Depression Therapists in Dixon, IL

Photo of Kelsey Reuter - Reuter Counseling, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reuter Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dixon, IL 61021
Kelsey Reuter is accepting new clients. Are you wanting to be kinder towards yourself but don't know where to start? Do you feel stuck, anxious, out of control, or depressed? Are you feeling "stuck" in life, experiencing relational or communication issues, or navigating life transitions? Would you like to find relief from isolating circumstances or traumatic experiences? Negative self-talk, uncertainty, and stress can impact our ability to be our best selves. I aim to provide a safe therapeutic environment to allow you to truly heal. My intention is for you to find hope, freedom, and direction through therapy.
Kelsey Reuter is accepting new clients. Are you wanting to be kinder towards yourself but don't know where to start? Do you feel stuck, anxious, out of control, or depressed? Are you feeling "stuck" in life, experiencing relational or communication issues, or navigating life transitions? Would you like to find relief from isolating circumstances or traumatic experiences? Negative self-talk, uncertainty, and stress can impact our ability to be our best selves. I aim to provide a safe therapeutic environment to allow you to truly heal. My intention is for you to find hope, freedom, and direction through therapy.
(815) 982-2935 View (815) 982-2935
Photo of Yazmine Howard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yazmine Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dixon, IL 61021
I have often found that this manifests itself in the form of depression, stress, anxiety, and family discord.
My name is Yazmine Howard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the Chicagoland area and currently have a decade of experience working with primarily African-American adolescents, adults, and families. My experiences include crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment, group & individual therapy, along with family therapy. I utilize an integrative approach in my sessions and prioritize the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each client to increase the outcomes of therapy.
I have often found that this manifests itself in the form of depression, stress, anxiety, and family discord.
My name is Yazmine Howard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in the Chicagoland area and currently have a decade of experience working with primarily African-American adolescents, adults, and families. My experiences include crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment, group & individual therapy, along with family therapy. I utilize an integrative approach in my sessions and prioritize the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each client to increase the outcomes of therapy.
(773) 257-7299 View (773) 257-7299
Photo of Heather Ross - Life Solutions: Integrative Healing, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Life Solutions: Integrative Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dixon, IL 61021  (Online Only)
Let me help you to navigate through life's challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life role transitions, and more, while creating new and healthy patterns.
I believe in building connections with clients that honor the therapeutic process and facilitate change. I provide a comfortable and supportive therapeutic relationship that fosters a positive experience. I believe you are the expert in your life and I respect the your right to choose your own path and create the change you want to see. If you need guidance and researched-based services to make those changes happen, I will partner with you to get the work done.
Let me help you to navigate through life's challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life role transitions, and more, while creating new and healthy patterns.
I believe in building connections with clients that honor the therapeutic process and facilitate change. I provide a comfortable and supportive therapeutic relationship that fosters a positive experience. I believe you are the expert in your life and I respect the your right to choose your own path and create the change you want to see. If you need guidance and researched-based services to make those changes happen, I will partner with you to get the work done.
(779) 223-5443 View (779) 223-5443
Photo of Paulette M Selmi, PhD, Psychologist
Paulette M Selmi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dixon, IL 61021
Dr. Selmi is a licensed psychology located in Sterling, Illinois, 61081. Behavioral health interventions, FOID evaluations, family court expertise. Mental health intervention used are evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Behavior Therapy (BT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Dr. Selmi is fully trained in these focused evidence and scientifically-based methods. A large array of presenting problems can be addressed, including depression, anxiety, panic-anxiety, behavioral problems (children and adolescents), couples, family, parenting and co-parenting difficulties with divorced or separated parents.
Dr. Selmi is a licensed psychology located in Sterling, Illinois, 61081. Behavioral health interventions, FOID evaluations, family court expertise. Mental health intervention used are evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Behavior Therapy (BT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Dr. Selmi is fully trained in these focused evidence and scientifically-based methods. A large array of presenting problems can be addressed, including depression, anxiety, panic-anxiety, behavioral problems (children and adolescents), couples, family, parenting and co-parenting difficulties with divorced or separated parents.
(815) 213-7669 View (815) 213-7669
Photo of Allyson Scott, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allyson Scott
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Dixon, IL 61021  (Online Only)
My name is Allyson and I have clinical expertise in a variety of settings with adults who have difficulties with life transitions, negative self-talk, anxiety and identity. I provide a warm and inviting environment with excellent rapport building skills to join the client in goal setting to improve quality of life during hard times. I develop an individualized program tailored to the social and emotional needs of the client. I focus on Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQ+, Racial Issues, Racial Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Addiction and more.
My name is Allyson and I have clinical expertise in a variety of settings with adults who have difficulties with life transitions, negative self-talk, anxiety and identity. I provide a warm and inviting environment with excellent rapport building skills to join the client in goal setting to improve quality of life during hard times. I develop an individualized program tailored to the social and emotional needs of the client. I focus on Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQ+, Racial Issues, Racial Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Addiction and more.
(224) 267-9959 View (224) 267-9959
Photo of Jeanette Marie Trotter, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Jeanette Marie Trotter
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dixon, IL 61021
Are you going through difficult circumstances or overwhelmed by emotions that make you feel like you are out of control? Pain, chaos and brokenness are words used to describe desperation and the need for real help, now. Know that it is normal and healthy to receive help while you regain balance and make a fresh start. My passion is to help you discover meaning in and solutions for the challenges you are facing, by facilitating growth in all areas of your life. Thank you for your interest in learning more about the services Jeanette Trotter, LCPC, NCC provides.
Are you going through difficult circumstances or overwhelmed by emotions that make you feel like you are out of control? Pain, chaos and brokenness are words used to describe desperation and the need for real help, now. Know that it is normal and healthy to receive help while you regain balance and make a fresh start. My passion is to help you discover meaning in and solutions for the challenges you are facing, by facilitating growth in all areas of your life. Thank you for your interest in learning more about the services Jeanette Trotter, LCPC, NCC provides.
(815) 267-0153 View (815) 267-0153
Photo of Huma Pekcan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Huma Pekcan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dixon, IL 61021
Our experiences and environment shape us greatly. They define how we perceive the world, impact our relationships, and contribute to developing our strengths. Sometimes we start to see patterns in our lives that are not in alignment with what we expect or what we want for ourselves. Feelings of despair may emerge. People may feel overwhelmed, anxious, experience loss of pleasure, or perhaps and overall loss of meaning. If you have disturbing memories still impacting you today, if you feel anxious in certain situations or overwhelmed attempting to cope with the difficulties in your life, I may be able to assist.
Our experiences and environment shape us greatly. They define how we perceive the world, impact our relationships, and contribute to developing our strengths. Sometimes we start to see patterns in our lives that are not in alignment with what we expect or what we want for ourselves. Feelings of despair may emerge. People may feel overwhelmed, anxious, experience loss of pleasure, or perhaps and overall loss of meaning. If you have disturbing memories still impacting you today, if you feel anxious in certain situations or overwhelmed attempting to cope with the difficulties in your life, I may be able to assist.
(424) 372-8987 View (424) 372-8987
Photo of Melissa Gates, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Gates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dixon, IL 61021
I am devoted both to helping my clients with the distress and overwhelming challenges life can present, while inspiring them to find balance, empowerment and contentment as they reach for their goals and personal potential. My depth of experience has led me to a firm belief that individuals can achieve their own idea of happiness through a holistic approach that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is tailored to my clients’ needs and goals. My role is to create a safe, empowering, respectful environment. Your role is to take the first step that will lead you to discover your path to healing.
I am devoted both to helping my clients with the distress and overwhelming challenges life can present, while inspiring them to find balance, empowerment and contentment as they reach for their goals and personal potential. My depth of experience has led me to a firm belief that individuals can achieve their own idea of happiness through a holistic approach that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is tailored to my clients’ needs and goals. My role is to create a safe, empowering, respectful environment. Your role is to take the first step that will lead you to discover your path to healing.
(815) 288-1235 View (815) 288-1235
Photo of Robbin L Klein - Robbin Klein Counseling Services, LCSW, CADC, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robbin Klein Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, MS
Verified Verified
Dixon, IL 61021
I believe that best treatment practices acknowledge the whole being; body, mind, and spirit. When one area of our being is out of balance, the whole of the individual is impacted. Body, mind, and spirit are connected and as such, must be taken into account when providing treatment. It would be an honor and a privilege to accompany you on your journey towards wholeness and restoration.
I believe that best treatment practices acknowledge the whole being; body, mind, and spirit. When one area of our being is out of balance, the whole of the individual is impacted. Body, mind, and spirit are connected and as such, must be taken into account when providing treatment. It would be an honor and a privilege to accompany you on your journey towards wholeness and restoration.
(815) 410-4292 View (815) 410-4292
Photo of Jevita R Hamilton - Mindful Wellness Counseling, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindful Wellness Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Dixon, IL 61021
How did you get here? You once had dreams! but they've been overshadowed by the weight of childhood. You find yourself standing at a crossroads, struggling to regain a sense of calm and security. Some days you manage to find some comfort in your day-to-day, yet you know there's a yearning for something more. Over time, your ambitions have faded, but now, you're ready to find that inner spark and reclaim a sense of purpose. Together, we'll explore your past, ease your tension, and rediscover your true desires. We'll set achievable goals and chart a path toward the fulfilling life you've always envisioned. You deserve to be free NOW.
How did you get here? You once had dreams! but they've been overshadowed by the weight of childhood. You find yourself standing at a crossroads, struggling to regain a sense of calm and security. Some days you manage to find some comfort in your day-to-day, yet you know there's a yearning for something more. Over time, your ambitions have faded, but now, you're ready to find that inner spark and reclaim a sense of purpose. Together, we'll explore your past, ease your tension, and rediscover your true desires. We'll set achievable goals and chart a path toward the fulfilling life you've always envisioned. You deserve to be free NOW.
(708) 816-5471 View (708) 816-5471
Photo of Jason Hamilton, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jason Hamilton
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dixon, IL 61021
Feeling disconnected, like you’re lost in the fog, unsure where you are headed. It feels like something big’s missing, but you can't put your finger on it. Where is my clarity? What is my purpose? Where’s my peace? Daily grind, old wounds, personal emotional and mental battles. They’re weighing you down. Life’s got you drained. Its too much. You’re spinning around in circles, looking for guidance, but don’t know where to turn. You don’t need someone just spitting solutions at you; you’re after something deeper, something much greater. A true way to reconnect with your core on a new evolved spiritual level.
Feeling disconnected, like you’re lost in the fog, unsure where you are headed. It feels like something big’s missing, but you can't put your finger on it. Where is my clarity? What is my purpose? Where’s my peace? Daily grind, old wounds, personal emotional and mental battles. They’re weighing you down. Life’s got you drained. Its too much. You’re spinning around in circles, looking for guidance, but don’t know where to turn. You don’t need someone just spitting solutions at you; you’re after something deeper, something much greater. A true way to reconnect with your core on a new evolved spiritual level.
(708) 729-5898 View (708) 729-5898

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Monet C Ramsey, LCPC
Monet C Ramsey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Franklin Grove, IL 61031
Hello there. My name is Monet C. Ramsey. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience working with teenagers to adults who have, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Women's Issues, and Career Counseling. I incorporate a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, Supportive, and Trauma Focused therapies during my treatment session with clients. I believe that everyone at some point needed someone to be there for them to support and as a source of strength.
Hello there. My name is Monet C. Ramsey. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience working with teenagers to adults who have, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Women's Issues, and Career Counseling. I incorporate a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, Supportive, and Trauma Focused therapies during my treatment session with clients. I believe that everyone at some point needed someone to be there for them to support and as a source of strength.
(847) 603-2454 View (847) 603-2454
Photo of Angela Johnson, LPC
Angela Johnson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Franklin Grove, IL 61031
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
(224) 970-2777 View (224) 970-2777
Photo of Jennifer Streets, LMHC, LPHA, LCPC, CFM, Counselor
Jennifer Streets
Counselor, LMHC, LPHA, LCPC, CFM
Verified Verified
Sterling, IL 61081
I specialize in family issues, autism, ADD/ADHD in adults and children, adjustment issues, depression, anxiety and many other topics.
I have worked in the mental health field for more 20 years following a career as a junior and senior high teacher. I have experience with everyone from very young children to elderly individuals. I believe firmly in the individual's ability to change if they so desire, regardless of education level, socioeconomic status, or past challenges. I approach all people with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude. Acceptance and kindness are important traits and ones I strive to show each and every person I meet, whether that is within my office or at the grocery store.
I specialize in family issues, autism, ADD/ADHD in adults and children, adjustment issues, depression, anxiety and many other topics.
I have worked in the mental health field for more 20 years following a career as a junior and senior high teacher. I have experience with everyone from very young children to elderly individuals. I believe firmly in the individual's ability to change if they so desire, regardless of education level, socioeconomic status, or past challenges. I approach all people with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude. Acceptance and kindness are important traits and ones I strive to show each and every person I meet, whether that is within my office or at the grocery store.
(779) 237-8267 View (779) 237-8267

Online Therapists

Photo of Morgan Black, MA, LPC, CYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Morgan Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
I received a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and have been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for seven years. I enjoy working with children and adolescents ages 5-18, adults and families experiencing difficulty with anxiety, depression, mood concerns, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, and issues with self-esteem. I also have experience working with individuals diagnosed with ADD/ADHD and Autism Spectrum. I believe in understanding and treating the whole person and creating an open, safe and empathic space to explore and work toward the changes you desire.
I received a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and have been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for seven years. I enjoy working with children and adolescents ages 5-18, adults and families experiencing difficulty with anxiety, depression, mood concerns, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, and issues with self-esteem. I also have experience working with individuals diagnosed with ADD/ADHD and Autism Spectrum. I believe in understanding and treating the whole person and creating an open, safe and empathic space to explore and work toward the changes you desire.
(708) 377-2880 View (708) 377-2880
Photo of Anne Leiter, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Anne Leiter
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
My specialties include self-esteem and identity, victims of narcissism, relationship concerns, body image, anxiety, depression and trauma. I primarily use Psychodynamic approach while incorporating mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment, and Relational Therapy. I am warm and empathetic, humorous and honest. I provide a safe space where clients can explore and hopefully discover their purpose in life. I believe that our past experiences shape our lives and that it is important to carefully examine critical and sometimes difficult moments. I believe that there is no “quick fix” in therapy and that true change takes time.
My specialties include self-esteem and identity, victims of narcissism, relationship concerns, body image, anxiety, depression and trauma. I primarily use Psychodynamic approach while incorporating mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment, and Relational Therapy. I am warm and empathetic, humorous and honest. I provide a safe space where clients can explore and hopefully discover their purpose in life. I believe that our past experiences shape our lives and that it is important to carefully examine critical and sometimes difficult moments. I believe that there is no “quick fix” in therapy and that true change takes time.
(312) 471-0577 View (312) 471-0577
Photo of Ann Schulz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Schulz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
Making the decision to work on your life takes so much courage. My passion involves working with individuals who want to pursue personal growth. My approach is open, honest and with a dash of humor. I believe the core of this work is developing a relationship of trust and honesty. Whatever you are facing in your life- whether it be relationships difficulties, self-esteem, depression, anxiety or anything that is challenging your wellbeing, we can work together to help you have the life you want based on your values.
Making the decision to work on your life takes so much courage. My passion involves working with individuals who want to pursue personal growth. My approach is open, honest and with a dash of humor. I believe the core of this work is developing a relationship of trust and honesty. Whatever you are facing in your life- whether it be relationships difficulties, self-esteem, depression, anxiety or anything that is challenging your wellbeing, we can work together to help you have the life you want based on your values.
(708) 766-7640 View (708) 766-7640
Photo of Hannah Kohn Shakeri, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Kohn Shakeri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I have experience supporting individuals living and struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidality, identity development, life transitions, and challenges with sex and intimacy.
As a justice-oriented therapist, what matters to me is what works for you. I prioritize an intersectional, relational, and pluralistic approach by drawing from multiple frameworks, including but not limited to psychodynamics, parts work, attachment theory, and somatics. I seek to build authentic, accountable, transparent relationships based on your definitions of safety and respect. Centering and affirming your experiences in the world is most important to me. In our time together, I’ll regard you as the expert in your own lived experience as we both learn more about what it is like to be you.
I have experience supporting individuals living and struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidality, identity development, life transitions, and challenges with sex and intimacy.
As a justice-oriented therapist, what matters to me is what works for you. I prioritize an intersectional, relational, and pluralistic approach by drawing from multiple frameworks, including but not limited to psychodynamics, parts work, attachment theory, and somatics. I seek to build authentic, accountable, transparent relationships based on your definitions of safety and respect. Centering and affirming your experiences in the world is most important to me. In our time together, I’ll regard you as the expert in your own lived experience as we both learn more about what it is like to be you.
(773) 207-4247 View (773) 207-4247
Photo of Katrina Gelazius, LCPC, Counselor
Katrina Gelazius
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Barrington, IL 60010
I specialize in working with individuals who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, and substance abuse.
Currently providing in-person and/or virtual sessions for all Medicaid and private plans. I strive to create a therapeutic environment to help others heal and explore different challenges life may bring. My goal is to provide a warm, understanding, and safe environment where my clients can process their feelings and increase self-awareness, confidence, and learn new coping skills to manage stressors. This may include current problems or long lasting patterns. I understand that life can get busy, so I will do my best to accommodate your schedule. I accept private insurance as well as Medicaid (all plans).
I specialize in working with individuals who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, relationship issues, and substance abuse.
Currently providing in-person and/or virtual sessions for all Medicaid and private plans. I strive to create a therapeutic environment to help others heal and explore different challenges life may bring. My goal is to provide a warm, understanding, and safe environment where my clients can process their feelings and increase self-awareness, confidence, and learn new coping skills to manage stressors. This may include current problems or long lasting patterns. I understand that life can get busy, so I will do my best to accommodate your schedule. I accept private insurance as well as Medicaid (all plans).
(872) 213-7502 View (872) 213-7502
Photo of Erin Berenz, PhD, Psychologist
Erin Berenz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kenilworth, IL 60043  (Online Only)
, panic attacks, social anxiety, specific phobia), perinatal mental health, obsessive-compulsive disorder, alcohol and substance use identity concerns and exploration, depression, teen mental health, stress management, goal setting, and more.
Therapy works best when there is a strong, trusting relationship between the client and therapist. My goal is to create a collaborative and supportive environment where you feel safe sharing your challenges and hopes for the future. I believe evidence-based therapy techniques are most successful when they are applied flexibly, taking the context of your life, personal identities, culture, and past experiences into account.
, panic attacks, social anxiety, specific phobia), perinatal mental health, obsessive-compulsive disorder, alcohol and substance use identity concerns and exploration, depression, teen mental health, stress management, goal setting, and more.
Therapy works best when there is a strong, trusting relationship between the client and therapist. My goal is to create a collaborative and supportive environment where you feel safe sharing your challenges and hopes for the future. I believe evidence-based therapy techniques are most successful when they are applied flexibly, taking the context of your life, personal identities, culture, and past experiences into account.
(844) 287-4228 View (844) 287-4228

See more therapy options for Dixon

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.