Depression Therapists in Aurora, IL

Photo of Anita Johnson, LCPC, NCC, CRC, CAMSII, CFRC, Counselor
Anita Johnson
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CRC, CAMSII, CFRC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504  (Online Only)
If you are overwhelmed by relationship or interpersonal problems and would like to explore your options with someone who will listen nonjudgmentally and help you address your concerns by developing effective problem solving strategies & healthy coping skills that lead to reduced feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, or anger then contact me.
My clients are people from a variety of backgrounds. They often seek me out due to overwhelming problems/conflict in their personal lives and their workplaces. At times they may experience feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, anger. rejection, and low self-esteem, but they want to get better and be happier. As a therapist, I see clients through challenging times and adverse situations. I offer confidentiality and interactive problem-solving, and I help clients learn to use cognitive messaging to promote inner peace and harmony with others.
If you are overwhelmed by relationship or interpersonal problems and would like to explore your options with someone who will listen nonjudgmentally and help you address your concerns by developing effective problem solving strategies & healthy coping skills that lead to reduced feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, or anger then contact me.
My clients are people from a variety of backgrounds. They often seek me out due to overwhelming problems/conflict in their personal lives and their workplaces. At times they may experience feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, anger. rejection, and low self-esteem, but they want to get better and be happier. As a therapist, I see clients through challenging times and adverse situations. I offer confidentiality and interactive problem-solving, and I help clients learn to use cognitive messaging to promote inner peace and harmony with others.
(630) 332-3701 View (630) 332-3701
Photo of Ryan Muir, LCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryan Muir
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
His expertise extends to helping people deal with issues such as low self-esteem, confidence issues, depression, anxiety, addictions, grief and loss, trauma, acceptance, coping with physical disabilities and navigating life's transitions and changes.
Ryan Muir is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has an MS in Clinical Mental Health/Addiction from National Louis University and a BA in Accounting from North Central College. As a person with a disability, Ryan leads his life with the mindset of "differently abled" rather than "disabled. " This mindset carries over into his therapeutic approach. Finding a balance between out-of-the-box thinking and openness for growth and change can become incredibly healing.
His expertise extends to helping people deal with issues such as low self-esteem, confidence issues, depression, anxiety, addictions, grief and loss, trauma, acceptance, coping with physical disabilities and navigating life's transitions and changes.
Ryan Muir is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has an MS in Clinical Mental Health/Addiction from National Louis University and a BA in Accounting from North Central College. As a person with a disability, Ryan leads his life with the mindset of "differently abled" rather than "disabled. " This mindset carries over into his therapeutic approach. Finding a balance between out-of-the-box thinking and openness for growth and change can become incredibly healing.
(331) 207-9109 View (331) 207-9109
East Aurora Counseling, LTD
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. is a private practice with an emphasis on the hierarchy of needs. EAC strives to support mental and emotional health for the individual and the family. East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. aims to support people dealing with issues of poverty and immigration, family, parenting, trauma, depression, anxiety, and issues of gender identity and sexual orientation. EAC trabaja para promover y apoyar la salud mental y emocional de personas, parejas, familias y grupos. Ayudamos a quienes enfrentan estrés por pobreza e inmigración, familia, crianza, trauma, depresión, ansiedad, identidad de género y otros desafíos.
East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. is a private practice with an emphasis on the hierarchy of needs. EAC strives to support mental and emotional health for the individual and the family. East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. aims to support people dealing with issues of poverty and immigration, family, parenting, trauma, depression, anxiety, and issues of gender identity and sexual orientation. EAC trabaja para promover y apoyar la salud mental y emocional de personas, parejas, familias y grupos. Ayudamos a quienes enfrentan estrés por pobreza e inmigración, familia, crianza, trauma, depresión, ansiedad, identidad de género y otros desafíos.
(331) 481-5323 View (331) 481-5323
Photo of Kara Marriott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Marriott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
My name is Kara Marriott and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 22 years of experience. I specialize in the treatment of children and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, Women's Health Issues (perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum, pregnancy loss and infertility), chronic health conditions, self-esteem, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach is integrative and tailored to your individual needs using emotion focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic therapies as well as a culturally-informed and system based perspectives.
My name is Kara Marriott and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 22 years of experience. I specialize in the treatment of children and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, Women's Health Issues (perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum, pregnancy loss and infertility), chronic health conditions, self-esteem, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach is integrative and tailored to your individual needs using emotion focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic therapies as well as a culturally-informed and system based perspectives.
(217) 615-5668 View (217) 615-5668
Photo of Anshu Ravula, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anshu Ravula
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
Taking the step to get counseling takes a lot of courage. You are already on your way to reach your desired goals. I believe that everyone faces their own challenges and has their own unique experience, but you don't have to go through it on our own. It is my job to guide you in your journey to reach health and happiness. I work with adults, elders, and adolescents ages 12-17 with anxiety, depression, sexual trauma, and grief and loss. I also have special insights with people who are marginalized (BIPOC, LGBT+, Women etc.).
Taking the step to get counseling takes a lot of courage. You are already on your way to reach your desired goals. I believe that everyone faces their own challenges and has their own unique experience, but you don't have to go through it on our own. It is my job to guide you in your journey to reach health and happiness. I work with adults, elders, and adolescents ages 12-17 with anxiety, depression, sexual trauma, and grief and loss. I also have special insights with people who are marginalized (BIPOC, LGBT+, Women etc.).
(630) 448-8000 View (630) 448-8000
Photo of Marloes Verhoeven, PsyD, Psychologist
Marloes Verhoeven
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
Waitlist for new clients
My clients consistently tell me what a profound positive impact our collaborative work in therapy has made on their lives, especially after they have felt "stuck" for a long time. Being able to "connect the dots," gain insights, and change behaviors can bring great relief and a sense of hope. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, or families cope with past, present, or chronic stressors and regain power and control over their lives and relationships. This is especially true for people who have experienced traumatic events and (as a result) may have symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, and/or anger.
My clients consistently tell me what a profound positive impact our collaborative work in therapy has made on their lives, especially after they have felt "stuck" for a long time. Being able to "connect the dots," gain insights, and change behaviors can bring great relief and a sense of hope. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, or families cope with past, present, or chronic stressors and regain power and control over their lives and relationships. This is especially true for people who have experienced traumatic events and (as a result) may have symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, and/or anger.
(630) 313-4886 View (630) 313-4886
Photo of Laura Kenward, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Kenward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
She treats anxiety, depression, trauma and stress, ADHD, personality disorders, negative body image and low self-esteem, anger management, boundary issues, relationship dysfunction, and more.
Laura Kenward is a Licensed Social Worker with a special interest in identity formation, breaking shame cycles, and mending communication barriers. Her approach is to listen first to allow her clients space to share their story and struggles without judgment. She aims to assist her clients to recognize their own potential, build their inner and outer resources, and embrace their individuality. She values creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. Laura sees individuals aged 11 and up as well as families and couples.
She treats anxiety, depression, trauma and stress, ADHD, personality disorders, negative body image and low self-esteem, anger management, boundary issues, relationship dysfunction, and more.
Laura Kenward is a Licensed Social Worker with a special interest in identity formation, breaking shame cycles, and mending communication barriers. Her approach is to listen first to allow her clients space to share their story and struggles without judgment. She aims to assist her clients to recognize their own potential, build their inner and outer resources, and embrace their individuality. She values creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. Laura sees individuals aged 11 and up as well as families and couples.
(630) 592-2778 View (630) 592-2778
Photo of Sandra Dunn, LCPC, Counselor
Sandra Dunn
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
As a counselor, I believe we all strive to live happy, healthy, successful, and independent lives, but sometimes find the stresses of our every day responsibilities to be overwhelming. This is where counseling can make a difference. Counseling has long been a proven tool in the successful management of stress. My office is a safe space to explore any number of private topics you may want to discuss such as wellness, depression, anxiety, trauma, or other areas of concern. We will meet to discuss these important issues and work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.
As a counselor, I believe we all strive to live happy, healthy, successful, and independent lives, but sometimes find the stresses of our every day responsibilities to be overwhelming. This is where counseling can make a difference. Counseling has long been a proven tool in the successful management of stress. My office is a safe space to explore any number of private topics you may want to discuss such as wellness, depression, anxiety, trauma, or other areas of concern. We will meet to discuss these important issues and work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.
(630) 626-8605 View (630) 626-8605
Photo of Sandra Rincon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Rincon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
Sandra Rincon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from the University of St. Francis with a Bachelor's of Social Work and from Aurora University with a Master's of Social Work. Sandra has experience with working in communitybased mental health alongside first responders as a police social worker with a background in suicide prevention, grief, and crisis stabilization. She has competency in working with individuals that have experienced symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and needing crisis stabilization.
Sandra Rincon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from the University of St. Francis with a Bachelor's of Social Work and from Aurora University with a Master's of Social Work. Sandra has experience with working in communitybased mental health alongside first responders as a police social worker with a background in suicide prevention, grief, and crisis stabilization. She has competency in working with individuals that have experienced symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and needing crisis stabilization.
(630) 349-4487 View (630) 349-4487
Photo of Patrick Noonan, MA, LCPC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Patrick Noonan
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60502
I work with all ages and I have experience with the following concerns: anxiety, depression, bullying, life adjustment concerns, intellectual and developmental needs.
**MEDICAID PLANS ACCEPTED** It's a brave step to reach out for support, especially when parts of life have become unmanageable. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space for us to begin the process of healing and working through the different obstacles that you may face. Together we will take the time to increase your level of self-awareness, and discuss how you can make the changes you want to see. Email is my preferred method of communication but feel free to call as well. I accept a number of insurance plans including Blue Cross Community Health, Meridian, and Molina.
I work with all ages and I have experience with the following concerns: anxiety, depression, bullying, life adjustment concerns, intellectual and developmental needs.
**MEDICAID PLANS ACCEPTED** It's a brave step to reach out for support, especially when parts of life have become unmanageable. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space for us to begin the process of healing and working through the different obstacles that you may face. Together we will take the time to increase your level of self-awareness, and discuss how you can make the changes you want to see. Email is my preferred method of communication but feel free to call as well. I accept a number of insurance plans including Blue Cross Community Health, Meridian, and Molina.
(779) 223-1066 View (779) 223-1066
Photo of Mary Holmes, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Holmes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504  (Online Only)
My clinical passions include trauma/PTSD psychoeducation, mindfulness techniques, anxiety reduction, motivational interviewing for addiction, and interpersonal therapy for grief and depression.
Led by compassion and curiosity, I see people, not problems. My practice style is client-led, culturally humble, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and social justice-oriented. I believe we live our best lives when we are seen, heard, and met with empathy, free of judgment. I work with clients to support a safe base from which to explore vulnerabilities, assess struggles, and process emotions. My clients hold the key to their own self-discovery, wellness, and balance and I am honored to walk this path with them.
My clinical passions include trauma/PTSD psychoeducation, mindfulness techniques, anxiety reduction, motivational interviewing for addiction, and interpersonal therapy for grief and depression.
Led by compassion and curiosity, I see people, not problems. My practice style is client-led, culturally humble, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and social justice-oriented. I believe we live our best lives when we are seen, heard, and met with empathy, free of judgment. I work with clients to support a safe base from which to explore vulnerabilities, assess struggles, and process emotions. My clients hold the key to their own self-discovery, wellness, and balance and I am honored to walk this path with them.
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Photo of Deborah Brozewski, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Brozewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
Deb Brozewski, LCPC, CADC, is collaborative and non-judgmental, knowing the decision to enter therapy can be difficult. Deb assists clients in assessing and developing strengths to empower positive and healthy decisions. Deb received both a BA and an MA from Northern Illinois University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Deb also has a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is attune to the obstacles that individuals of this community may face.
Deb Brozewski, LCPC, CADC, is collaborative and non-judgmental, knowing the decision to enter therapy can be difficult. Deb assists clients in assessing and developing strengths to empower positive and healthy decisions. Deb received both a BA and an MA from Northern Illinois University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Deb also has a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is attune to the obstacles that individuals of this community may face.
(630) 349-7168 View (630) 349-7168
Photo of Kynnedi Tripplett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kynnedi Tripplett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
My name is Kynnedi Tripplett, LCSW. My therapeutic style is open-minded, empathetic, and laid back. I like to meet people where they are and help them to reach their personal goals in relationships, learn more about themselves, and step more into who they want to be. I have experience working with clients who are struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression & life transitions. Most of my experience is with adolescents and young adults. I enjoy working with folks of diverse backgrounds like LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and families.
My name is Kynnedi Tripplett, LCSW. My therapeutic style is open-minded, empathetic, and laid back. I like to meet people where they are and help them to reach their personal goals in relationships, learn more about themselves, and step more into who they want to be. I have experience working with clients who are struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression & life transitions. Most of my experience is with adolescents and young adults. I enjoy working with folks of diverse backgrounds like LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and families.
(872) 217-9521 View (872) 217-9521
Photo of Caryn Schultz, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caryn Schultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502  (Online Only)
I’m especially effective in treating anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
I consider it a privilege to work with people who are motivated to change. Whether it’s feeling less anxious or depressed, improving an important relationship or learning to better control intense emotions, I am willing to join you in doing the hard work of change. Though the process is often simple, it’s rarely easy. The alternative option of staying the same, however, is usually much more difficult in the long run. Together, we’ll figure out how you can make your one life the best it can be. Isn’t that result worth the effort?
I’m especially effective in treating anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
I consider it a privilege to work with people who are motivated to change. Whether it’s feeling less anxious or depressed, improving an important relationship or learning to better control intense emotions, I am willing to join you in doing the hard work of change. Though the process is often simple, it’s rarely easy. The alternative option of staying the same, however, is usually much more difficult in the long run. Together, we’ll figure out how you can make your one life the best it can be. Isn’t that result worth the effort?
(630) 528-0513 View (630) 528-0513
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, Psy D, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, Psy D, MA
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60505
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression and anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression and anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication and relationship concerns.
(331) 207-9766 View (331) 207-9766
Photo of Mia Williams, MSEd, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Mia Williams
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60503  (Online Only)
I have a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northern Illinois University, and have experience working with clients who struggle with anxiety and depression.
Welcome to your mental health journey! My goal is to provide culturally-affirming therapy services to Black and People of Color communities (B-POC), while specializing in assisting black women who struggle with Superwoman Syndrome/Complex. As a woman of color, I understand the importance of finding a therapist who can relate to and validate lived experiences. My practice is built on creating a safe, authentic, and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their mental health complexities and work towards their therapeutic goals. I strongly believe in the saying "it takes a village" so allow me to be a part of your village.
I have a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northern Illinois University, and have experience working with clients who struggle with anxiety and depression.
Welcome to your mental health journey! My goal is to provide culturally-affirming therapy services to Black and People of Color communities (B-POC), while specializing in assisting black women who struggle with Superwoman Syndrome/Complex. As a woman of color, I understand the importance of finding a therapist who can relate to and validate lived experiences. My practice is built on creating a safe, authentic, and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their mental health complexities and work towards their therapeutic goals. I strongly believe in the saying "it takes a village" so allow me to be a part of your village.
(630) 593-0902 View (630) 593-0902
Photo of Vana M Bowen, MEd, PsyD, LCPC
Vana M Bowen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexual addictions, gay and lesbian issues, trauma issues related to physical, sexual and emotional abuse, developmental disorders, stress management, loss or grief and life direction questions.
Hello! Choosing a therapist is not easy and involves finding someone with whom you are comfortable. I offer a supportive approach that is sustained by years of experience, knowledge and training through private psychotherapy and consulting services. My clinical services provide a comprehensive and holistic approach toward personal growth and healing. Together, we can uncover your inner strengths and gifts to make emotional and behavioral treatment a fulfilling journey. I have received DIPLOMATE professional certification with the American Psychotherapy Association and have professional certifications in Play Therapy, Domestic Violence, Sexual Addictions,and Trauma-Based Treatments.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexual addictions, gay and lesbian issues, trauma issues related to physical, sexual and emotional abuse, developmental disorders, stress management, loss or grief and life direction questions.
Hello! Choosing a therapist is not easy and involves finding someone with whom you are comfortable. I offer a supportive approach that is sustained by years of experience, knowledge and training through private psychotherapy and consulting services. My clinical services provide a comprehensive and holistic approach toward personal growth and healing. Together, we can uncover your inner strengths and gifts to make emotional and behavioral treatment a fulfilling journey. I have received DIPLOMATE professional certification with the American Psychotherapy Association and have professional certifications in Play Therapy, Domestic Violence, Sexual Addictions,and Trauma-Based Treatments.
(630) 733-1817 View (630) 733-1817
Photo of Taranjit (Tara) K Bhatia - Amity Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Amity Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
She specializes in working with depression and anxiety; anger management; and self-harm.
Are you chronically worried and/or unhappy -- and can't "snap out of it?" Maybe you're stuck. Perhaps you feel lonely and misunderstood. I'd like to give you personal attention, understand you, and provide you warm, genuine, and nonjudgmental support and guidance. Together, we can identify and understand the causes of your pain, reinstill hope, and find ways for you to cope and regain pleasure in the here-and-now. My research on loss and mother-daughter relationships strengthens my work with individuals; couples; gender issues; parenting; anxiety and depression; and adjustment to loss and overall life changes.
She specializes in working with depression and anxiety; anger management; and self-harm.
Are you chronically worried and/or unhappy -- and can't "snap out of it?" Maybe you're stuck. Perhaps you feel lonely and misunderstood. I'd like to give you personal attention, understand you, and provide you warm, genuine, and nonjudgmental support and guidance. Together, we can identify and understand the causes of your pain, reinstill hope, and find ways for you to cope and regain pleasure in the here-and-now. My research on loss and mother-daughter relationships strengthens my work with individuals; couples; gender issues; parenting; anxiety and depression; and adjustment to loss and overall life changes.
(630) 448-8000 View (630) 448-8000
Photo of Leslie Damaso, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Damaso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
As a Licensed Social Worker, Leslie specializes in treating depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions.
Leslie’s ideal client is someone who is ready to take the first step towards self-improvement and personal growth. Leslie’s therapeutic practice focuses on helping individuals develop healthy ways to process depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions. Leslie engages clients through an empathetic and relational approach to help individuals achieve a balanced and healthy life for themselves.
As a Licensed Social Worker, Leslie specializes in treating depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions.
Leslie’s ideal client is someone who is ready to take the first step towards self-improvement and personal growth. Leslie’s therapeutic practice focuses on helping individuals develop healthy ways to process depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions. Leslie engages clients through an empathetic and relational approach to help individuals achieve a balanced and healthy life for themselves.
(312) 561-9486 View (312) 561-9486
Photo of Veleka J Avant, LSW, CADC
Veleka J Avant
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a wide variety of concerns, including, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use disorders, divorce, and relational challenges.
You’re likely here because life has become overwhelmingly challenging. Sure, you’re surviving (and others may look at you and think you have it all together), but inside you feel sad, angry, ashamed, stuck, and exhausted. You’ve always been the “giver” in your life, and saying “no,” feels like a luxury and beyond your reach. If you're ready to experience a healthier life, I'd like to provide you with a space to start prioritizing yourself and get the support you need to regain a sense of control and peace. Together, we can work through complex relationships, emotions, and uncertainties you're facing in a non-judgmental environment.
I have experience working with a wide variety of concerns, including, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use disorders, divorce, and relational challenges.
You’re likely here because life has become overwhelmingly challenging. Sure, you’re surviving (and others may look at you and think you have it all together), but inside you feel sad, angry, ashamed, stuck, and exhausted. You’ve always been the “giver” in your life, and saying “no,” feels like a luxury and beyond your reach. If you're ready to experience a healthier life, I'd like to provide you with a space to start prioritizing yourself and get the support you need to regain a sense of control and peace. Together, we can work through complex relationships, emotions, and uncertainties you're facing in a non-judgmental environment.
(773) 867-5362 View (773) 867-5362
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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.