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 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 Jennie Nystrom, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jennie Nystrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
(415) 915-3417 View (415) 915-3417
Photo of Julie Waters, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Julie Waters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I became a therapist after many years of diving into my own healing process and studying various healing modalities. I am a holistic therapist, meaning I attend to all aspects of wellbeing: emotional, mental, and physical as well as spiritual, cultural, and in the context of community and social systems. I treat ailments including trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and relationship issues for individuals, couples, and families. Clients who benefit from my approach are those seeking a partner in growth and self-exploration, and who are ready to put new ways of thinking and being into practice in daily life.
I became a therapist after many years of diving into my own healing process and studying various healing modalities. I am a holistic therapist, meaning I attend to all aspects of wellbeing: emotional, mental, and physical as well as spiritual, cultural, and in the context of community and social systems. I treat ailments including trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and relationship issues for individuals, couples, and families. Clients who benefit from my approach are those seeking a partner in growth and self-exploration, and who are ready to put new ways of thinking and being into practice in daily life.
(510) 560-3864 View (510) 560-3864
Photo of Olivia Clear, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oakland, CA
Olivia Clear
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MS, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I address issues of anxiety, depression, grief, relational conflict, personal growth, feeling “stuck,” & trauma via a creative arts, client-centered & harm reduction lens.
Are you searching for a therapist to help you integrate your insights into change in your day-to-day life? Do you need a space filled with wonder, openness, & curiosity where you can safely explore your inner world? Perhaps you want to talk about the psychedelic state you experienced during Ketamine Therapy or other 'non-ordinary' states like meditation but feel afraid your therapist won’t get it or know how to make meaning with you? Do you wonder if it’s possible to find someone who will honor the impact of your experiences, your story, and your path in a safe, co-creative relationship?
I address issues of anxiety, depression, grief, relational conflict, personal growth, feeling “stuck,” & trauma via a creative arts, client-centered & harm reduction lens.
Are you searching for a therapist to help you integrate your insights into change in your day-to-day life? Do you need a space filled with wonder, openness, & curiosity where you can safely explore your inner world? Perhaps you want to talk about the psychedelic state you experienced during Ketamine Therapy or other 'non-ordinary' states like meditation but feel afraid your therapist won’t get it or know how to make meaning with you? Do you wonder if it’s possible to find someone who will honor the impact of your experiences, your story, and your path in a safe, co-creative relationship?
(510) 680-2623 View (510) 680-2623
Photo of Annie Leah Lesny, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Annie Leah Lesny
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 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 Miranda Hoffman Jung, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Miranda Hoffman Jung
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? I can help you understand and move through experiences of depression, anxiety, relationship difficulty, and parenting difficulty.
I believe my job is to create a sense of safety in which we can think about the things you might have trouble thinking about. There may be parts of your history that are difficult and frightening to contemplate on your own. Together, we can help you begin to understand yourself, trust yourself, soften toward yourself, validate what is true for you, and eventually accept all the parts of you. I’ll want to understand your current difficulties in the context of your personal and family history, and will listen with curiosity and warmth to understand the way in which your history may be affecting your current situation.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? I can help you understand and move through experiences of depression, anxiety, relationship difficulty, and parenting difficulty.
I believe my job is to create a sense of safety in which we can think about the things you might have trouble thinking about. There may be parts of your history that are difficult and frightening to contemplate on your own. Together, we can help you begin to understand yourself, trust yourself, soften toward yourself, validate what is true for you, and eventually accept all the parts of you. I’ll want to understand your current difficulties in the context of your personal and family history, and will listen with curiosity and warmth to understand the way in which your history may be affecting your current situation.
(510) 491-0981 View (510) 491-0981
Photo of Justine Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(415) 936-0776 View (415) 936-0776
Photo of Ann Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(415) 341-9910 View (415) 341-9910
Photo of Rachel D Steinberg, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Rachel D Steinberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 16 years of experience providing services to adolescents and adults. My approach is interactive, attentive, flexible, and warm. I work with clients with a wide variety of issues, some of the most common being depression, anxiety/stress, burnout, relationship issues, grief, low self-esteem, family of origin difficulties and life transitions. I am neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming and strive to create a safe space for you to be heard. My aim is to help you live a more fulfilling, peaceful, and satisfying life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 16 years of experience providing services to adolescents and adults. My approach is interactive, attentive, flexible, and warm. I work with clients with a wide variety of issues, some of the most common being depression, anxiety/stress, burnout, relationship issues, grief, low self-esteem, family of origin difficulties and life transitions. I am neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming and strive to create a safe space for you to be heard. My aim is to help you live a more fulfilling, peaceful, and satisfying life.
(510) 650-0502 View (510) 650-0502
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
Deeper Than Color
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Asking for help is hard but rewarding; whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, or relationship issues, we can help.
Deeper Than Color is a team of therapists who offer psychotherapy addresseing oppression, discrimination, and marginalization. We work to empower Black, Asian, Pacific Islander, Latino (Latine/x), Indigionous and Native American, and other People of Color as well as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, performer, educator, and professional clients. We focus on your goals and create safe spaces where you can share without judgment. We work with you to heal trauma, embrace identity, and improve relationships. We also help you cope with stress, overcome barriers, and achieve your aspirations. We are here to support you.
Asking for help is hard but rewarding; whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, or relationship issues, we can help.
Deeper Than Color is a team of therapists who offer psychotherapy addresseing oppression, discrimination, and marginalization. We work to empower Black, Asian, Pacific Islander, Latino (Latine/x), Indigionous and Native American, and other People of Color as well as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, performer, educator, and professional clients. We focus on your goals and create safe spaces where you can share without judgment. We work with you to heal trauma, embrace identity, and improve relationships. We also help you cope with stress, overcome barriers, and achieve your aspirations. We are here to support you.
(415) 301-4390 View (415) 301-4390
Photo of Nancy Levine-Jordano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Nancy Levine-Jordano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I believe most people seek therapy as a road to change: lessening sadness, loneliness, anxiety, guilt, shame; changing relationships; making life transitions. I have devoted many years of training and practice to better help my patients understand their unconscious obstacles to desired change. For some patients change means learning to confront pain from chronic conditions like anxiety, depression, bi-polar or attention deficit disorders, For others, change entails finding their authentic voice in relationships or facing difficult realities. I enjoy developing a close, working relationship with my patients to create new capacities within themselves, hopefully perceiving new choices in their lives.
I believe most people seek therapy as a road to change: lessening sadness, loneliness, anxiety, guilt, shame; changing relationships; making life transitions. I have devoted many years of training and practice to better help my patients understand their unconscious obstacles to desired change. For some patients change means learning to confront pain from chronic conditions like anxiety, depression, bi-polar or attention deficit disorders, For others, change entails finding their authentic voice in relationships or facing difficult realities. I enjoy developing a close, working relationship with my patients to create new capacities within themselves, hopefully perceiving new choices in their lives.
(510) 394-1891 View (510) 394-1891
Photo of Maayan Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Maayan Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I specialize in depression, anxiety, family issues, identity development , emotion regulation, and eating disorders.
If you are ready to learn more about yourself and develop a positive path toward growth seeking assistance can help you refocus on what's most meaningful to you. People come to therapy for many reasons, including needing help in handling stressful life transitions, to reduce psychological distress, increase one's self worth and to develop a better understanding of themselves. During therapy, we will explore unhealthy patterns by looking at the interplay between your thoughts, behaviors and emotions and how they affect your daily experiences. You will learn to develop fulfilling relationships, ways to cope in healthier ways, and ultimately live a fulfilling life.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, family issues, identity development , emotion regulation, and eating disorders.
If you are ready to learn more about yourself and develop a positive path toward growth seeking assistance can help you refocus on what's most meaningful to you. People come to therapy for many reasons, including needing help in handling stressful life transitions, to reduce psychological distress, increase one's self worth and to develop a better understanding of themselves. During therapy, we will explore unhealthy patterns by looking at the interplay between your thoughts, behaviors and emotions and how they affect your daily experiences. You will learn to develop fulfilling relationships, ways to cope in healthier ways, and ultimately live a fulfilling life.
(510) 402-1597 View (510) 402-1597
Photo of Nicole Logan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(415) 704-6947 View (415) 704-6947
Photo of Audrey Hu, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Audrey Hu
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
(415) 715-1673 View (415) 715-1673
Photo of Diane Cohen, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Diane Cohen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I am a highly trained clinical and consulting psychologist working in the field of psychotherapy for 30 years. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy and provide long term and brief counseling services. I am experienced with adults, adolescents, couples and families struggling with a variety of emotional issues. Specialties include relational psychology and a multi-dimensional approach to finding solutions to life's difficulties. Areas of expertise include; depression, anxiety, impostor syndrome, and adjustment to life-transitions. I have also done extensive work and research in addictions and eating disorders/body image.
I am a highly trained clinical and consulting psychologist working in the field of psychotherapy for 30 years. I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy and provide long term and brief counseling services. I am experienced with adults, adolescents, couples and families struggling with a variety of emotional issues. Specialties include relational psychology and a multi-dimensional approach to finding solutions to life's difficulties. Areas of expertise include; depression, anxiety, impostor syndrome, and adjustment to life-transitions. I have also done extensive work and research in addictions and eating disorders/body image.
(510) 573-7108 View (510) 573-7108
Photo of Tara Rech, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Tara Rech
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
The kinds of issues I typically work with include relationship problems, depression, anxiety, creative blocks, personality disorders, grief and loss, life transitions, career issues, trauma, abuse, and problems related to sexuality.
Therapy can help you overcome difficulties, live creatively, and feel more alive. Many people become stuck in ways of thinking and living that no longer serve them. Through a caring therapeutic relationship, you can develop the courage to live in a meaningful and fulfilling way. Over the past 25 years, I have helped people with a wide variety of issues work through significant challenges, freeing them to make better choices. In addition to my clinical work, I teach and supervise at various training programs throughout the Bay Area, and was the Director of Counseling at California College of the Arts for 15 years.
The kinds of issues I typically work with include relationship problems, depression, anxiety, creative blocks, personality disorders, grief and loss, life transitions, career issues, trauma, abuse, and problems related to sexuality.
Therapy can help you overcome difficulties, live creatively, and feel more alive. Many people become stuck in ways of thinking and living that no longer serve them. Through a caring therapeutic relationship, you can develop the courage to live in a meaningful and fulfilling way. Over the past 25 years, I have helped people with a wide variety of issues work through significant challenges, freeing them to make better choices. In addition to my clinical work, I teach and supervise at various training programs throughout the Bay Area, and was the Director of Counseling at California College of the Arts for 15 years.
(510) 470-7909 View (510) 470-7909
Photo of Rachel Boyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Rachel Boyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I have experience working with a diverse range of clients and have worked extensively with adults specializing in issues relating to long-term, low-grade anxiety and depression, isolation, relationship dynamics, self-esteem and grief.
Hello, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who supports my clients in discovering and achieving what they most want in life. As we begin to look more deeply at who we are, we can move toward a life that has increased balance and fulfillment. Many of us suffer in our relationships, careers and internal worlds due to a lack of awareness of the ways in which our past wounds impact current choices and ways of interacting with others. By taking a deeper look at these processes, problematic belief systems can begin to change.
I have experience working with a diverse range of clients and have worked extensively with adults specializing in issues relating to long-term, low-grade anxiety and depression, isolation, relationship dynamics, self-esteem and grief.
Hello, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who supports my clients in discovering and achieving what they most want in life. As we begin to look more deeply at who we are, we can move toward a life that has increased balance and fulfillment. Many of us suffer in our relationships, careers and internal worlds due to a lack of awareness of the ways in which our past wounds impact current choices and ways of interacting with others. By taking a deeper look at these processes, problematic belief systems can begin to change.
(510) 319-0136 View (510) 319-0136
Photo of (Will) Se Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
(Will) Se Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I have successfully worked with issues of boundaries, stuckness, self worth, depression/anxiety, & childhood experiences of grief, loss, and trauma.
I offer holistic and depthful therapy that is both affirming and collaborative. My clients appreciate my gentleness, compassion & humor. My approach is de-stigmatizing and non-shaming, addressing & coming into contact with held stories and social narratives that may not match your current self or the self that wants to be. I hold an adaptive client centered framework utilizing trauma informed, social justice, somatic, parts work, & attachment based approaches. Sites of harm are often the sites of healing, in forming therapeutic relationship we can explore & come to know these sites and the unique offering &
I have successfully worked with issues of boundaries, stuckness, self worth, depression/anxiety, & childhood experiences of grief, loss, and trauma.
I offer holistic and depthful therapy that is both affirming and collaborative. My clients appreciate my gentleness, compassion & humor. My approach is de-stigmatizing and non-shaming, addressing & coming into contact with held stories and social narratives that may not match your current self or the self that wants to be. I hold an adaptive client centered framework utilizing trauma informed, social justice, somatic, parts work, & attachment based approaches. Sites of harm are often the sites of healing, in forming therapeutic relationship we can explore & come to know these sites and the unique offering &
(510) 399-1782 View (510) 399-1782
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.