Photo of Nick Bellantuono - Awakenings Counseling Center- Nick Bellantuono , LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Awakenings Counseling Center- Nick Bellantuono
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), I specialize in the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy, and focus on working collaboratively with clients to create lasting change in their lives. Whether it’s counseling for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, family therapy, or Christian counseling, I empower clients by using their strengths to evaluate areas of improvement.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), I specialize in the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy, and focus on working collaboratively with clients to create lasting change in their lives. Whether it’s counseling for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, family therapy, or Christian counseling, I empower clients by using their strengths to evaluate areas of improvement.
(847) 469-9433 View (847) 469-9433

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Justin William Schloer - Changing Phases, LCPC, Counselor
Changing Phases
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
My outlook on life is that we are all on a journey. Some people move faster than others. Some need a helping hand along the way; but we can all arrive to where we are going, where we want to be…every single one of us. I am here to help motivate when you lack motivation. I am here to listen when you feel unheard. I am here to push when you feel weak, or pull when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m also here to sit with you when you aren’t ready or feel unable to make a decision. I am here at your pace.
My outlook on life is that we are all on a journey. Some people move faster than others. Some need a helping hand along the way; but we can all arrive to where we are going, where we want to be…every single one of us. I am here to help motivate when you lack motivation. I am here to listen when you feel unheard. I am here to push when you feel weak, or pull when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m also here to sit with you when you aren’t ready or feel unable to make a decision. I am here at your pace.
(224) 218-5276 View (224) 218-5276

Online Therapists

Photo of Ashley Wilke (Addiction Treatment), LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Wilke (Addiction Treatment)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Palos Heights, IL 60463
The program at this Symetria clinic goes beyond traditional therapy to treat everything hiding behind the drugs or alcohol - all while still living at home! Treatment here helps you rebalance your brain, create healthy thought patterns and heal underlying issues (like trauma, anxiety, depression or family conflict).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
The program at this Symetria clinic goes beyond traditional therapy to treat everything hiding behind the drugs or alcohol - all while still living at home! Treatment here helps you rebalance your brain, create healthy thought patterns and heal underlying issues (like trauma, anxiety, depression or family conflict).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(708) 523-7099 View (708) 523-7099
Photo of Neely Benn, LCSW, CIMHP, TRE Cer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neely Benn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP, TRE Cer
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
TRE is helpful in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain and symptoms secondary to chronic illness.
I am an integrative mental health provider offering Trauma/Tension Releasing Exercises (TRE), Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF), and trauma informed somatic therapy. My approach embraces the multidimensionality of being in a body (physical, emotional, mental and spiritual). You will learn all about your nervous system responses and how to re-pattern your brain, shifting from a lens of threat to safety. You will also learn how to heal with food and will gain potent tools that will relax your body on a cellular level. Additionally you will be connected to some of the most skilled body workers and physicians in Chicago.
TRE is helpful in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain and symptoms secondary to chronic illness.
I am an integrative mental health provider offering Trauma/Tension Releasing Exercises (TRE), Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF), and trauma informed somatic therapy. My approach embraces the multidimensionality of being in a body (physical, emotional, mental and spiritual). You will learn all about your nervous system responses and how to re-pattern your brain, shifting from a lens of threat to safety. You will also learn how to heal with food and will gain potent tools that will relax your body on a cellular level. Additionally you will be connected to some of the most skilled body workers and physicians in Chicago.
(847) 686-3121 View (847) 686-3121
Photo of Jenna Jablonski, MA,LCPC, CCTP, CADC, CSITP, CAGCS, Counselor
Jenna Jablonski
Counselor, MA,LCPC, CCTP, CADC, CSITP, CAGCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University along with an additional certifications in substance use counseling, trauma, advanced grief, and integrative sex therapy. I use a person-centered orientation to treat adults with a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, panic, life/relationship/education/career transitions, grief, issues with attachment and relationships, self-esteem and self image, chronic mental health challenges, and maladaptive coping including challenges with substance use, avoidance, codependence, self-harm, isolation, and people-pleasing.
I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University along with an additional certifications in substance use counseling, trauma, advanced grief, and integrative sex therapy. I use a person-centered orientation to treat adults with a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, panic, life/relationship/education/career transitions, grief, issues with attachment and relationships, self-esteem and self image, chronic mental health challenges, and maladaptive coping including challenges with substance use, avoidance, codependence, self-harm, isolation, and people-pleasing.
(773) 832-5627 View (773) 832-5627
Photo of Maryann DeMatthews Psychotherapy, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maryann DeMatthews Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Geneva, IL 60134
Enjoy therapy. I provide in-depth, client specific psychotherapy. I help individuals face and overcome challenges, cultivate hope, and move forward. With comprehensive experience and deep theoretical understanding, I support my clients to move forward safely and securely. I treat clients who have challenges including Personality Disorders, Depression, Grief/Bereavement, Anxiety, Panic, Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. End-to-end encrypted telehealth therapy with secure email, video streaming, and intake system.
Enjoy therapy. I provide in-depth, client specific psychotherapy. I help individuals face and overcome challenges, cultivate hope, and move forward. With comprehensive experience and deep theoretical understanding, I support my clients to move forward safely and securely. I treat clients who have challenges including Personality Disorders, Depression, Grief/Bereavement, Anxiety, Panic, Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. End-to-end encrypted telehealth therapy with secure email, video streaming, and intake system.
(331) 223-0330 View (331) 223-0330
Photo of John Paul Komperda - Integrative Counseling and Psychology, LCPC, MS, Counselor
Integrative Counseling and Psychology
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
(331) 241-7436 View (331) 241-7436
Photo of Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry, MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry
MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
(847) 393-4392 View (847) 393-4392
Photo of Mason L Kelly, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH, CSOTS, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mason L Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, NBCCH, CSOTS, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience treating individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety, mood swings and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Do you ever wonder why you keep experiencing the same kind of problem over and over again? Do you keep feeling defeated even before you begin? Ever wonder sometimes what's it all for and why you're still living? Many people ask themselves these questions everyday, but do nothing about it. You are not alone! There is help. You've come to the right place! People sometimes develop unhealthy ways of living due to their past experiences of being abused, hurt or traumatized. I specialize in helping those people suffering from the pain of life's disappointments, hurts or tragedies.
I have extensive experience treating individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety, mood swings and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Do you ever wonder why you keep experiencing the same kind of problem over and over again? Do you keep feeling defeated even before you begin? Ever wonder sometimes what's it all for and why you're still living? Many people ask themselves these questions everyday, but do nothing about it. You are not alone! There is help. You've come to the right place! People sometimes develop unhealthy ways of living due to their past experiences of being abused, hurt or traumatized. I specialize in helping those people suffering from the pain of life's disappointments, hurts or tragedies.
(773) 270-8292 View (773) 270-8292
Photo of Anthony D Williams - Epiphany and Company, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Epiphany and Company
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverdale, IL 60827  (Online Only)
Many of my clients suffer from depression and/or anxiety and substance abuse and respond best to CBT and mindfulness techniques. They mostly request the alleviation of symptoms and to learn how to relax. I also deal with several women who have relationship issues, such as absent fathers and trust issues. I use a forgiveness curriculum in part to assist them with these issues.
Many of my clients suffer from depression and/or anxiety and substance abuse and respond best to CBT and mindfulness techniques. They mostly request the alleviation of symptoms and to learn how to relax. I also deal with several women who have relationship issues, such as absent fathers and trust issues. I use a forgiveness curriculum in part to assist them with these issues.
(219) 200-3144 View (219) 200-3144
Photo of Rudy Mireles (Addiction Treatment), LPC, CADC
Rudy Mireles (Addiction Treatment)
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
The program at this Symetria clinic goes beyond traditional therapy to treat everything hiding behind the drugs or alcohol - all while still living at home! Treatment here helps you rebalance your brain, create healthy thought patterns and heal underlying issues (like trauma, anxiety, depression or family conflict).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
The program at this Symetria clinic goes beyond traditional therapy to treat everything hiding behind the drugs or alcohol - all while still living at home! Treatment here helps you rebalance your brain, create healthy thought patterns and heal underlying issues (like trauma, anxiety, depression or family conflict).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(815) 893-3215 View (815) 893-3215
Photo of Jasmine Perkins, LSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matteson, IL 60443
Jasmine is very motivated about helping youth find and exercise their voices, and their most authentic selves; Jasmine works to equip youth and adolescents with the tools and skills to develop social emotional learning, coping skills to manage anxiety, depression, interpersonal struggles, and many other issues which youth face day to day.
A therapist job is to deepen their client’s understanding of their dilemma or trauma, not to “fix” it for the client! The client must do their own work! Dealing with childhood traumas, mother wounds and overall the hardships of life.
Jasmine is very motivated about helping youth find and exercise their voices, and their most authentic selves; Jasmine works to equip youth and adolescents with the tools and skills to develop social emotional learning, coping skills to manage anxiety, depression, interpersonal struggles, and many other issues which youth face day to day.
A therapist job is to deepen their client’s understanding of their dilemma or trauma, not to “fix” it for the client! The client must do their own work! Dealing with childhood traumas, mother wounds and overall the hardships of life.
(779) 237-1884 View (779) 237-1884
Photo of Nadia Persun - GreenPath Clinic, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
GreenPath Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
We provide excellent psychological and holistic care for patients struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, weight loss, infertility, and other psychological and medical problems. We prioritize medication-free approaches to treat patients' psychological and physical ailments. With collaborative efforts of psychologists, chiropractors, and a naturopathic physician, we get to the root of your mind and body problems naturally. As a multi-disciplinary team of holistically-oriented healthcare providers, we work together to create an effective, comprehensive treatment to provide lasting health optimizing solutions.
We provide excellent psychological and holistic care for patients struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, weight loss, infertility, and other psychological and medical problems. We prioritize medication-free approaches to treat patients' psychological and physical ailments. With collaborative efforts of psychologists, chiropractors, and a naturopathic physician, we get to the root of your mind and body problems naturally. As a multi-disciplinary team of holistically-oriented healthcare providers, we work together to create an effective, comprehensive treatment to provide lasting health optimizing solutions.
(630) 626-0473 View (630) 626-0473
Photo of Elizabeth Bales (Addiction Treatment), LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Elizabeth Bales (Addiction Treatment)
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
The program at this Symetria clinic goes beyond traditional therapy to treat everything hiding behind the drugs or alcohol - all while still living at home! Treatment here helps you rebalance your brain, create healthy thought patterns and heal underlying issues (like trauma, anxiety, depression or family conflict).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
The program at this Symetria clinic goes beyond traditional therapy to treat everything hiding behind the drugs or alcohol - all while still living at home! Treatment here helps you rebalance your brain, create healthy thought patterns and heal underlying issues (like trauma, anxiety, depression or family conflict).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(331) 256-1842 View (331) 256-1842
Photo of Betsy Wojciechowski (Addiction Treatment), LCPC, Counselor
Betsy Wojciechowski (Addiction Treatment)
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
The program at this Symetria clinic goes beyond traditional therapy to treat everything hiding behind the drugs or alcohol - all while still living at home! Treatment here helps you rebalance your brain, create healthy thought patterns and heal underlying issues (like trauma, anxiety, depression or family conflict).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
The program at this Symetria clinic goes beyond traditional therapy to treat everything hiding behind the drugs or alcohol - all while still living at home! Treatment here helps you rebalance your brain, create healthy thought patterns and heal underlying issues (like trauma, anxiety, depression or family conflict).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(773) 492-8281 View (773) 492-8281
Photo of Chris Beerman, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Beerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I am always committed to my client's potential and well being. I focus on my client's strengths and core values to collaborate with them to find healing and solutions for their therapeutic needs. Empathy, constructive listening and feedback are combined with theory and holistic evidence-based practices to provide effective clinical support. Over the course of my career, I have worked with diverse patient populations in various settings. These range from working in medically managed inpatient detoxification services, to clinically supervising a 28-day residential treatment program, to outpatient individual therapy.
As a therapist, I am always committed to my client's potential and well being. I focus on my client's strengths and core values to collaborate with them to find healing and solutions for their therapeutic needs. Empathy, constructive listening and feedback are combined with theory and holistic evidence-based practices to provide effective clinical support. Over the course of my career, I have worked with diverse patient populations in various settings. These range from working in medically managed inpatient detoxification services, to clinically supervising a 28-day residential treatment program, to outpatient individual therapy.
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Photo of Mark D. Parisi - Home Psych Services, P.C., PsyD
Home Psych Services, P.C.
PsyD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Home Psych Services, P.C. is perfectly suited for clients looking for integrated behavioral healthcare where they can receive counseling, neuropsychological testing, and psychotropic medication management all under one roof with seamless coordination of care. Our ideal client is looking for a provider who will serve as a partner in change - respecting their unique goals and providing expert guidance to achieve these goals. Our clients appreciate that we use evidence-based treatment protocols and respect and honor diversity in our clients.
Home Psych Services, P.C. is perfectly suited for clients looking for integrated behavioral healthcare where they can receive counseling, neuropsychological testing, and psychotropic medication management all under one roof with seamless coordination of care. Our ideal client is looking for a provider who will serve as a partner in change - respecting their unique goals and providing expert guidance to achieve these goals. Our clients appreciate that we use evidence-based treatment protocols and respect and honor diversity in our clients.
(847) 512-7069 View (847) 512-7069
Photo of J Wett, MS, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
J J Wett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you had a hard time adjusting to a life change? Are you feeling nervous or sad? Have you had relationship difficulties with your partner? Have you had a difficult time "getting through" to your children? I can help! I provide individual, couple, and family therapy to everyone no matter the age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. In fact, I specialize in helping people with traumatic experiences and their family members overcome obstacles in their life!
Have you had a hard time adjusting to a life change? Are you feeling nervous or sad? Have you had relationship difficulties with your partner? Have you had a difficult time "getting through" to your children? I can help! I provide individual, couple, and family therapy to everyone no matter the age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. In fact, I specialize in helping people with traumatic experiences and their family members overcome obstacles in their life!
(815) 570-9176 View (815) 570-9176
Photo of Michel Rosenthal, LCPC, MA, Coach
Michel Rosenthal
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA, Coach
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I am a thoughtful, caring, therapist, with 25+ yrs experience helping people heal, enrich & stimulate their lives. Therapy relies on connection & the process of therapy. In these difficult times there's pervasive confusion & disappointment. Talking things through & exploring complicated feelings is essential. I can help articulate goals & make plans to help you feel fulfilled. Through the years I work with teens, adults, LGBTQ & straight couples, & groups. I also teach the Artist Way, about connecting with your creativity and finding your voice. In addition I do career counseling. I love my work and feel lucky to do what I do.
I am a thoughtful, caring, therapist, with 25+ yrs experience helping people heal, enrich & stimulate their lives. Therapy relies on connection & the process of therapy. In these difficult times there's pervasive confusion & disappointment. Talking things through & exploring complicated feelings is essential. I can help articulate goals & make plans to help you feel fulfilled. Through the years I work with teens, adults, LGBTQ & straight couples, & groups. I also teach the Artist Way, about connecting with your creativity and finding your voice. In addition I do career counseling. I love my work and feel lucky to do what I do.
(312) 970-0957 View (312) 970-0957
Photo of Robert Moore - Sandstone Care Teen & Young Adult Treatment Center, LPC, LAC, CAC-III, CSAC-A
Sandstone Care Teen & Young Adult Treatment Center
LPC, LAC, CAC-III, CSAC-A
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Sandstone Care Chicago ensures that you receive the correct diagnosis, and helps you find the proper and most effective treatment for your substance use and mental health conditions. We listen to your concerns and meet you wherever you are on your recovery journey.
Sandstone Care Chicago ensures that you receive the correct diagnosis, and helps you find the proper and most effective treatment for your substance use and mental health conditions. We listen to your concerns and meet you wherever you are on your recovery journey.
(708) 866-1280 View (708) 866-1280
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.