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Helping You Break Free from Depression and Reclaim Joy Request A Call Back
about me

Dr. Harel Papikian

Psychologist, PsyD

Dr. Harel Papikian is a licensed clinical psychologist based in Los Angeles, bringing over 15 years of expertise in helping individuals navigate and heal from depression. Known for his integrative approach, Dr. Harel blends openness with clinical precision, drawing on highly effective methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Time-Line Therapy. His work is deeply rooted in the belief that with the right collaborative approach, emotional healing is not only possible, but likely. In the past 15 years of his practice, numerous clients have rediscovered joy, rebuilt confidence, and shaped a life rich with purpose, meaning, and connection.

about me

Dr. Harel Papikian

Psychologist, PsyD

Dr. Harel is truly remarkable! The most productive work I’ve done with any therapist. Grateful for his approach and expertise. So much clarity after each session. Easy to communicate and schedule appointments with. Highly recommend!! Thank you Dr. Harel for everything!
Tetiana Kyryienko
05:37 09 Dec 24
Dr.Harel is the best! I am participating in his Soul to Soulmate program and it’s life changing!!!Thank you so much for all you are doing !!!
Tanya Lishchenko
05:48 03 Nov 24
Dima Korniychuk
22:53 13 Sep 24
I can’t recommend Dr. Harel enough. He made me feel truly heard and understood. He helped me gain new perspectives and make real progress in my personal growth and overall wellbeing. Dr. Harel is compassionate, skilled, and genuinely invested in helping me navigate life’s challenges. Deeply thankful.
guillermo fornillo
05:43 14 Aug 24
The professionalism of Dr. Harel helped me to navigate challenging situations related to myself and my relationship, He made me realized that communication is the key that can open doors of understanding and loveI highly recommend his sessions, pure gold !Thank you so so muchGuillermo
Steven Binns, Jr.
00:20 06 Aug 24
Dr. Harel is an insightful, attentive therapist who has the experience and wisdom to provide exceptional care. Trust, patience and competence are some of the top virtues he possesses. I can say with confidence he is the right therapist for you.
Gilberto Correa
22:09 28 Jul 24
Dr. Harel has really helped me navigate through the “constantly changing waters” of a relationship turning every crisis into a growth opportunity. I am always learning about me, my relationship and my partner. A great psychotherapist and relationship coach which I recommend without hesitation.
David Bagdasaryan
05:22 23 Jul 24
Dr. Harel’s guidance and expertise were exactly what I needed to find healing and growth. For anyone in Los Angeles needing couples therapy or relationship coaching, Dr. Harel is the ideal choice.
irina rudenko
20:37 14 Jul 24
I reached out to Dr. Harel during significant challenges in my life. His support, guidance and skill were what I needed to heal and grow. Anyone who is looking for a couples therapy or relationship coaching in Los Angeles - he is your guy.
Oleksandryna Denysenko
20:37 14 Jul 24
Dr. Harel is an exceptional coach and couple therapist. During our conversations he guided me in developing strategies for progress in both my personal life and my relationships. He met me with empathy and understanding, highlighting areas for improvement and offering processes and tools for me to reach my goals. It has been transformational. He is the best!

What Is Depression & How Does It Affect Your Life?

Understanding Depression
Depression is more than feeling sad—it’s a persistent emotional state that can impact your daily life. Common symptoms include low mood, fatigue, hopelessness, irritability, and a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.

The Ripple Effect
Left untreated, depression can strain relationships, reduce motivation at work, and interfere with focus and productivity. It can also affect sleep, appetite, and overall physical health, making it harder to cope and connect with the world around you.

What You Can Expect in Depression Therapy?

Dr. Harel’s ARM Model for Treating Depression

  • Awareness

    Identifying emotional patterns, core beliefs, and internal dialogue that fuel depression.

    Understanding the roots of your emotional experience —whether situational, developmental, or trauma-based

  • Release

    Use of Time-Line Therapy to release unresolved negative emotions: sadness, grief, resentment, guilt, fear, and shame

    Replacing negative beliefs with empowering ones

  • Mastery

    Visioning a life beyond depression - stepping into our full power

    Anchoring new emotional states and healthy behaviors

Frequently Asked Questions About Premarital Counseling

You might benefit from depression therapy if you’re experiencing some of the following:

  • Persistent sadness or low mood that doesn’t seem to lift
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed
  • Fatigue or low energy, even after rest
  • Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt
  • Changes in sleep or appetite—sleeping too much or too little, eating more or less than usual
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
  • Withdrawing from friends, family, or responsibilities
  • Thoughts of self-harm or feeling like life is overwhelming

Everyone experiences these feelings differently. If you’ve noticed these signs lasting more than a couple of weeks or interfering with your daily life, therapy can offer relief, support, and a path forward.

The length of premarital counseling naturally varies from couple to couple. For most, dedicating 2 to 4 months of weekly sessions provides a meaningful opportunity to strengthen connection, deepen understanding, and thoughtfully prepare for the journey ahead.

The fee for depression therapy varies depending on qualifications, experience and expertise of the provider. In our clinic the fees range from $200-250 for a 50 minute session

Personal results may vary, however, on average, most clients see improvement within first 5 sessions and are able to successfully complete depression therapy within 2-3 months of weekly work.

Your first session is dedicated to gaining a thoughtful understanding of your current experience and personal history. Together, we’ll explore the factors that may be contributing to your depression and symptoms, laying the foundation for a therapy process that’s tailored to your unique story.

All therapy sessions are confidential, and what you share stays between you and your therapist. However, there are important legal and ethical limits to that confidentiality. If you disclose that you are at risk of harming yourself or someone else, or report abuse or neglect involving a child or vulnerable adult, your therapist is required to take steps to ensure everyone’s safety. In such cases, protecting life and well-being takes precedence.

That’s a thoughtful and common question. For many people, therapy alone can be highly effective in treating depression—especially when it provides tools to understand the root causes, shift unhelpful patterns, and build emotional resilience.

However, in some cases—particularly when symptoms are severe or persistent—medication may be a helpful complement to therapy. The decision is highly personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. In therapy, we can explore your specific experience and, if needed, collaborate with a psychiatrist to ensure you receive the support that best fits your needs and goals.

Insurance coverage for depression therapy varies depending on your specific plan and provider. Many insurance plans do offer benefits for mental health services, including therapy, but coverage levels, copays, and session limits can differ widely. It’s always a good idea to check directly with your insurance company to understand your benefits. 

Dr. Harel’s clinic operates on a private-pay basis and does not bill insurance companies directly. Payment is due at the time of each session. If your insurance plan covers out-of-network providers, we will provide the documentation needed for you to submit a claim for partial reimbursement.

Yes, online video therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions for treating depression. Many clients find the convenience and comfort of connecting from home helps them engage more openly and consistently in therapy. With secure video platforms, therapists can provide personalized, compassionate care that supports healing and growth—no matter where you are. Ultimately, the success of therapy depends on the therapeutic relationship and your commitment, both of which can thrive in a virtual setting.