Depression Therapists in Berwyn, IL

Photo of Fernanda Maytorena-Unger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fernanda Maytorena-Unger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS VIA TELEHEALTH ONLY! The struggle is real!! Through the years, I’ve witnessed a great deal of challenges individuals from diverse backgrounds face. These struggles range from stress management, anxiety, and depression, to trauma experiences that impact the way we function affecting our mind, body, and soul significantly. Mental Health looks, feels and manifests differently for each individual.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS VIA TELEHEALTH ONLY! The struggle is real!! Through the years, I’ve witnessed a great deal of challenges individuals from diverse backgrounds face. These struggles range from stress management, anxiety, and depression, to trauma experiences that impact the way we function affecting our mind, body, and soul significantly. Mental Health looks, feels and manifests differently for each individual.
(708) 350-6143 View (708) 350-6143
Photo of Mitchell Charles Britton, LCPC, Counselor
Mitchell Charles Britton
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
Having experience working with individuals of all orientations, I can assist you through relationship hurdles, communication of needs and boundaries, depression, anxiety, and impulse control issues.
Individuals and relationships are dynamic; you may have received messages from people in the world that have you questioning parts of yourself. Integrating authentic, complex parts of yourself can help you feel more full and move you towards meaning and vitality. I provide a warm grounded environment to help you explore your unique experiences and identities with self-compassion and curiosity, even if what you are feeling is overwhelming or hard to talk about.
Having experience working with individuals of all orientations, I can assist you through relationship hurdles, communication of needs and boundaries, depression, anxiety, and impulse control issues.
Individuals and relationships are dynamic; you may have received messages from people in the world that have you questioning parts of yourself. Integrating authentic, complex parts of yourself can help you feel more full and move you towards meaning and vitality. I provide a warm grounded environment to help you explore your unique experiences and identities with self-compassion and curiosity, even if what you are feeling is overwhelming or hard to talk about.
(708) 722-0668 View (708) 722-0668
Photo of Ignacio Perez Arizmendi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ignacio Perez Arizmendi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual and bicultural therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience, helping clients address symptoms of anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Are you feeling down, anxious and worried all the time? Have you been distancing yourself from your favorite activities and relationships? Have you experienced sudden fear, rage, and panic? Although these emotions are normal reactions in our bodies, sometimes they can manifest out of context, place or time and they can be overwhelming. Intergenerational trauma can affect the way we think, act, and feel, especially in people who identify as BIPOC. EMDR and Flash techniques can help you get relief from these symptoms.
I am a bilingual and bicultural therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience, helping clients address symptoms of anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Are you feeling down, anxious and worried all the time? Have you been distancing yourself from your favorite activities and relationships? Have you experienced sudden fear, rage, and panic? Although these emotions are normal reactions in our bodies, sometimes they can manifest out of context, place or time and they can be overwhelming. Intergenerational trauma can affect the way we think, act, and feel, especially in people who identify as BIPOC. EMDR and Flash techniques can help you get relief from these symptoms.
(708) 847-7386 View (708) 847-7386
Photo of Lauren Elizabeth Nelson - Alchemical Therapy and Counseling, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alchemical Therapy and Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
I support clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic illness, and the effects of abuse (emotional, physical, sexual, or narcissistic abuse).
Maybe you feel empty, trapped, or lost. Perhaps you can identify the source of this pain. Perhaps you cannot and feel that you “should” be happier. Loved ones may give well-intentioned but unhelpful advice: “Just be positive! Have gratitude!” But this only leaves you feeling even more isolated, alienated, and misunderstood. You feel confused about what you really want, catering instead to everyone else's needs but your own. You sense that a new, more meaningful life could be possible… but somehow it always feels just out of reach. Maybe you are close to giving up altogether and feel resigned to a life of suffering.
I support clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic illness, and the effects of abuse (emotional, physical, sexual, or narcissistic abuse).
Maybe you feel empty, trapped, or lost. Perhaps you can identify the source of this pain. Perhaps you cannot and feel that you “should” be happier. Loved ones may give well-intentioned but unhelpful advice: “Just be positive! Have gratitude!” But this only leaves you feeling even more isolated, alienated, and misunderstood. You feel confused about what you really want, catering instead to everyone else's needs but your own. You sense that a new, more meaningful life could be possible… but somehow it always feels just out of reach. Maybe you are close to giving up altogether and feel resigned to a life of suffering.
(708) 801-6551 View (708) 801-6551
Photo of Dana Lowenthal, LCPC
Dana Lowenthal
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
I am well versed in working with clients experiencing: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, interpersonal conflict, work/life balance, career development, couples/marriage counseling, parenting, divorce, grief/loss and overcoming life's unique obstacles.
I have been in the counseling field for over 20 years combining vast experience with diverse populations. I am passionate about working with my clients and strongly believe in a holistic, strength-based approach. I partner with my clients to create an effective treatment plan centered around their personal goals and to help reduce their individual struggles. Utilizing evidence-based practices, I believe it is essential that the client be in charge of their own progress and I will support and guide their road to health. I provide culturally-sensitive therapy in a warm and accepting environment; both in person and through telehealth.
I am well versed in working with clients experiencing: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, interpersonal conflict, work/life balance, career development, couples/marriage counseling, parenting, divorce, grief/loss and overcoming life's unique obstacles.
I have been in the counseling field for over 20 years combining vast experience with diverse populations. I am passionate about working with my clients and strongly believe in a holistic, strength-based approach. I partner with my clients to create an effective treatment plan centered around their personal goals and to help reduce their individual struggles. Utilizing evidence-based practices, I believe it is essential that the client be in charge of their own progress and I will support and guide their road to health. I provide culturally-sensitive therapy in a warm and accepting environment; both in person and through telehealth.
(708) 847-4134 View (708) 847-4134
Photo of Keri A Morrison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keri A Morrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
Some of my specialty areas include: Child-Focused Therapy, Parent-Training, Adult Psychotherapy, Women's issues, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and Grief/Loss.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers a range of services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am co-owner and have worked extensively as a child, adolescent, and family therapist. I believe that effective treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment so that an individualized plan can be mutually developed. My style is warm, supportive, and educational. Parents often come to me when they are having difficulties understanding and responding to their child's behavior. Children enjoy my developmentally appropriate style which helps them gain mastery over their anxiety, impulsivity or depression. I work closely with parents to ensure treatment success.
Some of my specialty areas include: Child-Focused Therapy, Parent-Training, Adult Psychotherapy, Women's issues, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and Grief/Loss.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers a range of services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am co-owner and have worked extensively as a child, adolescent, and family therapist. I believe that effective treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment so that an individualized plan can be mutually developed. My style is warm, supportive, and educational. Parents often come to me when they are having difficulties understanding and responding to their child's behavior. Children enjoy my developmentally appropriate style which helps them gain mastery over their anxiety, impulsivity or depression. I work closely with parents to ensure treatment success.
(708) 406-2416 View (708) 406-2416
Photo of Linda Harper, LCPC, LMFT, Counselor
Linda Harper
Counselor, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
I've developed skill in many different treatment approaches for anxiety, depression and other problems, such as EMDR, CBT, relaxation and mindfulness training.
Life can be stressful particularly in these unpredictable times. You may be finding that worries are hard to turn off during the day and also keep you up at night. Perhaps you are becoming irritable with your family, friends or coworkers. Or rather than feeling anxious you might be noticing that you are often tired. You might have less interest in attending the extended family party or going out with your partner. I can help you to get a handle on your worries, regain energy, and to feel more grounded and able to manage what comes your way.
I've developed skill in many different treatment approaches for anxiety, depression and other problems, such as EMDR, CBT, relaxation and mindfulness training.
Life can be stressful particularly in these unpredictable times. You may be finding that worries are hard to turn off during the day and also keep you up at night. Perhaps you are becoming irritable with your family, friends or coworkers. Or rather than feeling anxious you might be noticing that you are often tired. You might have less interest in attending the extended family party or going out with your partner. I can help you to get a handle on your worries, regain energy, and to feel more grounded and able to manage what comes your way.
(708) 274-7666 View (708) 274-7666
Photo of Nap Pozulp, PhD, Psychologist
Nap Pozulp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
I have been in practice for over 30 years and feel that I'm best at dealing with individuals with anxiety, depression and relationship issues. The goal of all my work is to help individuals live up to their full potential. I have an expertise with numerous techniques to accomplish this goal. Traditional insight-oriented, cognitive/behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and specialty techniques such as hypnotherapy, biofeedback and relaxation training are just a few of the interventions I use.
I have been in practice for over 30 years and feel that I'm best at dealing with individuals with anxiety, depression and relationship issues. The goal of all my work is to help individuals live up to their full potential. I have an expertise with numerous techniques to accomplish this goal. Traditional insight-oriented, cognitive/behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and specialty techniques such as hypnotherapy, biofeedback and relaxation training are just a few of the interventions I use.
(773) 669-6930 View (773) 669-6930
Estela Bentley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
, abandonment/loss), parenting, engaging resistant/reluctant adolescents, and individuals with chronic depression or anxiety.
The foundation of my work with clients is based on the belief that "it's the relationship that heals." Relationships are vital to our emotional and psychological growth and how we take care of them is important. My goal is to provide a safe, respectful, and empathic place to discuss those situations that matter to you most. I lean toward a relational, psychodynamic, and spiritual approach to the therapeutic process and provide a place to process the meaning of your experiences and help you reconstruct them to reduce barriers to your emotional health.
, abandonment/loss), parenting, engaging resistant/reluctant adolescents, and individuals with chronic depression or anxiety.
The foundation of my work with clients is based on the belief that "it's the relationship that heals." Relationships are vital to our emotional and psychological growth and how we take care of them is important. My goal is to provide a safe, respectful, and empathic place to discuss those situations that matter to you most. I lean toward a relational, psychodynamic, and spiritual approach to the therapeutic process and provide a place to process the meaning of your experiences and help you reconstruct them to reduce barriers to your emotional health.
(708) 325-8511 View (708) 325-8511
Photo of Elena Vassallo, MDiv, LCPC
Elena Vassallo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MDiv, LCPC
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
Elena Vassallo has twenty-eight years of experience helping people with anxiety, depression, grief, phase of life transitions, low self-esteem, feelings of meaninglessness, relationship issues and more.
Elena Vassallo has twenty-eight years of experience helping people with anxiety, depression, grief, phase of life transitions, low self-esteem, feelings of meaninglessness, relationship issues and more.
(708) 437-6996 View (708) 437-6996
Photo of Florence R Braum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Florence R Braum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
I am best suited to help you if you are struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, depression, anxiety, coping with illness, and finding meaning in work and life.
Do you feel stuck in patterns that cause you to feel lonely, misunderstood, or stressed? Do you long for more intimacy with those you care about most? I am a caring, compassionate and knowledgeable therapist who can help. For over 25 years, I have helped individuals and couples improve their lives. In individual therapy, we will work together to increase your self-understanding and enable you to discover real and workable solutions.
I am best suited to help you if you are struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, depression, anxiety, coping with illness, and finding meaning in work and life.
Do you feel stuck in patterns that cause you to feel lonely, misunderstood, or stressed? Do you long for more intimacy with those you care about most? I am a caring, compassionate and knowledgeable therapist who can help. For over 25 years, I have helped individuals and couples improve their lives. In individual therapy, we will work together to increase your self-understanding and enable you to discover real and workable solutions.
(708) 318-4909 View (708) 318-4909
Photo of Vimi R Gupta - Vimi Gupta, LCSW, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vimi Gupta, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
My experience has allowed me to work with people from all over the world with both chronic and minor mental health concerns. As a clinician I have worked with people who have depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, (PTSD)trauma and a history of family violence. My approach is primarily cognitive behavioral with a significant emphasis on the person's present. Those who would benefit are people who are looking at moving forward with their life with more deliberation and direction. Moving away from seeing themselves as the result of their circumstances but as the master of their being.
My experience has allowed me to work with people from all over the world with both chronic and minor mental health concerns. As a clinician I have worked with people who have depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, (PTSD)trauma and a history of family violence. My approach is primarily cognitive behavioral with a significant emphasis on the person's present. Those who would benefit are people who are looking at moving forward with their life with more deliberation and direction. Moving away from seeing themselves as the result of their circumstances but as the master of their being.
(312) 883-8572 View (312) 883-8572
Photo of Gregg Steven Kitzis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gregg Steven Kitzis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
I help clients realize their potential for growth as they deal with anxiety, depression, conflict, loneliness, addiction, and the many challenges of being human.
I am a warm, engaging and compassionate therapist who has been practicing for more than 20 years. I provide a calm, safe and thoughtful space for my clients to explore their lives.
I help clients realize their potential for growth as they deal with anxiety, depression, conflict, loneliness, addiction, and the many challenges of being human.
I am a warm, engaging and compassionate therapist who has been practicing for more than 20 years. I provide a calm, safe and thoughtful space for my clients to explore their lives.
(312) 706-2011 View (312) 706-2011
Photo of Jennifer Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues- Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues- Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Erica Guzman, LSW
Erica Guzman
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
If you are noticing yourself having difficulty managing your relationships, work/life balance, parenting, intense anxiety or depression, please know you are not alone.
If you are noticing yourself having difficulty managing your relationships, work/life balance, parenting, intense anxiety or depression, please know you are not alone.
View
Photo of Jeanette De Marshimun - Outlook Counseling Services, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Outlook Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
Waitlist for new clients
Our therapists have years of working in multicultural clinical settings that deal mostly with trauma, providing us with extensive trauma training and experience in treating individuals with a history of post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
Our practice is focused on delivering trauma and culturally informed care to the Latinx/Hispanic community. We pride ourselves on building a collaborative relationship with our clients and providing holistic, integrative, evidence-based modalities to ensure they are able to overcome the obstacles they are facing in their lives. Our therapists offer individual therapy to clients in a warm, safe and welcoming environment.
Our therapists have years of working in multicultural clinical settings that deal mostly with trauma, providing us with extensive trauma training and experience in treating individuals with a history of post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
Our practice is focused on delivering trauma and culturally informed care to the Latinx/Hispanic community. We pride ourselves on building a collaborative relationship with our clients and providing holistic, integrative, evidence-based modalities to ensure they are able to overcome the obstacles they are facing in their lives. Our therapists offer individual therapy to clients in a warm, safe and welcoming environment.
(708) 419-2369 View (708) 419-2369
Photo of Reena Hilton, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reena Hilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402
I especially enjoy helping clients overcome depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, ADHD, ODD, behavioral concerns in children, family problems, relationship problems and feel passionate about working on women's issues.
My ideal client is looking for a strength-based approach to treatment - not just a focus on "problems." I believe that you already possess many skills and abilities that simply need to be unlocked to overcome your difficulties. I am passionate about helping others and consider myself to be a champion for social justice and working with clients who might come from marginalized communities or face discrimination or harassment. My ideal client is looking for a partner to help them in the change process - someone who will point out blind spots and provide practical steps to deal with their problems.
I especially enjoy helping clients overcome depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, ADHD, ODD, behavioral concerns in children, family problems, relationship problems and feel passionate about working on women's issues.
My ideal client is looking for a strength-based approach to treatment - not just a focus on "problems." I believe that you already possess many skills and abilities that simply need to be unlocked to overcome your difficulties. I am passionate about helping others and consider myself to be a champion for social justice and working with clients who might come from marginalized communities or face discrimination or harassment. My ideal client is looking for a partner to help them in the change process - someone who will point out blind spots and provide practical steps to deal with their problems.
(708) 942-8493 View (708) 942-8493
Photo of Jolene Altman Mindful Wellness, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jolene Altman Mindful Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
I specialize in treating infertility, postpartum depression, perinatal issues, life-stage issues, relationship issues, attachment, trauma, women's issues, parenting, depression, anxiety and family disruption.
Over the years of working with people in intense times of pain, conflict, loss, and hopelessness, I have been shown that people possess the ability to heal when given the opportunity in a safe environment. Working with adults in a variety of capacities, I have the perspective that through empowering relationships, people are better able to access growth, understanding, and positive change. Through compassion, reflection and understanding patterns of behavior, I facilitate a collaborative process of identifying goals, working toward self-understanding, and ultimately actualizing changes that people desire.
I specialize in treating infertility, postpartum depression, perinatal issues, life-stage issues, relationship issues, attachment, trauma, women's issues, parenting, depression, anxiety and family disruption.
Over the years of working with people in intense times of pain, conflict, loss, and hopelessness, I have been shown that people possess the ability to heal when given the opportunity in a safe environment. Working with adults in a variety of capacities, I have the perspective that through empowering relationships, people are better able to access growth, understanding, and positive change. Through compassion, reflection and understanding patterns of behavior, I facilitate a collaborative process of identifying goals, working toward self-understanding, and ultimately actualizing changes that people desire.
(708) 290-7906 View (708) 290-7906
Photo of Fernando Cisneros, LCSW, CAADC, CODP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fernando Cisneros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC, CODP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
I have successfully treated low self-esteem, depression and anxiety; trust/intimacy issues; parents and children with home and school issues; interpersonal relationships difficulties; life transitions and health issues; work problems, grief, sexual abuse, anger, stress management, parenting, domestic violence, trauma, mood disorders, addictions, etc.
Bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist with over 18 years of experience. I will address your concerns with warmth and total acceptance in a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment that fosters healing, self-knowledge, a sense of freedom and expression, vitality, inner peace, joy, and the creation of inspiring possibilities for growth and fulfillment in your life. We will work together to overcome your life stressors so that you develop inner strength and a sense of self-empowerment. You will be lifted to new heights; to an awareness of self and of your higher power.
I have successfully treated low self-esteem, depression and anxiety; trust/intimacy issues; parents and children with home and school issues; interpersonal relationships difficulties; life transitions and health issues; work problems, grief, sexual abuse, anger, stress management, parenting, domestic violence, trauma, mood disorders, addictions, etc.
Bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist with over 18 years of experience. I will address your concerns with warmth and total acceptance in a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment that fosters healing, self-knowledge, a sense of freedom and expression, vitality, inner peace, joy, and the creation of inspiring possibilities for growth and fulfillment in your life. We will work together to overcome your life stressors so that you develop inner strength and a sense of self-empowerment. You will be lifted to new heights; to an awareness of self and of your higher power.
(708) 340-6278 View (708) 340-6278
Photo of Giulia Borgatti, MA, LCPC
Giulia Borgatti
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression or life decisions, I believe that having the courage to face the complexity of life can lead you to discover your unique and authentic purpose in everyday existence.
At times, life's obstacles can seem insurmountable. Frequently, we find ourselves trapped in repetitive patterns without comprehending their origins or how to escape them. By working together with you, we can begin to identify these patterns and explore their underlying causes. Developing a deeper understanding of ourselves can empower us to heal and evolve in ways we never imagined.
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression or life decisions, I believe that having the courage to face the complexity of life can lead you to discover your unique and authentic purpose in everyday existence.
At times, life's obstacles can seem insurmountable. Frequently, we find ourselves trapped in repetitive patterns without comprehending their origins or how to escape them. By working together with you, we can begin to identify these patterns and explore their underlying causes. Developing a deeper understanding of ourselves can empower us to heal and evolve in ways we never imagined.
(708) 725-1389 View (708) 725-1389
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.