vulnerability that it takes for clients to reach out to a prospective therapist. Over the past 23 years, I have successfully helped thousands of individual adults, adolescents, children, couples and families to heal from issues related to anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, family and couple relationships, divorce, infertility, parenting, adoption, addiction, self-esteem, bullying, life transitions, grief, trauma, and adverse childhood events.
(808) 400-1544 View (808) 400-1544
Photo of Karim G. Dajani, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Karim G. Dajani
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131
My approach to helping people through psychological difficulties is based on the idea that a special form of human interaction will increase self-knowledge, develop emotional skills and activate latent potential. I aim to identify unconscious patterns of thinking, feeling and relating that reinforce negative emotion and destructive behavior. My style is directed thoughtful and collaborative. The process of being understood, of learning about the various ways your mind works and of developing a new repertoire of psychological skills will open up new avenues for growth and engagement in your life’s pursuits.
My approach to helping people through psychological difficulties is based on the idea that a special form of human interaction will increase self-knowledge, develop emotional skills and activate latent potential. I aim to identify unconscious patterns of thinking, feeling and relating that reinforce negative emotion and destructive behavior. My style is directed thoughtful and collaborative. The process of being understood, of learning about the various ways your mind works and of developing a new repertoire of psychological skills will open up new avenues for growth and engagement in your life’s pursuits.
(650) 385-8164 View (650) 385-8164
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.