Photo of Shenae Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Shenae Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
I have experience treating issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, bipolar, personality disorders, interpersonal violence, grief and loss, culture, cultural and systemic oppression, family or origin, and life purpose.
I am client-centered, compassionate, empathetic, hopeful and believe we all need help and support during life. I believe it's important to have a working and collaborative professional therapeutic relationship.
I have experience treating issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, bipolar, personality disorders, interpersonal violence, grief and loss, culture, cultural and systemic oppression, family or origin, and life purpose.
I am client-centered, compassionate, empathetic, hopeful and believe we all need help and support during life. I believe it's important to have a working and collaborative professional therapeutic relationship.
(323) 794-0939 View (323) 794-0939
Photo of Angie Pelletier -Juarez, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Angie Pelletier -Juarez
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
I specialize in treating individuals from diverse backgrounds who struggle with mental health issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, and domestic or intimate partner violence.
Dr. PJ, also known as Dr. Angie Pelletier, is a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience. She applies a holistic methodology that takes into account mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual considerations to help people gain a better understanding of themselves. Her focus areas include trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence (IPV)/Domestic Violence (DV) victims, life and career transitions, and relationship issues, among others. Dr. PJ stresses the importance of identifying personal strengths and cultivating coping strategies to meet life's challenges.
I specialize in treating individuals from diverse backgrounds who struggle with mental health issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, and domestic or intimate partner violence.
Dr. PJ, also known as Dr. Angie Pelletier, is a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience. She applies a holistic methodology that takes into account mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual considerations to help people gain a better understanding of themselves. Her focus areas include trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence (IPV)/Domestic Violence (DV) victims, life and career transitions, and relationship issues, among others. Dr. PJ stresses the importance of identifying personal strengths and cultivating coping strategies to meet life's challenges.
(562) 278-0875 View (562) 278-0875
Photo of Rebecca Kerr McWhorter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rebecca Kerr McWhorter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94621
Hi there, I'm Rebecca McWhorter, LCSW has experience with all age groups within many multicultural settings. I start with where the patient is should they be suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or grief. My practice focus in on patient care. Patients typically enter therapy due to something that is having a negative impact on their quality of life. I assist them in identifying the root causes or behavior that are preventing them from living their best life. I utilize many different approaches to healing. I prefer to letting the patient vocalize their needs rather than tailor a patient to a plan.
Hi there, I'm Rebecca McWhorter, LCSW has experience with all age groups within many multicultural settings. I start with where the patient is should they be suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or grief. My practice focus in on patient care. Patients typically enter therapy due to something that is having a negative impact on their quality of life. I assist them in identifying the root causes or behavior that are preventing them from living their best life. I utilize many different approaches to healing. I prefer to letting the patient vocalize their needs rather than tailor a patient to a plan.
(442) 218-2807 View (442) 218-2807
Photo of Tamara Hagy-Lopez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Tamara Hagy-Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
I feel comfortable working with are depression, women's life challenges, life transitions, mid-life problems, interpersonal issues, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, parenting, mood disorders, anger management, blended families, adoption, and underserved population.
Tamara Hagy-Lopez is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, parents, adults, and families in a variety of clinical and school settings. Tamara's focus is on building a safe and validating environment that allows families and individuals to increase self-awareness and helps them create a narrative that supports their growth.
I feel comfortable working with are depression, women's life challenges, life transitions, mid-life problems, interpersonal issues, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, parenting, mood disorders, anger management, blended families, adoption, and underserved population.
Tamara Hagy-Lopez is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, parents, adults, and families in a variety of clinical and school settings. Tamara's focus is on building a safe and validating environment that allows families and individuals to increase self-awareness and helps them create a narrative that supports their growth.
(415) 870-3873 View (415) 870-3873
Photo of Jenny Turner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jenny Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
I initially became a social worker to help the elderly population. Through graduate school, I have found a love for both medical social work as well as working in behavioral and mental health.
I initially became a social worker to help the elderly population. Through graduate school, I have found a love for both medical social work as well as working in behavioral and mental health.
(510) 880-1474 View (510) 880-1474

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alexandra Duran, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Alexandra Duran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
Hello, my name Is Alexandra (Ali) Duran, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Fresno, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I help adolescents and adults who struggle with depression and anxiety learn to regulate their challenging emotions, develop new life skills, process their history of trauma/loss, and find joy and meaning in life. I also help couples strengthen their bond with one another, improve their overall communication, and explore their joint needs, responsibilities, and dreams/goals for the future.
Hello, my name Is Alexandra (Ali) Duran, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Fresno, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I help adolescents and adults who struggle with depression and anxiety learn to regulate their challenging emotions, develop new life skills, process their history of trauma/loss, and find joy and meaning in life. I also help couples strengthen their bond with one another, improve their overall communication, and explore their joint needs, responsibilities, and dreams/goals for the future.
(562) 561-2738 View (562) 561-2738
Photo of Vicki Matthews, Counselor in Oakland, CA
Vicki Matthews
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
I've primarily treated children and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and self-care issues.
Hello, my name is Vicki Matthews and, I am an M.A. LPCC dual licensed in CA and NM. I focus on guiding my child, teen, and adult clients to be their own agents of change, catering to their needs, and meeting my clients where they are at in life. I focus on realistic and attainable goals working together with my clients to achieve therapeutic wellness, towards improving their daily functioning. My goal is to be a part of the curative process for all my clients.
I've primarily treated children and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and self-care issues.
Hello, my name is Vicki Matthews and, I am an M.A. LPCC dual licensed in CA and NM. I focus on guiding my child, teen, and adult clients to be their own agents of change, catering to their needs, and meeting my clients where they are at in life. I focus on realistic and attainable goals working together with my clients to achieve therapeutic wellness, towards improving their daily functioning. My goal is to be a part of the curative process for all my clients.
(510) 621-6299 View (510) 621-6299
Photo of Melissa Craven, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Melissa Craven
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94124
Are overwhelming emotions and self-criticism holding you back from life goals? I'd like to help you see beyond this difficult moment- I'd love to help you enjoy your life more. I'm Melissa Craven, licensed MFT (52019) with an emphasis in Expressive Arts Therapy and over fifteen years experience helping clients like you build skills to creatively cope with stress and overwhelming moods. Clients come to me at an impasse- when it's difficult to shake difficult moods and work through life stressors. Prevailing issues may include anxiety, depression, sleep problems, relationship conflict, and loss of purpose.
Are overwhelming emotions and self-criticism holding you back from life goals? I'd like to help you see beyond this difficult moment- I'd love to help you enjoy your life more. I'm Melissa Craven, licensed MFT (52019) with an emphasis in Expressive Arts Therapy and over fifteen years experience helping clients like you build skills to creatively cope with stress and overwhelming moods. Clients come to me at an impasse- when it's difficult to shake difficult moods and work through life stressors. Prevailing issues may include anxiety, depression, sleep problems, relationship conflict, and loss of purpose.
(562) 620-7871 View (562) 620-7871
Photo of Herbert Wright, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Herbert Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
My name is Herbert Wright, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Humanistic / Existential, CBT, Object Relations, Solution Focused, and Structural Family Therapy. I have worked with various clients who have had issues with Substance abuse, Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, Grief and Loss, Abandonment, Isolation, Borderline Personality Disorder, Nightmares, Insomnia, Suicide, At-risk youth, open Department of Children and Family Services, Probation, Court Ordered, Family Reunification, Career Planning, Coaching, Spiritual, Trauma, and Religious issues
My name is Herbert Wright, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Humanistic / Existential, CBT, Object Relations, Solution Focused, and Structural Family Therapy. I have worked with various clients who have had issues with Substance abuse, Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, Grief and Loss, Abandonment, Isolation, Borderline Personality Disorder, Nightmares, Insomnia, Suicide, At-risk youth, open Department of Children and Family Services, Probation, Court Ordered, Family Reunification, Career Planning, Coaching, Spiritual, Trauma, and Religious issues
(510) 455-7869 View (510) 455-7869
Photo of The Mindful Lemon , Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
The Mindful Lemon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
(341) 888-7667 View (341) 888-7667

Online Therapists

Photo of La Wanda Marrero, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
La Wanda Marrero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95111
Hello, I am La Wanda Marrero, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist LMFT139411. I have been in practice for over 10 years. My approach is strength-based, to meet you, the client, right where you are. My area of focus is stress reduction and client goal orientation. I work with clients who have made a decision to support themselves in making realistic changes and lifestyle improvements that decrease stress, depression, and anxiety with a trauma-informed informed and natural heart approach.
Hello, I am La Wanda Marrero, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist LMFT139411. I have been in practice for over 10 years. My approach is strength-based, to meet you, the client, right where you are. My area of focus is stress reduction and client goal orientation. I work with clients who have made a decision to support themselves in making realistic changes and lifestyle improvements that decrease stress, depression, and anxiety with a trauma-informed informed and natural heart approach.
(408) 869-5676 View (408) 869-5676
Photo of Laura Melendez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Laura Melendez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95127
These stressors create depression, anxiety, and the inability of parents to help children navigate life.
My name is Laura Melendez and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) based in Carlsbad, CA, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, teens, and children/parenting. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness when working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, and parent coaching to help my clients meet their goals. Each individual is unique, therefore I get to know my client and based on their need I will match them with the best therapeutic approach. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness.
These stressors create depression, anxiety, and the inability of parents to help children navigate life.
My name is Laura Melendez and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) based in Carlsbad, CA, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, teens, and children/parenting. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness when working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, and parent coaching to help my clients meet their goals. Each individual is unique, therefore I get to know my client and based on their need I will match them with the best therapeutic approach. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness.
(657) 837-5009 View (657) 837-5009
Photo of Kristal Audoma, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Kristal Audoma
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CA 94533
Hello, my name is Kristal Audoma, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is direct yet empathetic with a strength-based approach. I work with individuals ranging from children to the elderly. I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Grief and Loss, Anger Management, Feedback Informed Care, LGBTQIA, and trauma informed. My style and approach are a good fit for teens and adults who may be dealing with challenges in their lives, both personally and professionally. These challenges may manifest as anxiety, depression, guilt, and anger.
Hello, my name is Kristal Audoma, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is direct yet empathetic with a strength-based approach. I work with individuals ranging from children to the elderly. I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, Grief and Loss, Anger Management, Feedback Informed Care, LGBTQIA, and trauma informed. My style and approach are a good fit for teens and adults who may be dealing with challenges in their lives, both personally and professionally. These challenges may manifest as anxiety, depression, guilt, and anger.
(707) 877-8447 View (707) 877-8447
Photo of Siomara Calixtro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Siomara Calixtro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
I am Siomara Calixtro, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults of all ages. In my private practice, I utilize a compassionate, clients' strength base approach to ensure clients are feeling safe and understood. I focus on meeting client's needs and expectations for treatment care. I am comfortable treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar I and II, and Relationships issues.
I am Siomara Calixtro, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults of all ages. In my private practice, I utilize a compassionate, clients' strength base approach to ensure clients are feeling safe and understood. I focus on meeting client's needs and expectations for treatment care. I am comfortable treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar I and II, and Relationships issues.
(916) 472-0901 View (916) 472-0901
Photo of Brent Bc-Harvey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Brent Bc-Harvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
My years of working with teens, seniors, and all ages in between have prepared me with the skills to walk with you towards thriving in the midst of depression, anxiety, major life, and end-of-life transitions, and other profound mental health issues you may be facing.
I admire people who are willing to take the steps necessary to better understand their authentic Selves. By seeking a supportive therapeutic relationship you have already taken a huge courageous step towards understanding how to mercifully address the difficult obstacle you face. I believe that you are the expert in your own life. Perhaps you have not been able to access your wisdom or do not believe that you have the insights needed to discover solutions to the issues you are facing.
My years of working with teens, seniors, and all ages in between have prepared me with the skills to walk with you towards thriving in the midst of depression, anxiety, major life, and end-of-life transitions, and other profound mental health issues you may be facing.
I admire people who are willing to take the steps necessary to better understand their authentic Selves. By seeking a supportive therapeutic relationship you have already taken a huge courageous step towards understanding how to mercifully address the difficult obstacle you face. I believe that you are the expert in your own life. Perhaps you have not been able to access your wisdom or do not believe that you have the insights needed to discover solutions to the issues you are facing.
(650) 436-4701 View (650) 436-4701
Photo of Cindy Cothran, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Cindy Cothran
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94801
My name is Cindy Cothran and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC 13358) based in the Central Coast of California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I presently work with older adolescents and all ages of adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and GLBTQ-related concerns. I utilize a variety of evidence-based approaches guided by the comfort level of the person I am working with. I find that I am comfortable working with many types of people and every age group. I enjoy working with the LGBTQIA community and I am polyamory and kink-affirming.
My name is Cindy Cothran and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC 13358) based in the Central Coast of California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I presently work with older adolescents and all ages of adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and GLBTQ-related concerns. I utilize a variety of evidence-based approaches guided by the comfort level of the person I am working with. I find that I am comfortable working with many types of people and every age group. I enjoy working with the LGBTQIA community and I am polyamory and kink-affirming.
(805) 307-8913 View (805) 307-8913
Photo of Alexandra Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Alexandra Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95687
My name is Alexandra Jackson. My license is LCSW22763. I have worked in various settings and age 2 years old to 90 years old. Expertise is age-related issues, death and dying, multigenerational communication problems and issues related to living and honoring multi cultures within family and/or self, violence in family and community, refugee issues, trauma, communication skills, caregiver issues, anxiety, depression, and self. I work with children, adults, and the elderly who have depression and/or anxiety. Some clients have long-term depression/anxiety others are acute. I evaluate for previous trauma and risk assessment.
My name is Alexandra Jackson. My license is LCSW22763. I have worked in various settings and age 2 years old to 90 years old. Expertise is age-related issues, death and dying, multigenerational communication problems and issues related to living and honoring multi cultures within family and/or self, violence in family and community, refugee issues, trauma, communication skills, caregiver issues, anxiety, depression, and self. I work with children, adults, and the elderly who have depression and/or anxiety. Some clients have long-term depression/anxiety others are acute. I evaluate for previous trauma and risk assessment.
(909) 324-2057 View (909) 324-2057
Photo of Rosa Linda Ogas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rosa Linda Ogas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hollister, CA 95023
I have supported clients with issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, relationship issues, and paranoia.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with children, youth, adults, and families. I am passionate about supporting my clients and helping them better understand the issues they are dealing with. I am bilingual in English and Spanish and am also experienced in working with issues related to acculturation. I provide a strength-based approach to therapy. With the understanding that everyone has strengths, they bring to the table. If you struggle to identify your own strengths, we will work together to help you identify and recognize your strengths.
I have supported clients with issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, relationship issues, and paranoia.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with children, youth, adults, and families. I am passionate about supporting my clients and helping them better understand the issues they are dealing with. I am bilingual in English and Spanish and am also experienced in working with issues related to acculturation. I provide a strength-based approach to therapy. With the understanding that everyone has strengths, they bring to the table. If you struggle to identify your own strengths, we will work together to help you identify and recognize your strengths.
(831) 249-9657 View (831) 249-9657
Photo of Jozalynne Ray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jozalynne Ray
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95351
Hi and great job taking the first step! My name is Jozalynne Ray, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families struggling with anxiety/stress, major life changes, trauma, depression, anger, relationship problems, and family conflict utilizing the best therapeutic approach for your situation and preferences. I believe therapy should be a safe space where the therapist's role is to serve as a compassionate facilitator who listens without judgement and acknowledges the experiences of those they serve.
Hi and great job taking the first step! My name is Jozalynne Ray, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. I specialize in supporting individuals, couples, and families struggling with anxiety/stress, major life changes, trauma, depression, anger, relationship problems, and family conflict utilizing the best therapeutic approach for your situation and preferences. I believe therapy should be a safe space where the therapist's role is to serve as a compassionate facilitator who listens without judgement and acknowledges the experiences of those they serve.
(209) 340-4517 View (209) 340-4517
Photo of Sierra Family Therapy Centers in Oakland, CA
Sierra Family Therapy Centers
LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
We are passionate and dedicated therapists from various backgrounds and theoretical orientations. We work with individuals, families, children and couples. Treating trauma, depression, anxiety and more. Many of us are trained in EMDR and brain spotting. We believe in removing barriers to treatment and therefore, take MediCal and sliding scale fee. Most of us are trained in brainspotting. This is a safe space for all.
We are passionate and dedicated therapists from various backgrounds and theoretical orientations. We work with individuals, families, children and couples. Treating trauma, depression, anxiety and more. Many of us are trained in EMDR and brain spotting. We believe in removing barriers to treatment and therefore, take MediCal and sliding scale fee. Most of us are trained in brainspotting. This is a safe space for all.
(916) 312-1060 View (916) 312-1060
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.