Therapists in Marina Del Rey, CA

Photo of Sheldra Grey, Pre-Licensed Professional in Marina Del Rey, CA
Sheldra Grey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
It’s time to get your depression and anxiety in check, so you can relieve your stress and do the things that are important to you.
Another fight ­– more shouting, stomping, and slamming doors. You don’t get it. Your parents say they want you to act like an adult, but then they treat you like a child. Make it make sense! If only they understood what you’re going through. The pressure comes from all sides – parents, teachers, social media, and friends. It’s like everyone has something to criticize you for; “Your grades aren’t good enough,” “You’ll never get into college,” “You’re not as pretty as the other girls.” Meanwhile, you’re trying your best, and their negativity just makes you feel more discouraged. You wish there were someone to help you through this.
It’s time to get your depression and anxiety in check, so you can relieve your stress and do the things that are important to you.
Another fight ­– more shouting, stomping, and slamming doors. You don’t get it. Your parents say they want you to act like an adult, but then they treat you like a child. Make it make sense! If only they understood what you’re going through. The pressure comes from all sides – parents, teachers, social media, and friends. It’s like everyone has something to criticize you for; “Your grades aren’t good enough,” “You’ll never get into college,” “You’re not as pretty as the other girls.” Meanwhile, you’re trying your best, and their negativity just makes you feel more discouraged. You wish there were someone to help you through this.
(424) 855-0336 View (424) 855-0336
Photo of Jennifer Stone, Pre-Licensed Professional in Marina Del Rey, CA
Jennifer Stone
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Jennifer also specializes in Ketamine assisted psychotherapy, a promising novel psychedelic therapy for relieving symptoms from depression and anxious thoughts and behaviors, aid in forgiveness, grief, loss, heal inherited family trauma, grow self-love and compassion, and foster creativity, purpose and drive.
Today is a good day to heal and transform. Jennifer Stone works from a mindfulness meditation lens with compassion for all that is brought to the session. She holds body sensations, thoughts, emotions and all material with tenderness that can create a safe, accepting container for healing. You will learn to "get out of your head", and trust your body, respond to stress in healthy ways, and grow self-love and confidence. She uses a combination of tools from a trauma informed lens in psychotherapy sessions, including mindfulness meditation, IFS, CBT, visualization, breath practices, and somatic inquiry to get to root of the problem.
Jennifer also specializes in Ketamine assisted psychotherapy, a promising novel psychedelic therapy for relieving symptoms from depression and anxious thoughts and behaviors, aid in forgiveness, grief, loss, heal inherited family trauma, grow self-love and compassion, and foster creativity, purpose and drive.
Today is a good day to heal and transform. Jennifer Stone works from a mindfulness meditation lens with compassion for all that is brought to the session. She holds body sensations, thoughts, emotions and all material with tenderness that can create a safe, accepting container for healing. You will learn to "get out of your head", and trust your body, respond to stress in healthy ways, and grow self-love and confidence. She uses a combination of tools from a trauma informed lens in psychotherapy sessions, including mindfulness meditation, IFS, CBT, visualization, breath practices, and somatic inquiry to get to root of the problem.
(310) 692-7116 View (310) 692-7116
Photo of Richard Vishnevsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Richard Vishnevsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292  (Online Only)
My speciality areas include anxiety, stress management, depression, grief, and family and relationship issues.
My main goal is for individuals to leave sessions feeling heard and capable of using their newly developed tools to make change. Whether you are coming in to address current stressors, past problems that seem to have a lasting impact, or worries about the future, I am here to help you meet your treatment goals. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples to help manage a wide range of presenting issues. Each individual comes into therapy with their own personal intentions. I hope to provide a space to address your unique needs and aspirations.
My speciality areas include anxiety, stress management, depression, grief, and family and relationship issues.
My main goal is for individuals to leave sessions feeling heard and capable of using their newly developed tools to make change. Whether you are coming in to address current stressors, past problems that seem to have a lasting impact, or worries about the future, I am here to help you meet your treatment goals. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples to help manage a wide range of presenting issues. Each individual comes into therapy with their own personal intentions. I hope to provide a space to address your unique needs and aspirations.
(310) 683-0925 View (310) 683-0925
Photo of Rose Hickman Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Rose Hickman Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, JD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292  (Online Only)
Do you have an irrational, gut feeling you can't seem to shake? Maybe something telling you that you're not good enough, unsafe, powerless...? Sometimes, difficult experiences in our past can cloud how we live in and see the present. We find ourselves overreacting to things or people, feeling anxious or worthless. Our head can tell us we are being irrational, but that doesn't change the feeling. One of my goals is in helping you re-process the experiences in your life that push these feelings, so you not only know that you're okay - you feel it.
Do you have an irrational, gut feeling you can't seem to shake? Maybe something telling you that you're not good enough, unsafe, powerless...? Sometimes, difficult experiences in our past can cloud how we live in and see the present. We find ourselves overreacting to things or people, feeling anxious or worthless. Our head can tell us we are being irrational, but that doesn't change the feeling. One of my goals is in helping you re-process the experiences in your life that push these feelings, so you not only know that you're okay - you feel it.
(424) 543-2402 View (424) 543-2402
Photo of Dr. Vicki D. Coleman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Marina Del Rey, CA
Dr. Vicki D. Coleman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, CCMHC, MAC/DAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
TELEHEALTH OFFERED! WHY ARE YOU SO ANGRY? In the 21st century global economy, Anger is a major challenge! Although a valid emotion, unmonitored, it can lead to stress, inappropriate behavior, and violence. A former Tenured Professor at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, I earned a Doctorate in Psychology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Publications include books (Amazon Bestsellers), 9 chapters, and refereed journal articles. Anger is frequently the antecedent to a myriad of issues. My goal is to facilitate the identification of viable solutions. I have 6 Full Clinical Licenses in 5 States-CA, IL, IN, MI, & NV.
TELEHEALTH OFFERED! WHY ARE YOU SO ANGRY? In the 21st century global economy, Anger is a major challenge! Although a valid emotion, unmonitored, it can lead to stress, inappropriate behavior, and violence. A former Tenured Professor at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, I earned a Doctorate in Psychology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Publications include books (Amazon Bestsellers), 9 chapters, and refereed journal articles. Anger is frequently the antecedent to a myriad of issues. My goal is to facilitate the identification of viable solutions. I have 6 Full Clinical Licenses in 5 States-CA, IL, IN, MI, & NV.
(310) 591-8249 View (310) 591-8249
Photo of Sage Hubacek, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Marina Del Rey, CA
Sage Hubacek
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Your daughter threatened to run away again. And you’re not sure if it was frustration, anger, or just exhaustion, but you cringed as “go ahead, live under a bridge, I don't care" escaped your lips. Why did I say that?! Now you’re wracked with guilt. You never thought you’d be THAT parent. The one with the kid who fights with siblings and classmates, is on academic probation and never listens to what she’s told. You remember how sweet, doting, and polite she was as a little girl. So how did that perfect child turn into this?! You feel like you’re failing her as a parent, but you just don’t know how to help.
Your daughter threatened to run away again. And you’re not sure if it was frustration, anger, or just exhaustion, but you cringed as “go ahead, live under a bridge, I don't care" escaped your lips. Why did I say that?! Now you’re wracked with guilt. You never thought you’d be THAT parent. The one with the kid who fights with siblings and classmates, is on academic probation and never listens to what she’s told. You remember how sweet, doting, and polite she was as a little girl. So how did that perfect child turn into this?! You feel like you’re failing her as a parent, but you just don’t know how to help.
(310) 220-4102 View (310) 220-4102
Photo of Dr. Jesi Sasaki, Psychologist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Dr. Jesi Sasaki
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292  (Online Only)
Are you ready to take control over your life and no longer be a victim of life circumstances? I help people empower themselves to make the changes they want to see by giving them understanding of where these obstacles came from and how they can actively change their own life. I work with resistance to change rather than against it, and I get to the root of the problem so that you can free yourself from whatever is blocking you to live your best life.
Are you ready to take control over your life and no longer be a victim of life circumstances? I help people empower themselves to make the changes they want to see by giving them understanding of where these obstacles came from and how they can actively change their own life. I work with resistance to change rather than against it, and I get to the root of the problem so that you can free yourself from whatever is blocking you to live your best life.
(747) 246-7565 View (747) 246-7565
Photo of Pamela Haddad, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Pamela Haddad
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
I work with a focus on the mindbody connection through ​Brainspotting, ​Integrative Body Psychotherapy, and Mindfulness. By integrating the body, mind, and spirit in the process, my clients are able to find a connection to the origin of the problem. They are also able to find solutions. Solutions that are effective and more permanent. This by changing neuro-pathways leading to change in thought patterns, behaviors & emotions.​ My goal is to support you in transforming and healing and to be able to empower and inspire you to make use of what you have been through, allowing your experiences to become your strengths.
I work with a focus on the mindbody connection through ​Brainspotting, ​Integrative Body Psychotherapy, and Mindfulness. By integrating the body, mind, and spirit in the process, my clients are able to find a connection to the origin of the problem. They are also able to find solutions. Solutions that are effective and more permanent. This by changing neuro-pathways leading to change in thought patterns, behaviors & emotions.​ My goal is to support you in transforming and healing and to be able to empower and inspire you to make use of what you have been through, allowing your experiences to become your strengths.
(626) 720-4620 View (626) 720-4620

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Britt Eden Morrissey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Britt Eden Morrissey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I am a psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience providing quality mental health care for clients of all ages. Are you experiencing symptoms of depression such as feelings of hopelessness, tearfulness, or an inability to enjoy daily life? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, worry, or intermittent panic attacks? Do you have a history of trauma that haunts your dreams and affects your relationships? Has your child experienced trauma that is impacting his or her mood or school performance? Has family stress taken a toll on your children, your marriage, or yourself?
I am a psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience providing quality mental health care for clients of all ages. Are you experiencing symptoms of depression such as feelings of hopelessness, tearfulness, or an inability to enjoy daily life? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, worry, or intermittent panic attacks? Do you have a history of trauma that haunts your dreams and affects your relationships? Has your child experienced trauma that is impacting his or her mood or school performance? Has family stress taken a toll on your children, your marriage, or yourself?
(424) 375-7957 View (424) 375-7957
Photo of Michael Morar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Michael Morar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90292
At times, we all need help with everyday challenges -and even more so when problems show up. It is difficult to reach out for help. Especially in a culture that emphasizes self-reliance and independence. Problems (such as depression or anxiety) can disconnect us from the relationships that might help us to heal. Since 2016, I have worked with individuals, couples, & families to manage the problems they are facing and help re-connect them to significant relationships. I have helped others with relationship challenges, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and addiction.
At times, we all need help with everyday challenges -and even more so when problems show up. It is difficult to reach out for help. Especially in a culture that emphasizes self-reliance and independence. Problems (such as depression or anxiety) can disconnect us from the relationships that might help us to heal. Since 2016, I have worked with individuals, couples, & families to manage the problems they are facing and help re-connect them to significant relationships. I have helped others with relationship challenges, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and addiction.
(323) 443-7677 View (323) 443-7677
Photo of Anton Yanagisawa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Anton Yanagisawa
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and substance abuse. I have provided therapy in various settings: public mental health, family agencies, hospitals, school systems, and in private practice. I have worked with a wide range of severity of problems and challenges. These experiences provided me with ways to relate to my clients, regardless of circumstance or background, in a way where they can be heard and understood and provided a treatment that is meaningful to them.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and substance abuse. I have provided therapy in various settings: public mental health, family agencies, hospitals, school systems, and in private practice. I have worked with a wide range of severity of problems and challenges. These experiences provided me with ways to relate to my clients, regardless of circumstance or background, in a way where they can be heard and understood and provided a treatment that is meaningful to them.
(310) 742-8456 View (310) 742-8456
Photo of Anna Selena Cho, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Anna Selena Cho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Cho focuses on emotion-focused parenting, blended families, anxiety, depression, self esteem, sexuality and identity, bicultural and multicultural issues.
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
Cho focuses on emotion-focused parenting, blended families, anxiety, depression, self esteem, sexuality and identity, bicultural and multicultural issues.
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
(310) 340-2835 View (310) 340-2835
Photo of Julia M Gunderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Julia M Gunderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
My specialties include marital problems, depression, anxiety, adolescent issues, women's issues, parenting, crisis management, trauma-related cases such as domestic violence, physical or sexual abuse and many other issues. I am committed to helping my clients feel better and make changes easily, and I have the skills and passion to assist you in making better decisions. I am bilingual in Spanish. I can offer my services in the office (during Covid only telehealth), via Skype, via phone or in the comfort of your home or office. Available all day of the week.
My specialties include marital problems, depression, anxiety, adolescent issues, women's issues, parenting, crisis management, trauma-related cases such as domestic violence, physical or sexual abuse and many other issues. I am committed to helping my clients feel better and make changes easily, and I have the skills and passion to assist you in making better decisions. I am bilingual in Spanish. I can offer my services in the office (during Covid only telehealth), via Skype, via phone or in the comfort of your home or office. Available all day of the week.
(909) 610-3952 View (909) 610-3952
Photo of Love Thyself Social Services Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Love Thyself Social Services Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
LT provides assistance in Mental Health, Domestic Violence, Drug & Alcohol, Homelessness, HIV, Sex Trafficking, Grief & Loss, Divorce, Depression, PTSD, Biblical Counseling, Trauma, Ex-Offenders, Anger Management and Veterans.
For over 15 years, Love Thyself Social Services Inc. has served the minority community through community outreach by providing the necessity of support to those who are neglected, underserved, and in need of psychosocial healing. By working to eliminate psychosocial barriers and support healing, we eagerly strive toward timely intervention for both the individual and family. We help individuals and families of all ethnicities and background to achieve mental stability and awareness of self. Now serving Teens, Couples, Individuals, Families.
LT provides assistance in Mental Health, Domestic Violence, Drug & Alcohol, Homelessness, HIV, Sex Trafficking, Grief & Loss, Divorce, Depression, PTSD, Biblical Counseling, Trauma, Ex-Offenders, Anger Management and Veterans.
For over 15 years, Love Thyself Social Services Inc. has served the minority community through community outreach by providing the necessity of support to those who are neglected, underserved, and in need of psychosocial healing. By working to eliminate psychosocial barriers and support healing, we eagerly strive toward timely intervention for both the individual and family. We help individuals and families of all ethnicities and background to achieve mental stability and awareness of self. Now serving Teens, Couples, Individuals, Families.
(310) 929-6176 View (310) 929-6176
Photo of Ken Seman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Ken Seman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SAP
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90230
Many of my clients suffer from anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, substance abuse and relationship conflicts.
It is my experience after practicing over 24 years that it is not so much what you think that is important rather it is how you feel. We are motivated by our feelings. A thought is usually not sufficient to initiate lasting change unless it is connected to a feeling. Psychotherapy is usually sought when the individual is in crisis and feels overwhelmed. When an individual is overwhelmed it is like being overloaded with more hurt then can be lived with. The therapist is a catalyst to help the individual integrate their feelings and thoughts and to live in the present.
Many of my clients suffer from anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, substance abuse and relationship conflicts.
It is my experience after practicing over 24 years that it is not so much what you think that is important rather it is how you feel. We are motivated by our feelings. A thought is usually not sufficient to initiate lasting change unless it is connected to a feeling. Psychotherapy is usually sought when the individual is in crisis and feels overwhelmed. When an individual is overwhelmed it is like being overloaded with more hurt then can be lived with. The therapist is a catalyst to help the individual integrate their feelings and thoughts and to live in the present.
(424) 345-1381 View (424) 345-1381
Photo of Sara Mehrabani, Psychologist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Sara Mehrabani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Playa Vista, CA 90094
I specialize in trauma, depression, and anxiety.
I believe the most important factors in the therapeutic relationship are compassion, acceptance, and collaboration. Through this type of relationship, I will create an environment where you feel safe and understood, and therefore ready to make effective change. My approach to therapy is strength- based and I will combine psychotherapy interventions with practical and personalized approaches to help you meet your unique needs. My therapy practice is based in the strongest research as well as specialized training in evidence based treatments.
I specialize in trauma, depression, and anxiety.
I believe the most important factors in the therapeutic relationship are compassion, acceptance, and collaboration. Through this type of relationship, I will create an environment where you feel safe and understood, and therefore ready to make effective change. My approach to therapy is strength- based and I will combine psychotherapy interventions with practical and personalized approaches to help you meet your unique needs. My therapy practice is based in the strongest research as well as specialized training in evidence based treatments.
(323) 271-4437 View (323) 271-4437
Photo of Charles B Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Charles B Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230
Embark on a transformative journey towards a more fulfilling, uplifting, and enjoyable life with the guidance of a seasoned psychotherapist. Life’s journey inevitably includes challenges—stress, anxiety, depression, and moments of helplessness that can be overwhelming. While many paths can be navigated alone, there are times when professional support is essential to restoring balance and direction. As your therapist, I offer more than just coping strategies; I provide a compassionate space to listen and actively support your growth. Whether you're overcoming adversity, dealing with mood disorders, or managing life’s uncertainties
Embark on a transformative journey towards a more fulfilling, uplifting, and enjoyable life with the guidance of a seasoned psychotherapist. Life’s journey inevitably includes challenges—stress, anxiety, depression, and moments of helplessness that can be overwhelming. While many paths can be navigated alone, there are times when professional support is essential to restoring balance and direction. As your therapist, I offer more than just coping strategies; I provide a compassionate space to listen and actively support your growth. Whether you're overcoming adversity, dealing with mood disorders, or managing life’s uncertainties
(310) 421-9655 View (310) 421-9655
Photo of Craig M. Hands, Psychologist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Craig M. Hands
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
For over 20 years, I have assisted scores of individuals with relationship conflicts, anxiety, depression, personal losses, internal emptiness and confusion, and work-related difficulties.
Self-destructive lifestyle patterns? Can't find a meaningful relationship? My emphasis is on addressing the underlying meanings that generate personal distress while interpreting how these meanings produce and perpetuate less than optimal life circumstances. We will focus on issues related to your unique life situation by employing non-judgmental insight, relational and cognitive therapeutic approaches.
For over 20 years, I have assisted scores of individuals with relationship conflicts, anxiety, depression, personal losses, internal emptiness and confusion, and work-related difficulties.
Self-destructive lifestyle patterns? Can't find a meaningful relationship? My emphasis is on addressing the underlying meanings that generate personal distress while interpreting how these meanings produce and perpetuate less than optimal life circumstances. We will focus on issues related to your unique life situation by employing non-judgmental insight, relational and cognitive therapeutic approaches.
(424) 254-0170 View (424) 254-0170
Photo of Lorna G Gregory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Lorna G Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90230  (Online Only)
As a psychotherapist of 20+ years, I address many issues but specialize in depression, stress and anxiety, low self-esteem and confidence.
Everyone has mental health! Good mental health is the foundation of life. There exists a vast number of individuals with varying degrees of uniqueness, including strengths and areas needing work (issues and challenges). There are those who have goals and an idea of what they need and want. Then there are those who have no idea what they need and want, but know they just want to be and feel better. Everyone wants to be heard, their experiences and feelings validated, and to be supported. This is where I step in...
As a psychotherapist of 20+ years, I address many issues but specialize in depression, stress and anxiety, low self-esteem and confidence.
Everyone has mental health! Good mental health is the foundation of life. There exists a vast number of individuals with varying degrees of uniqueness, including strengths and areas needing work (issues and challenges). There are those who have goals and an idea of what they need and want. Then there are those who have no idea what they need and want, but know they just want to be and feel better. Everyone wants to be heard, their experiences and feelings validated, and to be supported. This is where I step in...
(323) 538-6708 View (323) 538-6708
Photo of Kenneth M. Sabel, Psychologist in Marina Del Rey, CA
Kenneth M. Sabel
Psychologist, PsyD , SEP
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
(562) 372-6484 View (562) 372-6484

See more therapy options for Marina Del Rey

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.