top-rated Depression Therapist Los Angeles

DEPRESSION THERAPY in LOS ANGELES, CA

Takeaway: For some people, depression can make it difficult to complete day-to-day tasks. For others, it hangs out in the background, making you constantly question your purpose and direction. If this sounds like you, I’m here to help. I have 30+ years of experience providing depression therapy in Los Angeles, and I’d be honored to help you, too. Contact me today to get started.

depression therapy los angeles

Understanding depression

While the word "depression" is often used as a blanket term to describe feeling down or low, there are actually several different depressive disorders. Here's a look at some of the most common ones.

  • Major depressive disorder. Symptoms include sleep and appetite changes, feelings of worthlessness and guilt, lack of energy, trouble focusing, and more.

  • Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia). Symptoms are similar to major depression yet tend to be chronic vs. episodic.

  • Postpartum depression. Symptoms are similar to major depression and occur in the weeks to months following childbirth. Non-birthing parents can also experience postpartum depression.

  • Seasonal affective disorder. Symptoms are similar to major depression but their onset is specifically associated with a change in seasons.

  • Bipolar disorder. People with bipolar disorder vacillate between manic episodes (periods of elevated mood) and depressive episodes.

  • Related mental health disorders. Depression is also associated with other mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), drug and alcohol addiction, and more.

Please note that you do not need a diagnosed mental health disorder to benefit from therapy. If you're curious to see how counseling can help you, I invite you to reach out for a free consultation.

depression therapist los angeles

Meet Sally Stephens | Top-rated depression therapist in LA

Hi, I'm Dr. Sally Stephens.

Hi, I'm Sally. With nearly four decades of experience in mental health care, I'm passionate about helping high-achieving individuals heal from depression. It can be lonely when you're an outwardly successful person who's struggling internally. I'm here to offer you a safe, compassionate space, along with evidence-based practices, to help you feel better.

  • Credentials: Ph.D, J.D., Psy.D.

  • License number: California Licensed Clinical Psychologist #PSY26995

  • Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Grief, Infertility, Narcissistic Personality (NPD), Parenting, Pregnancy/Prenatal/Postpartum, Self-Esteem, Stress

  • Modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychoanalysis, Psychodynamic Therapy

  • Years in practice: 38

depression therapy los angeles

Why work with me

Therapy is a highly personal process, so it's important to choose a therapist who fits your needs. Here are a few reasons to consider my practice for depression treatment in Los Angeles.

01

I have extensive experience.

My diverse professional (and personal) experiences inform my current work as a therapist for depression. With training in specific therapeutic approaches and experience supporting a wide range of individuals, I'm confident that I can be of service to you as well.

02

I specialize in helping ambitious people.

Many people have a preconceived notion of what depression looks like: trouble getting out of bed, avoiding responsibilities, and withdrawing from others. While depression can present this way, it's much more discreet for many people. That's why I specialize in working with high achievers. I want you to know that I see your struggle and that I'm here to help.

03

I provide virtual depression care.

Your time, money, and energy are all valuable resources. Online psychotherapy helps preserve all three. Join sessions from the comfort of your own home without worrying about getting stuck in traffic or needing to leave the office early for an appointment.

FAQs about depression treatment

  • Different therapists use different modalities to treat depression. In my practice, I use a combination of methods including psychodynamic therapy, psychoanalysis, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

    Other clinicians may use methods like dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR), or other forms of therapy to treat depression.

    If you're experiencing persistent, severe depression, you may want to consider seeking a higher level of care before pursuing outpatient psychotherapy. Many mental health treatment centers offer intensive outpatient programs or inpatient programs depending on your needs.

  • Through using approaches like psychoanalysis and psychodynamic therapy, I help people get to the root of their depression symptoms. Often, early childhood experiences deeply impact us and can influence how we think, feel, and act even decades later.

    When we can pinpoint the source of your depression, we can then process your experiences and explore new ways for you to navigate the world. By using techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy, we can also introduce coping skills to help you manage any lingering symptoms.

  • Therapy is customized to your needs and goals, so each person may spend a different amount of time in treatment. Some people start to feel better after only a few sessions, while many spend several months in therapy. Others get support off and on for years.

    Unlike therapy at a private practice, care through depression treatment centers tends to be more structured and time-limited. An inpatient stay may last for a few days, and intensive outpatient treatment programs may run for several weeks. The goal of these programs is to help you reach a baseline where you can then engage in weekly or biweekly therapy.

    If you're not sure whether outpatient therapy or a depression treatment center is the right fit for your needs, I invite you to schedule a consultation.

Take the first step toward feeling like yourself again.

Seeking depression treatment is vulnerable and courageous, and I don't take my role as a therapist lightly. I'm dedicated to helping people improve their mental health and overall well-being so they can be more effective in their careers, community, and relationships.

Depression can leave you feeling lost and alone, but with therapy, you can reconnect to a sense of fulfillment and purpose. If you think we might be a good fit for each other, I encourage you to reach out. I look forward to hearing from you and hopefully supporting you in your journey.