Depression Therapists in 90254

Photo of Loree A Johnson - Dr. Loree A. Johnson, LMFT, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Loree A. Johnson, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I believe that our problems don't define us - how we handle them does. You may feel lost because life may not have unfolded as planned, which triggers anxiety, depression, or overwhelming grief. However, with a bit of time and self-reflection, it's entirely possible to build or rebuild a life that is different from what you envisioned. I believe we possess innate strengths derived from early life experiences that shaped us, and I see therapy as a collaborative space to build on those qualities so that you can live the life you dream of living.
I believe that our problems don't define us - how we handle them does. You may feel lost because life may not have unfolded as planned, which triggers anxiety, depression, or overwhelming grief. However, with a bit of time and self-reflection, it's entirely possible to build or rebuild a life that is different from what you envisioned. I believe we possess innate strengths derived from early life experiences that shaped us, and I see therapy as a collaborative space to build on those qualities so that you can live the life you dream of living.
(310) 807-2684 View (310) 807-2684
Photo of Veronica Calkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-0951 View (562) 268-0951
Photo of Geraldine Medrano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Geraldine Medrano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
Relationships can be difficult to navigate, whether it is with family, colleagues, or friends. I have experience helping adults navigate complex relationships, that can often leave you feeling anxious, depressed, or exhausted. I have helped adults who have experienced childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional abuse, and other Mental health conditions, learn coping strategies as adults.
Relationships can be difficult to navigate, whether it is with family, colleagues, or friends. I have experience helping adults navigate complex relationships, that can often leave you feeling anxious, depressed, or exhausted. I have helped adults who have experienced childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional abuse, and other Mental health conditions, learn coping strategies as adults.
(909) 310-8037 View (909) 310-8037
Photo of Kelsi Elizabeth Dahn, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kelsi Elizabeth Dahn
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
Tired of waking up staring out into the abyss staring back at you? Being a human is hard, no matter how you go about it, and trying to make meaning out of the chaos can be overwhelming. I support my clients to align their lives with their Authentic Self, while collaboratively honoring and transforming anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and other feelings or behaviors that seem out of balance with everyday life. I believe that coming from a place of authenticity opens the door to a wider range of possibilities for your life's path, and makes interpersonal relationships along the journey better and more fulfilling.
Tired of waking up staring out into the abyss staring back at you? Being a human is hard, no matter how you go about it, and trying to make meaning out of the chaos can be overwhelming. I support my clients to align their lives with their Authentic Self, while collaboratively honoring and transforming anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and other feelings or behaviors that seem out of balance with everyday life. I believe that coming from a place of authenticity opens the door to a wider range of possibilities for your life's path, and makes interpersonal relationships along the journey better and more fulfilling.
(424) 283-5570 View (424) 283-5570
Photo of Natalie Baker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in residential, partial hospitalization programs, and outpatient levels of care. I have worked with diverse populations within community-based and private settings, primarily treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, personal growth, and women’s issues. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and person-centered as we all have unique backgrounds and needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in residential, partial hospitalization programs, and outpatient levels of care. I have worked with diverse populations within community-based and private settings, primarily treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, personal growth, and women’s issues. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and person-centered as we all have unique backgrounds and needs.
(310) 861-9981 View (310) 861-9981
Photo of Sierra Rose Brown, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sierra Rose Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I work with clients presenting with a number of needs including depression, anxiety, personality or behavioral struggles, trauma, grief and other stressors.
I specialize in working with people who have a desire to improve their daily functioning and quality of life. I want to work with clients to determine what will work best for them and their unique circumstances. I offer therapy for children, adolescents, adults and elders alike.
I work with clients presenting with a number of needs including depression, anxiety, personality or behavioral struggles, trauma, grief and other stressors.
I specialize in working with people who have a desire to improve their daily functioning and quality of life. I want to work with clients to determine what will work best for them and their unique circumstances. I offer therapy for children, adolescents, adults and elders alike.
(424) 383-5128 View (424) 383-5128
Photo of Lauren Dollarhide, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Dollarhide
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
My experience within the field has allowed me to work with individuals who experience depressed mood, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum mood disorders, grief and loss, relational struggles, trauma, domestic violence, racial trauma, and life adjustments and transitions.
I believe that to become better versions of ourselves, we must first work towards healing and processing our past wounds. Sometimes our wounds and past traumas can hold us back from being better partners, parents, and individuals. I need to provide you with a safe and nurturing environment to heal and grow. My focus throughout the past years has been providing culturally responsive care as well as LGBTQ+ affirming care while working with clients toward their goals, building upon their strengths, and facilitating an environment for growth toward self-acceptance and self-empowerment.
My experience within the field has allowed me to work with individuals who experience depressed mood, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum mood disorders, grief and loss, relational struggles, trauma, domestic violence, racial trauma, and life adjustments and transitions.
I believe that to become better versions of ourselves, we must first work towards healing and processing our past wounds. Sometimes our wounds and past traumas can hold us back from being better partners, parents, and individuals. I need to provide you with a safe and nurturing environment to heal and grow. My focus throughout the past years has been providing culturally responsive care as well as LGBTQ+ affirming care while working with clients toward their goals, building upon their strengths, and facilitating an environment for growth toward self-acceptance and self-empowerment.
(310) 775-2731 View (310) 775-2731
Photo of Vanessa Isetta, PsyD, Psychologist
Vanessa Isetta
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I have a focused approach in assisting individuals coping with trauma, anxiety, depression and complexities of divorce from high-conflict spouses.
In our therapeutic journey together, we'll delve into the depths of your emotions, creating transformative shifts to shape a life that resonates with your authentic self and desires. This isn't just about discussing life stressors or navigating tough choices; it's an exploration of the intricate patterns that may be keeping you feeling stagnant. I create the essential space for you to navigate, evolve, and embrace the changes you seek. Together, we will address the factors constraining your progress, skillfully crafting a narrative of personal growth and authentic living.
I have a focused approach in assisting individuals coping with trauma, anxiety, depression and complexities of divorce from high-conflict spouses.
In our therapeutic journey together, we'll delve into the depths of your emotions, creating transformative shifts to shape a life that resonates with your authentic self and desires. This isn't just about discussing life stressors or navigating tough choices; it's an exploration of the intricate patterns that may be keeping you feeling stagnant. I create the essential space for you to navigate, evolve, and embrace the changes you seek. Together, we will address the factors constraining your progress, skillfully crafting a narrative of personal growth and authentic living.
(424) 217-3769 View (424) 217-3769
Photo of Dr. Helena R. Brown, MS, PsyD
Dr. Helena R. Brown
Registered Psychological Associate, MS, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Greetings! Let's tackle life's challenges together. I'm here to empower you in resolving internal conflicts and finding fulfillment. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and addiction recovery, I focus on enhancing relationships, fostering authenticity, and finding deeper meaning. Let's uncover your strengths and develop practical strategies for healing and growth.
Greetings! Let's tackle life's challenges together. I'm here to empower you in resolving internal conflicts and finding fulfillment. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and addiction recovery, I focus on enhancing relationships, fostering authenticity, and finding deeper meaning. Let's uncover your strengths and develop practical strategies for healing and growth.
(310) 620-6423 View (310) 620-6423
Photo of Julie Ursic, JD, MSW
Julie Ursic
Associate Clinical Social Worker, JD, MSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I offer evidence-based short term individual therapy that is tailored to client needs including anxiety, depression, pregnancy/postpartum support, low mood, relationships, return to work as well as CBT-i for people struggling with sleep difficulty or insomnia.
I work with adults, teens, pregnant and postpartum people to manage anxiety, depression and mood, and to explore ways to adjust to life and family changes, parenthood and transitions. I often talk with clients about feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, very worried, exhausted or sad, and we look for strategies to find some support, excitement and joy in their day to day lives. I also love to help all people manage sleep behaviors using cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia.
I offer evidence-based short term individual therapy that is tailored to client needs including anxiety, depression, pregnancy/postpartum support, low mood, relationships, return to work as well as CBT-i for people struggling with sleep difficulty or insomnia.
I work with adults, teens, pregnant and postpartum people to manage anxiety, depression and mood, and to explore ways to adjust to life and family changes, parenthood and transitions. I often talk with clients about feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, very worried, exhausted or sad, and we look for strategies to find some support, excitement and joy in their day to day lives. I also love to help all people manage sleep behaviors using cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia.
(310) 775-2886 View (310) 775-2886
Photo of Elise Hernandez, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Elise Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I work with adults and adolescents and specialize in anxiety, social/relational problems, depression and trauma-informed care.
It can be difficult to navigate change, relationships, and life in general, especially in today's world. We may feel alone, hopeless, or overwhelmed. We may just feel unlike ourselves and not know how we got there. Together we can explore what is coming up for you in order to understand the root issues. With awareness can come acceptance or meaningful change.
I work with adults and adolescents and specialize in anxiety, social/relational problems, depression and trauma-informed care.
It can be difficult to navigate change, relationships, and life in general, especially in today's world. We may feel alone, hopeless, or overwhelmed. We may just feel unlike ourselves and not know how we got there. Together we can explore what is coming up for you in order to understand the root issues. With awareness can come acceptance or meaningful change.
(310) 956-4331 View (310) 956-4331
Photo of Rhonda Smillie, MEd, LPCC
Rhonda Smillie
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I have years of experience working with clients on issues ranging from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and sexual issues.
Rethink, Reframe, Realign, Recover. Do you feel as if your life is a sandcastle with the water always threatening to wash it out to sea? I work with clients to explore how unresolved issues from the past impact the present. In an open and safe environment, we explore authentic feelings and lost aspects of self often censored in general society, toward greater personal insight, growth, and change. An accepting and validating therapy relationship can be a key element in the healing of old wounds.
I have years of experience working with clients on issues ranging from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and sexual issues.
Rethink, Reframe, Realign, Recover. Do you feel as if your life is a sandcastle with the water always threatening to wash it out to sea? I work with clients to explore how unresolved issues from the past impact the present. In an open and safe environment, we explore authentic feelings and lost aspects of self often censored in general society, toward greater personal insight, growth, and change. An accepting and validating therapy relationship can be a key element in the healing of old wounds.
(310) 683-2263 View (310) 683-2263
Photo of Jhoana Sarabia Maldonado, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jhoana Sarabia Maldonado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people address depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship, and communication issues, professional and academic burnout, life transitions, and Queer/LGBTQ+ issues. I strive to create a judgment-free environment for all patients where they feel validated. My experience includes working with adults who identify as BIPOC/Latine as well as with adults who recently immigrated to the U.S. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Problem-solving Solving Therapy (PST). I also have training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I specialize in helping people address depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship, and communication issues, professional and academic burnout, life transitions, and Queer/LGBTQ+ issues. I strive to create a judgment-free environment for all patients where they feel validated. My experience includes working with adults who identify as BIPOC/Latine as well as with adults who recently immigrated to the U.S. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Problem-solving Solving Therapy (PST). I also have training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(949) 991-5350 View (949) 991-5350
Photo of Rachel Harris, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I work with individuals, couples, and families on issues including grief and loss, anxiety and depression, loneliness, self-esteem, relationships, and intimacy.
I am passionate about helping people lead the life they want and deserve. We all need to be seen, heard, and be accepted. But, when these needs are not met we may experience loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which stops us from leading a meaningful life. My diverse life experiences as a top security screener, a specialized groups coordinator, a world traveler, and a philosopher, combined with my professional trainings, enable me with a unique perspective and knowledge on how to nurture, support, and promote a life worth living. I specialize working with adults, teens, and couples, and families.
I work with individuals, couples, and families on issues including grief and loss, anxiety and depression, loneliness, self-esteem, relationships, and intimacy.
I am passionate about helping people lead the life they want and deserve. We all need to be seen, heard, and be accepted. But, when these needs are not met we may experience loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which stops us from leading a meaningful life. My diverse life experiences as a top security screener, a specialized groups coordinator, a world traveler, and a philosopher, combined with my professional trainings, enable me with a unique perspective and knowledge on how to nurture, support, and promote a life worth living. I specialize working with adults, teens, and couples, and families.
(424) 404-6628 View (424) 404-6628
Photo of Steve Gratwick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Gratwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
Everyone faces challenges with anxiety, grief, depression or reduced self-esteem at times. I am here to provide caring, empathetic and structured support for when you’re dealing with these issues. You may also want to build upon the progress you’ve made in the past, but finding yourself stuck or without focus. Learning the triggers, tools and strategies to better understand and help manage these hurdles when they come up can have a lasting and positive impact. I look forward to listening to what matters to you, and together developing and supporting your path towards renewed balance and wellness.
Everyone faces challenges with anxiety, grief, depression or reduced self-esteem at times. I am here to provide caring, empathetic and structured support for when you’re dealing with these issues. You may also want to build upon the progress you’ve made in the past, but finding yourself stuck or without focus. Learning the triggers, tools and strategies to better understand and help manage these hurdles when they come up can have a lasting and positive impact. I look forward to listening to what matters to you, and together developing and supporting your path towards renewed balance and wellness.
(424) 296-4529 View (424) 296-4529
Photo of Spencer B Nieves, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Spencer B Nieves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I treat teens, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, emotional regulation, grief, and more. Some clients, favor confiding in a male therapist. My integrative approach draws from a combination of practices including mindfulness-based interventions, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and somatic practice which focuses on the mind body connection to help my clients cope with their issues, increase self-esteem, and develop emotional regulation and resiliency. In younger children, I use play therapy to facilitate communication and gain a deeper understanding of their needs.
I treat teens, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, emotional regulation, grief, and more. Some clients, favor confiding in a male therapist. My integrative approach draws from a combination of practices including mindfulness-based interventions, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and somatic practice which focuses on the mind body connection to help my clients cope with their issues, increase self-esteem, and develop emotional regulation and resiliency. In younger children, I use play therapy to facilitate communication and gain a deeper understanding of their needs.
(310) 362-9481 View (310) 362-9481
Photo of Alyson Hinz, MS, LPCC
Alyson Hinz
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with teens, college students, adults, and athletes who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, chronic health issues, and life changes.
Welcome! I am Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who uses a creative and integrative approach to keep you engaged in therapy. I look forward to providing you a safe place to start setting achievable goals! My primary platform is virtual, which I believe can offer flexibility and access, whether you are a college student looking for a session in between classes, or just seeking support from the comfort of your home. Therapy can be great place to start exploring your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with no judgment or bias.
I specialize in working with teens, college students, adults, and athletes who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, chronic health issues, and life changes.
Welcome! I am Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who uses a creative and integrative approach to keep you engaged in therapy. I look forward to providing you a safe place to start setting achievable goals! My primary platform is virtual, which I believe can offer flexibility and access, whether you are a college student looking for a session in between classes, or just seeking support from the comfort of your home. Therapy can be great place to start exploring your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with no judgment or bias.
(424) 955-6014 View (424) 955-6014
Photo of Courtney Eller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Eller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
In my therapeutic practice, I embrace a person-centered philosophy. My primary goal is to cultivate a safe and non-judgemental supportive space where individuals feel empowered to share their experiences openly. A key facet of my specialization lies in assisting those who grapple with issues such as suicidality, self-harm, depression, anxiety, and LGBTQ-related concerns. By providing a compassionate and understanding environment, I aim to guide individuals toward resilience, self-discovery, and a more fulfilling life, especially during the intricacies of their struggles.
In my therapeutic practice, I embrace a person-centered philosophy. My primary goal is to cultivate a safe and non-judgemental supportive space where individuals feel empowered to share their experiences openly. A key facet of my specialization lies in assisting those who grapple with issues such as suicidality, self-harm, depression, anxiety, and LGBTQ-related concerns. By providing a compassionate and understanding environment, I aim to guide individuals toward resilience, self-discovery, and a more fulfilling life, especially during the intricacies of their struggles.
(562) 573-6187 View (562) 573-6187
Photo of Drew Pillsbury, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Drew Pillsbury
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
As an experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction therapist, I believe that you don't have to continue to feel overwhelmed, out of control, or stuck in self-defeating patterns.
My intention as a therapist is to provide support, problem-solving skills and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma (PTSD/complex), relationship difficulties, grief, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, struggles with self-esteem and creative blocks. Many people also find that therapy can be a tremendous asset to aid in personal growth and improve their relationships. I bring a strong sense of compassion to my work and strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space so that we can get clarification on what you would like to be different in your life and how to get you there.
As an experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction therapist, I believe that you don't have to continue to feel overwhelmed, out of control, or stuck in self-defeating patterns.
My intention as a therapist is to provide support, problem-solving skills and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma (PTSD/complex), relationship difficulties, grief, unresolved childhood issues, stress management, struggles with self-esteem and creative blocks. Many people also find that therapy can be a tremendous asset to aid in personal growth and improve their relationships. I bring a strong sense of compassion to my work and strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space so that we can get clarification on what you would like to be different in your life and how to get you there.
(424) 344-5642 View (424) 344-5642
Photo of Jacqueline Aguilar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Aguilar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
My name is Jacqueline Aguilar and I am an LCSW located in Southern CA. I currently work in mental health and in the medical field with adults of all ages. I love working with people who have a fear of traveling also referred as hodophobia. I am a great fit for individuals seeking support in managing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, such as breaks ups, burn out, self esteem and chronic health.
My name is Jacqueline Aguilar and I am an LCSW located in Southern CA. I currently work in mental health and in the medical field with adults of all ages. I love working with people who have a fear of traveling also referred as hodophobia. I am a great fit for individuals seeking support in managing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, such as breaks ups, burn out, self esteem and chronic health.
(310) 987-4716 View (310) 987-4716
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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.