Depression Psychiatrists in Alameda County, CA

Photo of Emily Toch, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
Emily Toch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Mindfulness, PTSD and Post Traumatic Growth Bipolar Disorder.
Dr. Toch is deeply committed to the care of her patients. She believes in a collaborative, thoughtful, and humanistic approach to treatment, offering more than just a neurobiological perspective on the wide range of mental health, relationship, and unique life circumstances that bring patients to her door. She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar illness, grief and loss, and difficulties with relationships and life transitions. She has experience with women's mental health issues and also offers the possibility of combining medication with psychotherapy when clinically indicated.
Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Mindfulness, PTSD and Post Traumatic Growth Bipolar Disorder.
Dr. Toch is deeply committed to the care of her patients. She believes in a collaborative, thoughtful, and humanistic approach to treatment, offering more than just a neurobiological perspective on the wide range of mental health, relationship, and unique life circumstances that bring patients to her door. She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar illness, grief and loss, and difficulties with relationships and life transitions. She has experience with women's mental health issues and also offers the possibility of combining medication with psychotherapy when clinically indicated.
(628) 212-6828 View (628) 212-6828
Photo of Psychiatrist Center for ADHD, Anxiety & Depression, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
Psychiatrist Center for ADHD, Anxiety & Depression
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Top Board Certified Psychiatrist Physician specializing in ADHD, Anxiety and Depression. Dr. Alex has over 15 years of experience treating Adults and Adolescents. He serves all of California including the cities of San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon, Danville. Dr Alex has expertise in psychiatry and can prescribe medications if needed. If you are seeking help and looking for a doctor who is attentive, caring and knowledgeable then please call our office at 925-425-0191 for more information or visit us at www.DrAlexOffice.com
Top Board Certified Psychiatrist Physician specializing in ADHD, Anxiety and Depression. Dr. Alex has over 15 years of experience treating Adults and Adolescents. He serves all of California including the cities of San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, San Ramon, Danville. Dr Alex has expertise in psychiatry and can prescribe medications if needed. If you are seeking help and looking for a doctor who is attentive, caring and knowledgeable then please call our office at 925-425-0191 for more information or visit us at www.DrAlexOffice.com
(925) 425-0191 View (925) 425-0191
Photo of Miriam Lundy, Psychiatric Nurse in Alameda County, CA
Miriam Lundy
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, NP
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I have extensive experience in individual psychotherapy and medication management. I believe in healing and growth through self-knowledge and that care must be individualized to suit each client's needs. I work with clients suffering from depression & mood disturbance, anxiety and addiction. My other specialties include young adult issues/college students, relationship issues, eating issues, women's health and perinatal mental health concerns.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I have extensive experience in individual psychotherapy and medication management. I believe in healing and growth through self-knowledge and that care must be individualized to suit each client's needs. I work with clients suffering from depression & mood disturbance, anxiety and addiction. My other specialties include young adult issues/college students, relationship issues, eating issues, women's health and perinatal mental health concerns.
(510) 254-3506 View (510) 254-3506
Photo of The Focus Doc, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612
specializes in treating cognitive issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Brain Fog, Depression, OCD, and PTSD.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
specializes in treating cognitive issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Brain Fog, Depression, OCD, and PTSD.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(341) 444-2317 View (341) 444-2317
Photo of Elizabeth Mole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Alameda County, CA
Elizabeth Mole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588  (Online Only)
Dr. Mole, DNP, PMHNP-BC, has an extensive background in treating a wide range of mental health issues, from depression to schizophrenia, ensuring that each patient receives care tailored to their specific needs. Her approach is not just about addressing symptoms but nurturing overall wellness, leveraging cutting-edge treatments and a compassionate, understanding demeanor to foster healing and growth. With a Doctorate of Nursing from Johns Hopkins University and a Masters in Nursing from UCSF, Dr. Mole, DNP, PMHNP-BC, brings over a decade of experience. She is board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Dr. Mole, DNP, PMHNP-BC, has an extensive background in treating a wide range of mental health issues, from depression to schizophrenia, ensuring that each patient receives care tailored to their specific needs. Her approach is not just about addressing symptoms but nurturing overall wellness, leveraging cutting-edge treatments and a compassionate, understanding demeanor to foster healing and growth. With a Doctorate of Nursing from Johns Hopkins University and a Masters in Nursing from UCSF, Dr. Mole, DNP, PMHNP-BC, brings over a decade of experience. She is board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
(925) 489-0912 View (925) 489-0912
Photo of Lily Allen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Alameda County, CA
Lily Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705  (Online Only)
In psychiatric mental health since 2016, I specialize in combination medication management and brief therapy for patients who suffer from trauma, depression and anxiety. I offer a supportive, open environment for my patients. LGBTQAI+ and neurodivergent clients most welcome! I am a certified autism spectrum disorder clinical specialist. In addition, I offer non-judgmental alcohol and substance abuse medication management, as well.
In psychiatric mental health since 2016, I specialize in combination medication management and brief therapy for patients who suffer from trauma, depression and anxiety. I offer a supportive, open environment for my patients. LGBTQAI+ and neurodivergent clients most welcome! I am a certified autism spectrum disorder clinical specialist. In addition, I offer non-judgmental alcohol and substance abuse medication management, as well.
(341) 888-7107 View (341) 888-7107
Photo of The Focus Doc, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dublin, CA 94568
specializes in treating cognitive issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Brain Fog, Depression, OCD, and PTSD.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
specializes in treating cognitive issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Brain Fog, Depression, OCD, and PTSD.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(925) 732-5834 View (925) 732-5834
Photo of Bradley Engwall, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
Bradley Engwall
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
While I am not accepting patients interested only in medication treatment, I am accepting patients seeking: neurofeedback and/or psychotherapy for depression or traumas with medication as appropriate.
I'm a board-certified, integrative pediatric and adult psychiatrist. I work with people interested in targetting root causes of suffering as much as possible. We know that for many, the roots can be psychological and in brain connections/wiring. New therapies allow us to target both of these more than ever.: Neurofeedback, TMS, Genetic and EEG markers that can personalize lifestyle, supplement and medication treatment. When properly used in the right setting, ketamine is known to dramatically speed up psychotherapy progress.
While I am not accepting patients interested only in medication treatment, I am accepting patients seeking: neurofeedback and/or psychotherapy for depression or traumas with medication as appropriate.
I'm a board-certified, integrative pediatric and adult psychiatrist. I work with people interested in targetting root causes of suffering as much as possible. We know that for many, the roots can be psychological and in brain connections/wiring. New therapies allow us to target both of these more than ever.: Neurofeedback, TMS, Genetic and EEG markers that can personalize lifestyle, supplement and medication treatment. When properly used in the right setting, ketamine is known to dramatically speed up psychotherapy progress.
(510) 296-5086 View (510) 296-5086
Photo of Joan Fraino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Alameda County, CA
Joan Fraino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, NP-C
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566  (Online Only)
Dr. Joan Fraino, DNP, PMHNP has extensive experience working with clients suffering from mild to severe mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, and other mood disorders.
Dr. Joan Fraino, DNP, PMHNP has extensive experience working with clients suffering from mild to severe mental health disorders including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, psychosis, and other mood disorders.
(925) 271-9179 View (925) 271-9179
Photo of Uchenna Okoye, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
Uchenna Okoye
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(925) 293-9636 View (925) 293-9636
Photo of Catalina Villa, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
Catalina Villa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is a challenging thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here, and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now, welcoming new patients!
(925) 940-7004 View (925) 940-7004
Kalia Rothlind
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94709
I have extensive experience helping individuals with substance use issues and other mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and eating disorders. Working with clients in a variety of settings such as withdrawal management, residential and outpatient treatment programs has allowed me to help people navigate the various stages of change and recovery. Whether you are seeking mental health care for the first time, are returning to care after time away, or are looking to continue care with a new perspective, I will take a nonjudgemental and therapeutic approach to help you create a path to better health.
I have extensive experience helping individuals with substance use issues and other mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and eating disorders. Working with clients in a variety of settings such as withdrawal management, residential and outpatient treatment programs has allowed me to help people navigate the various stages of change and recovery. Whether you are seeking mental health care for the first time, are returning to care after time away, or are looking to continue care with a new perspective, I will take a nonjudgemental and therapeutic approach to help you create a path to better health.
(510) 973-4074 View (510) 973-4074
Photo of Rainbow Psychiatry - Rafik Sidaros, MD, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
Rainbow Psychiatry - Rafik Sidaros, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94702  (Online Only)
I am an MD, double Board-certified psychiatrist providing affirming care for LGBTQ+ patients seeking medication management for depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADHD and other conditions. I've worked with members of the community in different settings, including LGBTQ+ refugees and sexuality/gender based asylum seekers. My goal is to provide an environment where my patients can bring their full selves to their encounter with their physician. I accept patients from anywhere in California, my sessions are online. Find me on Instagram: rainbowpsychiatry
I am an MD, double Board-certified psychiatrist providing affirming care for LGBTQ+ patients seeking medication management for depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADHD and other conditions. I've worked with members of the community in different settings, including LGBTQ+ refugees and sexuality/gender based asylum seekers. My goal is to provide an environment where my patients can bring their full selves to their encounter with their physician. I accept patients from anywhere in California, my sessions are online. Find me on Instagram: rainbowpsychiatry
(415) 758-0932 View (415) 758-0932
Photo of Torri Taylor-Spencer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Alameda County, CA
Torri Taylor-Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607  (Online Only)
I help adolescents & adults with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, and ADHD who are seeking a return to a more positive emotional state with increased focus and productivity, better sleep, and more fulfillment and joy in their lives. I offer patient-centered holistic care that includes a unique blend of treatment modalities. I specialize in working with those part of vulnerable populations such as children, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities who have not had positive experiences with psychiatric treatment in the past, as well as working with peripartum women.
I help adolescents & adults with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, and ADHD who are seeking a return to a more positive emotional state with increased focus and productivity, better sleep, and more fulfillment and joy in their lives. I offer patient-centered holistic care that includes a unique blend of treatment modalities. I specialize in working with those part of vulnerable populations such as children, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized communities who have not had positive experiences with psychiatric treatment in the past, as well as working with peripartum women.
(661) 546-9103 View (661) 546-9103
Photo of Serena Wu, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
Serena Wu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
For adults, I treat psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, mania, OCD, impulse disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD and substance use disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and family doctor who provides supportive therapy and medication management. I believe in the thoughtful use of psychiatric medications grounded in the best available evidence based principles. I use a combination of medications and therapeutic modalities to help each client achieve their mental health goals. I believe that lifestyle, nutrition and also physical health all interplay to influence mental health. I am here to support clients in whatever stage they are in with compassion and empathy.
For adults, I treat psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, mania, OCD, impulse disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD and substance use disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and family doctor who provides supportive therapy and medication management. I believe in the thoughtful use of psychiatric medications grounded in the best available evidence based principles. I use a combination of medications and therapeutic modalities to help each client achieve their mental health goals. I believe that lifestyle, nutrition and also physical health all interplay to influence mental health. I am here to support clients in whatever stage they are in with compassion and empathy.
(510) 630-2371 View (510) 630-2371
Photo of Tara N Valenzuela, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Alameda County, CA
Tara N Valenzuela
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
Her quality improvement project improved outcomes for people with depression in a community health clinic through integration of care.
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC. is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, person-focused. This involves customized strategies that may begin with therapy and medication, and can involve holistic planning including nutrition and activity to treat the whole person. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing, and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy. Dr. Tara Valenzuela believes psychiatric treatment allows a life worth living to be lived.
Her quality improvement project improved outcomes for people with depression in a community health clinic through integration of care.
Dr. Tara Valenzuela DNP, PMHNP-BC. is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats mental health across the lifespan. Her treatments are healing-centered, education-forward, person-focused. This involves customized strategies that may begin with therapy and medication, and can involve holistic planning including nutrition and activity to treat the whole person. She aligns with the idea that Nursing is the facilitation of healing, and works to provide intervention, education, and advocacy. Dr. Tara Valenzuela believes psychiatric treatment allows a life worth living to be lived.
(415) 870-3670 View (415) 870-3670
Photo of K. Whitney Smith, MD, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
K. Whitney Smith, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
At times anxiety, depression, transitions in life or interpersonal relationships can begin to feel overwhelming. I provide therapy and, if appropriate, medications to assist individuals during these periods. My approach is warm, responsive and practical. My technique is based in psycho-dynamic theory and incorporates elements of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. My use of medications is thoughtful and aims to treat symptoms while minimizing side effects.
At times anxiety, depression, transitions in life or interpersonal relationships can begin to feel overwhelming. I provide therapy and, if appropriate, medications to assist individuals during these periods. My approach is warm, responsive and practical. My technique is based in psycho-dynamic theory and incorporates elements of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. My use of medications is thoughtful and aims to treat symptoms while minimizing side effects.
(415) 275-8280 View (415) 275-8280
Photo of Kate Benham-Suk, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
Kate Benham-Suk
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I treat adults with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, panic disorder, relationship stress, identity issues, trauma, grief, and major life transitions.
I am a Columbia and UCSF trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist working in Oakland. I believe psychotherapy helps individuals attain greater self-understanding, feel more fully alive, and develop stronger relationships. I utilize a variety of modalities, but with an emphasis on psychodynamic psychotherapy. This means we will explore your conscious and unconscious thoughts and motivations. Medication is also a tool that can be helpful, and I prescribe it where indicated, in collaboration with the goals and preferences of my patients.
I treat adults with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, panic disorder, relationship stress, identity issues, trauma, grief, and major life transitions.
I am a Columbia and UCSF trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist working in Oakland. I believe psychotherapy helps individuals attain greater self-understanding, feel more fully alive, and develop stronger relationships. I utilize a variety of modalities, but with an emphasis on psychodynamic psychotherapy. This means we will explore your conscious and unconscious thoughts and motivations. Medication is also a tool that can be helpful, and I prescribe it where indicated, in collaboration with the goals and preferences of my patients.
(510) 272-7374 View (510) 272-7374
Photo of Maryam Eskandari, M.D., Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
Maryam Eskandari, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706
My specialties include: •Depression; •Anxiety; •Cancer diagnosis, treatment, living & coping with cancer; •Being a family member, friend, parent, sibling, child or caregiver of someone with cancer; •Self-confidence & self-esteem issues; •Relationship & interpersonal issues; •Existential issues (finding meaning in our lives knowing that we do not live forever); •Issues of death & dying.
I see my patients first and foremost in a humanistic way as people, not simply as patients or their diagnoses. As such, I offer patients comprehensive treatment, not just from a neurobiological perspective, but also a from a humanistic one. I approach my patients with compassion, respect and a commitment to confidentiality. Some of the biggest obstacles to attainting self-awareness and self-acceptance are deeply buried feelings of guilt and shame. Working with a psychotherapist you trust, who is curious, empathic and understanding can help you expand your capacity for self-curiosity, self-awareness and self-acceptance, which in turn can help you expand your capacity to: •examine, understand & change problematic patterns in your life; •make choices freely & actively, instead of reactively; •ultimately lead a more thoughtful, authentic & fulfilling life.
My specialties include: •Depression; •Anxiety; •Cancer diagnosis, treatment, living & coping with cancer; •Being a family member, friend, parent, sibling, child or caregiver of someone with cancer; •Self-confidence & self-esteem issues; •Relationship & interpersonal issues; •Existential issues (finding meaning in our lives knowing that we do not live forever); •Issues of death & dying.
I see my patients first and foremost in a humanistic way as people, not simply as patients or their diagnoses. As such, I offer patients comprehensive treatment, not just from a neurobiological perspective, but also a from a humanistic one. I approach my patients with compassion, respect and a commitment to confidentiality. Some of the biggest obstacles to attainting self-awareness and self-acceptance are deeply buried feelings of guilt and shame. Working with a psychotherapist you trust, who is curious, empathic and understanding can help you expand your capacity for self-curiosity, self-awareness and self-acceptance, which in turn can help you expand your capacity to: •examine, understand & change problematic patterns in your life; •make choices freely & actively, instead of reactively; •ultimately lead a more thoughtful, authentic & fulfilling life.
(415) 789-3595 View (415) 789-3595
Photo of Jamie Lacsina, Psychiatrist in Alameda County, CA
Jamie Lacsina
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I have experience working with a vast array of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, and addiction. I am particularly interested in women's mental health as well as reproductive psychiatry. I utilize both psychopharmacologic forms of treatment as well as psychodynamic, DBT informed, CBT styles of therapy. I am originally from the Bay Area. I studied Genetics at UC Davis. I then went on to obtain my Masters Degree in Biophysics and Physiology at Georgetown University. I then returned to California where I obtained my medical degree from Touro University- CA.
I have experience working with a vast array of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, ADHD, OCD, and addiction. I am particularly interested in women's mental health as well as reproductive psychiatry. I utilize both psychopharmacologic forms of treatment as well as psychodynamic, DBT informed, CBT styles of therapy. I am originally from the Bay Area. I studied Genetics at UC Davis. I then went on to obtain my Masters Degree in Biophysics and Physiology at Georgetown University. I then returned to California where I obtained my medical degree from Touro University- CA.
(510) 698-8241 View (510) 698-8241

See more therapy options for Alameda County

Depression Psychiatrists

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.