Photo of Jonathan Spitz, PsyD, Psychologist
Jonathan Spitz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
My approach combines my education, training, and own life experience to work with individuals collaboratively, with a focus on how to meaningfully and healthfully navigate life events. I start by developing a unique and genuine therapeutic relationship with my clients which facilitates healing and understanding. While trained as a generalist to provide treatment for a variety of mental health concerns across the lifespan, my clinical specialties include working with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship/family distress, life transitions, grief/loss, stress mgmt, college students, young adults, and autism spectrum/Asperger's.
My approach combines my education, training, and own life experience to work with individuals collaboratively, with a focus on how to meaningfully and healthfully navigate life events. I start by developing a unique and genuine therapeutic relationship with my clients which facilitates healing and understanding. While trained as a generalist to provide treatment for a variety of mental health concerns across the lifespan, my clinical specialties include working with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship/family distress, life transitions, grief/loss, stress mgmt, college students, young adults, and autism spectrum/Asperger's.
(312) 248-9842 View (312) 248-9842
Photo of Rachel Kardon, LPC, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Kardon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, family conflict, relationship distress, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, stress management, life transitions, identity exploration, grief, trauma, and loss.
It takes great courage to come to therapy, and the most important part of being a clinician is the therapeutic relationship I develop with my clients. I provide a space for individuals to feel safe, supported, and empowered to be their authentic selves. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities including: Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, family conflict, relationship distress, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, stress management, life transitions, identity exploration, grief, trauma, and loss.
It takes great courage to come to therapy, and the most important part of being a clinician is the therapeutic relationship I develop with my clients. I provide a space for individuals to feel safe, supported, and empowered to be their authentic selves. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities including: Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(312) 467-7582 View (312) 467-7582
Photo of Derek Bylsma, LCPC, Counselor
Derek Bylsma
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Derek is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and respected expert in his field. He is also fully trained in EMDR Therapy. In addition to two bachelor degrees, one from Kalamazoo College and the other from University of Wisconsin-Madison, Derek also holds a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University. Derek has worked extensively with people suffering from all types of addictions as well as depression, anxiety and dual diagnosis. He believes in collaborating with his clients and "It all works out in the end. If it hasn't worked out, it's not the end"
Derek is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and respected expert in his field. He is also fully trained in EMDR Therapy. In addition to two bachelor degrees, one from Kalamazoo College and the other from University of Wisconsin-Madison, Derek also holds a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University. Derek has worked extensively with people suffering from all types of addictions as well as depression, anxiety and dual diagnosis. He believes in collaborating with his clients and "It all works out in the end. If it hasn't worked out, it's not the end"
(312) 757-7509 View (312) 757-7509
Photo of Jennifer Stelter, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Stelter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Dr. Jennifer Stelter is a licensed clinical psychologist seasoned in treating depression and anxiety and specialized in treating eating disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and dementia. She has 20 years experience in the healthcare field and over a decade in the long-term care industry. Dr. Stelter approaches care holistically and is experienced in providing emotion process work, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and rational emotive therapy (RET). She also has significant training in the use of non-pharmacy tools in the treatment of various mental health issues.
Dr. Jennifer Stelter is a licensed clinical psychologist seasoned in treating depression and anxiety and specialized in treating eating disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and dementia. She has 20 years experience in the healthcare field and over a decade in the long-term care industry. Dr. Stelter approaches care holistically and is experienced in providing emotion process work, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and rational emotive therapy (RET). She also has significant training in the use of non-pharmacy tools in the treatment of various mental health issues.
(312) 551-2404 View (312) 551-2404
Photo of Brigitte Green, MA , LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brigitte Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I provide therapy for individuals and couples, specializing in relationship difficulties. My particular interest and expertise is working with people suffering from anxiety, depression and trauma. I use a psychoanalytic approach with an emphasis on genuine connection and empowerment. This is helpful to bring understanding and insight to past experiences, that may be impacting one's behavior, feelings and patterns, allowing them to remain stuck. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and am deeply committed to a strong working alliance with each of my clients, resulting in effective treatment and authentic change.
I provide therapy for individuals and couples, specializing in relationship difficulties. My particular interest and expertise is working with people suffering from anxiety, depression and trauma. I use a psychoanalytic approach with an emphasis on genuine connection and empowerment. This is helpful to bring understanding and insight to past experiences, that may be impacting one's behavior, feelings and patterns, allowing them to remain stuck. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and am deeply committed to a strong working alliance with each of my clients, resulting in effective treatment and authentic change.
View
Photo of Robin Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
People enter into therapy for a variety of reasons such as; having experienced a recent or past trauma, struggling with anxiety, depression or a life altering event. Ultimately, we all want to feel better and live more productive lives. I believe that therapy is a collaborative endeavor which takes place in an open and non-judgmental environment. My role is to help clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, what motivates their behaviors and how they can bring about the desired changes.
People enter into therapy for a variety of reasons such as; having experienced a recent or past trauma, struggling with anxiety, depression or a life altering event. Ultimately, we all want to feel better and live more productive lives. I believe that therapy is a collaborative endeavor which takes place in an open and non-judgmental environment. My role is to help clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, what motivates their behaviors and how they can bring about the desired changes.
(312) 487-4088 View (312) 487-4088
Photo of Stephen Brian Brown, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephen Brian Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Update: Not accepting clients at this time. Many scientists are rethinking the belief that depression and anxiety are caused by dysregulation of brain chemistry. The cause, they think, is adversity, and it can be better treated by therapy that teaches people how to deal with their circumstances. That adversity takes many forms – narcissistic, abusive, inattentive or addicted parents, traumatic events, and childhood bullying are all examples. I use evidence-based practices that will produce the improvements you want in your life. You and I will find and address your distress. My approach is to be both empathic and directive.
Update: Not accepting clients at this time. Many scientists are rethinking the belief that depression and anxiety are caused by dysregulation of brain chemistry. The cause, they think, is adversity, and it can be better treated by therapy that teaches people how to deal with their circumstances. That adversity takes many forms – narcissistic, abusive, inattentive or addicted parents, traumatic events, and childhood bullying are all examples. I use evidence-based practices that will produce the improvements you want in your life. You and I will find and address your distress. My approach is to be both empathic and directive.
(312) 818-4483 View (312) 818-4483
Photo of Jean Tzou, PhD, LCP, APIT, Psychologist
Jean Tzou
Psychologist, PhD, LCP, APIT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
As a generalist, I work with individuals with a wide range of concerns from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bipolar, and addiction, to life problems in relationships, trauma, grief, loneliness, anger management, stress and career choices, etc... Clients get results with me because my approach is practical, creative, and empowering, and I work hard to help clients gain new tools to overcome their challenges. I am a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience providing individual, couples, group counseling, psychological evaluations, and teaching/training in university settings. My style of therapy is warm, genuine, attentive, and sensitive to clients' unique needs.
As a generalist, I work with individuals with a wide range of concerns from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bipolar, and addiction, to life problems in relationships, trauma, grief, loneliness, anger management, stress and career choices, etc... Clients get results with me because my approach is practical, creative, and empowering, and I work hard to help clients gain new tools to overcome their challenges. I am a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience providing individual, couples, group counseling, psychological evaluations, and teaching/training in university settings. My style of therapy is warm, genuine, attentive, and sensitive to clients' unique needs.
(312) 698-3095 View (312) 698-3095
Photo of Mark James Moore, LCPC, Counselor
Mark James Moore
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
My interest includes cross-cultural issues with couples, individual therapy, and group therapy. I have extensive experience working with adults who are coping with trauma, domestic violence, struggle with depression, anxiety and addiction. My earlier work focused on immigrants and refugees who have experienced trauma. The therapeutic relationship gives clients a chance to safely explore new effective coping mechanisms to improve the quality of their lives. I have significant clinical experience working with the Latino and Native American communities.Clients have the power to infuse new meaning into their lives and experience fulfillment
My interest includes cross-cultural issues with couples, individual therapy, and group therapy. I have extensive experience working with adults who are coping with trauma, domestic violence, struggle with depression, anxiety and addiction. My earlier work focused on immigrants and refugees who have experienced trauma. The therapeutic relationship gives clients a chance to safely explore new effective coping mechanisms to improve the quality of their lives. I have significant clinical experience working with the Latino and Native American communities.Clients have the power to infuse new meaning into their lives and experience fulfillment
(773) 537-4371 View (773) 537-4371
Photo of Cynthia Holmes, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Holmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I specialize in working with folks experiencing anxiety; depression; stress; negative thinking; family or relationship issues; body image; LGBTQ related issues; issues with sex; substance abuse of a loved one; career transitions, discovering passion; figuring out the source of your struggle; increasing positivity/ wellness; and finding balance/ happiness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in empowerment, helping folks overcome obstacles and live their best life. My approach is strengths based, solution focused and action oriented, to work together to help make sustainable positive changes in peoples' lives. I enjoy working with motivated people who are open to trying new things.
I specialize in working with folks experiencing anxiety; depression; stress; negative thinking; family or relationship issues; body image; LGBTQ related issues; issues with sex; substance abuse of a loved one; career transitions, discovering passion; figuring out the source of your struggle; increasing positivity/ wellness; and finding balance/ happiness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in empowerment, helping folks overcome obstacles and live their best life. My approach is strengths based, solution focused and action oriented, to work together to help make sustainable positive changes in peoples' lives. I enjoy working with motivated people who are open to trying new things.
(312) 313-0585 View (312) 313-0585
Photo of Steven M. Yousha, PsyD, LCSW, Psychologist
Steven M. Yousha
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Dr. Steve Yousha is a Psychologist and Senior Consultant who has been practicing since 1990. In addition to his clinical practice, he is Principal at Strategic Talent Management Consultants LLP. As a Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Steve Yousha specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, adjustment and relational problems, providing both individual and couples therapy. He also has extensive experience with multicultural populations. He is published in the areas of depression, adjustment difficulties, and performance enhancement.
Dr. Steve Yousha is a Psychologist and Senior Consultant who has been practicing since 1990. In addition to his clinical practice, he is Principal at Strategic Talent Management Consultants LLP. As a Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Steve Yousha specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, adjustment and relational problems, providing both individual and couples therapy. He also has extensive experience with multicultural populations. He is published in the areas of depression, adjustment difficulties, and performance enhancement.
(773) 492-8967 View (773) 492-8967
Photo of Catherine Gremley, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Catherine Gremley
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, can feel all consuming and insurmountable; causing anguish in many aspects of your life. You may be tired of struggling on your own, or hearing well intended loved ones tell you “just be happy”. While managing life’s challenges can be difficult, and at times seem virtually impossible, there is hope. There are many treatment options available to you. I can teach you skills and help you develop a plan to diminish these symptoms, and start to enjoy your life again.
Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, can feel all consuming and insurmountable; causing anguish in many aspects of your life. You may be tired of struggling on your own, or hearing well intended loved ones tell you “just be happy”. While managing life’s challenges can be difficult, and at times seem virtually impossible, there is hope. There are many treatment options available to you. I can teach you skills and help you develop a plan to diminish these symptoms, and start to enjoy your life again.
(708) 815-8167 View (708) 815-8167
Photo of Samantha Trapp, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Trapp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I specialize in working with people who are experiencing disconnection, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, parenting issues, relationship and family issues etc.
Welcome! Making the decision to start seeing a therapist is difficult and often comes after months, or even years, of emotional struggle, you are not alone. You may feel like you should be able to handle things on your own or you may be losing hope that things can get better at all. It takes courage, hope, and determination to reach out for help. I am here to listen, support, and work with you every step of the way. My therapeutic approach is grounded in collaboration, warmth, compassion, and honesty. I aim to help you build the skills and insights necessary to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life through self-reflection.
I specialize in working with people who are experiencing disconnection, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, life-transitions, parenting issues, relationship and family issues etc.
Welcome! Making the decision to start seeing a therapist is difficult and often comes after months, or even years, of emotional struggle, you are not alone. You may feel like you should be able to handle things on your own or you may be losing hope that things can get better at all. It takes courage, hope, and determination to reach out for help. I am here to listen, support, and work with you every step of the way. My therapeutic approach is grounded in collaboration, warmth, compassion, and honesty. I aim to help you build the skills and insights necessary to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life through self-reflection.
(947) 217-2962 View (947) 217-2962
Photo of Ximena Bravo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ximena Bravo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Hello! I am the founder and owner of Compassionate Holistic Counseling, LLC. I am passionate about treating the whole person with respect and honor. This means being empathetic, compassionate, encouraging, validating and accepting of each individual I come in contact with. One of my biggest joys is working with children 7+ and adolescents. I treat anxiety, depression, trauma (physical/sexual, emotional and/or medical), behavioral issues, grief, stress, the effects of divorce/separation, and school related issues. I help build coping strategies, self esteem, social competence and resilience.
Hello! I am the founder and owner of Compassionate Holistic Counseling, LLC. I am passionate about treating the whole person with respect and honor. This means being empathetic, compassionate, encouraging, validating and accepting of each individual I come in contact with. One of my biggest joys is working with children 7+ and adolescents. I treat anxiety, depression, trauma (physical/sexual, emotional and/or medical), behavioral issues, grief, stress, the effects of divorce/separation, and school related issues. I help build coping strategies, self esteem, social competence and resilience.
(331) 215-6994 View (331) 215-6994
Photo of Rachel Kazez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Kazez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Let's figure out what's next. I welcome people of all ages and concerns. Many of my clients are gay men and people in their teens/20s working on depression, anxiety, trauma, and life stress, as well as parents/guardians looking for help understanding their kids and keeping them healthy. My clients have described me as "the most strict and the most fun," "there for me the whole time," and "good memory, really useful sessions." We'll find a new understanding of what is going on, give you the supportive space to talk about it, and develop creative ways to help things go better, all in a straightforward, welcoming atmosphere.
Let's figure out what's next. I welcome people of all ages and concerns. Many of my clients are gay men and people in their teens/20s working on depression, anxiety, trauma, and life stress, as well as parents/guardians looking for help understanding their kids and keeping them healthy. My clients have described me as "the most strict and the most fun," "there for me the whole time," and "good memory, really useful sessions." We'll find a new understanding of what is going on, give you the supportive space to talk about it, and develop creative ways to help things go better, all in a straightforward, welcoming atmosphere.
(872) 713-0076 View (872) 713-0076
Photo of Merna Zora, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Merna Zora
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
It is my highest priority to make sure each person feels welcomed and safe in an un-biased environment. My passion involves helping each individual reach their moment of empowerment through the therapeutic journey. If you have been struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, loss, navigating through major life changes, familial or interpersonal relationships etc., this is the perfect opportunity to gain back control of your life!
It is my highest priority to make sure each person feels welcomed and safe in an un-biased environment. My passion involves helping each individual reach their moment of empowerment through the therapeutic journey. If you have been struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, loss, navigating through major life changes, familial or interpersonal relationships etc., this is the perfect opportunity to gain back control of your life!
(248) 290-8037 View (248) 290-8037
Photo of Biana Mavasheva, LCPC, QMHP
Biana Mavasheva
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m grateful to have this opportunity to connect with you. The therapeutic process is a sacred journey. Here we can share in a safe, non-judgmental place. If we have suffered addiction, anxiety, depression or trauma we can uncover the aspects of ourselves that need healing. The quality of our lives is directly connected to the quality of our relationships - with ourselves and with others. When our relationships are suffering, everything is impacted. For that reason, in our therapy sessions we explore whatever is unfolding in your relationships and we discover how to bring awareness and skill to these crucial connections.
I’m grateful to have this opportunity to connect with you. The therapeutic process is a sacred journey. Here we can share in a safe, non-judgmental place. If we have suffered addiction, anxiety, depression or trauma we can uncover the aspects of ourselves that need healing. The quality of our lives is directly connected to the quality of our relationships - with ourselves and with others. When our relationships are suffering, everything is impacted. For that reason, in our therapy sessions we explore whatever is unfolding in your relationships and we discover how to bring awareness and skill to these crucial connections.
(847) 886-4371 View (847) 886-4371
Photo of Sheila Shankar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheila Shankar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw upon a range of modalities like mindfulness, family systems, and cognitive-behavioral strategies to support individuals and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I deeply believe in the potential for healing when people feel safe to be vulnerable in trusting relationships. I collaborate with others to transform painful experiences into generative opportunities for growth so that you can create the life you want to live. As a queer South Asian American woman, I am attuned to the complexity of navigating differences in culture, race, gender, sexuality, religion, class, politics, and more in families and relationships. I utilize an intersectional feminist and anti-oppressive framework in my work with individuals and couples who are navigating conflict and seeking better self-understanding.
I draw upon a range of modalities like mindfulness, family systems, and cognitive-behavioral strategies to support individuals and couples dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I deeply believe in the potential for healing when people feel safe to be vulnerable in trusting relationships. I collaborate with others to transform painful experiences into generative opportunities for growth so that you can create the life you want to live. As a queer South Asian American woman, I am attuned to the complexity of navigating differences in culture, race, gender, sexuality, religion, class, politics, and more in families and relationships. I utilize an intersectional feminist and anti-oppressive framework in my work with individuals and couples who are navigating conflict and seeking better self-understanding.
(312) 584-4472 View (312) 584-4472
Photo of Jazline Villar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jazline Villar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I help with uncertainty, stress, fear, isolation, guilt, shame, anger, anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, ADHD, autism, and other emotional, psychological, and developmental conditions.
Hello, my name is Jazline Villar and I am a bilingual psychotherapist at Latinx Talk Therapy. I honor building a genuine and therapeutic relationship with my clients, which means that I will individualize therapy so that it can be the most meaningful. My clinical approach is diverse, as I choose from multiple therapeutic modalities and frameworks to best fit my client’s experience, interests, and goals. When working alongside my clients, I like to keep the client’s strengths in mind. I strive to support clients in their goals, whether big or small, to reach their fullest potential and achieve inner peace.
I help with uncertainty, stress, fear, isolation, guilt, shame, anger, anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress, ADHD, autism, and other emotional, psychological, and developmental conditions.
Hello, my name is Jazline Villar and I am a bilingual psychotherapist at Latinx Talk Therapy. I honor building a genuine and therapeutic relationship with my clients, which means that I will individualize therapy so that it can be the most meaningful. My clinical approach is diverse, as I choose from multiple therapeutic modalities and frameworks to best fit my client’s experience, interests, and goals. When working alongside my clients, I like to keep the client’s strengths in mind. I strive to support clients in their goals, whether big or small, to reach their fullest potential and achieve inner peace.
(773) 365-9081 x1 View (773) 365-9081 x1
Photo of Jamie Dunlap - Balanced Mind Therapy, LLC, LCPC, Counselor
Balanced Mind Therapy, LLC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Feeling disconnected? At this uncertain time, many are experiencing relational challenges within their family, marriage/romantic life, workplace, or social life. I will help you to address ongoing anxiety, depression, or avoidance of difficult feelings such as self-doubt. My approach is focused on a partnership, and supporting you to seek-out positive and meaningful experiences to rebuild connection and self-esteem. During our initial sessions, I will complete an assessment to form a better understanding of your background and we will form individualized goals such as improved relationship satisfaction or reduced anxiety.
Feeling disconnected? At this uncertain time, many are experiencing relational challenges within their family, marriage/romantic life, workplace, or social life. I will help you to address ongoing anxiety, depression, or avoidance of difficult feelings such as self-doubt. My approach is focused on a partnership, and supporting you to seek-out positive and meaningful experiences to rebuild connection and self-esteem. During our initial sessions, I will complete an assessment to form a better understanding of your background and we will form individualized goals such as improved relationship satisfaction or reduced anxiety.
(312) 313-5929 View (312) 313-5929
1
Depression Therapists

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.