Photo of Kari Gila Sacks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Kari Gila Sacks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I believe you've arrived here for a reason, and we're about to find out why. Together, we can explore the issues that are sacred to you and hopefully release you to a better emotional place. The basis of living strong is having a consciousness of purpose and meaning. I'm here to support this process of discovering heightened meaning within you. I have walked alongside folks facing deeply painful human challenges: grief over loss of all kinds, life transitions, aging, caregiver stress, single motherhood, overcoming depression and anxiety and trauma. I look forward to working with you to make your life better.
I believe you've arrived here for a reason, and we're about to find out why. Together, we can explore the issues that are sacred to you and hopefully release you to a better emotional place. The basis of living strong is having a consciousness of purpose and meaning. I'm here to support this process of discovering heightened meaning within you. I have walked alongside folks facing deeply painful human challenges: grief over loss of all kinds, life transitions, aging, caregiver stress, single motherhood, overcoming depression and anxiety and trauma. I look forward to working with you to make your life better.
(424) 346-8955 View (424) 346-8955
Photo of Lydia Stevens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Lydia Stevens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I work primarily with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I have some limited availability in-person or through Zoom. I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. Whether you struggle with persistent, troubling thoughts or feelings, are overwhelmed by events that are out of your control or just want to get in touch with a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in your life, therapy can help. In my practice, I provide a safe space where the struggles of daily life can be explored, old wounds can be healed and opportunities for growth and change can be uncovered.
I work primarily with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I have some limited availability in-person or through Zoom. I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. Whether you struggle with persistent, troubling thoughts or feelings, are overwhelmed by events that are out of your control or just want to get in touch with a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in your life, therapy can help. In my practice, I provide a safe space where the struggles of daily life can be explored, old wounds can be healed and opportunities for growth and change can be uncovered.
(415) 991-0575 View (415) 991-0575
Photo of Cynthia A. Levy, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Cynthia A. Levy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
e healthy relationships/DV); Anxiety/Depression/Mood Disorders; Addictions; suicidality & self-harm; Autism Spectrum (social skills); Tricotillomania; ADHD; Tourette's.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who places greatest value in establishing an empathic, warm, & respectful environment (while modeling firm, healthy boundaries) for clients & their families. Over the last 7 years I've treated adults, children, teens, couples, families, & groups in a private practice setting. My strength-based, collaborative approach drawing on numerous techniques (CBT, DBT, Fam Systems, etc.) helps clients get the most from therapy & allows tailoring our work to your needs. When beneficial and appropriate, I work to foster a "team approach," encouraging good communication w/other members of a client's daily life (i.e. other practitioners/physicians, family, teachers, etc.).
e healthy relationships/DV); Anxiety/Depression/Mood Disorders; Addictions; suicidality & self-harm; Autism Spectrum (social skills); Tricotillomania; ADHD; Tourette's.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who places greatest value in establishing an empathic, warm, & respectful environment (while modeling firm, healthy boundaries) for clients & their families. Over the last 7 years I've treated adults, children, teens, couples, families, & groups in a private practice setting. My strength-based, collaborative approach drawing on numerous techniques (CBT, DBT, Fam Systems, etc.) helps clients get the most from therapy & allows tailoring our work to your needs. When beneficial and appropriate, I work to foster a "team approach," encouraging good communication w/other members of a client's daily life (i.e. other practitioners/physicians, family, teachers, etc.).
(818) 962-6438 x101 View (818) 962-6438 x101
Photo of Nava Ghanouni, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Nava Ghanouni
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Many of us in our lifetime will experience crisis-inducing events that we cannot resolve alone. Coping with a traumatic life event or any emotional experience is very personal. Events and experiences that cause a change in your life can manifest itself in many ways such as anxiety, depression, phobias, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse, violent behavior, insomnia, or relationships conflicts, to name a few. I, with a wide range of experience will facilitate a meaningful and practical experience in the therapeutic sessions.
Many of us in our lifetime will experience crisis-inducing events that we cannot resolve alone. Coping with a traumatic life event or any emotional experience is very personal. Events and experiences that cause a change in your life can manifest itself in many ways such as anxiety, depression, phobias, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse, violent behavior, insomnia, or relationships conflicts, to name a few. I, with a wide range of experience will facilitate a meaningful and practical experience in the therapeutic sessions.
(323) 591-3726 View (323) 591-3726
Photo of Flora Zaken-Greenberg, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Flora Zaken-Greenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
You are many things to the people in your life. You are a spouse/partner, parent, child, friend, and working professional. Who are you to yourself? Are you your harshest critic? You don’t have to be. You don’t have to be anxious, worried, unhappy, sad, depressed, lonely, or overwhelmed. You can take time for yourself without guilt. You don’t have to suffer alone and you can grow into the person you were meant to be. Let’s get to the truth of who you are and what you want in a professional, safe, and supportive environment.
You are many things to the people in your life. You are a spouse/partner, parent, child, friend, and working professional. Who are you to yourself? Are you your harshest critic? You don’t have to be. You don’t have to be anxious, worried, unhappy, sad, depressed, lonely, or overwhelmed. You can take time for yourself without guilt. You don’t have to suffer alone and you can grow into the person you were meant to be. Let’s get to the truth of who you are and what you want in a professional, safe, and supportive environment.
(310) 340-7514 x102 View (310) 340-7514 x102
Photo of Cynthia Speich, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Cynthia Speich
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Most people come to see me for symptoms of depression, anxiety, relationship issues or a lack of motivation or passion in life. Utilizing a dynamic approach that is active, direct and compassionate, I help individuals, families, and couples confront truths of oneself or one's family unit. This includes feelings, thoughts and behaviors which may be challenging or even impossible to face alone.
Most people come to see me for symptoms of depression, anxiety, relationship issues or a lack of motivation or passion in life. Utilizing a dynamic approach that is active, direct and compassionate, I help individuals, families, and couples confront truths of oneself or one's family unit. This includes feelings, thoughts and behaviors which may be challenging or even impossible to face alone.
(310) 777-2425 View (310) 777-2425
Photo of Lisa Waldman, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Lisa Waldman, LCSW, MPH
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I work with all ages, backgrounds & orientations, treating pain, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss, food issues, career dilemmas, parenting, couples, etc.
Seeking help is a sign of self-awareness & readiness for change. Perhaps you're feeling out control with emotional pain, behavior, or relationships. You may be dealing with chronic health issues involving physical pain & psychological symptoms. As a therapist, health educator, pain specialist for 30 + yrs, I offer compassion & collaboration to help you overcome unhealthy patterns, depression, anxiety, somatic (pain) symptoms, poor self-image, or grief in a safe and nonjudgmental space. Together we will explore the root causes of symptoms, help you identify counterproductive patterns and develop healthy new healthy coping strategies.
I work with all ages, backgrounds & orientations, treating pain, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss, food issues, career dilemmas, parenting, couples, etc.
Seeking help is a sign of self-awareness & readiness for change. Perhaps you're feeling out control with emotional pain, behavior, or relationships. You may be dealing with chronic health issues involving physical pain & psychological symptoms. As a therapist, health educator, pain specialist for 30 + yrs, I offer compassion & collaboration to help you overcome unhealthy patterns, depression, anxiety, somatic (pain) symptoms, poor self-image, or grief in a safe and nonjudgmental space. Together we will explore the root causes of symptoms, help you identify counterproductive patterns and develop healthy new healthy coping strategies.
(424) 888-7826 View (424) 888-7826
Photo of Sarah S Omid, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Sarah S Omid
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
I treat individuals with depression, loss,grief, anxiety, relationship issues and low self esteem.
I have a multicultural practice and have been practicing in the Beverly Hills area for over 25 years. I treat individuals, couples and families struggling with depression, loss, grief, anxiety, communication and relationship issues. I believe each individual is unique in thier strenghts, needs and abilities. I help my clients by empowering them to achieve greater awareness and self esteem. I also provide guidance for my clients whom are going through life transitions such as pre-marital counseling, divorce, or death of a loved one. I am very passionate about my work and have a very compassionate, and respectful approach in working with my clients.
I treat individuals with depression, loss,grief, anxiety, relationship issues and low self esteem.
I have a multicultural practice and have been practicing in the Beverly Hills area for over 25 years. I treat individuals, couples and families struggling with depression, loss, grief, anxiety, communication and relationship issues. I believe each individual is unique in thier strenghts, needs and abilities. I help my clients by empowering them to achieve greater awareness and self esteem. I also provide guidance for my clients whom are going through life transitions such as pre-marital counseling, divorce, or death of a loved one. I am very passionate about my work and have a very compassionate, and respectful approach in working with my clients.
(424) 256-1770 View (424) 256-1770
Photo of Jill Model Barth, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Jill Model Barth
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I work to understand depression, anxiety and personality disruptions that interfere in ones' personal and professional relationships.
Do you repeat the same patterns in relationships? And, why? I deal with defenses against intimacy and how these conflicts get in the way of forming deep and meaningful relationships. In the consultation room, I work with my patient to help unfold the story of what got created in the past, and how early patterns from the past get repeated in present relationships. My here and now relationship with the patient is the most important dynamic to analyze, understand and then to work through early conflicts. This deep approach to treatment allows for change and growth.
I work to understand depression, anxiety and personality disruptions that interfere in ones' personal and professional relationships.
Do you repeat the same patterns in relationships? And, why? I deal with defenses against intimacy and how these conflicts get in the way of forming deep and meaningful relationships. In the consultation room, I work with my patient to help unfold the story of what got created in the past, and how early patterns from the past get repeated in present relationships. My here and now relationship with the patient is the most important dynamic to analyze, understand and then to work through early conflicts. This deep approach to treatment allows for change and growth.
(310) 773-4239 View (310) 773-4239
Photo of Sanaz Saeidian, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Beverly Hills, CA
Sanaz Saeidian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with adults around challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management, life transitions including marriage and parenting.
I understand that each therapeutic journey is unique and that it takes courage to take steps towards gaining insight & clarity around your emotional and mental wellbeing. I tailor my approach based on your personal needs, values and preferences. I use a compassionate & trauma-informed approach to create a safe & supportive environment for you to develop inner strength & make meaningful changes in your life. We’ll work together to empower you with the tools you need to gain greater awareness into your past & help re-create your unique life story.
I specialize in working with adults around challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management, life transitions including marriage and parenting.
I understand that each therapeutic journey is unique and that it takes courage to take steps towards gaining insight & clarity around your emotional and mental wellbeing. I tailor my approach based on your personal needs, values and preferences. I use a compassionate & trauma-informed approach to create a safe & supportive environment for you to develop inner strength & make meaningful changes in your life. We’ll work together to empower you with the tools you need to gain greater awareness into your past & help re-create your unique life story.
(310) 861-2033 View (310) 861-2033
Photo of Tricia Doud, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Tricia Doud
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
My specialties include but are not limited to attachment issues, mood, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Thank you for considering a new therapeutic relationship. These are unique times that have brought many different stressors to an already chaotic world. Please value your self-care at this time and feel free to reach out if you need psychological support or guidance. My clients typically include those who are seeking a long-term therapeutic relationship, as well as those who are hoping to address a specific issue in a limited time. I utilize an integrated, tailored approach. Always kind, supportive and non-judgmental, I will also provide direct feedback needed to facilitate change.
My specialties include but are not limited to attachment issues, mood, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Thank you for considering a new therapeutic relationship. These are unique times that have brought many different stressors to an already chaotic world. Please value your self-care at this time and feel free to reach out if you need psychological support or guidance. My clients typically include those who are seeking a long-term therapeutic relationship, as well as those who are hoping to address a specific issue in a limited time. I utilize an integrated, tailored approach. Always kind, supportive and non-judgmental, I will also provide direct feedback needed to facilitate change.
(424) 209-8190 View (424) 209-8190
Photo of Tamika Torres, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Tamika Torres
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212  (Online Only)
I offer Individual/couples therapy for adults with anxiety/depression, past trauma, life transition, relationship/marital issues and parenting.
Are you struggling with motherhood? Ashamed about your thoughts surrounding your child, partner or yourself. Finding it difficult to balance motherhood and work/entrepreneur goals? Navigating motherhood can be lonely and each mom or mom-to-be struggles in different ways. During this journey called motherhood, you deserve to be supported to alleviate your unique challenges and vulnerability.I am passionate about helping women find their way through unpleasant thoughts and emotions relating to motherhood. Most importantly, I strive to form a meaningful relationship with my clients. I believe the client is the expert in their own life.
I offer Individual/couples therapy for adults with anxiety/depression, past trauma, life transition, relationship/marital issues and parenting.
Are you struggling with motherhood? Ashamed about your thoughts surrounding your child, partner or yourself. Finding it difficult to balance motherhood and work/entrepreneur goals? Navigating motherhood can be lonely and each mom or mom-to-be struggles in different ways. During this journey called motherhood, you deserve to be supported to alleviate your unique challenges and vulnerability.I am passionate about helping women find their way through unpleasant thoughts and emotions relating to motherhood. Most importantly, I strive to form a meaningful relationship with my clients. I believe the client is the expert in their own life.
(818) 514-7711 View (818) 514-7711
Photo of Dr. Cassidy Blair, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Dr. Cassidy Blair
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
(424) 888-6124 View (424) 888-6124
Photo of Brittney Putman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Beverly Hills, CA
Brittney Putman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210  (Online Only)
I feel that I "see" people who often feel "unseen." I help people who are exhausted, depressed and anxious from masking. Masking is attempting to reduce or hide needs and symptoms to blend in with others, usually to avoid being treated differently.
I feel that I "see" people who often feel "unseen." I help people who are exhausted, depressed and anxious from masking. Masking is attempting to reduce or hide needs and symptoms to blend in with others, usually to avoid being treated differently.
(702) 217-9857 View (702) 217-9857
Photo of A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Individ, Relatio, Family
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I assist in overcoming all social/emotional issues, however, most of my clients have struggled with relationship issues, depression, and anxiety.
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
I assist in overcoming all social/emotional issues, however, most of my clients have struggled with relationship issues, depression, and anxiety.
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
(442) 244-9159 View (442) 244-9159
Photo of Stacey Datnow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Stacey Datnow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
My specialties are the treatment of trauma, depression and anxiety disorders, as well as, issues related to personal growth, transitions and interpersonal relationships.
Finding the right fit with a therapist is so important, as so much of the work of therapy happens in the therapeutic relationship. My goal is to connect with you, help you feel understood and be a partner in doing the work that will make your life better. I am an active participant in the sessions and work to help you connect to your strengths and increase your coping strategies. I have over 25 years of experience and look forward to helping you achieve your goals.
My specialties are the treatment of trauma, depression and anxiety disorders, as well as, issues related to personal growth, transitions and interpersonal relationships.
Finding the right fit with a therapist is so important, as so much of the work of therapy happens in the therapeutic relationship. My goal is to connect with you, help you feel understood and be a partner in doing the work that will make your life better. I am an active participant in the sessions and work to help you connect to your strengths and increase your coping strategies. I have over 25 years of experience and look forward to helping you achieve your goals.
(818) 276-3242 View (818) 276-3242
Photo of Ayala Ofek, Psychologist in Beverly Hills, CA
Ayala Ofek
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
In short, I love my work. I get to help individuals grow and become more of who they are. As they are better able to cope with obstacles such as stress, anxiety, and depression, I watch them find greater fulfillment in their relationships, career/academics, and overall wellbeing. In my practice I treat a breadth of concerns ranging from psychiatric symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety, eating disorders) to relationship issues, family issues, low self confidence, trauma, and grief.
In short, I love my work. I get to help individuals grow and become more of who they are. As they are better able to cope with obstacles such as stress, anxiety, and depression, I watch them find greater fulfillment in their relationships, career/academics, and overall wellbeing. In my practice I treat a breadth of concerns ranging from psychiatric symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety, eating disorders) to relationship issues, family issues, low self confidence, trauma, and grief.
(424) 373-3486 View (424) 373-3486
Photo of Helena Rosenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Helena Rosenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Perhaps you desire more satisfying relationships. Or you long for an end to blue moods, constant worries, or food struggles. If so, I am here to help, both in person and on Zoom. Fortunately, your decision to seek counseling is a positive first step. In my practice, I teach individuals how to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety; guide couples toward more loving connections; help clients with eating challenges to accept themselves and manage harmful habits; and provide constructive feedback on career issues.
Perhaps you desire more satisfying relationships. Or you long for an end to blue moods, constant worries, or food struggles. If so, I am here to help, both in person and on Zoom. Fortunately, your decision to seek counseling is a positive first step. In my practice, I teach individuals how to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety; guide couples toward more loving connections; help clients with eating challenges to accept themselves and manage harmful habits; and provide constructive feedback on career issues.
(310) 361-2245 View (310) 361-2245
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beverly Hills, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
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.
(833) 918-2676 View (833) 918-2676
Photo of Ro Reyes Ph.D., Counselor in Beverly Hills, CA
Ro Reyes Ph.D.
Counselor, LMHC, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
My areas of expertise are psychological assessment and the creation interventions individually tailored to improve your quality of life and your work performance Treatment focus is anxiety, depression, personality issues, stress management, and unhealthy relationships.
I specialize on working with people who work under pressure and need to feel at their best. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life, dramatically. I'll help you identify positive changes to reduce your anxiety, ease your stress, and gain more control in your life. You will achieve a higher quality of life in a non-judgmental space, you'll discover untapped strengths, and you will enhance your current capacity to cope with the difficulties of life.
My areas of expertise are psychological assessment and the creation interventions individually tailored to improve your quality of life and your work performance Treatment focus is anxiety, depression, personality issues, stress management, and unhealthy relationships.
I specialize on working with people who work under pressure and need to feel at their best. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life, dramatically. I'll help you identify positive changes to reduce your anxiety, ease your stress, and gain more control in your life. You will achieve a higher quality of life in a non-judgmental space, you'll discover untapped strengths, and you will enhance your current capacity to cope with the difficulties of life.
(323) 284-7540 View (323) 284-7540

See more therapy options for Beverly Hills

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.