Depression Therapists in Carol Stream, IL
![Photo of Jodi Macaluso, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41829893-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I understand a wide range of therapy needs including depression, anxiety, life transitions, stress management, self-esteem and grief.
During my career as a therapist, I have gained the expertise in joining a person "where they are at" while developing an environment of safety, security and mutual respect. I have been told that my voice and manner quickly communicates friendliness and kindness, and that people overall, find that I am not at all intimidating and very easy to talk to. I provide an integrative supportive approach that allows for healing and growth. I combine Motivational Enhancement with Cognitive Behavioral interventions to assist in identifying the unique qualities and strengths of each person I work with to evoke change and emotional wellness.
I understand a wide range of therapy needs including depression, anxiety, life transitions, stress management, self-esteem and grief.
During my career as a therapist, I have gained the expertise in joining a person "where they are at" while developing an environment of safety, security and mutual respect. I have been told that my voice and manner quickly communicates friendliness and kindness, and that people overall, find that I am not at all intimidating and very easy to talk to. I provide an integrative supportive approach that allows for healing and growth. I combine Motivational Enhancement with Cognitive Behavioral interventions to assist in identifying the unique qualities and strengths of each person I work with to evoke change and emotional wellness.
![Photo of Anna Ciampanelli, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d88aab16-86da-4fd7-96b2-db6357839306/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ciampanelli specializes in pediatric and adult neuropsychology and offers individual therapy and neuropsychological testing across the lifespan. She has therapeutic experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, perfectionism, executive dysfunction, school/work performance challenges, caregiver burden, aging, and chronic medical conditions, among other concerns. She aspires to promote a life of meaning and build upon your strengths and values. Dr. Ciampanelli offers tailored neuropsychological evaluations and treatment recommendations for an array of social-emotional and neurological concerns.
Dr. Ciampanelli specializes in pediatric and adult neuropsychology and offers individual therapy and neuropsychological testing across the lifespan. She has therapeutic experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, perfectionism, executive dysfunction, school/work performance challenges, caregiver burden, aging, and chronic medical conditions, among other concerns. She aspires to promote a life of meaning and build upon your strengths and values. Dr. Ciampanelli offers tailored neuropsychological evaluations and treatment recommendations for an array of social-emotional and neurological concerns.
![Photo of Thomas Young, MA, MS, LCPC, ACS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c179317-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thomas Young
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LCPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188 (Online Only)
I help people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, relationship problems, and major mental health issues.
Being honest and true to yourself takes a great deal of courage. You have the courage and hope to transform your life. I can help you in that journey. I offer Individual and Couples Counseling that can help improve who you are and the life that you lead. It would be my honor and privileged to help you achieve your goals".
I help people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, mood disorders, relationship problems, and major mental health issues.
Being honest and true to yourself takes a great deal of courage. You have the courage and hope to transform your life. I can help you in that journey. I offer Individual and Couples Counseling that can help improve who you are and the life that you lead. It would be my honor and privileged to help you achieve your goals".
![Photo of Jonna Phelps, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45624eaa-eccb-451c-9835-1162069eaab0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonna Phelps
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188
My name is Jonna Phelps, and I am a LCPC in Illinois. I have focused my attention on treating adults with anxiety and depression. I believe in learning coping skills and positive communication to deal with significant life events. The goal of treatment is validation through re-focusing on individual strengths in order to improve overall quality of life. I have focused my attention on treating adults with anxiety, depression, and difficulty with life transitions. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, coaching, and validation practices.
My name is Jonna Phelps, and I am a LCPC in Illinois. I have focused my attention on treating adults with anxiety and depression. I believe in learning coping skills and positive communication to deal with significant life events. The goal of treatment is validation through re-focusing on individual strengths in order to improve overall quality of life. I have focused my attention on treating adults with anxiety, depression, and difficulty with life transitions. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, coaching, and validation practices.
![Photo of Joyce Babb, LCSW, BCD, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/497da4ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Change is possible. I can help. I offer exceptional and compassionate counseling services to help you to achieve your goals so that you can live your life and relationships more fully. I have extensive experience, both in the US and overseas, in working with individuals, couples, families, and groups to address a wide range of issues, including anxiety and panic disorders; depression; stress management; marital and family problems; parenting skills; attention deficit disorders; life transitions; grief and loss; women's issues; men's issues; substance abuse and addictions; co-dependency, family of origin, perfectionism, and shame issues and more. .
Change is possible. I can help. I offer exceptional and compassionate counseling services to help you to achieve your goals so that you can live your life and relationships more fully. I have extensive experience, both in the US and overseas, in working with individuals, couples, families, and groups to address a wide range of issues, including anxiety and panic disorders; depression; stress management; marital and family problems; parenting skills; attention deficit disorders; life transitions; grief and loss; women's issues; men's issues; substance abuse and addictions; co-dependency, family of origin, perfectionism, and shame issues and more. .
Ginny Gemmell, LCSW, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188
I specialize in the treatment of adolescents and their families, life issues for men and women, depression and anxiety, sexual abuse issues and other traumas that may occur in childhood, and have yet to be resolved.
I provide a warm, accepting environment, where my clients are able to feel safe to express themselves. I like to use humor, where appropriate, but I am very sensitive to the pain that my clients are experiencing. I believe that people can change and adjust at any point in life, when they are provided with good support.
I specialize in the treatment of adolescents and their families, life issues for men and women, depression and anxiety, sexual abuse issues and other traumas that may occur in childhood, and have yet to be resolved.
I provide a warm, accepting environment, where my clients are able to feel safe to express themselves. I like to use humor, where appropriate, but I am very sensitive to the pain that my clients are experiencing. I believe that people can change and adjust at any point in life, when they are provided with good support.
![Photo of Robin N. Heffernan, LMFT, LCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6b395f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Some specific areas of my expertise include: Adolescent Issues, Couples Therapy, Relationship Issues, Parent-Child Relationships, Adjustment to Divorce, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management and Hypnotherapy.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 15 years of experience working with multiple people in the therapy room dealing with relationship issues. This training prepared me to ensure that everyone has an active part of the therapeutic process. I believe that therapy is a collaborative approach where a trusting therapeutic relationship is established and used to identify existing strengths and workable solutions. I also believe that my role is to assist individuals, couples or families in developing skills that address there presenting concerns and continue to be useful beyond the end of therapy.
Some specific areas of my expertise include: Adolescent Issues, Couples Therapy, Relationship Issues, Parent-Child Relationships, Adjustment to Divorce, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management and Hypnotherapy.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 15 years of experience working with multiple people in the therapy room dealing with relationship issues. This training prepared me to ensure that everyone has an active part of the therapeutic process. I believe that therapy is a collaborative approach where a trusting therapeutic relationship is established and used to identify existing strengths and workable solutions. I also believe that my role is to assist individuals, couples or families in developing skills that address there presenting concerns and continue to be useful beyond the end of therapy.
![Photo of Jessica K Colton, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16491616-0e7d-4c45-a79f-5dce711da6e7/1/320x400.png)
Jessica K Colton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Seeking counseling is a courageous first step toward healing and I am here to help. Therapy is a wonderful way to find support, clarity, hope, and growth. I am constantly amazed by the positive changes that individuals experience in therapy. I enjoy connecting, understanding, and deeply caring about others as I walk alongside them in their journey. I work with individuals and family members affected by addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, shame & guilt, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and trauma.
Seeking counseling is a courageous first step toward healing and I am here to help. Therapy is a wonderful way to find support, clarity, hope, and growth. I am constantly amazed by the positive changes that individuals experience in therapy. I enjoy connecting, understanding, and deeply caring about others as I walk alongside them in their journey. I work with individuals and family members affected by addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, shame & guilt, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and trauma.
![Photo of Clifton George Burns Jr - TXM Consultative Services, PLLC, LCPC, CCTP, CCATP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/664086c0-7024-42fc-8f6b-5390dce5b2c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
TXM Consultative Services, PLLC
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60188
I now assist clients with addressing familial conflict, and symptoms aligned with depression, trauma, anxiety, mood dysregulation, anger, and (IEP) requests or maintenance.
I assist clients with changing the narrative of their stories. The client is the expert regarding their life; however, I guide and/or challenge each client by refocusing them back to their targeted goals.
I now assist clients with addressing familial conflict, and symptoms aligned with depression, trauma, anxiety, mood dysregulation, anger, and (IEP) requests or maintenance.
I assist clients with changing the narrative of their stories. The client is the expert regarding their life; however, I guide and/or challenge each client by refocusing them back to their targeted goals.
![Photo of Luke Tseng, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b5deca3-dda9-4822-851a-5095eebd656f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Are you struggling with finding purpose or meaning? Are you struggling with a cross-cultural transition or race-related issue? Together, we can understand the self within our socio-cultural context and build the foundation necessary to create space for intentional, yet flexible, change to occur. Let’s work together to find the change you are looking for.
Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Are you struggling with finding purpose or meaning? Are you struggling with a cross-cultural transition or race-related issue? Together, we can understand the self within our socio-cultural context and build the foundation necessary to create space for intentional, yet flexible, change to occur. Let’s work together to find the change you are looking for.
![Photo of Beth Carlson, MS, LCPC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25e31f89-840b-4d8d-b450-f1f2b91d7a8c/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a fully Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am committed to walk along side you during your exploration of thoughts, emotions, behaviors and experiences that may be creating barriers towards personal happiness and well-being. I consider it a privilege to be part of your journey towards mental wellness. During my 37 years working in the business sector, I facilitated teams, providing assistance in building communication and conflict management skills. I then took my corporate and life experiences into the field of counseling where I now specialize in addiction, adjustment issues, depression and anxiety.
As a fully Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am committed to walk along side you during your exploration of thoughts, emotions, behaviors and experiences that may be creating barriers towards personal happiness and well-being. I consider it a privilege to be part of your journey towards mental wellness. During my 37 years working in the business sector, I facilitated teams, providing assistance in building communication and conflict management skills. I then took my corporate and life experiences into the field of counseling where I now specialize in addiction, adjustment issues, depression and anxiety.
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![Photo of Christine Reed, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6227083-4d24-4a50-802d-8c76dd0b959b/1/320x400.jpeg)
With specialized training and a keen focus on adult ADHD, as well as extensive experience in addressing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, PTSD, trauma, sleep disorders, and grief, I am committed to providing tailored support that meets your individual needs.
Navigating life's challenges can be tough, but you don't have to face them alone. I specialize in supporting adults aged 18 to 100 on their journey towards personal growth and fulfillment. By offering a compassionate ear and a nonjudgmental approach, I strive to understand your unique struggles and help you achieve your goals. Drawing upon a foundation of empathy and support, I work collaboratively with you to uncover and address problematic patterns that may be holding you back. Together, we'll delve into your emotions, perceptions, and beliefs, empowering you to make positive changes in your life.
With specialized training and a keen focus on adult ADHD, as well as extensive experience in addressing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, PTSD, trauma, sleep disorders, and grief, I am committed to providing tailored support that meets your individual needs.
Navigating life's challenges can be tough, but you don't have to face them alone. I specialize in supporting adults aged 18 to 100 on their journey towards personal growth and fulfillment. By offering a compassionate ear and a nonjudgmental approach, I strive to understand your unique struggles and help you achieve your goals. Drawing upon a foundation of empathy and support, I work collaboratively with you to uncover and address problematic patterns that may be holding you back. Together, we'll delve into your emotions, perceptions, and beliefs, empowering you to make positive changes in your life.
![Photo of Arita Jeannine Sego, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f75290a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Some areas of concentration include: ADHD, anxiety, behavior management, chronic pain, coping skills, depression, grief/loss, relationships, self-injury, self-esteem, sexual identity issues & transitions in life.
I believe life is a journey. It is full of ups & downs, good & hard things. How we deal & cope with these experiences is what can make the journey a positive challenge. My ultimate goals in providing therapy to clients are to assist them in their ability to cope & deal with what life throws them, the easy & the challenging; & assist them in their own personal growth along their journeys. I provide Ketamine and TMS assisted psychotherapy.
Some areas of concentration include: ADHD, anxiety, behavior management, chronic pain, coping skills, depression, grief/loss, relationships, self-injury, self-esteem, sexual identity issues & transitions in life.
I believe life is a journey. It is full of ups & downs, good & hard things. How we deal & cope with these experiences is what can make the journey a positive challenge. My ultimate goals in providing therapy to clients are to assist them in their ability to cope & deal with what life throws them, the easy & the challenging; & assist them in their own personal growth along their journeys. I provide Ketamine and TMS assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Kelly McCauley, MA, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82b84fee-ad37-45fb-89c3-1d8f50d41d62/1/320x400.png)
Kelly McCauley
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60116
My specialities include working with children, adolescents & adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress management, relationship issues, ADHD, OCD & eating disorders.
Hi there! Have you been struggling to ask for help? If so, I am proud of you for taking this first step! I haven’t heard your story yet, but I imagine it’s one full of strength and courage. No matter how worried, scared, hopeless, or confused you may be feeling, I am confident we can work together to bring back the joy you’ve been missing in your life.
My specialities include working with children, adolescents & adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress management, relationship issues, ADHD, OCD & eating disorders.
Hi there! Have you been struggling to ask for help? If so, I am proud of you for taking this first step! I haven’t heard your story yet, but I imagine it’s one full of strength and courage. No matter how worried, scared, hopeless, or confused you may be feeling, I am confident we can work together to bring back the joy you’ve been missing in your life.
![Photo of Molly Wollenweber, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e026658-072d-494d-80f8-e22b72b20a50/2/320x400.png)
Molly Wollenweber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188
I work with new or expecting mothers, individuals & families affected by addiction, relationship issues, couples counseling, and those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, shame, and guilt.
Do you wish someone could truly understand why you have been so anxious and unsure recently? Maybe you are experiencing self-doubt and a lack of confidence in your abilities to make decisions? And you feel distant in your relationships? If you resonate with this, I am here to help you gain confidence and a sense of direction in your life. I will provide you a safe and judgment-free space where you feel free to be your authentic self.
I work with new or expecting mothers, individuals & families affected by addiction, relationship issues, couples counseling, and those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, shame, and guilt.
Do you wish someone could truly understand why you have been so anxious and unsure recently? Maybe you are experiencing self-doubt and a lack of confidence in your abilities to make decisions? And you feel distant in your relationships? If you resonate with this, I am here to help you gain confidence and a sense of direction in your life. I will provide you a safe and judgment-free space where you feel free to be your authentic self.
![Photo of Nina Iraheta, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1f528c4-d487-4319-a3b7-5e0879d52767/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nina Iraheta
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188
I support people who struggle with depression, anxiety, OCD, school refusal, LGBTQIA issues, grief/loss, transitions to adulthood, self-confidence, self-esteem, and relationships concerns.
There are times in our lives when we feel lost, stuck, and unhappy. Sometimes we’re not sure how or why we feel this way. There are other times when we can pinpoint exactly what's making us feel anxious, pressured, depressed, stressed, angry, or confused, but we don't know what to do about it all, how to fix it, or how to manage our painful feelings. Whether you know what is causing your distress or not, it's impacting your life. If you are uncertain about how to accept, change, move forward, and feel better, I encourage you to seek counseling. You don't have to cope alone. You deserve to feel better, grow, and heal. Do it for you.
I support people who struggle with depression, anxiety, OCD, school refusal, LGBTQIA issues, grief/loss, transitions to adulthood, self-confidence, self-esteem, and relationships concerns.
There are times in our lives when we feel lost, stuck, and unhappy. Sometimes we’re not sure how or why we feel this way. There are other times when we can pinpoint exactly what's making us feel anxious, pressured, depressed, stressed, angry, or confused, but we don't know what to do about it all, how to fix it, or how to manage our painful feelings. Whether you know what is causing your distress or not, it's impacting your life. If you are uncertain about how to accept, change, move forward, and feel better, I encourage you to seek counseling. You don't have to cope alone. You deserve to feel better, grow, and heal. Do it for you.
![Photo of Ashley Kranz, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c478c69d-1f77-43e6-8cf8-c9f75e8dbe58/1/320x400.jpeg)
I serve individuals with anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, trauma, or complex interpersonal relationships.
I have been practicing nearly 20 years with extensive experience in the school setting. Today, you have taken a critical step toward creating change, caring for your wellness, and participating in a process designed to meet your mental health goals; I am truly excited for you! Whether you are new to therapy, have been on a "pause", or are seeking a therapist for a different season of life, I applaud you. Additionally, the same could be said if you are visiting my page seeking services for a loved one. I am here to meet you where you are at, foster resilience toward challenges you may be facing, and to celebrate your successes!
I serve individuals with anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, trauma, or complex interpersonal relationships.
I have been practicing nearly 20 years with extensive experience in the school setting. Today, you have taken a critical step toward creating change, caring for your wellness, and participating in a process designed to meet your mental health goals; I am truly excited for you! Whether you are new to therapy, have been on a "pause", or are seeking a therapist for a different season of life, I applaud you. Additionally, the same could be said if you are visiting my page seeking services for a loved one. I am here to meet you where you are at, foster resilience toward challenges you may be facing, and to celebrate your successes!
![Photo of Jennifer L. Jackson, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff34282f-ffba-4580-ba49-eda9e05a266b/2/320x400.png)
Jennifer L. Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma. I am an eclectic therapist who uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, and Couples Therapy during treatment with my clients. I believe in creating an egalitarian relationship with you to foster a safe and empowering environment for long-term recovery and stability.
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma. I am an eclectic therapist who uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, and Couples Therapy during treatment with my clients. I believe in creating an egalitarian relationship with you to foster a safe and empowering environment for long-term recovery and stability.
![Photo of James Shuler, MRC, LPC, CRC, C-ADHD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/298de618-f9a7-45ef-b90d-f4a6b47b022c/2/320x400.jpeg)
James Shuler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPC, CRC, C-ADHD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188 (Online Only)
Are you navigating the complexities of life that affects both your professional and personal life? Life is a journey in which each person walks through specific experiences that no other person can fully understand. As a therapist, I feel it is an honor and privilege to compassionately and empathetically listen as I walk with a person through an uncomfortable, vulnerable time in their life. I understand the hurdles you might face - whether it's workplace discrimination, accessing necessary accommodations, or managing mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Are you navigating the complexities of life that affects both your professional and personal life? Life is a journey in which each person walks through specific experiences that no other person can fully understand. As a therapist, I feel it is an honor and privilege to compassionately and empathetically listen as I walk with a person through an uncomfortable, vulnerable time in their life. I understand the hurdles you might face - whether it's workplace discrimination, accessing necessary accommodations, or managing mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
![Photo of Taylor Hammes, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b593af8-a729-492c-bf98-d085290db5b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Hammes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Are you or someone in your family dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or stress? I work with ages 7 and up to help them handle these issues. My goal is to support my clients as they go through tough times and heal from trauma and other life stressors. With my background in trauma-informed care, I can help in many areas of life, whether it's guiding children through key developmental stages or helping adults manage their stress. I enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community where I provide a safe and empowering environment.
Are you or someone in your family dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or stress? I work with ages 7 and up to help them handle these issues. My goal is to support my clients as they go through tough times and heal from trauma and other life stressors. With my background in trauma-informed care, I can help in many areas of life, whether it's guiding children through key developmental stages or helping adults manage their stress. I enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community where I provide a safe and empowering environment.
See more therapy options for Carol Stream
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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.