Depression Therapists in Carlinville, IL

Photo of Andrea Spicer - Acorn Counseling & Mediation, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Acorn Counseling & Mediation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carlinville, IL 62626
At Acorn Counseling & Mediation, we treat any age from children through adults. We offer individual, couple, and family counseling. Although the most typical issues we treat are anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles, we can also help walk through other struggles like grief and PTSD. We also now offer substance abuse treatment as well as DUI evaluations. At Acorn Counseling & Mediation, we believe you should be in the driver's seat, and that we are here to help you navigate, process, and shed light on the obstacles you face.
At Acorn Counseling & Mediation, we treat any age from children through adults. We offer individual, couple, and family counseling. Although the most typical issues we treat are anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles, we can also help walk through other struggles like grief and PTSD. We also now offer substance abuse treatment as well as DUI evaluations. At Acorn Counseling & Mediation, we believe you should be in the driver's seat, and that we are here to help you navigate, process, and shed light on the obstacles you face.
(217) 615-5413 View (217) 615-5413
Photo of Carolyn Goosby, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Goosby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carlinville, IL 62626
Hello, my name is Carolyn Goosby, and I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and pastoral counselor with over 20 years of experience. Typically, I assist adult clients with grief, anxiety, depression, relationship or workplace issues, low self esteem issues, spiritual development, etc. I have a person centered approach and a non-judgmental stance. I'm resolution focused yet compassionate and at times utilize an eclectic situational framework.
Hello, my name is Carolyn Goosby, and I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and pastoral counselor with over 20 years of experience. Typically, I assist adult clients with grief, anxiety, depression, relationship or workplace issues, low self esteem issues, spiritual development, etc. I have a person centered approach and a non-judgmental stance. I'm resolution focused yet compassionate and at times utilize an eclectic situational framework.
(773) 692-6287 View (773) 692-6287
Photo of Tenilya Mumphus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tenilya Mumphus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carlinville, IL 62626
Over the past 6 years, I have worked with various populations, mostly individuals experiencing stressful life events/relationships, anxiety, depression, cultural/racial trauma, couples, families, adolescents, and people of color.
I am a passionate healing professional who believes healing happens differently for everyone. I believe healing is a collaborative process in which curiosity, openness, relationship, and patience remain at the partnership's core. I explore creative and anti-oppressive practices, which create space for trauma narratives to take unfiltered shape and traditional modalities. I am formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Solution Focused Therapy. I often try and weave humor in whatever modality being used.
Over the past 6 years, I have worked with various populations, mostly individuals experiencing stressful life events/relationships, anxiety, depression, cultural/racial trauma, couples, families, adolescents, and people of color.
I am a passionate healing professional who believes healing happens differently for everyone. I believe healing is a collaborative process in which curiosity, openness, relationship, and patience remain at the partnership's core. I explore creative and anti-oppressive practices, which create space for trauma narratives to take unfiltered shape and traditional modalities. I am formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and Solution Focused Therapy. I often try and weave humor in whatever modality being used.
(224) 537-0485 View (224) 537-0485
Photo of Margaret Perry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carlinville, IL 62626
When our lives become difficult, it can cause us to feel disconnected from those around us and our sense of being. We can feel alone and without power over our lives. When this happens, finding connection can be scary, but also as simple as reaching out. By working together, we can find the best way to overcome your personal circumstances and create a life that you can enjoy.
When our lives become difficult, it can cause us to feel disconnected from those around us and our sense of being. We can feel alone and without power over our lives. When this happens, finding connection can be scary, but also as simple as reaching out. By working together, we can find the best way to overcome your personal circumstances and create a life that you can enjoy.
(217) 837-9686 View (217) 837-9686

Online Therapists

Photo of Courtney Elizabeth Kampwerth, LCSW, ICDVP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Elizabeth Kampwerth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICDVP
Verified Verified
Troy, IL 62294  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children and adults who are dealing with a variety of presenting concerns, from traumatic experiences, anxiety, self-esteem, anger management, domestic violence and depression.
In my 10 years of helping individuals, families, and communities I have realized we all have needs/wants and those needs/wants matter. We all come to therapy with unique experiences, and you are the expert of your experience. Sometimes things can become too difficult to handle on our own and we need some extra help figuring out the best way to move forward.
I specialize in working with children and adults who are dealing with a variety of presenting concerns, from traumatic experiences, anxiety, self-esteem, anger management, domestic violence and depression.
In my 10 years of helping individuals, families, and communities I have realized we all have needs/wants and those needs/wants matter. We all come to therapy with unique experiences, and you are the expert of your experience. Sometimes things can become too difficult to handle on our own and we need some extra help figuring out the best way to move forward.
(618) 423-8593 View (618) 423-8593
Photo of Kathrin Alexandra Simac, MA, LCPC
Kathrin Alexandra Simac
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, IL 62062
My clinical experience is trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-worth, life transitions, stress management, and parenting.
Life can be difficult and hard to navigate, but I believe that we all have the strength and resilience to grow, change, and live a more fulfilling life. As a therapist, I believe that the self- work you do will echo throughout every part of your life. I meet people where they are and walk alongside them to where they want to be. It is important for me to create a space for you to feel comfortable, and open. My goals are to help you reach your goals in a supportive, empathic and compassionate space where you feel safe.
My clinical experience is trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-worth, life transitions, stress management, and parenting.
Life can be difficult and hard to navigate, but I believe that we all have the strength and resilience to grow, change, and live a more fulfilling life. As a therapist, I believe that the self- work you do will echo throughout every part of your life. I meet people where they are and walk alongside them to where they want to be. It is important for me to create a space for you to feel comfortable, and open. My goals are to help you reach your goals in a supportive, empathic and compassionate space where you feel safe.
(618) 701-3688 View (618) 701-3688
Photo of Victoria (Vicki) Kamhi, MA, LCPC, CADC
Victoria (Vicki) Kamhi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
I specialize in working with people with: anxiety, panic disorder, test anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, substance use, anger, and life transitions.
Hi I'm Vicki Kamhi, owner of Find Your Path Therapy. Do you ever feel lost as you wander on a path that doesn’t seem to go anywhere? Or maybe you’re standing at a fork in the road and you aren’t sure which way to go. We all face some pretty tough challenges at times and sometimes we just don't know how to deal with them. No matter what you're going through right now, you can get through it. I can help. We can work together to sort out what is important to you, explore issues that are keeping you stuck, and build on your current strengths (you have more than you think!) by adding new strategies tailored for you.
I specialize in working with people with: anxiety, panic disorder, test anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, substance use, anger, and life transitions.
Hi I'm Vicki Kamhi, owner of Find Your Path Therapy. Do you ever feel lost as you wander on a path that doesn’t seem to go anywhere? Or maybe you’re standing at a fork in the road and you aren’t sure which way to go. We all face some pretty tough challenges at times and sometimes we just don't know how to deal with them. No matter what you're going through right now, you can get through it. I can help. We can work together to sort out what is important to you, explore issues that are keeping you stuck, and build on your current strengths (you have more than you think!) by adding new strategies tailored for you.
(309) 232-8670 View (309) 232-8670
Photo of Jaclyn Orton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Orton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
Jacki Orton is a licensed Clinical social worker with over 18 years of experience specializing in anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma. She builds a supportive therapeutic relationship to assist clients in navigating their life challenges in order to achieve a happier life balance. Sessions often include a variety of techniques, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and mindfulness techniques, as well as more creative approaches including art, music and movement.
Jacki Orton is a licensed Clinical social worker with over 18 years of experience specializing in anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma. She builds a supportive therapeutic relationship to assist clients in navigating their life challenges in order to achieve a happier life balance. Sessions often include a variety of techniques, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and mindfulness techniques, as well as more creative approaches including art, music and movement.
(309) 955-5482 View (309) 955-5482
Photo of Stephanie Altizer, LCPC, Counselor
Stephanie Altizer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Breese, IL 62230
Certified EMDR Therapist. Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapies. Trained in Brainspotting. Extensive experience providing trauma-focused therapy to adolescents/adults with attachment related disorders, anxiety and depression.
Certified EMDR Therapist. Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapies. Trained in Brainspotting. Extensive experience providing trauma-focused therapy to adolescents/adults with attachment related disorders, anxiety and depression.
(618) 602-0914 View (618) 602-0914
Photo of Deanne Bajaj, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deanne Bajaj
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel like life is just too hard? Are you looking for a safe, nonjudgmental space to share? I would love to help you! I believe in meeting people where they are at and working with them to take small steps or huge leaps in the directions they’d like to go! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked with individuals with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, low self-esteem, relationship issues, addictions, chronic medical conditions, and financial difficulties. I love helping people, and I feel it is a gift to journey through triumphs and challenges with the individuals I counsel!
Do you feel like life is just too hard? Are you looking for a safe, nonjudgmental space to share? I would love to help you! I believe in meeting people where they are at and working with them to take small steps or huge leaps in the directions they’d like to go! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked with individuals with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, low self-esteem, relationship issues, addictions, chronic medical conditions, and financial difficulties. I love helping people, and I feel it is a gift to journey through triumphs and challenges with the individuals I counsel!
(309) 247-1437 View (309) 247-1437
Photo of Sara Bennett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Taylorville, IL 62568
Welcome! My name is Sara and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the field for more than a decade; licensed since 2020. I specialize in teens and young adults, but love working with adults of all ages. I work primarily with people who are struggling through adjustment to different phases of life and/or are experiencing anxiety and depression. I believe in person centered care where you are the expert in your own life, but firmly believe everyone could use a good support team. I feel fortunate to be part of that team.
Welcome! My name is Sara and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the field for more than a decade; licensed since 2020. I specialize in teens and young adults, but love working with adults of all ages. I work primarily with people who are struggling through adjustment to different phases of life and/or are experiencing anxiety and depression. I believe in person centered care where you are the expert in your own life, but firmly believe everyone could use a good support team. I feel fortunate to be part of that team.
(217) 364-8236 View (217) 364-8236
Photo of Kelsey Perkins, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maryville, IL 62062
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in an array of areas: anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, stress management, relationship/marital issues, co-parenting, divorce, and substance abuse.
As a therapist, I strive to meet my clients where they're at and increase their self-awareness, which in turn helps them understand their thoughts and feelings in relation to the problems at hand. I realize that my clients are the experts in their own life experiences, therefore, utilize an individualistic approach in working alongside them in efforts to restore emotional balance.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in an array of areas: anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, stress management, relationship/marital issues, co-parenting, divorce, and substance abuse.
As a therapist, I strive to meet my clients where they're at and increase their self-awareness, which in turn helps them understand their thoughts and feelings in relation to the problems at hand. I realize that my clients are the experts in their own life experiences, therefore, utilize an individualistic approach in working alongside them in efforts to restore emotional balance.
(618) 867-6041 View (618) 867-6041
Photo of Doreen Kelly Forbes, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Doreen Kelly Forbes
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Maryville, IL 62062
I specialize in individual and couple counseling for issues related to depression, anxiety, anger, conflict, grief, and life transitions with ages 14 and up.
Are you feeling like something is missing in your life? Do you wish you could have your life back the way it used to be? Or maybe it has never been what you would like it to be. It could be related to relationships, work, family, or even nothing that you can identify at all. Ignoring the problem is not the answer even though it seems easier. You may want a "quick fix" but there is no replacement for really working through the issues in our lives and getting to a better place. Basically...how you got where you are and where to go from here. It is a big step. That's the kind of "fix" that lasts a lifetime.
I specialize in individual and couple counseling for issues related to depression, anxiety, anger, conflict, grief, and life transitions with ages 14 and up.
Are you feeling like something is missing in your life? Do you wish you could have your life back the way it used to be? Or maybe it has never been what you would like it to be. It could be related to relationships, work, family, or even nothing that you can identify at all. Ignoring the problem is not the answer even though it seems easier. You may want a "quick fix" but there is no replacement for really working through the issues in our lives and getting to a better place. Basically...how you got where you are and where to go from here. It is a big step. That's the kind of "fix" that lasts a lifetime.
(618) 679-4402 View (618) 679-4402
Photo of Carrie Ryberg, LPC, Counselor
Carrie Ryberg
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Granite City, IL 62040
Hello, my name is Carrie L. Ryberg, MA, LCPC, NCC, and I have been practicing counseling for 13 years. Typically, I work with clients that have anxiety, depression, or previous trauma. Then, I will work with using an approach that would best help you with your needs. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Techniques, and Solution Focus. I believe that sometimes we need some support during difficult times to help us cope and find the silver lining.
Hello, my name is Carrie L. Ryberg, MA, LCPC, NCC, and I have been practicing counseling for 13 years. Typically, I work with clients that have anxiety, depression, or previous trauma. Then, I will work with using an approach that would best help you with your needs. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Techniques, and Solution Focus. I believe that sometimes we need some support during difficult times to help us cope and find the silver lining.
(773) 305-6923 View (773) 305-6923
Photo of Sarah M. Dyer, PhD, Psychologist
Sarah M. Dyer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Swansea, IL 62226
I provide evidence-based therapy for problems such as depression, anxiety, social difficulties, parenting skills, and family/relationship issues.
In addition to providing counseling, I specialize in comprehensive diagnosis and assessment of learning difficulties, ADHD, memory concerns, autism, dementia/Alzheimer's disease, brain injury, depression, anxiety, and a variety of other psychological and neuropsychological difficulties. I bring a comprehensive and compassionate approach to each and every client. When your child is struggling at school or when you begin to experience memory issues, you need a knowledgeable and skilled professional who will be able to assess the situation and help you determine the right next step. I can bring clarity to situations that otherwise feel chaotic.
I provide evidence-based therapy for problems such as depression, anxiety, social difficulties, parenting skills, and family/relationship issues.
In addition to providing counseling, I specialize in comprehensive diagnosis and assessment of learning difficulties, ADHD, memory concerns, autism, dementia/Alzheimer's disease, brain injury, depression, anxiety, and a variety of other psychological and neuropsychological difficulties. I bring a comprehensive and compassionate approach to each and every client. When your child is struggling at school or when you begin to experience memory issues, you need a knowledgeable and skilled professional who will be able to assess the situation and help you determine the right next step. I can bring clarity to situations that otherwise feel chaotic.
(618) 205-9780 View (618) 205-9780
Photo of Joseph W Proctor - Macomb Mental Wellness LLC, PsyD, MBA, LCP, Psychologist
Macomb Mental Wellness LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA, LCP
Verified Verified
Macomb, IL 61455  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and I treat a wide variety of issues for clients age 14 and up, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, stress, issues arising from substance abuse and other addictions, sexual issues, relationship issues, family or parenting issues, and many other issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and I treat a wide variety of issues for clients age 14 and up, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, stress, issues arising from substance abuse and other addictions, sexual issues, relationship issues, family or parenting issues, and many other issues.
(309) 928-7023 View (309) 928-7023
Photo of Megan J Droege, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Megan J Droege
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shiloh, IL 62269
I work with both adolescents and adults, and I have experience treating clients who have struggled with depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, grief, relationship issues, and sexuality.
Hi! I'm Megan, and I am so happy you have taken the initial step in finding a therapist who feels like the best fit for you. I know seeking therapy is not always an easy decision, which is why one of my primary goals in therapy is to create a comfortable, safe space for my clients. My focus in therapy is to help my clients reconnect with themselves and get back on track to where they want to be, both emotionally and physically. I concentrate on the goals my clients wish to achieve, and I remind them that we progress at their pace while I'm here to guide them.
I work with both adolescents and adults, and I have experience treating clients who have struggled with depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, grief, relationship issues, and sexuality.
Hi! I'm Megan, and I am so happy you have taken the initial step in finding a therapist who feels like the best fit for you. I know seeking therapy is not always an easy decision, which is why one of my primary goals in therapy is to create a comfortable, safe space for my clients. My focus in therapy is to help my clients reconnect with themselves and get back on track to where they want to be, both emotionally and physically. I concentrate on the goals my clients wish to achieve, and I remind them that we progress at their pace while I'm here to guide them.
(252) 336-9456 View (252) 336-9456
Photo of Jackie Thompson, LCPC, Counselor
Jackie Thompson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Forsyth, IL 62535  (Online Only)
Hey there, I'm Jackie, and I would love to help you navigate whatever life challenges you may be facing. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience in the therapy/counseling field. I have worked with individuals experiencing a wide variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, work related stress, addiction, and PTSD - just to name a few. I have worked in a Corrections environment for several years and have identified a need for counseling within the Corrections/Law Enforcement/First Responder fields.
Hey there, I'm Jackie, and I would love to help you navigate whatever life challenges you may be facing. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience in the therapy/counseling field. I have worked with individuals experiencing a wide variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, work related stress, addiction, and PTSD - just to name a few. I have worked in a Corrections environment for several years and have identified a need for counseling within the Corrections/Law Enforcement/First Responder fields.
(217) 292-1151 View (217) 292-1151
Photo of Stacey Dinkelman, LCPC, Counselor
Stacey Dinkelman
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Centralia, IL 62801
Welcome! My name is Stacey Dinkleman and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience. I specialize in helping adults and adolescents with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I take a client-centered approach to therapy and focus on each client’s specific needs. I believe that everyone has the potential to overcome the challenges they face in life and with the right support and tools we can make that happen. I also specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy. I believe that changing your way of thinking is the first step to your happiness.
Welcome! My name is Stacey Dinkleman and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience. I specialize in helping adults and adolescents with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I take a client-centered approach to therapy and focus on each client’s specific needs. I believe that everyone has the potential to overcome the challenges they face in life and with the right support and tools we can make that happen. I also specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy. I believe that changing your way of thinking is the first step to your happiness.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Tina Lott, LCPC, Counselor
Tina Lott
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Maryville, IL 62062
Hi, my name is Dr. Tina Lott. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Alcohol & other Drug Counselor. I hold a BC-TMH certification and can provide quality services via Telehealth. My focus area is working with those with persistent mental health conditions who desire to learn how to cope with symptoms to live their best lives. I also specialize in working with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity issues, and self-esteem. My primary theoretical approach is Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). I am passionate about working with clients to help them reach their most optimal selves.
Hi, my name is Dr. Tina Lott. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Alcohol & other Drug Counselor. I hold a BC-TMH certification and can provide quality services via Telehealth. My focus area is working with those with persistent mental health conditions who desire to learn how to cope with symptoms to live their best lives. I also specialize in working with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity issues, and self-esteem. My primary theoretical approach is Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). I am passionate about working with clients to help them reach their most optimal selves.
(309) 250-1121 View (309) 250-1121

See more therapy options for Carlinville

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.