Depression Counseling in El Cajon, CA.

Leading therapy for major depression, bipolar, postpartum depression, SAD and mood disorders in El Cajon, California.


Philip Kolba, MA LCPC NCC
Depression Counselor

Philip Kolba, MA LCPC NCC

Psychotherapist

In 92105 - Nearby to El Cajon.

Research shows that the most effective treatment for depression is psychotherapy. Depression can range from feeling down to major symptoms such as having trouble even getting out of bed or contemplating suicide (if you have suicidal thoughts or plans, call the National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-8255). Online counseling is effective for depression because it is easy to access: you can start treatment without even leaving the house.

David Peters, MS, MFT
Depression Counselor

David Peters, MS, MFT

Marriage and Family Therapist

In 92108 - Nearby to El Cajon.

If you are experiencing sadness that just won't go away, or a hopelessness that is immobilizing you, it may be clinical depression. There are a variety of very effective ways to treat depression, from cognitive therapy, exercise, nutritional supplements, biblio-therapy, or medication. The least effective is to get a medication from your primary physician and wait. I will help you plan a full intervention that will give you the earliest relief possible. Whether your depression is mild or crippling, I know how to take care of you. Sometimes, just getting to be listened to brings new hope and some relief. But we will do whatever it takes to bring you to health again.

Tami Chelew, MA, CSAT
Depression Counselor

Tami Chelew, MA, CSAT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - LMFT #79759

In 92131 - Nearby to El Cajon.

I am an Emotionally Focused therapist (EFT). Research shows that those who suffer from depression actually benefit quite well from EFT therapy. Depression can be very isolating. The pain of isolation is inherently traumatizing. We are meant to be in relationship with others. I work with indiviudals and couples who struggle with depression by strengthening their relationship so that there is a deeper felt sense that the person who is suffering from depression can experience that they do matter, that they are important, that they are cared for and loved by another. This helps create a more secure attachment to self and others which is therapeutic and needed for healing.

Kevin Fleming, Ph.D.
Depression Counselor

Kevin Fleming, Ph.D.

Coach/Change Agent/Consultant

In 92101 - Nearby to El Cajon.

Grey Matters International, Inc. and the work of Kevin J. Fleming, Ph.D. handles depression and other emotional disorders in a very unique way. Most of therapy or counseling processes utilize validation, unconditional positive regard, and reframing as common techniques to get someone to heal from their depression. Though this can be helpful, it rarely fixes the core problem behind it and for tough cases we then refer them usually to a psychiatrist for medication which can have tons of side effects. Instead, why not try a natural and arguably more effective way to not just change your mind, but change the brain--where the depression is rooted. Contact us at kevin@kevinflemingphd.com.

Sara Fischer Sanford, LCSW, CCTP
Depression Counselor

Sara Fischer Sanford, LCSW, CCTP

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Available for Online Therapy

Are you feeling sad? Hopeless? Worthless? Are you struggling to find motivation? How about the energy needed to connect with friends? Or are you feeling isolated? All of these (and more) are very common symptoms of depression. As your therapist, I will use CBT therapy to improve your quality of life. I love using CBT for depression because it makes common sense. We learn to notice those negative thoughts. Then we learn together which thoughts are hurting you and causing you to feel emotional pain. Lastly, we work together to change and replace those thoughts with something better. It's not a magical cure, but this is a long-standing and proven technique for depression and I find it helpful!

Brian Jones, AMFT
Depression Counselor

Brian Jones, AMFT

Brian La Roy Jones, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist

Available for Online Therapy

First, it's important to me to understand what my clients mean by "depression" because how one client experiences depression can be very different than another client. This is necessary so I can customize the strategies I use for each specific client based on their unique experience of depression. Ultimately, my clients can expect to discover real-world steps they can take to feel not just "less depressed" but better about their life - and more positive and hopeful.

Regina Knox, PH.D
Depression Counselor

Regina Knox, PH.D

Marriage & Family Therapist

In 91942 - Nearby to El Cajon.

Dr. Regina Knox brings an innovative and empathetic approach to Depression Counseling and Treatment. Understanding that depression is not a one-size-fits-all ailment, Dr. Knox delves deep into the unique contexts and factors influencing each client's mental health. By employing a combination of evidence-based techniques and personalized therapeutic strategies, she provides clients with the tools and insights necessary to confront and manage their symptoms. Her warm and nurturing environment allows clients to express themselves freely, ensuring they feel validated and heard. Through her expert guidance, individuals are empowered to reclaim joy, resilience, and equilibrium in their lives.

Gita Seshadri, Ph.D, LMFT
Depression Counselor

Gita Seshadri, Ph.D, LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

In 92129 - Nearby to El Cajon.

I believe that as we grow up we are shaped by our relationships; this starts from the time we are little and continues for the rest of our lives. Through these relationships we are also shaped by society. In being shaped we create various meaning from our experiences as well as receiving and giving instructions on how to live. When we form new relationships of any kind, this gets challenged; coming together and finding a path forward that celebrates all involved is the key to success. Sometimes this gets stalled through unspoken expectations and anticipated or unanticipated pressure related to sadness. Lets explore this!

Ronald Reichard, MA, MFT
Depression Counselor

Ronald Reichard, MA, MFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

In 91910 - Nearby to El Cajon.

Every person has times of sadness and discouragement, however if these feelings persist for long periods of time depression may result. Depression is like a weight that slows a person down and makes everything seem more difficult and strenuous. Depression can affect a person's ability to work, make decisions, focus, concentrate, sleep, eat and socialize. I have found that A key factor in effectively treating depression is motivation. In the first phase of treatment, I assist clients in finding small and simple ways to generate positive feelings as this provides hope that things can get better. Secondly, I assist clients in unloading or unpacking the issues that are weighing them down.

Rika Tanaka, Ph.D.
Depression Counselor

Rika Tanaka, Ph.D.

Licensed Psychologist

In 92118 - Nearby to El Cajon.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy effective for treating depression. Through CBT, we can learn how to identify and challenge thoughts that work to maintain our low mood and regain a sense of well-being and enjoyment in the things we do. As a skilled and experienced licensed psychologist, I can help clients find relief from symptoms, gain valuable skills tailored to their unique needs, and reestablish a sense of purpose, satisfaction, and joy in their lives.

John Kane, LMFT
Depression Counselor

John Kane, LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

In 92154 - Nearby to El Cajon.

I use several methods for helping you overcome depression. I support you in maintaining safety. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I help you to identify unhelpful thoughts and learn how to restructure your thoughts. I help you identify root causes of your depression and find ways to reduce their impact by replacing them with activities and relationships that support you in increased positive mood and personal responsibility. Depression can be comorbid with other issues you may be struggling with and I take a holistic approach to help you address what is needed in order to become a more fulfilled, and satisfied individual.

Ross L. Kellogg, LMFT
Depression Counselor

Ross L. Kellogg, LMFT

Licensed Individual, Marriage, and Family Therapist

In 92101 - Nearby to El Cajon.

I use a blend of cutting-edge therapeutic techniques such as sensorimotor psychotherapy, internal family systems, and object-relations psychotherapy to create a personalized healing journey. Focused on working with individuals who desire more permanent solutions to their emotional pain, my approach to depression therapy is as compassionate as it is transformative. By engaging with these specifically tailored methods, clients find themselves nurtured, understood, and empowered, unlocking new pathways to well-being and joy. This personalized care provides clients with a value-driven and life-enhancing experience that goes beyond traditional therapy.

Paul Santero, Psy. D.
Depression Counselor

Paul Santero, Psy. D.

Licensed Psychologist

In 92037 - Nearby to El Cajon.

Like most issues that people experience today, depression can be caused by un-resolved trauma in one's past. When trauma has not been processed and resolved it can leave a wound, and not delt with, can lead to other issues including depression. An effective way to treat depression is to look at and deal with unresolved trauma in the individuals past and present. An effective way to deal with trauma is through the technique called EMDR. I am trained through the EMDR Institute and have helped individuals process and heal the wounds left by their trauma experiences. When this occurs, the depression can subside and the individual feels better.

Cynthia Valentine, MA
Depression Counselor

Cynthia Valentine, MA

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

In 92116 - Nearby to El Cajon.

Depression is one of the most crippling mental health concerns out there. With therapy, we will look at the thoughts, feelings and behaviors contributing to your experience of depression. Depression puts a dark cloud on things that once were really important to you. In ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) we will look at what small actions you can take in order to have you doing the things that are important to you.

Madeleine Foster, MA, AMFT, APCC
Depression Counselor

Madeleine Foster, MA, AMFT, APCC

Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Available for Online Therapy

Depression can be debilitating and lonely. I understand the complexities of depression and have found that my psychodynamic, psychoanalytically-minded technique is very successful in treating depression. I have found psychotherapy to be very effective in helping individuals find a way to overcome their struggles and reclaim energy and purpose in their lives.

Aleksandra Drecun, Psy.D.
Depression Counselor

Aleksandra Drecun, Psy.D.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

In 92130 - Nearby to El Cajon.

Experiencing the symptoms of depression can be debilitating. Individuals do not have to suffer in silence with depression. Effective treatment is available to alleviate symptoms of depression. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a research-validated treatment approach to eradicating depression. Freeing oneself from depression will allow the individual to reclaim their life, improve their mood and return to a previous level of functioning. Living free of depression is essential to attaining a high quality of life and a meaningful existence.

Sue Cates, MA, LMFT
Depression Counselor

Sue Cates, MA, LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

In 92014 - Nearby to El Cajon.

Are you sad? Having trouble functioning? Has life lost it's meaning? Are you outwardly successful yet wondering "Is that all there is?" Although many of us feel down from time to time, depression can sometimes feel debilitating. Depression has many causes. My approach includes work on various levels: emotional, relational, cognitive, and spiritual. Therapy can help you be mindful of your experiences, your emotions and your thought patterns, have compassion with yourself, develop resilience and hopefulness and get you back to living the life you desire.

Kimberly Koljat, LMFT, LIMFT-S, RPT-S, RDT
Depression Counselor

Kimberly Koljat, LMFT, LIMFT-S, RPT-S, RDT

Licensed Independent Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor

Available for Online Therapy

Working with the experience of depression is much more than changing our thoughts to change our behavior. Our brains are wired to notice the negative; it's part of our survival. I support my clients in expanding what they notice, and help them discover what works for them by creating a tool kit through experiential relational interventions in session. When I see children, I utilize play therapy as the modality, including Child Centered Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, and Prescriptive Play Therapy. When working with adolescents and adults, I utilize expressive arts, DBT, CBT and Narrative Therapy.

Roxanne Strauss, M.A., LMFT
Depression Counselor

Roxanne Strauss, M.A., LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

In 92020 - Nearby to El Cajon.

Understanding that there are different types of depression, different levels of severity, and various causes, I work with each individual to assess what kind of depression they are experiencing and possible causes. Often anxiety and depression occur together. Along with providing a safe, non-judgmental place and therapeutic relationship for people to talk about their depressive feelings/emotions and experience, I also utilize research-based therapies that have proven effective for treating depression and anxiety.

Well Coached Life, PhD, MA, SEP
Depression Counselor

Well Coached Life, PhD, MA, SEP

WELL COACHED LIFE| Individuals | Couples | Youth

Available for Online Therapy

I work with a depressed nervous system by working with the body. Often we struggle to sleep, eat, or accomplish relatively simple tasks. Our bodies are stuck with the brake on. When our body thinks it is futile, out mind follows quickly thereafter and we begin to tell ourselves how pointless things are and how worthless we are. I work with the whole body to re-regulate the body to enable you to get back to a whole integrated self.


You Have Found The Best Therapists for Depression and Mood Issues in El Cajon, CA.

Are you ready to experience new freedom? Thank you for visiting our California search of licensed therapists in El Cajon who specialize in helping people overcome sadness, treat major depression and mood disorders such as bipolar, postpartum depression, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Feeling down, lonely, and depressed can affect us at any station in life. Sometimes the cause may be physiological (such as hormonal or due to medication), it may be emotional, environmental, psychological or any combination of the above. Counseling for recovery and restoration from depression by a top rated therapist in El Cajon will help you climb back up and start living your dreams again.

El Cajon is located in San Diego County, California. It has a land area of 14.48 square miles and a water area of 0.00 square miles.  The population of El Cajon is 103,679 people with 32,564 households and a median annual income of $45,925. .


Therapy Affordability Meter for El Cajon, CA

Some budgeting needed

While counseling can certainly be an expense for individuals and families in El Cajon, with proper budgeting, it is entirely do-able and the risk/reward is worth it. For some families, it may be difficult to sustain a commitment to therapy without proper insurance coverage. If this is you, ask your therapist about low cost options as practitoners in and around El Cajon may have flexibility or sliding scales. Low cost counseling and affordable therapy are also sometimes offered by listed city and university level clinics, check with your local El Cajon public health department.