Depression Psychiatrists in Willowbrook, IL
![Photo of Denise Garcia, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b1b369d-964c-43df-a0a4-73b9b8b32664/1/320x400.jpeg)
Garcia can also prescribe medication and provide care to children, adolescents, and adults with issues such as ADHD, OCD, generalized anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
Dr. Denise Garcia is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2021. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from Resurrection University and her Doctorate Degree in Nursing from Rush University College of Nursing. Dr. Garcia is certified in psychiatry across the lifespan and is trained to work with different populations. She can provide services like psychiatric evaluations, assessments, and order laboratory tests/imagining.
Garcia can also prescribe medication and provide care to children, adolescents, and adults with issues such as ADHD, OCD, generalized anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.
Dr. Denise Garcia is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2021. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from Resurrection University and her Doctorate Degree in Nursing from Rush University College of Nursing. Dr. Garcia is certified in psychiatry across the lifespan and is trained to work with different populations. She can provide services like psychiatric evaluations, assessments, and order laboratory tests/imagining.
![Photo of Gina Mathew, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6bab679-95b1-47e5-9c1c-b050477c020c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. I can help a client by providing optimal care through medication management and therapeutic skills. I am compassionate and firmly believe in implementing a holistic approach when treating individuals with mental health concerns. I believe in providing culturally sensitive care and treating clients with respect and dignity. Prior to joining LifeStance, I worked in an inpatient setting primarily with children and adolescents with behavioral issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. I can help a client by providing optimal care through medication management and therapeutic skills. I am compassionate and firmly believe in implementing a holistic approach when treating individuals with mental health concerns. I believe in providing culturally sensitive care and treating clients with respect and dignity. Prior to joining LifeStance, I worked in an inpatient setting primarily with children and adolescents with behavioral issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
![Photo of Madiha Shabbir - NeuroMod Health, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9966e9a-84b0-4715-895f-6d7be9debb27/1/320x400.jpeg)
We offer transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression. TMS is typically used when other depression treatments haven't been effective. TMS can be a good alternative for you, especially if you have had issues tolerating medications, or are not fully helped by medications or simply want to try a different approach for your treatment.
We offer transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression. TMS is typically used when other depression treatments haven't been effective. TMS can be a good alternative for you, especially if you have had issues tolerating medications, or are not fully helped by medications or simply want to try a different approach for your treatment.
![Photo of Chung Hsin 'sony' Hu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4859d46c-aa42-4478-b215-2b2a01318b62/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sony Hu, PMHNP-BC, is passionate about providing psychiatric care for people with multiple backgrounds. He started his psychiatric journey since 2015 and continues on today. He is happy to provide care for children, adolescents and adults. Please feel free to contact him if you or your child is experiencing anxiety, OCD, depression, mood instability, behavioral concerns, ADHD, sleep disturbances or psychosis. If you are unsure if you are experiencing a psychiatric symptom, Sony will be happy to help you navigate and explore your area of need.
Sony Hu, PMHNP-BC, is passionate about providing psychiatric care for people with multiple backgrounds. He started his psychiatric journey since 2015 and continues on today. He is happy to provide care for children, adolescents and adults. Please feel free to contact him if you or your child is experiencing anxiety, OCD, depression, mood instability, behavioral concerns, ADHD, sleep disturbances or psychosis. If you are unsure if you are experiencing a psychiatric symptom, Sony will be happy to help you navigate and explore your area of need.
![Photo of Susan Costello, DNP, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39bdae9c-74bd-488b-af8a-6f7a99157616/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Costello is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Rush University, a Master’s in Nursing Administration and Business Administration from Lewis University, a Bachelor’s in Science and Nursing from Elmhurst College, and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Moraine Valley Community College. Susan has worked in healthcare for 21 years and has well-rounded experience which helps her to have a unique perspective. Susan has always believed in providing the very best and compassionate care to her patients.
Susan Costello is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She has a Doctorate of Nursing Practice- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Rush University, a Master’s in Nursing Administration and Business Administration from Lewis University, a Bachelor’s in Science and Nursing from Elmhurst College, and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Moraine Valley Community College. Susan has worked in healthcare for 21 years and has well-rounded experience which helps her to have a unique perspective. Susan has always believed in providing the very best and compassionate care to her patients.
![Photo of Endia McDonald, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ea1ba28-6810-4289-b576-c185bd2c01f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Endia McDonald is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She obtained her Bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University and Master of Science in Nursing from DePaul University. She has several years of working in outpatient psychiatry. Endia believes every patient has their own unique set of roots, tied to a distinct biological and social story. Learning about these stories and working with her patients to overcome the challenges within them is what Endia enjoys most about her career.
Endia McDonald is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She obtained her Bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University and Master of Science in Nursing from DePaul University. She has several years of working in outpatient psychiatry. Endia believes every patient has their own unique set of roots, tied to a distinct biological and social story. Learning about these stories and working with her patients to overcome the challenges within them is what Endia enjoys most about her career.
![Photo of Sanjeev Dwivedi, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be63f4a2-4440-4a2b-82e0-45a88e41ddf2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sanjeev Dwivedi, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, believes you don't have to navigate mental health challenges on your own, and he is here to provide care to children, adolescents, and adults with issues such as OCD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Dr. Dwivedi completed his fellowship at the Institute for Juvenile Research and his residency at Chicago Medical School. Prior to joining LifeStance Health, Dr. Dwivedi served as a child psychiatrist for DuPage County and did research at Hines VA Hospital.
Dr. Sanjeev Dwivedi, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, believes you don't have to navigate mental health challenges on your own, and he is here to provide care to children, adolescents, and adults with issues such as OCD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. Dr. Dwivedi completed his fellowship at the Institute for Juvenile Research and his residency at Chicago Medical School. Prior to joining LifeStance Health, Dr. Dwivedi served as a child psychiatrist for DuPage County and did research at Hines VA Hospital.
![Photo of Janine Watters, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fa3e7aa-3855-4d99-8f50-0ada2e28dc5a/2/320x400.png)
Janine Watters is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC) based in Illinois. With a clinical focus spanning a broad age range from 6 to 65+, Janine has a particular affinity for adolescents and young adults. She possesses a wealth of expertise in addressing various mental health concerns and is committed to delivering individualized care. In her practice, Janine prioritizes thorough and genuine listening to understand the unique needs of her clients.
Janine Watters is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC) based in Illinois. With a clinical focus spanning a broad age range from 6 to 65+, Janine has a particular affinity for adolescents and young adults. She possesses a wealth of expertise in addressing various mental health concerns and is committed to delivering individualized care. In her practice, Janine prioritizes thorough and genuine listening to understand the unique needs of her clients.
![Photo of Aarti Mehta, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca8084d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Aarti Mehta
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Willowbrook, IL 60527
Not accepting new clients
In my practice, I strive to take a holistic approach to treatment. I focus on the biological aspects of treatment via medications when necessary, the psychological aspects of treatment via psychotherapy and the social aspects of treatment by inviting family and significant others to participate in treatment if the patient wishes. Psychiatric issues are much more complex than a single diagnosis, and I look forward the challenge of discovering the depth of each patient.
In my practice, I strive to take a holistic approach to treatment. I focus on the biological aspects of treatment via medications when necessary, the psychological aspects of treatment via psychotherapy and the social aspects of treatment by inviting family and significant others to participate in treatment if the patient wishes. Psychiatric issues are much more complex than a single diagnosis, and I look forward the challenge of discovering the depth of each patient.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Doris Nwoko, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36b0832a-3886-490d-bedc-24d7dcfb7cfc/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have partnered with individuals to diagnose and successfully treat symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, bipolar, mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, autism, behavior problems, alcoholism, and substance misuse or abuse disorders.
Have you ever wondered if you are being heard or searched for a care provider who can relate to your challenges? Are you in need of medication management - initiation, adjustments, and maintenance? I have several years of psychiatric and mental health experience working with individuals aged 5 to 65 and older adults in inpatient, residential, and outpatient settings with various mental health issues. My treatment approach embodies the individual's developmental and bio-psycho-social histories and how they contribute to illness.
I have partnered with individuals to diagnose and successfully treat symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, bipolar, mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, autism, behavior problems, alcoholism, and substance misuse or abuse disorders.
Have you ever wondered if you are being heard or searched for a care provider who can relate to your challenges? Are you in need of medication management - initiation, adjustments, and maintenance? I have several years of psychiatric and mental health experience working with individuals aged 5 to 65 and older adults in inpatient, residential, and outpatient settings with various mental health issues. My treatment approach embodies the individual's developmental and bio-psycho-social histories and how they contribute to illness.
![Photo of Michelle Heyland, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f788f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Heyland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523 (Online Only)
Please email to set up an initial appointment. I am a doctorally prepared, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have experience treating a variety of conditions such as such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and thought disorders. I specialize in depression and anxiety. I am also an Associate Professor at Rush University. I am accepting new adult (18+) patients at my practice. A key part of my role is medication management. However, I also spend time getting to know you as a person and determining the aspects of your life that are contributing to the way you feel.
Please email to set up an initial appointment. I am a doctorally prepared, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have experience treating a variety of conditions such as such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and thought disorders. I specialize in depression and anxiety. I am also an Associate Professor at Rush University. I am accepting new adult (18+) patients at my practice. A key part of my role is medication management. However, I also spend time getting to know you as a person and determining the aspects of your life that are contributing to the way you feel.
![Photo of Kirsten Book - Kirsten Book, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61b96c20-7f12-485e-ab38-5b13c68ed9d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kirsten Book, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I enjoy working with adolescents above the age of 12 and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, self-harm behaviors, and mood disorders.
Licensed in AZ, WA, and IL. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My treatment philosophy includes a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and other cognitive modalities to aid in recovery. I am confident that combining medication with other treatments is more effective than medication alone. I also believe a multidisciplinary treatment team approach with therapists and other professionals is optimal for the patient's recovery.
I enjoy working with adolescents above the age of 12 and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, self-harm behaviors, and mood disorders.
Licensed in AZ, WA, and IL. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My treatment philosophy includes a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and other cognitive modalities to aid in recovery. I am confident that combining medication with other treatments is more effective than medication alone. I also believe a multidisciplinary treatment team approach with therapists and other professionals is optimal for the patient's recovery.
![Photo of Michael McDowell, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MSBA, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b601dd91-d68d-45c6-9567-acf4b5569a0d/2/320x400.png)
Michael McDowell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, MSBA, MBA
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
In my practice, I prioritize providing psychiatric care through a combination of traditional methods and innovative treatments. I specialize in medication management and the administration of Spravato, an intranasal esketamine and the only FDA-approved psychedelic therapy on the market. Spravato is designed to help patients with treatment-resistant depression and major depression with suicidal thoughts or actions.
In my practice, I prioritize providing psychiatric care through a combination of traditional methods and innovative treatments. I specialize in medication management and the administration of Spravato, an intranasal esketamine and the only FDA-approved psychedelic therapy on the market. Spravato is designed to help patients with treatment-resistant depression and major depression with suicidal thoughts or actions.
![Photo of Dr. Karen DeCocker | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Spravato | Ketamine | Tms, PMHNP, DNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37dbb312-4021-49e1-89d6-6df16165cc13/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Karen DeCocker | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Sgb | Spravato | Ketamine | Tms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, CNM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westmont, IL 60559
I'm the Director of Advanced Practice Providers at Stella Center and oversee our assessment team. I became a nurse practitioner in 2007 after 10 years of hospital nursing experience. We specialize in identifying innovative treatments & therapies that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD & TBI. After completing a virtual assessment together that accounts for medical, biological, psychological & social factors, I provide individualized treatment recommendations across our protocols: the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block), ketamine infusions, TMS therapy, integration therapy, and more.
I'm the Director of Advanced Practice Providers at Stella Center and oversee our assessment team. I became a nurse practitioner in 2007 after 10 years of hospital nursing experience. We specialize in identifying innovative treatments & therapies that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD & TBI. After completing a virtual assessment together that accounts for medical, biological, psychological & social factors, I provide individualized treatment recommendations across our protocols: the dual sympathetic reset (an advanced stellate ganglion block), ketamine infusions, TMS therapy, integration therapy, and more.
![Photo of Marisa Serrato, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85d759e4-2b69-4332-8887-363062016d5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Serrato’s psychiatric services are typically most appropriate for mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety or depression, sleep problems, fatigue, eating concerns, obsessions and compulsions, chronic stress, attention problems/poor concentration, and low energy.
Dr. Marisa Serrato is committed to educating and empowering each person with the knowledge and tools they need to optimize their mental wellness and maximize their quality of life. Dr. Serrato strongly values working as a team with her patients, and believes that effective work together calls for ongoing communication as well as an understanding of each person’s unique perspective, biology, and experience. She has an expertise in College Mental Health and has focused her practice to the treatment of the emerging adult population.
Serrato’s psychiatric services are typically most appropriate for mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety or depression, sleep problems, fatigue, eating concerns, obsessions and compulsions, chronic stress, attention problems/poor concentration, and low energy.
Dr. Marisa Serrato is committed to educating and empowering each person with the knowledge and tools they need to optimize their mental wellness and maximize their quality of life. Dr. Serrato strongly values working as a team with her patients, and believes that effective work together calls for ongoing communication as well as an understanding of each person’s unique perspective, biology, and experience. She has an expertise in College Mental Health and has focused her practice to the treatment of the emerging adult population.
![Photo of Heather Miller | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Spravato | Sgb | Ketamine | Tms, APRN, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f41c72d0-3b57-45ab-956d-5ee696424212/1/320x400.png)
Heather Miller | Anxiety Depression Ptsd | Spravato | Sgb | Ketamine | Tms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
Hello, I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a provider at Stella Center. I completed my doctoral training at Rush University Medical Center. I understand that each patient must have an individualized treatment plan unique to their experience to bring true healing. I have worked with patients with severe childhood, combat, and sexual trauma. My practice is based on identifying root causes, setting individual goals, and cultivating hope and resilience. At Stella Center, I specialize in identifying innovative medical treatments & therapies that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a provider at Stella Center. I completed my doctoral training at Rush University Medical Center. I understand that each patient must have an individualized treatment plan unique to their experience to bring true healing. I have worked with patients with severe childhood, combat, and sexual trauma. My practice is based on identifying root causes, setting individual goals, and cultivating hope and resilience. At Stella Center, I specialize in identifying innovative medical treatments & therapies that can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
![Photo of Dr. Utpal Dhruve, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8c369e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Treatment of ADHD / ADD, Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment issues.
PeaklifeMD.com is a boutique clinic focused on life optimization. Our members feel they are not performing to their true potential at work, school, or home. Together, we will work to identify your concerns, goals, and strengths in order to make substantial progress towards achieving a better you.
Treatment of ADHD / ADD, Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment issues.
PeaklifeMD.com is a boutique clinic focused on life optimization. Our members feel they are not performing to their true potential at work, school, or home. Together, we will work to identify your concerns, goals, and strengths in order to make substantial progress towards achieving a better you.
![Photo of Sarah Simms, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, CPN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fe62f0b-e6f0-401d-b579-577a915563aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Simms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, CPN
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
We all need a little help sometimes, and reaching out for help can be unnerving. I understand this and offer a warm and compassionate approach to meet you right where you are. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or another mental health concern, I believe in the remission of your symptoms and that there is always hope, even for those struggling with treatment resistant depression.
We all need a little help sometimes, and reaching out for help can be unnerving. I understand this and offer a warm and compassionate approach to meet you right where you are. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or another mental health concern, I believe in the remission of your symptoms and that there is always hope, even for those struggling with treatment resistant depression.
![Photo of Krista Bedells, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d70b210b-cd17-45c6-b38c-97a179aa40f9/2/320x400.png)
Krista Bedells
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521 (Online Only)
She treats anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Krista Bedells is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Krista takes an empathic and compassionate approach to patient care. She strives to support patients so they can have a good quality of life and reach their fullest potential. Clients can expect her to work with them and listen to their concerns fully before developing a treatment plan. Krista makes a point to spend quality time with the patient to explore their situation and to fully understand their current symptoms.
She treats anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Krista Bedells is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Krista takes an empathic and compassionate approach to patient care. She strives to support patients so they can have a good quality of life and reach their fullest potential. Clients can expect her to work with them and listen to their concerns fully before developing a treatment plan. Krista makes a point to spend quality time with the patient to explore their situation and to fully understand their current symptoms.
![Photo of Bishara Robert Khoury - OnlyMed Clinic , DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85f78ac1-fa12-4e65-9bbd-71bed1d427cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
OnlyMed Clinic is a compassionate Clinic in Oak Brook serving Mental Health Patients. We offer safe in your home medication management in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety. We do telemedicine mostly but starting 5/1/23 we will be opening on Mondays in Hinsdale, IL!
OnlyMed Clinic is a compassionate Clinic in Oak Brook serving Mental Health Patients. We offer safe in your home medication management in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety. We do telemedicine mostly but starting 5/1/23 we will be opening on Mondays in Hinsdale, IL!
See more therapy options for Willowbrook
Nearby Depression Psychiatrists Searches for Willowbrook
- Burr Ridge
- Clarendon Hills
- Darien
- Downers Grove
- Elmhurst
- Hinsdale
- La Grange
- Lombard
- Oak Brook
- Oakbrook Terrace
- Westchester
- Westmont
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.