Photo of Bren Benoit, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CA
Bren Benoit
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
It is a radical act to pursue health, liberation, and self-acceptance in a world that too often seeks to dehumanize and control us. My intention is for therapy to be a refuge from that pressure and trauma, where you can explore who you want to be and how you want to live your life. Everyone has unique needs, strengths, and values, so my therapeutic approach is always as collaborative and egalitarian as possible. As a member of the transgender community, I am particularly experienced in issues relating to LGBTQ+ identity, relationships, and discrimination.
It is a radical act to pursue health, liberation, and self-acceptance in a world that too often seeks to dehumanize and control us. My intention is for therapy to be a refuge from that pressure and trauma, where you can explore who you want to be and how you want to live your life. Everyone has unique needs, strengths, and values, so my therapeutic approach is always as collaborative and egalitarian as possible. As a member of the transgender community, I am particularly experienced in issues relating to LGBTQ+ identity, relationships, and discrimination.
(341) 895-5783 View (341) 895-5783

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karen L. Kleckner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Karen L. Kleckner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549  (Online Only)
At the core of many personal issues lie old messages of your sense of worth. Those messages conveyed to you while growing-up that may have minimized your self-esteem. By slowly revisiting the wounded part of yourself, old repetitive behaviors can cease to exist. A new sense of kindness toward yourself will begin to emerge. Allow me to travel with you to discover what is buried deep inside of your soul, exploring what keeps you from becoming all that you want to be. I hold a container of acceptance in the therapy room, while searching for its meaning and resolution.
At the core of many personal issues lie old messages of your sense of worth. Those messages conveyed to you while growing-up that may have minimized your self-esteem. By slowly revisiting the wounded part of yourself, old repetitive behaviors can cease to exist. A new sense of kindness toward yourself will begin to emerge. Allow me to travel with you to discover what is buried deep inside of your soul, exploring what keeps you from becoming all that you want to be. I hold a container of acceptance in the therapy room, while searching for its meaning and resolution.
(925) 308-5844 View (925) 308-5844
Photo of Monika S Broecker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Monika S Broecker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94703  (Online Only)
I am the therapist for the working professional and their families. I am available to accept new clients. I provide Problem Solving Strategic Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy, Career and work related Coaching and Leadership Development. I work with high functioning adults and adolescents, individuals and families; with students on performance and anxiety issues; with couples to improve communication and emotional connection/intimacy. Trying to conceive, Pregnancy, Postpartum and Parenting. I work in California for therapy; globally for coaching.
I am the therapist for the working professional and their families. I am available to accept new clients. I provide Problem Solving Strategic Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy, Career and work related Coaching and Leadership Development. I work with high functioning adults and adolescents, individuals and families; with students on performance and anxiety issues; with couples to improve communication and emotional connection/intimacy. Trying to conceive, Pregnancy, Postpartum and Parenting. I work in California for therapy; globally for coaching.
(650) 241-1330 View (650) 241-1330

Online Therapists

Photo of All Rivers Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
All Rivers Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Waitlist for new clients
My practice specializes in mental health, family life, trauma and addiction recovery for teens and adults. I am experienced in treating co-occurring issues of addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions and trauma. I have worked with pervasive mental illness, substance abuse, eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders as well attachment wounds and early childhood trauma. I help families and individuals untangle relationship and behavioral patterns and find new ways of relating to self and others, regulate emotions, identify core values and make meaningful and positive life changes.
My practice specializes in mental health, family life, trauma and addiction recovery for teens and adults. I am experienced in treating co-occurring issues of addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions and trauma. I have worked with pervasive mental illness, substance abuse, eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders as well attachment wounds and early childhood trauma. I help families and individuals untangle relationship and behavioral patterns and find new ways of relating to self and others, regulate emotions, identify core values and make meaningful and positive life changes.
(707) 456-6045 View (707) 456-6045
Photo of MJ Klimenko, MFT, LPCC, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
MJ Klimenko, MFT, LPCC, CHT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Vallejo, CA 94591
I also work with people suffering from depression, anxiety, emptiness, loneliness, trauma, grief, individuation, the LGBT community, experienced working with veterans and their families, as well as sexual issues (talk therapy not sex therapist).
If you're "sick and tired of being sick and tired," feel empty, lonely, sad, wonder who you are, where you're going or other issues, I can help you as a teletherapist. Supportive psychotherapist, hypnotherapist and life coach, talking with you, not at you, respecting your inner wisdom and the choices you make. No problem is too big or too small. In private practice since 1990.There are no judgments just solutions. Learn who you are not who you're supposed to be. For twenty-six years I've been working with individuals, couples, relationship issues: finding one, changing one, saving one.
I also work with people suffering from depression, anxiety, emptiness, loneliness, trauma, grief, individuation, the LGBT community, experienced working with veterans and their families, as well as sexual issues (talk therapy not sex therapist).
If you're "sick and tired of being sick and tired," feel empty, lonely, sad, wonder who you are, where you're going or other issues, I can help you as a teletherapist. Supportive psychotherapist, hypnotherapist and life coach, talking with you, not at you, respecting your inner wisdom and the choices you make. No problem is too big or too small. In private practice since 1990.There are no judgments just solutions. Learn who you are not who you're supposed to be. For twenty-six years I've been working with individuals, couples, relationship issues: finding one, changing one, saving one.
(510) 497-2964 View (510) 497-2964
Photo of Sandi Rene Gundersen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sandi Rene Gundersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Vallejo, CA 94590
I have experienced a lot of pain myself so I know what it feels like to feel depressed, anxious, and wondering if life will ever change.
Are you looking for fulfillment? Want to end your pain? Are you sick and tired and feeling sick and tired? I am here to help. I have been providing psychotherapy since 2004. I have helped individuals, couples, and families feel restored, empowered, and able to make positive changes that last. When I offer help and guidance I like to quote the Bible in this metaphor of bringing beauty from ashes.
I have experienced a lot of pain myself so I know what it feels like to feel depressed, anxious, and wondering if life will ever change.
Are you looking for fulfillment? Want to end your pain? Are you sick and tired and feeling sick and tired? I am here to help. I have been providing psychotherapy since 2004. I have helped individuals, couples, and families feel restored, empowered, and able to make positive changes that last. When I offer help and guidance I like to quote the Bible in this metaphor of bringing beauty from ashes.
(707) 562-0496 View (707) 562-0496
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 Elizabeth A. Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Elizabeth A. Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I often treat younger adults in healthcare, tech/engineering, environmental sustainability, & LGBTQ+ folks who are navigating grief, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, & stress related to life transitions.
I love working with folks who are curious about the growth potential psychoanalytic psychotherapy can unveil. I believe in the curative elements of this approach and hope to generate positive change and wellness with you. Weaving a relational insight-oriented lens with art therapy, we can uncover areas of unconscious suffering, root causes, and establish goals for treatment. By increasing our self-understanding and meaning making capacities, we illuminate new perspectives and intentionality. Together, we can co-create effective pathways to integrate that knowledge towards personal growth and inner healing.
I often treat younger adults in healthcare, tech/engineering, environmental sustainability, & LGBTQ+ folks who are navigating grief, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, & stress related to life transitions.
I love working with folks who are curious about the growth potential psychoanalytic psychotherapy can unveil. I believe in the curative elements of this approach and hope to generate positive change and wellness with you. Weaving a relational insight-oriented lens with art therapy, we can uncover areas of unconscious suffering, root causes, and establish goals for treatment. By increasing our self-understanding and meaning making capacities, we illuminate new perspectives and intentionality. Together, we can co-create effective pathways to integrate that knowledge towards personal growth and inner healing.
(415) 722-1199 View (415) 722-1199
Photo of Foresight Mental Health California, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Foresight Mental Health California
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814
Our clinicians use different therapies and approaches to help our clients with depression, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, substance use disorders, eating disorders, and more.
Foresight Mental Health’s integrated team of professionals includes licensed therapists, nutritionists, and psychiatric providers dedicated to working with clients to provide individualized and personal care. We believe in providing care that is accessible and affordable, which is why we are in network with most major insurers and provide both telehealth and in-person services.
Our clinicians use different therapies and approaches to help our clients with depression, anxiety, relationships, life transitions, substance use disorders, eating disorders, and more.
Foresight Mental Health’s integrated team of professionals includes licensed therapists, nutritionists, and psychiatric providers dedicated to working with clients to provide individualized and personal care. We believe in providing care that is accessible and affordable, which is why we are in network with most major insurers and provide both telehealth and in-person services.
(916) 545-1120 View (916) 545-1120
Photo of Shannon J. Oliveira, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Shannon J. Oliveira
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94558
My goal as your therapist is to help you create a meaningful and enjoyable life. Whether you come to treatment to manage a pre-existing condition/diagnosis, or are looking to improve the relationships in your life; I am happy to assist you until you get to where you would like to be. In today's society; stress, anxiety, and depression can often take over our health, wellbeing, and relationships leaving one with an unsatisfactory life. In treatment we can explore the obstacles that are causing you pain or are holding you back from your full potential, and work together towards creating happiness and contentment.
My goal as your therapist is to help you create a meaningful and enjoyable life. Whether you come to treatment to manage a pre-existing condition/diagnosis, or are looking to improve the relationships in your life; I am happy to assist you until you get to where you would like to be. In today's society; stress, anxiety, and depression can often take over our health, wellbeing, and relationships leaving one with an unsatisfactory life. In treatment we can explore the obstacles that are causing you pain or are holding you back from your full potential, and work together towards creating happiness and contentment.
(707) 674-6193 View (707) 674-6193
Photo of Niccola Rosza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Niccola Rosza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95403  (Online Only)
I specialize in individual, couple, adolescent, and family therapies treating issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship distress, loss, self-esteem, addictions, PTSD, and trauma.
I utilize a holistic and integrative approach that offers a safe, supportive setting, using dream analysis, mindfulness, art therapy, journaling, meditation and other creative ways leading to an authentic and more rewarding life. From my studies under Rev. Kawakami, deputy head priest of Shunkoin Temple in Kyoto in Mindfulness and Zen Meditation, I have developed this therapeutic approach that treats, balances, and nourishes the mind, body, emotions, and soul. I use a variety of therapeutic perspectives and techniques including Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Jungian, and Mindfulness-based interventions.
I specialize in individual, couple, adolescent, and family therapies treating issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship distress, loss, self-esteem, addictions, PTSD, and trauma.
I utilize a holistic and integrative approach that offers a safe, supportive setting, using dream analysis, mindfulness, art therapy, journaling, meditation and other creative ways leading to an authentic and more rewarding life. From my studies under Rev. Kawakami, deputy head priest of Shunkoin Temple in Kyoto in Mindfulness and Zen Meditation, I have developed this therapeutic approach that treats, balances, and nourishes the mind, body, emotions, and soul. I use a variety of therapeutic perspectives and techniques including Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Jungian, and Mindfulness-based interventions.
(707) 504-0873 View (707) 504-0873
Photo of Chanel Wittmershaus, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Chanel Wittmershaus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
I have 12 years of experience providing trauma-informed therapy to children, teens, and adults. I work with culturally diverse populations who are struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders and ADHD. I support clients struggling with identity, physical health challenges, learning challenges, self-esteem, anger, social skills, relationship skills, stress, and grief. I provide a calm supportive space to help client’s process and heal from traumatic experiences. Clients are given the opportunity to learn skills to help cope with the challenges they face.
I have 12 years of experience providing trauma-informed therapy to children, teens, and adults. I work with culturally diverse populations who are struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders and ADHD. I support clients struggling with identity, physical health challenges, learning challenges, self-esteem, anger, social skills, relationship skills, stress, and grief. I provide a calm supportive space to help client’s process and heal from traumatic experiences. Clients are given the opportunity to learn skills to help cope with the challenges they face.
(707) 598-8521 View (707) 598-8521
Photo of Roberta Saunders, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Roberta Saunders
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 25 years of experience working with individuals. I understand the feelings associated with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, posttraumatic stress and other challenging life issues in a safe and supportive environment. I have experience with adoption, post-partum depression and menopause.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 25 years of experience working with individuals. I understand the feelings associated with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, posttraumatic stress and other challenging life issues in a safe and supportive environment. I have experience with adoption, post-partum depression and menopause.
(707) 985-7947 View (707) 985-7947
Photo of Araceli Vega, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Araceli Vega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Sacramento, CA 95691  (Online Only)
Thinking of seeking therapy with a professional that can assist in providing suggestions on how to improve your daily living, decision making, relationships, and career choices? Do you want help with learning coping skills that can aid you during stressful times, your anxiety, depression, and/or trauma? Or, just want someone to talk to that can remain neutral when sharing complex issues or mental health struggles?
Thinking of seeking therapy with a professional that can assist in providing suggestions on how to improve your daily living, decision making, relationships, and career choices? Do you want help with learning coping skills that can aid you during stressful times, your anxiety, depression, and/or trauma? Or, just want someone to talk to that can remain neutral when sharing complex issues or mental health struggles?
(916) 702-3458 View (916) 702-3458
Photo of Elise Von Tersch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Elise Von Tersch
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
My passion is to work with individuals to transform life’s difficulties into opportunities of personal growth and insight. My approach is collaborative in nature while providing a safe space to foster good therapeutic work. My scope of expertise are issues pertaining to trauma, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders. I am a trained EMDR therapist and apply psychotherapy approaches complementary to individual clients and their needs. These approaches include EMDR Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy and Solution Focussed Therapy.
My passion is to work with individuals to transform life’s difficulties into opportunities of personal growth and insight. My approach is collaborative in nature while providing a safe space to foster good therapeutic work. My scope of expertise are issues pertaining to trauma, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders. I am a trained EMDR therapist and apply psychotherapy approaches complementary to individual clients and their needs. These approaches include EMDR Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy and Solution Focussed Therapy.
(925) 268-7769 View (925) 268-7769
Lani G Westervelt LMFT Marriage & Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lockeford, CA 95237
Waitlist for new clients
The hope is to achieve more adequate, satisfying and productive INDV, marriage and family adjustments & self-regulation by reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety and mood disorders related to the individual mental health diagnosis Your individuals stories will be explored to help you unlock the unique of the past that may be creating the present symptoms.
Marriage and Family Therapists work with individuals, couples, families and children for the purpose of treating nervous and mental health disorders.
The hope is to achieve more adequate, satisfying and productive INDV, marriage and family adjustments & self-regulation by reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety and mood disorders related to the individual mental health diagnosis Your individuals stories will be explored to help you unlock the unique of the past that may be creating the present symptoms.
Marriage and Family Therapists work with individuals, couples, families and children for the purpose of treating nervous and mental health disorders.
(209) 787-3096 View (209) 787-3096
Photo of Autry Jamison, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Autry Jamison
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or stuck from losing someone or something you love, and not sure how to move forward? Do you struggle with anger, bitterness, or resentment, and can not figure out the root of the problem? Have you lost your joy, peace, and motivation for life, and find it difficult to love and trust others. Welcome! You have arrived at a great place to receive help. I am here to serve and be a guide to your mental, emotional, and spiritual journey. I am passionate about helping individual's process grief, transition through loss, regain hope, and discover their purpose in life.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or stuck from losing someone or something you love, and not sure how to move forward? Do you struggle with anger, bitterness, or resentment, and can not figure out the root of the problem? Have you lost your joy, peace, and motivation for life, and find it difficult to love and trust others. Welcome! You have arrived at a great place to receive help. I am here to serve and be a guide to your mental, emotional, and spiritual journey. I am passionate about helping individual's process grief, transition through loss, regain hope, and discover their purpose in life.
(408) 778-5120 x169 View (408) 778-5120 x169
Photo of Rochelle Trejo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Rochelle Trejo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, divorce, woman's issues (pms, menopause, etc.
My approach to therapy begins with the understanding of each person's unique story. With understanding your goals, I will collaborate with you to create the life you want while providing support, insight, encouragment, and the tools you need to get started. I strive to provide an atmosphere where you feel safe to come as your most authentic self in order to address life's challenges.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, divorce, woman's issues (pms, menopause, etc.
My approach to therapy begins with the understanding of each person's unique story. With understanding your goals, I will collaborate with you to create the life you want while providing support, insight, encouragment, and the tools you need to get started. I strive to provide an atmosphere where you feel safe to come as your most authentic self in order to address life's challenges.
(925) 968-4921 View (925) 968-4921
Photo of Brittney Putman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Brittney Putman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Campbell, CA 95008  (Online Only)
I feel that I "see" people who often feel "unseen." I help people who are exhausted, depressed and anxious from masking. Masking is attempting to reduce or hide needs and symptoms to blend in with others, usually to avoid being treated differently.
I feel that I "see" people who often feel "unseen." I help people who are exhausted, depressed and anxious from masking. Masking is attempting to reduce or hide needs and symptoms to blend in with others, usually to avoid being treated differently.
(702) 217-9857 View (702) 217-9857
Photo of Patricia Hickey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Patricia Hickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lodi, CA 95240
Waitlist for new clients
The effects of past trauma in our lives can have a significant effect on our decision making process, often causing us to become angry or depressed without understanding the origin of our emotions. Life is complicated and sometimes we need someone to just listen, help us sort things out, and guide us toward making our own decisions. My practice encompasses clients of all ages from children to seniors and uses a blend of beneficial therapy techniques that help to better understand how our pattern of thinking can affect our ability to lead healthy productive lives.
The effects of past trauma in our lives can have a significant effect on our decision making process, often causing us to become angry or depressed without understanding the origin of our emotions. Life is complicated and sometimes we need someone to just listen, help us sort things out, and guide us toward making our own decisions. My practice encompasses clients of all ages from children to seniors and uses a blend of beneficial therapy techniques that help to better understand how our pattern of thinking can affect our ability to lead healthy productive lives.
(916) 507-1541 View (916) 507-1541
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.