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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Miranda Dinkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Miranda Dinkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94578
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or life transitions, I will help you recognize underlying problems, fully realize your strengths and adjust certain behaviors and thoughts to see things a different, healthier way.
Hello! I'm Miranda Dinkins, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I thrive to offer professional therapy services that provide a comforting, warm, and inviting space for individuals to feel safe. Where individuals will have the opportunity to practice experiencing true emotions, processing past traumas, and mending scars in a healthy and appropriate way to eventually develop self-love, acceptance of self and identity, and confidence in taking on the next steps in life.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or life transitions, I will help you recognize underlying problems, fully realize your strengths and adjust certain behaviors and thoughts to see things a different, healthier way.
Hello! I'm Miranda Dinkins, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I thrive to offer professional therapy services that provide a comforting, warm, and inviting space for individuals to feel safe. Where individuals will have the opportunity to practice experiencing true emotions, processing past traumas, and mending scars in a healthy and appropriate way to eventually develop self-love, acceptance of self and identity, and confidence in taking on the next steps in life.
(408) 539-3092 View (408) 539-3092
Photo of Dellaynnah Cleveland, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Dellaynnah Cleveland
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94124  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who deal with a range of concerns and diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences (PTSD, sexual abuse, loss of loved one), relationship dissatisfaction, and chronic illness.
Are you a young lady or adult woman who is having difficulty navigating life? Are you interested in straightening your path and gaining clarity? If so, please consider reaching out. It is important to understand that throughout life, you will face many different challenges that can leave you feeling off balance or uncomfortable with the emotions you are experiencing. My goal as a therapist is to provide evidence-based interventions, self-awareness, and skills specific to your situation to help guide you to a new place in life. I believe in utilizing an individualized and integrated approach to help you reach your full potential.
I work with individuals who deal with a range of concerns and diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences (PTSD, sexual abuse, loss of loved one), relationship dissatisfaction, and chronic illness.
Are you a young lady or adult woman who is having difficulty navigating life? Are you interested in straightening your path and gaining clarity? If so, please consider reaching out. It is important to understand that throughout life, you will face many different challenges that can leave you feeling off balance or uncomfortable with the emotions you are experiencing. My goal as a therapist is to provide evidence-based interventions, self-awareness, and skills specific to your situation to help guide you to a new place in life. I believe in utilizing an individualized and integrated approach to help you reach your full potential.
(661) 441-3500 View (661) 441-3500
Photo of Clark Hsu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Clark Hsu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I work with all age levels but is specifically skilled with issues of depression, anxiety, life transitions, inculturation, and trauma.
I provide a warm and understanding atmosphere without judgment and pressure. Our work together is going to be about you and for you. I am not here to tell you what to do but allow you to become the owner of your life and regain the power of choice. You will be invited to explore through using traditional means of therapy(talk therapy) or more creative ways such as drama and expressive arts therapy. The choice will be yours and completely based on your level of comfort. I will be here to set up the creative stage for you to shine, cry, laugh, change and grow.
I work with all age levels but is specifically skilled with issues of depression, anxiety, life transitions, inculturation, and trauma.
I provide a warm and understanding atmosphere without judgment and pressure. Our work together is going to be about you and for you. I am not here to tell you what to do but allow you to become the owner of your life and regain the power of choice. You will be invited to explore through using traditional means of therapy(talk therapy) or more creative ways such as drama and expressive arts therapy. The choice will be yours and completely based on your level of comfort. I will be here to set up the creative stage for you to shine, cry, laugh, change and grow.
(408) 512-1315 View (408) 512-1315
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Counselor in Oakland, CA
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(562) 685-9636 View (562) 685-9636

Online Therapists

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 Cynthia M Pereira, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Cynthia M Pereira
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk Grove, CA 95624  (Online Only)
Are you finding it difficult to balance life as a mother? Feeling trapped or fear that you're failing as a mom? You are not alone. I am here to walk alongside you and help you cope with the load of motherhood. Whether it's working through self-acceptance, postpartum issues, emotion regulation, or basic day-to-day stressors. Or maybe you are experiencing anxiety and depression during pregnancy or postpartum, I am here to support you. And as a mom, I can relate on a personal level.
Are you finding it difficult to balance life as a mother? Feeling trapped or fear that you're failing as a mom? You are not alone. I am here to walk alongside you and help you cope with the load of motherhood. Whether it's working through self-acceptance, postpartum issues, emotion regulation, or basic day-to-day stressors. Or maybe you are experiencing anxiety and depression during pregnancy or postpartum, I am here to support you. And as a mom, I can relate on a personal level.
(916) 378-1574 View (916) 378-1574
Photo of Shawna Cobabe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Shawna Cobabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762  (Online Only)
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. **Some evening, as well as Facetime (great for teens), Zoom or phone appts available.
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. **Some evening, as well as Facetime (great for teens), Zoom or phone appts available.
(925) 329-6259 View (925) 329-6259
Photo of Jasmine Mims, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jasmine Mims
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Castro Valley, CA 94552
Hi, my name is Jasmine Mims and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist that enjoys providing a safe space for people to feel heard. I assist individuals and families with building on their current skills to help with challenging situations. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and transitional-age youth (ages 16-25) and I enjoy working with a variety of mental health challenges such as anxiety, disruptive behaviors, life transitions, mild depression, stress, anger, and other life challenges.
Hi, my name is Jasmine Mims and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist that enjoys providing a safe space for people to feel heard. I assist individuals and families with building on their current skills to help with challenging situations. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and transitional-age youth (ages 16-25) and I enjoy working with a variety of mental health challenges such as anxiety, disruptive behaviors, life transitions, mild depression, stress, anger, and other life challenges.
(510) 661-3498 View (510) 661-3498
Photo of Gustavo S. Olvera (Bilingual), Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Gustavo S. Olvera (Bilingual)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95354  (Online Only)
My experience as a Mental Health Therapist has developed over the year by providing support to clients who have experienced: Severe Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disregulation Disorders, Phobias, and other diagnosis that often impair a persons's ability to function and achieve goals in life. I believe that we all have the potential to succeed in life and the potential to achieve greatness. A healthy mind is crucial to success, as we often face critical decisions on a daily basis. I firmly believe that by cultivating and maintaining a positive outlook on our mental health, we can all reach our desired goals.
My experience as a Mental Health Therapist has developed over the year by providing support to clients who have experienced: Severe Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disregulation Disorders, Phobias, and other diagnosis that often impair a persons's ability to function and achieve goals in life. I believe that we all have the potential to succeed in life and the potential to achieve greatness. A healthy mind is crucial to success, as we often face critical decisions on a daily basis. I firmly believe that by cultivating and maintaining a positive outlook on our mental health, we can all reach our desired goals.
(209) 780-0872 View (209) 780-0872
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 Lita Cienega-Saldana, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lita Cienega-Saldana
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95136
My emphasis revolves around addressing life changes, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, stress, and panic.
Hello, I'm Lita Cienega-Saldana, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I offer therapeutic services to individuals and families seeking additional support in connecting with their inner selves and leading more independent and fulfilling lives. With nearly 6 years of experience in the mental health field, I am enthusiastic about guiding and assisting individuals on their therapeutic journey. Outside of my professional life, I cherish spending time with my family, which includes my husband and two teenage girls.
My emphasis revolves around addressing life changes, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, stress, and panic.
Hello, I'm Lita Cienega-Saldana, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California. I offer therapeutic services to individuals and families seeking additional support in connecting with their inner selves and leading more independent and fulfilling lives. With nearly 6 years of experience in the mental health field, I am enthusiastic about guiding and assisting individuals on their therapeutic journey. Outside of my professional life, I cherish spending time with my family, which includes my husband and two teenage girls.
(949) 787-0906 View (949) 787-0906
Photo of Laurie A Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Laurie A Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, EMDR, C-Hypno, Somatic
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95065  (Online Only)
People experiencing sensitives, trauma, depression, anxiety need supportive facilitation. Compassion, honor of the unique individual, plus methods to navigate positively, heal wounds, make valuable shifts offered. People seek ways to change emotional, spiritual and mental habits internally, while navigating real life difficulties. Respect for uniqueness and privacy given. I have effectively helped people from a vast array of cultural backgrounds with positive life change. Go deeper than talk therapy with tools. IFS, EMDR, hypnotherapy, somatic, expressive arts, cognitive/emotional, spiritual, and additional modalities offered.
People experiencing sensitives, trauma, depression, anxiety need supportive facilitation. Compassion, honor of the unique individual, plus methods to navigate positively, heal wounds, make valuable shifts offered. People seek ways to change emotional, spiritual and mental habits internally, while navigating real life difficulties. Respect for uniqueness and privacy given. I have effectively helped people from a vast array of cultural backgrounds with positive life change. Go deeper than talk therapy with tools. IFS, EMDR, hypnotherapy, somatic, expressive arts, cognitive/emotional, spiritual, and additional modalities offered.
(831) 425-9539 View (831) 425-9539
Photo of Margarita Daniels, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Margarita Daniels
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yuba City, CA 95991
My name is Margarita "Maggie" Daniels and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, and PTSD using an Eclectic mix of modalities in Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. My communication style is calm, accommodating, and personable. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking with me about anything, and I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment.
My name is Margarita "Maggie" Daniels and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, and PTSD using an Eclectic mix of modalities in Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. My communication style is calm, accommodating, and personable. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking with me about anything, and I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment.
(530) 489-5854 View (530) 489-5854
Photo of Pacific Counseling & Trauma Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Pacific Counseling & Trauma Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
Our Center helps anyone suffering from unresolved trauma or disturbing experiences. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, hyper-vigilance, restlessness, rage, exhaustion, fatigue, or dissociation. We exist to alleviate the profound suffering of those who have been traumatized in childhood or adulthood. Trauma is often not healed from talk therapy alone. We use cutting edge trauma modalities that access your primitive brain where trauma is stored. Through this, you will release the trauma and all of the physical issues that go along with it, and graduate with a freedom you have never known.
Our Center helps anyone suffering from unresolved trauma or disturbing experiences. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, hyper-vigilance, restlessness, rage, exhaustion, fatigue, or dissociation. We exist to alleviate the profound suffering of those who have been traumatized in childhood or adulthood. Trauma is often not healed from talk therapy alone. We use cutting edge trauma modalities that access your primitive brain where trauma is stored. Through this, you will release the trauma and all of the physical issues that go along with it, and graduate with a freedom you have never known.
(916) 659-7283 View (916) 659-7283
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 Melinda Sue Johnson Carcich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Melinda Sue Johnson Carcich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95032
My specialty is treating clients who are suffering from depression, anxiety, grief and loss from divorce or death of a loved one, as well as victims of emotional abuse.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is an important piece of the process through which growth and healing can occur. Helping clients to feel safe enough to share their feelings is paramount, and to offer hope is vital. It is important for the fearful to know that courage is being afraid, but doing it anyway. This concept promotes self esteem, and helps people to move forward in their lives. I use a variety of theoretical orientations, but chose the ones that are best suited for my client needs. I give clients tools to work with that will help them change their negative thoughts to positive ones..
My specialty is treating clients who are suffering from depression, anxiety, grief and loss from divorce or death of a loved one, as well as victims of emotional abuse.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is an important piece of the process through which growth and healing can occur. Helping clients to feel safe enough to share their feelings is paramount, and to offer hope is vital. It is important for the fearful to know that courage is being afraid, but doing it anyway. This concept promotes self esteem, and helps people to move forward in their lives. I use a variety of theoretical orientations, but chose the ones that are best suited for my client needs. I give clients tools to work with that will help them change their negative thoughts to positive ones..
(408) 659-0537 View (408) 659-0537
Photo of Remarkable Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
We have seen common trends with the families we have worked with and we use this information to help parents find solutions quickly to help their children and teens cope with change, depression, anxiety, and various addictions.
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
We have seen common trends with the families we have worked with and we use this information to help parents find solutions quickly to help their children and teens cope with change, depression, anxiety, and various addictions.
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
(925) 436-1725 View (925) 436-1725
Photo of Frances Rivera (Deep Wellness Center), Pre-Licensed Professional in Oakland, CA
Frances Rivera (Deep Wellness Center)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95356
I have extensive experience working with at risk youth, opiate dependent adults, adolescence, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, grief, addiction communities, and families.
Life is full of twists and turns and can become overwhelming at times. Therapy is an effective way to deal with life’s roadblocks. Seeking help is often misunderstood but should be seen as a strength. Let me help guide you on the right path. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families, joining with them to process their thoughts and emotions, and create clear, achievable goals. I believe that there are reasons for all behaviors and once understood can be life changing.
I have extensive experience working with at risk youth, opiate dependent adults, adolescence, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, grief, addiction communities, and families.
Life is full of twists and turns and can become overwhelming at times. Therapy is an effective way to deal with life’s roadblocks. Seeking help is often misunderstood but should be seen as a strength. Let me help guide you on the right path. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families, joining with them to process their thoughts and emotions, and create clear, achievable goals. I believe that there are reasons for all behaviors and once understood can be life changing.
(209) 219-3211 View (209) 219-3211
Photo of Arrickia McDaniel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Arrickia McDaniel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
As a clinician I have over 20yrs. of experience serving adults, couples, families and adolescents in the Greater Sacramento Area. Practice provides culturally diverse psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals, families and couples. Serving clients experiencing depression, trauma, grief and loss; as well as life coaching.
As a clinician I have over 20yrs. of experience serving adults, couples, families and adolescents in the Greater Sacramento Area. Practice provides culturally diverse psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals, families and couples. Serving clients experiencing depression, trauma, grief and loss; as well as life coaching.
(916) 764-3568 View (916) 764-3568
Photo of Brenda Estrada (Deep Wellness Center), Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Brenda Estrada (Deep Wellness Center)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95356
Specialties Include: Depression, Women’s Issues, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder and Behavioral Issues.
Hello! My name is Brenda Estrada Ramirez, and I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a genuine interest in helping children, adults and families achieve a greater sense of wellness in their lives. Throughout our time we experience life changes that are unexpected or difficult to manage. During tough times one can find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and feeling alone. It is important for individuals who are experiencing life changes or mental health challenges to reach out for additional support.
Specialties Include: Depression, Women’s Issues, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder and Behavioral Issues.
Hello! My name is Brenda Estrada Ramirez, and I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a genuine interest in helping children, adults and families achieve a greater sense of wellness in their lives. Throughout our time we experience life changes that are unexpected or difficult to manage. During tough times one can find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and feeling alone. It is important for individuals who are experiencing life changes or mental health challenges to reach out for additional support.
(209) 457-5850 View (209) 457-5850

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.