Photo of Ruba Alami, Psychologist in Merced County, CA
Ruba Alami
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atwater, CA 95301
My areas of practice include adults, families, and couples facing challenges related to anxiety, depression/mood, trauma, relational problems, executive functioning, among others.
While trauma, chronic stress, and hardship can have a huge toll on our mood and functioning, they also provide a unique opportunity for exponential growth and building long-term resilience. Whether it is working through obstacles that often hold us back or detangling old patterns that keep us “stuck”, I work with clients at their own pace to create a compassionate space for self-understanding, healing, and meaningful change. My goal is to empower my clients to discover and live out the best versions of themselves as they define it.
My areas of practice include adults, families, and couples facing challenges related to anxiety, depression/mood, trauma, relational problems, executive functioning, among others.
While trauma, chronic stress, and hardship can have a huge toll on our mood and functioning, they also provide a unique opportunity for exponential growth and building long-term resilience. Whether it is working through obstacles that often hold us back or detangling old patterns that keep us “stuck”, I work with clients at their own pace to create a compassionate space for self-understanding, healing, and meaningful change. My goal is to empower my clients to discover and live out the best versions of themselves as they define it.
(323) 870-6884 View (323) 870-6884
Photo of Dan W Prine, Psychologist in Merced County, CA
Dan W Prine
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Merced, CA 95340
Most folks seek professional help in a time of crisis. My initial goal is to help to manage your overwhelming feelings regarding the situation you find yourself in. In many cases, helping you to recognize you may already have the skills to cope and showing you how to access those skills may be enough. Other times, after the crisis has subsided, you may become aware of recurrent patterns resulting in upsetting feelings. I am available to work with those looking for short term interventions, as well as those who want to address problems they have struggled with most of there lives.
Most folks seek professional help in a time of crisis. My initial goal is to help to manage your overwhelming feelings regarding the situation you find yourself in. In many cases, helping you to recognize you may already have the skills to cope and showing you how to access those skills may be enough. Other times, after the crisis has subsided, you may become aware of recurrent patterns resulting in upsetting feelings. I am available to work with those looking for short term interventions, as well as those who want to address problems they have struggled with most of there lives.
(209) 227-1469 View (209) 227-1469

Online Therapists

Photo of Yelena Alper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merced County, CA
Yelena Alper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
I am offering tele-therapy through video and/or phone . I offer supportive / transformative psychotherapy for a variety of issues and concerns including relationship conflicts, grief and loss, stress management, depression, anxiety, trauma, family and marriage relationships, including sexual and intimacy issues in relationship. I assist clients in finding happier and healthier ways of being in their lives, help them to enhance communication skills; promoting positive and lasting change.
I am offering tele-therapy through video and/or phone . I offer supportive / transformative psychotherapy for a variety of issues and concerns including relationship conflicts, grief and loss, stress management, depression, anxiety, trauma, family and marriage relationships, including sexual and intimacy issues in relationship. I assist clients in finding happier and healthier ways of being in their lives, help them to enhance communication skills; promoting positive and lasting change.
(650) 683-4065 View (650) 683-4065
Photo of Valene Gresham, Psychologist in Merced County, CA
Valene Gresham
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95822
My name is Dr. Valene Gresham, and I am a psychologist. I have a doctorate degree in clinical and forensic psychology. I also have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy. I specialize in individual and couples therapy for clients ages 18 and up. I specialize in anxiety and depression management, self-esteem and confidence building, life coaching, relationship issues, major life transitions, couples therapy, student support, and trauma in all ages. Also, I have several years of experience working with specialized groups such as police officers and government officials.
My name is Dr. Valene Gresham, and I am a psychologist. I have a doctorate degree in clinical and forensic psychology. I also have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy. I specialize in individual and couples therapy for clients ages 18 and up. I specialize in anxiety and depression management, self-esteem and confidence building, life coaching, relationship issues, major life transitions, couples therapy, student support, and trauma in all ages. Also, I have several years of experience working with specialized groups such as police officers and government officials.
(949) 577-7453 View (949) 577-7453
Photo of Emma Neumann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merced County, CA
Emma Neumann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
People often come to therapy because they feel stuck in their lives, are experiencing anxiety or depression and are struggling with personal and professional relationships. My style is warm, supportive and engaged. I believe that the more access we have to our authentic selves, the more we can live a life that is deeply fulfilling. We will work collaboratively to develop a relationship in which there is room to take risks and experience aspects of yourself that may have been previously unknown to you. You will gain valuable tools to help you reach your goals personally, creatively, and professionally.
People often come to therapy because they feel stuck in their lives, are experiencing anxiety or depression and are struggling with personal and professional relationships. My style is warm, supportive and engaged. I believe that the more access we have to our authentic selves, the more we can live a life that is deeply fulfilling. We will work collaboratively to develop a relationship in which there is room to take risks and experience aspects of yourself that may have been previously unknown to you. You will gain valuable tools to help you reach your goals personally, creatively, and professionally.
(510) 900-5385 View (510) 900-5385
Photo of Jason Esswein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merced County, CA
Jason Esswein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95030
I have extensive experience working with such clinical disorders as bipolar/manic depression and depression, and offer spiritual, life, and dating coaching as well.
Do you feel guilty about things you've said and done? Do you lose sleep because of these feelings? Would you like to forgive yourself? What about repairing or rebuilding your relationships? We all think about our relationships during our lives. Yet this "unfinished business" can be an energy drain, robbing us of vitality and preventing us from having the life we truly want. Left unchecked, it can lead to depression and anxiety. One of life's most important processes is the act of forgiveness -- a process which rids us of self-loathing and bitterness so that we won't live in constant anguish.
I have extensive experience working with such clinical disorders as bipolar/manic depression and depression, and offer spiritual, life, and dating coaching as well.
Do you feel guilty about things you've said and done? Do you lose sleep because of these feelings? Would you like to forgive yourself? What about repairing or rebuilding your relationships? We all think about our relationships during our lives. Yet this "unfinished business" can be an energy drain, robbing us of vitality and preventing us from having the life we truly want. Left unchecked, it can lead to depression and anxiety. One of life's most important processes is the act of forgiveness -- a process which rids us of self-loathing and bitterness so that we won't live in constant anguish.
(408) 831-3650 View (408) 831-3650
Photo of Joshua Simmons, Psychologist in Merced County, CA
Joshua Simmons
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Difficult feelings can be a gateway for personal growth. I work with many individuals struggling with depression and anxiety, trauma, problems in relationships, stress management, and life transitions. My approach is to help you explore those difficult thoughts, feelings, and past experiences which prevent you from being comfortable with who you would like to be, what you want in your life, and the kinds of relationships that you want to have with others.
Difficult feelings can be a gateway for personal growth. I work with many individuals struggling with depression and anxiety, trauma, problems in relationships, stress management, and life transitions. My approach is to help you explore those difficult thoughts, feelings, and past experiences which prevent you from being comfortable with who you would like to be, what you want in your life, and the kinds of relationships that you want to have with others.
(415) 820-1554 View (415) 820-1554
Photo of Allie Frank, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Merced County, CA
Allie Frank
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Life can be hard... And we don’t have to do it alone. I work with couples and individuals ranging in issues of anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self esteem, relationships, and parenting. My own painful experiences, and the work I have done to heal, have afforded me the ability to be present and sit with people in their own pain. I have a natural inclination to seek out deep connection with people which informs my work with clients. This can help my clients to deepen connections with others, outside of the room. I work with couples to strengthen connection, deepen intimacy, and find their voice within the partnership.
Life can be hard... And we don’t have to do it alone. I work with couples and individuals ranging in issues of anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self esteem, relationships, and parenting. My own painful experiences, and the work I have done to heal, have afforded me the ability to be present and sit with people in their own pain. I have a natural inclination to seek out deep connection with people which informs my work with clients. This can help my clients to deepen connections with others, outside of the room. I work with couples to strengthen connection, deepen intimacy, and find their voice within the partnership.
(510) 661-3552 View (510) 661-3552
Photo of Cathy Gromer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merced County, CA
Cathy Gromer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
Low self-esteem, depression, eating disorders, self-harming behaviors, ADHD, poor school performance, social isolation, shyness, substance abuse and chronic health issues are just a few of the issues that our young people struggle with today.
As a caring and compassionate psychotherapist & counselor , I am trained to understand and guide your spiritual journey through healing, as well as tending to your emotional and psychological needs. I hold a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology, am a licensed California Marriage & Family Therapist,a Certified Process Therapist, and EAGALA practioner. I have spent countless hours working with children, some as young as 2, and their families, as well as serving as a counselor in the Cupertino Union School District for three years. Give me a call, and we can talk about what you may need to successfully begin to heal.
Low self-esteem, depression, eating disorders, self-harming behaviors, ADHD, poor school performance, social isolation, shyness, substance abuse and chronic health issues are just a few of the issues that our young people struggle with today.
As a caring and compassionate psychotherapist & counselor , I am trained to understand and guide your spiritual journey through healing, as well as tending to your emotional and psychological needs. I hold a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology, am a licensed California Marriage & Family Therapist,a Certified Process Therapist, and EAGALA practioner. I have spent countless hours working with children, some as young as 2, and their families, as well as serving as a counselor in the Cupertino Union School District for three years. Give me a call, and we can talk about what you may need to successfully begin to heal.
(408) 384-9845 View (408) 384-9845
Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional in Merced County, CA
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734
Photo of Katie Jacobson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merced County, CA
Katie Jacobson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship conflict, body image, disordered eating, confusion or overwhelm, together we can work to uncover the root of what is holding you back and find new pathways and possibilities.
It takes courage to make it here, and I’m so glad you did.

We all hit points in life where we feel stuck or uncertain of how to cope and move forward. As humans, stress and pain is inevitable, but you don’t have to work through it alone. I'm here to help you navigate your challenges and experience greater ease, satisfaction, and intimacy with life. My work is focused on supporting you to connect with your inner wisdom, shift how you relate with yourself, and remember your unique gifts. With a holistic approach, honoring mind, body, spirit, I believe that you are whole, resilient, and capable of growing and healing.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship conflict, body image, disordered eating, confusion or overwhelm, together we can work to uncover the root of what is holding you back and find new pathways and possibilities.
It takes courage to make it here, and I’m so glad you did.

We all hit points in life where we feel stuck or uncertain of how to cope and move forward. As humans, stress and pain is inevitable, but you don’t have to work through it alone. I'm here to help you navigate your challenges and experience greater ease, satisfaction, and intimacy with life. My work is focused on supporting you to connect with your inner wisdom, shift how you relate with yourself, and remember your unique gifts. With a holistic approach, honoring mind, body, spirit, I believe that you are whole, resilient, and capable of growing and healing.
(831) 318-8009 View (831) 318-8009
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey Tinius, Psychologist in Merced County, CA
Dr. Jeffrey Tinius
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pacific Grove, CA 93950  (Online Only)
Currently Accepting Online Only Sessions. My belief is that therapy must be directed towards your goals of personal growth and healing. In couples and individual therapy, in addition to mental health topics like anxiety and depression, I am interested on issues relating to relationships, including marital, dating, infidelity, and compatibility issues. Select the "Website" button to schedule a no-cost initial consultation. I will soon be able to accept United Healthcare Insurance, but my registration is not yet complete with them.
Currently Accepting Online Only Sessions. My belief is that therapy must be directed towards your goals of personal growth and healing. In couples and individual therapy, in addition to mental health topics like anxiety and depression, I am interested on issues relating to relationships, including marital, dating, infidelity, and compatibility issues. Select the "Website" button to schedule a no-cost initial consultation. I will soon be able to accept United Healthcare Insurance, but my registration is not yet complete with them.
(831) 273-4242 View (831) 273-4242
Photo of The Davis Group Counseling & Wellness Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merced County, CA
The Davis Group Counseling & Wellness Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Just when you think you are getting used to one phase of life, the next one throws you a curve ball. Whether your life includes being single, adjusting to marriage or parenthood, raising a teen, children leaving the home, or adjusting to retirement, each phase brings plenty of unique challenges. Issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, and life dissatisfaction can seem like constant companions through it all. It can feel exhausting! Life should not be about working so hard yet feeling so flat!
Just when you think you are getting used to one phase of life, the next one throws you a curve ball. Whether your life includes being single, adjusting to marriage or parenthood, raising a teen, children leaving the home, or adjusting to retirement, each phase brings plenty of unique challenges. Issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, and life dissatisfaction can seem like constant companions through it all. It can feel exhausting! Life should not be about working so hard yet feeling so flat!
(916) 409-3479 View (916) 409-3479
Photo of Nicki Koethner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merced County, CA
Nicki Koethner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Are you anxious, depressed and tired? Are you feeling emotional for no reason? Feeling disoriented and lonely? Questioning everything in your life? I help people to deeply listen inside and let their choices be based on what is true for them. While pain and emotions are part of being human, suffering can be minimized by allowing what is inside of us to be expressed and find acceptance in our experiences. I support you to move through trauma, anxiety, anger and depression to empowerment. Stress-management is part of the work and looking at communication with ourselves and others to have fulfilling relationships.
Are you anxious, depressed and tired? Are you feeling emotional for no reason? Feeling disoriented and lonely? Questioning everything in your life? I help people to deeply listen inside and let their choices be based on what is true for them. While pain and emotions are part of being human, suffering can be minimized by allowing what is inside of us to be expressed and find acceptance in our experiences. I support you to move through trauma, anxiety, anger and depression to empowerment. Stress-management is part of the work and looking at communication with ourselves and others to have fulfilling relationships.
(510) 606-9884 View (510) 606-9884
Photo of L. Jasmine Dobbs-Marsh, Psychologist in Merced County, CA
L. Jasmine Dobbs-Marsh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94304
I am a licensed clinical psychologist affiliated with Stanford University's School of Medicine, where I specialize in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, challenges related to aspects of identity (e.
Each person has unique strengths and needs that can change over the course of therapy. My approach is collaborative, emotion-focused, interpersonally-oriented, and culturally responsive. I believe that no matter the struggle or mental health challenge, everyone has the capacity to grow, change, and find a meaningful life. I value working with you to chart a path for therapy that draws on your lived experience and my expertise in evidence-based treatments, so that I can walk alongside you as you move courageously toward the life you want to live. My work includes individual psychotherapy, trauma treatment, and couple/family therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist affiliated with Stanford University's School of Medicine, where I specialize in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, challenges related to aspects of identity (e.
Each person has unique strengths and needs that can change over the course of therapy. My approach is collaborative, emotion-focused, interpersonally-oriented, and culturally responsive. I believe that no matter the struggle or mental health challenge, everyone has the capacity to grow, change, and find a meaningful life. I value working with you to chart a path for therapy that draws on your lived experience and my expertise in evidence-based treatments, so that I can walk alongside you as you move courageously toward the life you want to live. My work includes individual psychotherapy, trauma treatment, and couple/family therapy.
(650) 665-9195 View (650) 665-9195
Photo of Clark Hsu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merced County, CA
Clark Hsu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022  (Online Only)
I work with all age levels but is specifically skilled with issues of depression, anxiety, life transitions, inculturation, and trauma.
I provide a warm and understanding atmosphere without judgment and pressure. Our work together is going to be about you and for you. I am not here to tell you what to do but allow you to become the owner of your life and regain the power of choice. You will be invited to explore through using traditional means of therapy(talk therapy) or more creative ways such as drama and expressive arts therapy. The choice will be yours and completely based on your level of comfort. I will be here to set up the creative stage for you to shine, cry, laugh, change and grow.
I work with all age levels but is specifically skilled with issues of depression, anxiety, life transitions, inculturation, and trauma.
I provide a warm and understanding atmosphere without judgment and pressure. Our work together is going to be about you and for you. I am not here to tell you what to do but allow you to become the owner of your life and regain the power of choice. You will be invited to explore through using traditional means of therapy(talk therapy) or more creative ways such as drama and expressive arts therapy. The choice will be yours and completely based on your level of comfort. I will be here to set up the creative stage for you to shine, cry, laugh, change and grow.
(408) 512-1315 View (408) 512-1315
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merced County, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93704  (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 Four 10 Nonprofit Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merced County, CA
Four 10 Nonprofit Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Milpitas, CA 95035
We work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders and body image issues, life transitions, and trauma who want to build a better future.
FREE consultations! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". We're here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life. Our goal is to help you find compassion for yourself, develop skills to help you navigate life stressors, and be confident in the resilient person you are.
We work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders and body image issues, life transitions, and trauma who want to build a better future.
FREE consultations! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". We're here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life. Our goal is to help you find compassion for yourself, develop skills to help you navigate life stressors, and be confident in the resilient person you are.
(858) 258-5354 View (858) 258-5354
Photo of Brittany Phillips Hunt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Merced County, CA
Brittany Phillips Hunt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
From symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, self-worth, relational issues, family conflict, ADHD, Bipolar, grief and more, Brittany is happy to walk with clients through their journey to a better life.
Currently open for couples and individuals via telehealth
From symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, self-worth, relational issues, family conflict, ADHD, Bipolar, grief and more, Brittany is happy to walk with clients through their journey to a better life.
Currently open for couples and individuals via telehealth
(619) 345-5992 View (619) 345-5992
Photo of Alex Black, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merced County, CA
Alex Black
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
I can help you develop awareness of debilitating emotions such as shame, grief, guilt, sadness, anger, self doubt, depression and anxiety.
Make therapy a gift to yourself and the journey of a lifetime. Experience the therapeutic process as an exploration into a landscape full of your own creative capacities, strengths, and dreams that already exist. Replace out-dated belief systems with new ones that better reflect your current, authentic self. Continue the process of growing into the person you believe yourself to be. Move from the victim to the empowered. I work in collaborative ways with you, helping to identifying assumptions, thoughts, and beliefs that are keeping you from the experiences, relationships, and life that you want.
I can help you develop awareness of debilitating emotions such as shame, grief, guilt, sadness, anger, self doubt, depression and anxiety.
Make therapy a gift to yourself and the journey of a lifetime. Experience the therapeutic process as an exploration into a landscape full of your own creative capacities, strengths, and dreams that already exist. Replace out-dated belief systems with new ones that better reflect your current, authentic self. Continue the process of growing into the person you believe yourself to be. Move from the victim to the empowered. I work in collaborative ways with you, helping to identifying assumptions, thoughts, and beliefs that are keeping you from the experiences, relationships, and life that you want.
(510) 250-3293 View (510) 250-3293

See more therapy options for Merced County

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.