Photo of Jordana Delory, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Jordana Delory
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, PRDT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606
When challenges and struggles in life arise, you do not have to walk alone. Whether you have experienced a recent life transition, loss, setback, have struggled with mental health or addiction challenges, or, are seeking support to heal from a recent or childhood trauma, I will be honored to guide you to gain control of your life and reclaim your personal power. I have committed nearly two decades holding a safe and empowered space for adults, children, and adolescents to discover their human potential, heal from trauma, and develop the tools to live a life of vitality and empowerment.
When challenges and struggles in life arise, you do not have to walk alone. Whether you have experienced a recent life transition, loss, setback, have struggled with mental health or addiction challenges, or, are seeking support to heal from a recent or childhood trauma, I will be honored to guide you to gain control of your life and reclaim your personal power. I have committed nearly two decades holding a safe and empowered space for adults, children, and adolescents to discover their human potential, heal from trauma, and develop the tools to live a life of vitality and empowerment.
(510) 372-2274 View (510) 372-2274
Gaylesta, Psych Assn for Gender & Sexual Diversity
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
Photo of Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Haley Hewitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Haley Hewitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
(925) 275-5742 View (925) 275-5742
Photo of Ryann DeSouza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Ryann DeSouza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
Are you struggling with any of the following: trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, Autism, hoarding, organizational issues, and parenting issues? I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life when taking the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you on this new journey. I am looking for highly motivated individuals that are ready for the challenge, whom are dedicated and motivated to make a positive change in their life. I believe everyone deserves quality care.
Are you struggling with any of the following: trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, Autism, hoarding, organizational issues, and parenting issues? I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life when taking the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you on this new journey. I am looking for highly motivated individuals that are ready for the challenge, whom are dedicated and motivated to make a positive change in their life. I believe everyone deserves quality care.
(650) 235-4676 View (650) 235-4676
Photo of The Connective (formerly Wellspace SF), Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
The Connective (formerly Wellspace SF)
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Our many specializations include: Gen Z and Millennials, relationship issues, self-esteem, life transitions, anxiety, depression, perfectionism + imposter syndrome, gender, racial and sexual identity, life balance, dating + relationships, career transition, body image, trauma/EMDR, pregnancy and postpartum support, grief, and OCD.
Tired of calling around? We have immediate openings! The Connective is an integrative practice of psychotherapists, certified coaches, and holistic health practitioners dedicated to a common goal: guiding, inspiring, and empowering individuals to live more authentic, fulfulling and healthy lives. From navigating personal and professional roadblocks, to achieving optimal health and wellness, our mission is to provide compassionate and strengths-based support centered on the whole person.
Our many specializations include: Gen Z and Millennials, relationship issues, self-esteem, life transitions, anxiety, depression, perfectionism + imposter syndrome, gender, racial and sexual identity, life balance, dating + relationships, career transition, body image, trauma/EMDR, pregnancy and postpartum support, grief, and OCD.
Tired of calling around? We have immediate openings! The Connective is an integrative practice of psychotherapists, certified coaches, and holistic health practitioners dedicated to a common goal: guiding, inspiring, and empowering individuals to live more authentic, fulfulling and healthy lives. From navigating personal and professional roadblocks, to achieving optimal health and wellness, our mission is to provide compassionate and strengths-based support centered on the whole person.
(415) 335-7793 View (415) 335-7793
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey Lawton, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Dr. Jeffrey Lawton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PsyD, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I have a therapeutic style that is honest, empathetic, compassionate, and straightforward. Using clinically proven treatment methods via Teletherapy, I work holistically, leveraging a combination of treatments to address mental health concerns such as complex trauma, re-parenting, grief, addiction, PTSD, confidence, work/life balance, abuse, and sexual issues. I am also clinically interested in the study and offering of psychotherapy to those living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. My expertise as a Nutritional Psychologist allows me to look at your needs holistically. www.drjeffreylawton.com
I have a therapeutic style that is honest, empathetic, compassionate, and straightforward. Using clinically proven treatment methods via Teletherapy, I work holistically, leveraging a combination of treatments to address mental health concerns such as complex trauma, re-parenting, grief, addiction, PTSD, confidence, work/life balance, abuse, and sexual issues. I am also clinically interested in the study and offering of psychotherapy to those living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. My expertise as a Nutritional Psychologist allows me to look at your needs holistically. www.drjeffreylawton.com
(424) 377-0191 View (424) 377-0191

Online Therapists

Photo of Pamela James, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Pamela James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seaside, CA 93955
I work with the following mental health challenges: low self-esteem, anxiety, stress, chronic generational trauma/stress, depression, obsessive picking of skin, relationship problems, grief and loss, anger management, aging, addiction, sexual abuse, domestic violence.
Greetings, my name is Pamela "Nsoroma" James, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am client centered and approach therapy with the therapeutic modality I assess will fit your needs. I partner with my client to discover and come to a place of enlightenment and empowerment while jointly coming up with solutions, providing tools and developing skills. In addition, to working with the general population I am dedicated to working with individuals, couples, and families of diverse cultures that have faced generational trauma and stress.
I work with the following mental health challenges: low self-esteem, anxiety, stress, chronic generational trauma/stress, depression, obsessive picking of skin, relationship problems, grief and loss, anger management, aging, addiction, sexual abuse, domestic violence.
Greetings, my name is Pamela "Nsoroma" James, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am client centered and approach therapy with the therapeutic modality I assess will fit your needs. I partner with my client to discover and come to a place of enlightenment and empowerment while jointly coming up with solutions, providing tools and developing skills. In addition, to working with the general population I am dedicated to working with individuals, couples, and families of diverse cultures that have faced generational trauma and stress.
(831) 432-3545 View (831) 432-3545
Photo of Sierra Therapy Center in Oakland, CA
Sierra Therapy Center
LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
We offer many modalities to individuals, couples, families and children - EMDR, Brainspotting, couples therapy, group therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma grief work, and more.
Our story: Some of the best physicians are wounded healers, those who have walked through pain and suffering themselves only to emerge on the other side to help others. We believe strongly in the human capacity to heal. Our counseling specialists work with children/teens, adults, couples and families. With sensitivity and compassion, we help you bring resolution to the struggles you are facing. Modalities range from depth therapy, IMAGO couples therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, play therapy, addiction groups to solution focused. We are trained in a variety of different therapeutic interventions that will fit what you need.
We offer many modalities to individuals, couples, families and children - EMDR, Brainspotting, couples therapy, group therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma grief work, and more.
Our story: Some of the best physicians are wounded healers, those who have walked through pain and suffering themselves only to emerge on the other side to help others. We believe strongly in the human capacity to heal. Our counseling specialists work with children/teens, adults, couples and families. With sensitivity and compassion, we help you bring resolution to the struggles you are facing. Modalities range from depth therapy, IMAGO couples therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, play therapy, addiction groups to solution focused. We are trained in a variety of different therapeutic interventions that will fit what you need.
(530) 419-5189 View (530) 419-5189
Photo of Kathryn R Denham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Kathryn R Denham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95688
I have been in private practice for over 25 years. I specialize in working with couples and families, teens and children. I also run three womens groups per week and treat those suffering from addictions, mood disorders, depression, and codependency issues. I also have a strong spiritual focus in my practice and strive to help others create peaceful collaboration within their relationships. I have a bias towards saving marriages whenever possible.
I have been in private practice for over 25 years. I specialize in working with couples and families, teens and children. I also run three womens groups per week and treat those suffering from addictions, mood disorders, depression, and codependency issues. I also have a strong spiritual focus in my practice and strive to help others create peaceful collaboration within their relationships. I have a bias towards saving marriages whenever possible.
(707) 549-6634 View (707) 549-6634
Photo of Jennafer Provinse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jennafer Provinse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milpitas, CA 95035
Together, we will develop effective strategies to manage anxiety, lift the weight of depression, and address various conditions that may be impacting your daily life.
y passion lies in empowering people to overcome the obstacles that stand between them and their full potential. I understand that life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, but with the right support, you can regain control, find balance, and rediscover your inner strength. With years of experience and a compassionate approach, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and experiences.
Together, we will develop effective strategies to manage anxiety, lift the weight of depression, and address various conditions that may be impacting your daily life.
y passion lies in empowering people to overcome the obstacles that stand between them and their full potential. I understand that life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, but with the right support, you can regain control, find balance, and rediscover your inner strength. With years of experience and a compassionate approach, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and experiences.
(408) 413-3155 View (408) 413-3155
Photo of Elyse Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Elyse Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
I am a fun hippie lady with extensive experience in Sexual trauma, DV, Children, Adolescence, trauma, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, end of life, and so many other things. It is my life's purpose to help you find yours and help you live to your highest potential. I most often utilize therapy modalities such as Existentialism, DBT, CBT, TF-CBT, Emotion Coaching, Gottman, Psychodynamic, Eating Disorder Intuitive Therapy, Attachment theory, and Somatic therapies.
I am a fun hippie lady with extensive experience in Sexual trauma, DV, Children, Adolescence, trauma, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, end of life, and so many other things. It is my life's purpose to help you find yours and help you live to your highest potential. I most often utilize therapy modalities such as Existentialism, DBT, CBT, TF-CBT, Emotion Coaching, Gottman, Psychodynamic, Eating Disorder Intuitive Therapy, Attachment theory, and Somatic therapies.
(707) 388-3774 View (707) 388-3774
Photo of Cassie Campbell, Counselor in Oakland, CA
Cassie Campbell
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
My areas of expertise and comfort lie in treating conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Hi, my name is Cassie M. Campbell, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor/Marriage and Family Therapist. As a licensed clinical therapist, I bring a wealth of expertise and experience to therapy. My approach to therapy is rooted in a client-centered, evidence-based, and compassionate framework. I believe in the transformative power of therapy to help individuals overcome life's challenges and improve their mental and emotional well-being. I typically work with a diverse range of clients, including individuals, couples, and families.
My areas of expertise and comfort lie in treating conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Hi, my name is Cassie M. Campbell, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor/Marriage and Family Therapist. As a licensed clinical therapist, I bring a wealth of expertise and experience to therapy. My approach to therapy is rooted in a client-centered, evidence-based, and compassionate framework. I believe in the transformative power of therapy to help individuals overcome life's challenges and improve their mental and emotional well-being. I typically work with a diverse range of clients, including individuals, couples, and families.
(707) 702-0549 View (707) 702-0549
Photo of Jill Page, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jill Page
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yuba City, CA 95993  (Online Only)
If you've found yourself here, congratulations on taking the first step; It can be a hard one! Simply put, life isn't always easy or maybe it was never easy. Depression, anxiety, mood swings, trauma, childhood attachments, learning difficulties, grief, stress- these and more can get in the way of life satisfaction. The good news is you can learn ways to manage and overcome mental health symptoms and improve your wellbeing.
If you've found yourself here, congratulations on taking the first step; It can be a hard one! Simply put, life isn't always easy or maybe it was never easy. Depression, anxiety, mood swings, trauma, childhood attachments, learning difficulties, grief, stress- these and more can get in the way of life satisfaction. The good news is you can learn ways to manage and overcome mental health symptoms and improve your wellbeing.
(530) 212-7189 View (530) 212-7189
Brown Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
We work with a diverse population of adult individuals, couples, and special interest groups who may be struggling with any number of mental health challenges related to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship issues, and substance abuse, among others. We are committed to providing culturally competent care across the spectrum of age, race, gender, sexuality, religion, and background.
We work with a diverse population of adult individuals, couples, and special interest groups who may be struggling with any number of mental health challenges related to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship issues, and substance abuse, among others. We are committed to providing culturally competent care across the spectrum of age, race, gender, sexuality, religion, and background.
(415) 849-7242 View (415) 849-7242
Photo of Almira Mogul, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Almira Mogul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95403  (Online Only)
My Name is Almira Mogul and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker. I have extensive experience offering treatment in the following areas: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Grief/ loss, Childhood trauma, Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual trauma, and ADHD. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in law (2016) and my Masters in Social Work (2019) in London, United Kingdom. In 2021 I obtained my Associate Clinical Social Work registration through the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (Reg ACSW 106365).
My Name is Almira Mogul and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker. I have extensive experience offering treatment in the following areas: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Grief/ loss, Childhood trauma, Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual trauma, and ADHD. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in law (2016) and my Masters in Social Work (2019) in London, United Kingdom. In 2021 I obtained my Associate Clinical Social Work registration through the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (Reg ACSW 106365).
(707) 440-7540 View (707) 440-7540
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 Marla McMahon, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Marla McMahon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Are you struggling with anxiety, self doubt, depression, or stress? Are you dealing with past trauma that continues to affect your day to day? As an experienced holistic psychologist, I’ve helped hundreds of clients from teens to adults in dealing with anxiety, stress, trauma, loneliness, depression, grief and relationship issues. As a meditation/yoga teacher, I blend psychology with various mind-body therapies to assist clients in gaining holistic tools for managing the tough times. Treatment typically begins with traditional psychotherapy but can also include mind body therapies (meditation & breathwork & brainspotting.
Are you struggling with anxiety, self doubt, depression, or stress? Are you dealing with past trauma that continues to affect your day to day? As an experienced holistic psychologist, I’ve helped hundreds of clients from teens to adults in dealing with anxiety, stress, trauma, loneliness, depression, grief and relationship issues. As a meditation/yoga teacher, I blend psychology with various mind-body therapies to assist clients in gaining holistic tools for managing the tough times. Treatment typically begins with traditional psychotherapy but can also include mind body therapies (meditation & breathwork & brainspotting.
(916) 544-4245 View (916) 544-4245
Kristen Rouse Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94538
Practices empowerment and the healing arts of psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and groups. Experienced in supporting parenthood through fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, parenting education, coaching, and support. Treats multiple and co-occurring disorders. Experienced in supporting mood disorders and symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and compulsions. Trauma specialist. Grief and loss. Experienced treating first responders. Provides LGBTQIA safe and affirming space and is experienced and trained in transgender and non-heteronormative support. Works to strengthen families and partners with their goals and values.
Practices empowerment and the healing arts of psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and groups. Experienced in supporting parenthood through fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, parenting education, coaching, and support. Treats multiple and co-occurring disorders. Experienced in supporting mood disorders and symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and compulsions. Trauma specialist. Grief and loss. Experienced treating first responders. Provides LGBTQIA safe and affirming space and is experienced and trained in transgender and non-heteronormative support. Works to strengthen families and partners with their goals and values.
(510) 519-3493 View (510) 519-3493
Photo of Dr. Lyssabeth Mattoon, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Lyssabeth Mattoon
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atwater, CA 95301  (Online Only)
Whether a traumatic experience has turned your world upside down or anxiety, depression, bipolar or grief are making it difficult for you to function at your best, therapy can help. I can teach you to tap into your inner strength in times of crisis while helping you work through your challenges in order to heal. My focus is on getting you results and decreasing your symptoms as soon as possible. Treating you as a whole person by addressing the connections between your mental, physical and spiritual health is one way that I am able to achieve this.
Whether a traumatic experience has turned your world upside down or anxiety, depression, bipolar or grief are making it difficult for you to function at your best, therapy can help. I can teach you to tap into your inner strength in times of crisis while helping you work through your challenges in order to heal. My focus is on getting you results and decreasing your symptoms as soon as possible. Treating you as a whole person by addressing the connections between your mental, physical and spiritual health is one way that I am able to achieve this.
(209) 307-7116 View (209) 307-7116

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.