Depression Therapists in Elburn, IL

Photo of Nelson Jenig, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nelson Jenig
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elburn, IL 60119
I have worked closely with clients who had anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm, anger, grief/loss, ADHD, gender dysphoria, relationship issues, and trauma.
I am here to provide a safe and empathetic space for you to feel comfortable "opening up," and to support you as you make things in your life better. I enjoy listening and learning about each person's unique realities and perspectives. I am honored to be allowed to share in your thoughts, ideas, and issues. I hope to be a companion who can help you through your difficult times and celebrate in your best moments. Together, we can work through behaviors that may no longer be serving you in your present day life that may have had a purpose in the past.
I have worked closely with clients who had anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm, anger, grief/loss, ADHD, gender dysphoria, relationship issues, and trauma.
I am here to provide a safe and empathetic space for you to feel comfortable "opening up," and to support you as you make things in your life better. I enjoy listening and learning about each person's unique realities and perspectives. I am honored to be allowed to share in your thoughts, ideas, and issues. I hope to be a companion who can help you through your difficult times and celebrate in your best moments. Together, we can work through behaviors that may no longer be serving you in your present day life that may have had a purpose in the past.
(331) 866-5695 View (331) 866-5695
Photo of Dawn G Zappitelli, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn G Zappitelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
I enjoy working with individuals of any age, couples, and families who are experiencing issues with grief, depression, anxiety, impulsiveness, anger, life transitions, trauma, divorce, attention, behavior, Christian faith, and relationships.
Successful counseling occurs when you find a therapist you can connect with, who makes you feel heard and values your thoughts and goals for the future. A positive therapist who enjoys learning who you are, and building on your strengths. If you allow me to walk with you in your struggles and victories, I will give you fair and honest feedback, and will challenge you to attain your goals. My Masters Degree from Aurora University, my rich work experience, as well as my own life journey give me valuable insights and wisdom that help me relate to my clients.
I enjoy working with individuals of any age, couples, and families who are experiencing issues with grief, depression, anxiety, impulsiveness, anger, life transitions, trauma, divorce, attention, behavior, Christian faith, and relationships.
Successful counseling occurs when you find a therapist you can connect with, who makes you feel heard and values your thoughts and goals for the future. A positive therapist who enjoys learning who you are, and building on your strengths. If you allow me to walk with you in your struggles and victories, I will give you fair and honest feedback, and will challenge you to attain your goals. My Masters Degree from Aurora University, my rich work experience, as well as my own life journey give me valuable insights and wisdom that help me relate to my clients.
(630) 365-0899 View (630) 365-0899
Photo of Christopher Legan, LCPC, Counselor
Christopher Legan
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
Good Day! My name is Christopher Legan and I have been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the last 20 years. I have worked with children, elderly and adults with issues including anxiety, depression, coping skills, stress, and many more. My approach is an integrative style with proficiencies in CBT, DBT, Rational Emotive, Gestalt, Person-Centered, among others, and I listen and understand your situation(s) to help reduce the symptoms of emotional distress and make our existence more meaningful.
Good Day! My name is Christopher Legan and I have been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the last 20 years. I have worked with children, elderly and adults with issues including anxiety, depression, coping skills, stress, and many more. My approach is an integrative style with proficiencies in CBT, DBT, Rational Emotive, Gestalt, Person-Centered, among others, and I listen and understand your situation(s) to help reduce the symptoms of emotional distress and make our existence more meaningful.
(217) 749-1311 View (217) 749-1311
Photo of Carol Elendt, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol Elendt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
Waitlist for new clients
It takes courage to begin therapy, and I would be honored to step into this process with you. My desire is to provide empathic therapy for adults, adolescents, and children who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or relationship issues. For people experiencing loss, you will find a safe space to grieve. I enjoy working with clients who have diverse beliefs and also offer a Christian perspective for those seeking a faith-focused therapist.
It takes courage to begin therapy, and I would be honored to step into this process with you. My desire is to provide empathic therapy for adults, adolescents, and children who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or relationship issues. For people experiencing loss, you will find a safe space to grieve. I enjoy working with clients who have diverse beliefs and also offer a Christian perspective for those seeking a faith-focused therapist.
(630) 592-4866 View (630) 592-4866
Photo of LaTasha Keltner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaTasha Keltner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
It is a privilege to provide a safe space where the innermost thoughts, emotions, and fears of the human experience can be shared in an unfiltered way. This is a journey that has many twists and turns and if you are looking for compassionate, consistent support with a focus on growth and healing, you've made it to the right place. I specialize in the individualized care of those seeking to collaborate on changing their relationship with their anxiety, depression, and substance use.
It is a privilege to provide a safe space where the innermost thoughts, emotions, and fears of the human experience can be shared in an unfiltered way. This is a journey that has many twists and turns and if you are looking for compassionate, consistent support with a focus on growth and healing, you've made it to the right place. I specialize in the individualized care of those seeking to collaborate on changing their relationship with their anxiety, depression, and substance use.
(630) 315-0912 View (630) 315-0912
Photo of Veris Hawkins-Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veris Hawkins-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
Veris Hawkins-Smith, LPC, treats each client relationship as unique and constantly evolving. She believes life is a journey full of obstacles that impact one's well-being, but any challenge can be overcome with the correct tools.Veris supports adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, and more. She is an expert at helping clients identify and understand unhealthy behaviors and create a plan for change.
Veris Hawkins-Smith, LPC, treats each client relationship as unique and constantly evolving. She believes life is a journey full of obstacles that impact one's well-being, but any challenge can be overcome with the correct tools.Veris supports adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, and more. She is an expert at helping clients identify and understand unhealthy behaviors and create a plan for change.
(630) 812-0095 View (630) 812-0095
Photo of Claire Zierer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire Zierer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents and young adults that are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, ADHD, transitions and behavior concerns.
Stop waiting for Friday, for summer, for someone to fall in love with you for life. Happiness is achieved when you stop waiting for it and make the most of the moment you are in now. "“ Lucy Sutcliffe The thought of going to therapy generally leaves people feeling that they are weak or unable to solve problems on their own. When in reality, the majority of people that are seeking therapy are ordinary people that are dealing with ordinary, everyday issues that life throws at us.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents and young adults that are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, ADHD, transitions and behavior concerns.
Stop waiting for Friday, for summer, for someone to fall in love with you for life. Happiness is achieved when you stop waiting for it and make the most of the moment you are in now. "“ Lucy Sutcliffe The thought of going to therapy generally leaves people feeling that they are weak or unable to solve problems on their own. When in reality, the majority of people that are seeking therapy are ordinary people that are dealing with ordinary, everyday issues that life throws at us.
(630) 491-0685 View (630) 491-0685
Photo of Robin Zoeller-Pullman, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robin Zoeller-Pullman
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
Throughout my years as a clinical psychologist, I have worked with adults who struggle with depression, alcoholism/addiction, anxiety, functioning in the workplace, trauma, and interpersonal relationship difficulties.
Change can be difficult, particularly when you are struggling with the stressors of life. Therapy can seem daunting when you already have so much going on. However, it does not have to be. Psychotherapy can help you clarify thinking, gain insight into past experiences that may be adversely impacting current circumstances, develop a plan, and increase your ability to handle and cope with the challenges of life. I have helped many people make the changes they needed to improve their mood, relationships, and overall functioning.
Throughout my years as a clinical psychologist, I have worked with adults who struggle with depression, alcoholism/addiction, anxiety, functioning in the workplace, trauma, and interpersonal relationship difficulties.
Change can be difficult, particularly when you are struggling with the stressors of life. Therapy can seem daunting when you already have so much going on. However, it does not have to be. Psychotherapy can help you clarify thinking, gain insight into past experiences that may be adversely impacting current circumstances, develop a plan, and increase your ability to handle and cope with the challenges of life. I have helped many people make the changes they needed to improve their mood, relationships, and overall functioning.
(630) 642-6216 View (630) 642-6216
Photo of Allison Grendzinski, LSCW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Grendzinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCW
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
Allison Grendzinski, LCSW, is flexible, supportive, and engages meaningfully with clients. She takes the time to understand each client's journey and meets them where they are to overcome challenges. Allison serves clients of all ages struggling with depression, ADHD, life transitions, stress, and more. She is also especially skilled at treating mood, psychotic, and anxiety disorders. In addition, Allison has extensive experience working with people who at high-risk or in crisis situations. In therapy, Allison tailors her treatment to meet individual needs.
Allison Grendzinski, LCSW, is flexible, supportive, and engages meaningfully with clients. She takes the time to understand each client's journey and meets them where they are to overcome challenges. Allison serves clients of all ages struggling with depression, ADHD, life transitions, stress, and more. She is also especially skilled at treating mood, psychotic, and anxiety disorders. In addition, Allison has extensive experience working with people who at high-risk or in crisis situations. In therapy, Allison tailors her treatment to meet individual needs.
(630) 394-1790 View (630) 394-1790
Photo of Shawn Garry, LCPC
Shawn Garry
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
Shawn earned his Master's Degree in Counseling from National Louis University and received his Bachelor's Degree in Philosophy from Lake Forest College. I began my career working in Mchenry County SASS which was the child and adolescent crisis response team. During that time I developed and honed skills that resonate with children and adolescents in order to help determine core issues and work towards action plans on how to progress on those issues. Anxiety, depression, and other symptoms can decrease your quality of life and make you feel not like yourself.
Shawn earned his Master's Degree in Counseling from National Louis University and received his Bachelor's Degree in Philosophy from Lake Forest College. I began my career working in Mchenry County SASS which was the child and adolescent crisis response team. During that time I developed and honed skills that resonate with children and adolescents in order to help determine core issues and work towards action plans on how to progress on those issues. Anxiety, depression, and other symptoms can decrease your quality of life and make you feel not like yourself.
(630) 415-1240 View (630) 415-1240
Photo of Valerie Taylor, LCPC
Valerie Taylor
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
Valerie can help with time management, socialization coaching, and addresses any depression/anxiety issues that come with transition.
Valerie Taylor, LCPC, takes an honest, supportive approach to help clients learn the skills to better cope with their struggles. She approaches each client as an individual and will tailor goals and treatments based on their needs. Valerie supports adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, and is especially skilled at treating: Self-Exploration: Knowing exactly who you are can be difficult to discover on your own. Valerie opens her office and teaches skills that develop that confidence and self-love.
Valerie can help with time management, socialization coaching, and addresses any depression/anxiety issues that come with transition.
Valerie Taylor, LCPC, takes an honest, supportive approach to help clients learn the skills to better cope with their struggles. She approaches each client as an individual and will tailor goals and treatments based on their needs. Valerie supports adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, and is especially skilled at treating: Self-Exploration: Knowing exactly who you are can be difficult to discover on your own. Valerie opens her office and teaches skills that develop that confidence and self-love.
(630) 349-7816 View (630) 349-7816
Photo of Raychael Ayres, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raychael Ayres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand that each person has a different story and many complexities that make them who they are. My clinical approach includes examining a person’s life from a systems perspective to identify all the factors influencing the individual. My clinical experience has included treating children, adolescents, young adults, and families who are experiencing behavioral issues or symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma and life stressors.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand that each person has a different story and many complexities that make them who they are. My clinical approach includes examining a person’s life from a systems perspective to identify all the factors influencing the individual. My clinical experience has included treating children, adolescents, young adults, and families who are experiencing behavioral issues or symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma and life stressors.
(815) 240-8513 View (815) 240-8513
Photo of Jeff Lange, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeff Lange
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
Jeffery Lange, LPC, CADC, is dedicated to supporting and guiding you through your personal challenges at your own pace. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, or relationship issues, Jeffery offers a compassionate and professional approach to help you find your way forward. With 20 years of experience in the addictions and mental health field, Jeffery has developed a deep understanding of the complexities of these issues. He creates a safe and secure environment where you can feel comfortable exploring your concerns and working towards your goals.
Jeffery Lange, LPC, CADC, is dedicated to supporting and guiding you through your personal challenges at your own pace. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, or relationship issues, Jeffery offers a compassionate and professional approach to help you find your way forward. With 20 years of experience in the addictions and mental health field, Jeffery has developed a deep understanding of the complexities of these issues. He creates a safe and secure environment where you can feel comfortable exploring your concerns and working towards your goals.
(630) 866-7780 View (630) 866-7780
Photo of Megan Boehning, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Boehning
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
I received specialized training in providing evidence-based treatments for a range of behavioral and emotional issues including anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, social difficulties, and posttraumatic stress.
As a clinician working with adolescents and adults, my approach to therapy is collaborative, guided by current research in psychology, and tailored to the unique needs of the individual. I believe it is important to develop a trusting, supportive relationship with each client at the beginning of treatment and to work together to create goals that will guide the process of change. With a safe therapeutic environment, I strive to help individuals face difficulties, produce meaningful change, and live a more valued life.
I received specialized training in providing evidence-based treatments for a range of behavioral and emotional issues including anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, social difficulties, and posttraumatic stress.
As a clinician working with adolescents and adults, my approach to therapy is collaborative, guided by current research in psychology, and tailored to the unique needs of the individual. I believe it is important to develop a trusting, supportive relationship with each client at the beginning of treatment and to work together to create goals that will guide the process of change. With a safe therapeutic environment, I strive to help individuals face difficulties, produce meaningful change, and live a more valued life.
(815) 240-8348 View (815) 240-8348
Photo of Raya Newman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raya Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
I have a diverse background in working with youth, adolescents, and adults on various issues such as depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship conflict, suicidal ideations, self-harming, etc.
Building a trusting relationship in therapy is the foundation to making progress in treatment. I focus on compassion, validation, and acceptance throughout therapy to empower and encourage my clients to make the change in their life. My clinical experience from the last 10 years has helped me learn about a lot of different therapy styles. I pull from a lot of various different theoretical orientations depending on the needs of the person. I have experience working in the juvenile justice system, community mental health, and foster care system through DCFS.
I have a diverse background in working with youth, adolescents, and adults on various issues such as depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship conflict, suicidal ideations, self-harming, etc.
Building a trusting relationship in therapy is the foundation to making progress in treatment. I focus on compassion, validation, and acceptance throughout therapy to empower and encourage my clients to make the change in their life. My clinical experience from the last 10 years has helped me learn about a lot of different therapy styles. I pull from a lot of various different theoretical orientations depending on the needs of the person. I have experience working in the juvenile justice system, community mental health, and foster care system through DCFS.
(815) 706-7781 View (815) 706-7781
Photo of Jean Ryan-Meyers, LCSW, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean Ryan-Meyers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PEL
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
I draw upon an eclectic mix of treatment modalities to support clients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, self-harm, ADHD, executive functioning and sensory concerns, neurodiversity/ ASD, self-esteem, life transitions, trauma history, grief/loss, identity concerns, including those specific to LGBTQ+ individuals, and women's issues.
Having been raised to value service to others, Clinical Social Work is not only my profession, but my calling. During my years of supporting the social and emotional well being of others, I have developed an understanding of the importance of connection and the value of self-compassion and self-care. I strive to create an environment in which my clients can feel safe and supported in exploring their struggles free of judgment, knowing that they don’t have to carry their burdens alone. I believe that the foundation for effective treatment and development of mental health and wellness begins with the therapeutic relationship.
I draw upon an eclectic mix of treatment modalities to support clients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, self-harm, ADHD, executive functioning and sensory concerns, neurodiversity/ ASD, self-esteem, life transitions, trauma history, grief/loss, identity concerns, including those specific to LGBTQ+ individuals, and women's issues.
Having been raised to value service to others, Clinical Social Work is not only my profession, but my calling. During my years of supporting the social and emotional well being of others, I have developed an understanding of the importance of connection and the value of self-compassion and self-care. I strive to create an environment in which my clients can feel safe and supported in exploring their struggles free of judgment, knowing that they don’t have to carry their burdens alone. I believe that the foundation for effective treatment and development of mental health and wellness begins with the therapeutic relationship.
(630) 412-7365 View (630) 412-7365
Photo of Kristi Brower, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristi Brower
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elburn, IL 60119
I work with individuals 18-65 with a wide variety of concerns including: depression, anxiety, grief, loss, PTSD, relationship issues, divorce, infertility, still births, cancer, chronic pain, and other medical and mental diagnoses.
I believe that success occurs when you feel safe and comfortable in therapy, therefore allowing you to utilize your sessions in the most effective way. Having a doctorate degree in clinical psychology (Psy.D.) signifies that I have been trained in numerous therapeutic orientations that are grounded in the latest research in the field of psychology. These approaches include: Psychodynamic Therapy, CBT, EMDR, Relational Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy and many others. This wide variety of training experiences enables me to tailor my treatment approach specifically to your situation, giving you more opportunity to have a successful outcome.
I work with individuals 18-65 with a wide variety of concerns including: depression, anxiety, grief, loss, PTSD, relationship issues, divorce, infertility, still births, cancer, chronic pain, and other medical and mental diagnoses.
I believe that success occurs when you feel safe and comfortable in therapy, therefore allowing you to utilize your sessions in the most effective way. Having a doctorate degree in clinical psychology (Psy.D.) signifies that I have been trained in numerous therapeutic orientations that are grounded in the latest research in the field of psychology. These approaches include: Psychodynamic Therapy, CBT, EMDR, Relational Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy and many others. This wide variety of training experiences enables me to tailor my treatment approach specifically to your situation, giving you more opportunity to have a successful outcome.
(815) 860-0901 View (815) 860-0901
Photo of Andrea Reffett, PsyD, Psychologist
Andrea Reffett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
I have training and experience working with children and adolescents on issues such as anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns and developmental disorders. I enjoy doing work on parenting and improving family functioning by treating the whole family system. Of particular interest to me is helping individuals who are on the autism spectrum and their families learn healthy ways to find success in daily life. I also enjoy working with young adults who have cognitive and developmental challenges transition towards independence. In my work with adults, I often treat a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression and life transition.
I have training and experience working with children and adolescents on issues such as anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns and developmental disorders. I enjoy doing work on parenting and improving family functioning by treating the whole family system. Of particular interest to me is helping individuals who are on the autism spectrum and their families learn healthy ways to find success in daily life. I also enjoy working with young adults who have cognitive and developmental challenges transition towards independence. In my work with adults, I often treat a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression and life transition.
(331) 207-9388 View (331) 207-9388
Photo of Brad Gee - LifeStance Health, LCPC, Counselor
LifeStance Health
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
Our team of psychiatrists, therapists, psychologists, and advanced practice nurses specializes in treating in a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and more.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Our team of psychiatrists, therapists, psychologists, and advanced practice nurses specializes in treating in a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and more.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(855) 609-7569 View (855) 609-7569
Photo of Leslie Albion, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Leslie Albion
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119  (Online Only)
Life can be tough sometimes, and I am here to tell you that you do not need to walk that journey alone. We often get distracted by the daily activities in our lives, the mindless routines, and the various roles we play, without noticing we are struggling. You seek to find peace, empowerment, and/or to be seen and heard in your own life. You may be experiencing stressful experiences, anxiety, family conflict, infertility, life transitions, or depression, that can make you feel alone. I am thankful to work alongside you, as you reexamine your life path, to live the best you that you can be.
Life can be tough sometimes, and I am here to tell you that you do not need to walk that journey alone. We often get distracted by the daily activities in our lives, the mindless routines, and the various roles we play, without noticing we are struggling. You seek to find peace, empowerment, and/or to be seen and heard in your own life. You may be experiencing stressful experiences, anxiety, family conflict, infertility, life transitions, or depression, that can make you feel alone. I am thankful to work alongside you, as you reexamine your life path, to live the best you that you can be.
(815) 627-1543 View (815) 627-1543
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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.