Depression Therapists in 90801

Photo of Kathleen Villagomez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90801, CA
Kathleen Villagomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801
I have over 15 years of experience helping children and adults with a range of struggles including trauma related to child abuse/neglect, loss,depression, anxiety, relationship ambivalence, difficult teens, and uncertainties about direction in life.
Congratulations for taking action! Sometimes we need to re-write our stories, change directions, or get back on track, before our lives are the way we desire, and more importantly the way we deserve. I offer a compassionate space for individuals to heal from past wounds, stop self-defeating and self-destructive patterns, increase self-awareness so that they may express themselves and make progress in their lives.
I have over 15 years of experience helping children and adults with a range of struggles including trauma related to child abuse/neglect, loss,depression, anxiety, relationship ambivalence, difficult teens, and uncertainties about direction in life.
Congratulations for taking action! Sometimes we need to re-write our stories, change directions, or get back on track, before our lives are the way we desire, and more importantly the way we deserve. I offer a compassionate space for individuals to heal from past wounds, stop self-defeating and self-destructive patterns, increase self-awareness so that they may express themselves and make progress in their lives.
(562) 354-4414 View (562) 354-4414
Photo of Carol Seixas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90801, CA
Carol Seixas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, OTRL
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801
My specialty areas include working with mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar illness), chronic pain, individual therapy and couples work.
Hello and welcome. I have over 40 years of experience working in the health field and have provided services in a wide range of mental health settings. The patient/client populations I have had the opportunity to help run the full gamut of mental health needs from the serious mentally ill to the person/family who have never needed to see a therapist until "now". I additionally provide support for the system/family new to mental health with education, skills and linking to resources.
My specialty areas include working with mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar illness), chronic pain, individual therapy and couples work.
Hello and welcome. I have over 40 years of experience working in the health field and have provided services in a wide range of mental health settings. The patient/client populations I have had the opportunity to help run the full gamut of mental health needs from the serious mentally ill to the person/family who have never needed to see a therapist until "now". I additionally provide support for the system/family new to mental health with education, skills and linking to resources.
(562) 275-8354 View (562) 275-8354
Photo of Bethany Mendoza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90801, CA
Bethany Mendoza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801
Ms. Bethany Mendoza is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping people transform their lives through the power of psychotherapy. Bethany earned her Master of Social Work degree from California State University, Fullerton in 2018 with a concentration in community mental health, where she built her clinical foundation working with children, adolescents, and adults with varying diagnoses including Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
Ms. Bethany Mendoza is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping people transform their lives through the power of psychotherapy. Bethany earned her Master of Social Work degree from California State University, Fullerton in 2018 with a concentration in community mental health, where she built her clinical foundation working with children, adolescents, and adults with varying diagnoses including Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
(562) 379-2380 View (562) 379-2380
Photo of Roger Justin Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90801, CA
Roger Justin Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families helping with the following: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, PTSD, intimacy issues, addiction, self esteem, bipolar, parenting, and communication.
I have been in private practice for over twenty five years and am wholly dedicated to providing my clients with the best care possible. In my practice I create a safe place for you to explore past and present issues blocking you from expressing yourself in your relationships and preventing you from accomplishing your goals or even having goals.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families helping with the following: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, PTSD, intimacy issues, addiction, self esteem, bipolar, parenting, and communication.
I have been in private practice for over twenty five years and am wholly dedicated to providing my clients with the best care possible. In my practice I create a safe place for you to explore past and present issues blocking you from expressing yourself in your relationships and preventing you from accomplishing your goals or even having goals.
(714) 462-1687 View (714) 462-1687
Photo of Aritcela Vega, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90801, CA
Aritcela Vega
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stressed, depressed, or anxious? I am here to help with ongoing issues that can effect the quality of life that often cause presenting problems. A lot of times it is difficult to ask someone for help so I commend you on your choice to seek therapy. My style of therapy is from an emphatic genuine place. Hablo Espanol.
Are you feeling stressed, depressed, or anxious? I am here to help with ongoing issues that can effect the quality of life that often cause presenting problems. A lot of times it is difficult to ask someone for help so I commend you on your choice to seek therapy. My style of therapy is from an emphatic genuine place. Hablo Espanol.
(562) 837-2863 View (562) 837-2863
Photo of Barbara K Fuller, Psychologist in 90801, CA
Barbara K Fuller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801
I chose to focus my work with Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, Saddleback Community College and in private/group practice settings with people who have experienced trauma in their lives. I define "trauma" as any event in life that interferes with someone's ability to live life daily in the way they wish. Symptoms can include anxiety, depression, unfulfilling personal relationships and difficulties on the job or at home. People who experience unresolved trauma commonly experience personal difficulties that translate into problems for individuals and families. Typically, coping with the many stresses in daily life is compromised.
I chose to focus my work with Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, Saddleback Community College and in private/group practice settings with people who have experienced trauma in their lives. I define "trauma" as any event in life that interferes with someone's ability to live life daily in the way they wish. Symptoms can include anxiety, depression, unfulfilling personal relationships and difficulties on the job or at home. People who experience unresolved trauma commonly experience personal difficulties that translate into problems for individuals and families. Typically, coping with the many stresses in daily life is compromised.
(949) 632-8300 View (949) 632-8300
Photo of Gail Billings-Beck, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90801, CA
Gail Billings-Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801
Dr. Gail Billings-Beck is glad to work with individuals facing transitions in life. She also enjoys work with couples, both gay and straight. Her theoretical background is based on the work of Alfred Adler, and her approach is individualized to the needs presented by each client. She specializes in self-esteem, anxiety and depression, anger management, addiction, aging and death and dying issues. Communication skills, including tone, are significant tools most of us can benefit from. Sometimes EMDR and/or hypnotherapy techniques are used to help deal with past trauma. Psychotherapy with Dr. Gail helps clients regain perspective and balance, managing anger and practicing calming, self-soothing exercises. Increased self-awareness helps make healthy choices possible. Healthy choices quickly improve energy and focus which leads to positive growth.
Dr. Gail Billings-Beck is glad to work with individuals facing transitions in life. She also enjoys work with couples, both gay and straight. Her theoretical background is based on the work of Alfred Adler, and her approach is individualized to the needs presented by each client. She specializes in self-esteem, anxiety and depression, anger management, addiction, aging and death and dying issues. Communication skills, including tone, are significant tools most of us can benefit from. Sometimes EMDR and/or hypnotherapy techniques are used to help deal with past trauma. Psychotherapy with Dr. Gail helps clients regain perspective and balance, managing anger and practicing calming, self-soothing exercises. Increased self-awareness helps make healthy choices possible. Healthy choices quickly improve energy and focus which leads to positive growth.
(562) 912-2165 View (562) 912-2165
Photo of John Edward Martin, Psychologist in 90801, CA
John Edward Martin
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801
I work with individuals and couples in the areas of conflict, stress, anger control, PTSD, depression and anxiety, as well as marital distress and breakdown. My primary approach combines evidence-based cognitive-behavioral therapy, with motivational as well as spiritual approaches to change. I also work with veterans and others dealing with traumatic memories, with the assistance of my trained and certified service dog - a gentle black Labrador. I am a certified professional trauma therapist and conduct evaluations and treatment for PTSD, and a certified professional life coach, and can work remotely via Internet in for a lower fee
I work with individuals and couples in the areas of conflict, stress, anger control, PTSD, depression and anxiety, as well as marital distress and breakdown. My primary approach combines evidence-based cognitive-behavioral therapy, with motivational as well as spiritual approaches to change. I also work with veterans and others dealing with traumatic memories, with the assistance of my trained and certified service dog - a gentle black Labrador. I am a certified professional trauma therapist and conduct evaluations and treatment for PTSD, and a certified professional life coach, and can work remotely via Internet in for a lower fee
(877) 651-3370 View (877) 651-3370
Photo of Sandra Flores, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90801, CA
Sandra Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801  (Online Only)
Are you depressed or anxious? Are you having difficulties with loved ones, friends, or coworkers? Do you find yourself in unhealthy or toxic relationships? Are you in an abusive relationship? Have you or someone you know been physically, sexually, or emotionally abused? Life can be challenging and stressful, especially when dealing with problems at home or work. At times, going to family and friends for support is not enough. If you are having problems, I can be that neutral person who will listen and provide guidance and support.
Are you depressed or anxious? Are you having difficulties with loved ones, friends, or coworkers? Do you find yourself in unhealthy or toxic relationships? Are you in an abusive relationship? Have you or someone you know been physically, sexually, or emotionally abused? Life can be challenging and stressful, especially when dealing with problems at home or work. At times, going to family and friends for support is not enough. If you are having problems, I can be that neutral person who will listen and provide guidance and support.
(562) 846-1036 View (562) 846-1036
Photo of Dianne Kline, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90801, CA
Dianne Kline, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801
Have you experienced a traumatic event in your life and having recurring nightmares, flashbacks and panic attacks? Feeling depressed, anxious, stressed, overwhelmed and unable to cope with life's challenges? Have you experienced domestic violence in your home and feel alone and hopeless? Has your self-esteem and self-worth been affected by negative and self-defeating patterns and you're feeling frustrated? I provide a safe and trusting environment for adults and couples who need a competent and compassionate therapist that can help you improve the quality of your life.
Have you experienced a traumatic event in your life and having recurring nightmares, flashbacks and panic attacks? Feeling depressed, anxious, stressed, overwhelmed and unable to cope with life's challenges? Have you experienced domestic violence in your home and feel alone and hopeless? Has your self-esteem and self-worth been affected by negative and self-defeating patterns and you're feeling frustrated? I provide a safe and trusting environment for adults and couples who need a competent and compassionate therapist that can help you improve the quality of your life.
(424) 355-9026 View (424) 355-9026
Photo of Noelle Schwarz, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90801, CA
Noelle Schwarz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801  (Online Only)
Let’s face it, adolescence is a tough time in life. You’re not a child, but you’re not an adult. It can be a confusing and frustrating time of change. Imagine you could have someone along side you as you deal with the anxiety, stress, perfectionism, obsessive thinking, depression, sadness, isolation, self-esteem challenges, and big life changes that all seem to happen at this life stage. Imagine having a partner help you build future goals, learn social skills, set boundaries, and improve relationships.
Let’s face it, adolescence is a tough time in life. You’re not a child, but you’re not an adult. It can be a confusing and frustrating time of change. Imagine you could have someone along side you as you deal with the anxiety, stress, perfectionism, obsessive thinking, depression, sadness, isolation, self-esteem challenges, and big life changes that all seem to happen at this life stage. Imagine having a partner help you build future goals, learn social skills, set boundaries, and improve relationships.
(657) 571-4461 View (657) 571-4461
Photo of Jennie Powe Runde, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90801, CA
Jennie Powe Runde
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, REAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801  (Online Only)
With over 15 years experience working with folks dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression, as well as those struggling with their racial/cultural identity both personally and in relationships, I look forward to helping you feel better.
As someone navigating the world between cultures, ethnicities, and labels, you have been given the gift of insight, adaptability, and attunement. You can see what others don't, and are highly sensitive to what goes unspoken or unacknowledged. The gift of being adaptable in any environment can be a major strength, and it also presents a challenge.  ​When we are highly skilled at anticipating, understanding, and accommodating the feelings and needs of others, it is easy to lose sight of what is most important for our own physical, mental, and emotional well being.
With over 15 years experience working with folks dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression, as well as those struggling with their racial/cultural identity both personally and in relationships, I look forward to helping you feel better.
As someone navigating the world between cultures, ethnicities, and labels, you have been given the gift of insight, adaptability, and attunement. You can see what others don't, and are highly sensitive to what goes unspoken or unacknowledged. The gift of being adaptable in any environment can be a major strength, and it also presents a challenge.  ​When we are highly skilled at anticipating, understanding, and accommodating the feelings and needs of others, it is easy to lose sight of what is most important for our own physical, mental, and emotional well being.
(510) 944-0438 View (510) 944-0438
Photo of Keturah McClendon Baker, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90801, CA
Keturah McClendon Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801
I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships.
Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others.
I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships.
Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others.
(424) 364-1104 View (424) 364-1104
Photo of Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90801, CA
Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801  (Online Only)
Our wide variety of specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Child and Teen Behaviors, Family Issues, Couples, Divorce, Co-parenting, Communication, Dating, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Racial/Ethnic Identity, and clinicians who are trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, ERP, ACT, and Brain Spotting.
Pacific MFT Network is a group of highly skilled, diverse, and well-trained therapists. Our mission is to empower you to live the life you want. We do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to participation. Additional benefits to working with us include a unique concierge billing service and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekdays, weekends, day and evening appointments are available). We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages.
Our wide variety of specialties includes Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Child and Teen Behaviors, Family Issues, Couples, Divorce, Co-parenting, Communication, Dating, Life Transitions, LGBTQIA+, Racial/Ethnic Identity, and clinicians who are trained in EMDR, CBT, IFS, ERP, ACT, and Brain Spotting.
Pacific MFT Network is a group of highly skilled, diverse, and well-trained therapists. Our mission is to empower you to live the life you want. We do so by creating supportive, caring, and non-judgmental relationships with our clients. We work to provide you with the best care possible and reduce obstacles to participation. Additional benefits to working with us include a unique concierge billing service and a wide range of scheduling options (all weekdays, weekends, day and evening appointments are available). We work with children, teens, and adults of all ages.
(619) 815-3180 View (619) 815-3180
Photo of Bonnie Wise, Psychologist in 90801, CA
Bonnie Wise
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801
I have been a licensed psychologist for 17 years and a licensed marriage and family therapist for 21 years. I provide a wide range of services including individual, marriage and family therapy. I also do parent coaching. I work with all ages and a wide variety of problems. I know it is difficult to choose a therapist, and I welcome your call to discuss if I would be a good fit. On this website you will find information on my background and my approach to therapy. I accept most insurance companies and private pay.
I have been a licensed psychologist for 17 years and a licensed marriage and family therapist for 21 years. I provide a wide range of services including individual, marriage and family therapy. I also do parent coaching. I work with all ages and a wide variety of problems. I know it is difficult to choose a therapist, and I welcome your call to discuss if I would be a good fit. On this website you will find information on my background and my approach to therapy. I accept most insurance companies and private pay.
(562) 206-1507 View (562) 206-1507
Photo of Quinney & Associates Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90801, CA
Quinney & Associates Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have over 35 years in the field of Mental Health with the Los Angeles County. I have worked in the Juvenile hall systems as a Detention Offices primarily with adolescent boys age 10 thru 18 issues of gang, drugs and foster care. Later employed with King Drew Medical Center as a Clinical Social Worker in the 80's experiences with Cancer, AIDs, and emergency medication. Also worked at Augustus Hawkins providing Mental Health services for Crisis intervention. After retiring from Los Angeles I completed my PsyD and worked in the State Prison as a Unlicensed Psychologist for 3 years.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have over 35 years in the field of Mental Health with the Los Angeles County. I have worked in the Juvenile hall systems as a Detention Offices primarily with adolescent boys age 10 thru 18 issues of gang, drugs and foster care. Later employed with King Drew Medical Center as a Clinical Social Worker in the 80's experiences with Cancer, AIDs, and emergency medication. Also worked at Augustus Hawkins providing Mental Health services for Crisis intervention. After retiring from Los Angeles I completed my PsyD and worked in the State Prison as a Unlicensed Psychologist for 3 years.
(323) 538-2040 View (323) 538-2040
Photo of Julisa Morales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90801, CA
Julisa Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging and a stressful balancing act which can be exacerbated by low sense of self-worth, anxiety, low mood, loss of a loved one, life transitions, childhood trauma, discrimination or environmental stressors. Or, because you have not been fully represented in spaces that hold power, you question whether you belong despite strong evidence that you do. And, even if you know you belong, you are exposed to microaggressions and discrimination, which impacts your day-to-day life.
Life can be challenging and a stressful balancing act which can be exacerbated by low sense of self-worth, anxiety, low mood, loss of a loved one, life transitions, childhood trauma, discrimination or environmental stressors. Or, because you have not been fully represented in spaces that hold power, you question whether you belong despite strong evidence that you do. And, even if you know you belong, you are exposed to microaggressions and discrimination, which impacts your day-to-day life.
(310) 409-4916 View (310) 409-4916
Photo of Kathleen A Cone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90801, CA
Kathleen A Cone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801  (Online Only)
“... Allow. Embrace. Let yourself feel. Let yourself heal”. Vironika Tugaleva. As a licensed therapist I have had the honor of supporting my clients through some of their most lifechanging transformations. I have gone through my own therapeutic, healing process & have experienced freedom & peace that can result from facing and embracing the pain. I enjoy supporting others by providing a safe space to be seen, heard, & validated.
“... Allow. Embrace. Let yourself feel. Let yourself heal”. Vironika Tugaleva. As a licensed therapist I have had the honor of supporting my clients through some of their most lifechanging transformations. I have gone through my own therapeutic, healing process & have experienced freedom & peace that can result from facing and embracing the pain. I enjoy supporting others by providing a safe space to be seen, heard, & validated.
(562) 280-2889 View (562) 280-2889
Photo of Krissy Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90801, CA
Krissy Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90801  (Online Only)
Hi!, my name is Krissy, and I'm here to guide you on a journey towards healing, growth, and stronger relationships. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and effective mental health services to individuals, couples, and families. Life presents us with a myriad of challenges, from navigating personal struggles to managing relationship dynamics. In these moments, seeking support can be a transformative step towards reclaiming your well-being and fostering resilience. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
Hi!, my name is Krissy, and I'm here to guide you on a journey towards healing, growth, and stronger relationships. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate and effective mental health services to individuals, couples, and families. Life presents us with a myriad of challenges, from navigating personal struggles to managing relationship dynamics. In these moments, seeking support can be a transformative step towards reclaiming your well-being and fostering resilience. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
(714) 475-7073 View (714) 475-7073
Photo of Sherry K Young in 90801, CA
Sherry K Young
PhD, CSAT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90801
I DO NOT provide direct client care. I work with behavioral health professionals, offering assessment, triage for mental health and addiction, and referral to treatment resources. I'm passionate about finding the right fit for individuals struggling with mental health and/or addictive thinking and behaviors. I work with private pay and private insurance.
I DO NOT provide direct client care. I work with behavioral health professionals, offering assessment, triage for mental health and addiction, and referral to treatment resources. I'm passionate about finding the right fit for individuals struggling with mental health and/or addictive thinking and behaviors. I work with private pay and private insurance.
(575) 425-0016 View (575) 425-0016

See more therapy options for 90801

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.