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Photo of Jamie Simmert, MS, LSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Simmert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
I specialize in anxiety/ depression, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, PTSD/trauma (EMDR), and improving communication and self-esteem.
We’ve all experienced times when we just feel stuck, going through the motions of life rather than actually living our best lives. Anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, past trauma or many other issues can impact your ability to live a full and happy life and have healthy family and other relationships. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and many more. I enjoy working with child/adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations using a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, 12-Step, Trauma-Informed, and Family Systems Therapy.
I specialize in anxiety/ depression, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, PTSD/trauma (EMDR), and improving communication and self-esteem.
We’ve all experienced times when we just feel stuck, going through the motions of life rather than actually living our best lives. Anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, past trauma or many other issues can impact your ability to live a full and happy life and have healthy family and other relationships. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and many more. I enjoy working with child/adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations using a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, 12-Step, Trauma-Informed, and Family Systems Therapy.
(708) 315-2734 View (708) 315-2734
Photo of Jessica Krakowsky, MA, LCPC, CCTP, Counselor
Jessica Krakowsky
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, IL 60452
Waitlist for new clients
I seek to work with clients who have experiences with trauma and abuse, having seen firsthand how devastating the untreated symptoms of trauma can be on a person's functioning with family, in the workplace and within communities. These symptoms include panic attacks, anxiety, depression, PTSD and can often lead to disabling substance use disorders among other issues. These clients seek to understand why they cannot manage their emotions and have often normalized their abusive experiences, so they do not see why they are struggling to function as easily as they perceive others to be doing.
I seek to work with clients who have experiences with trauma and abuse, having seen firsthand how devastating the untreated symptoms of trauma can be on a person's functioning with family, in the workplace and within communities. These symptoms include panic attacks, anxiety, depression, PTSD and can often lead to disabling substance use disorders among other issues. These clients seek to understand why they cannot manage their emotions and have often normalized their abusive experiences, so they do not see why they are struggling to function as easily as they perceive others to be doing.
(708) 556-2485 x5210 View (708) 556-2485 x5210
Photo of Dr. Calvin Young, PhD, LCPC, SAP, C-SOTP, C-DBT, Counselor
Dr. Calvin Young
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, SAP, C-SOTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansing, IL 60438  (Online Only)
Approach care with me for; depression disorders, drugs and alcohol abuse and dependency problems, anger management dynamics, anxiety and panic attacks, grief and loss experiences, trauma issues, adolescent misbehaving, AD/HD / Autism and neurodivergent dynamics, couples' and relational issues (all configurations), in addition to sex offenders' treatment.
In my Practice you will benefit from a humourous approach, shaped by over two decades as a general psychotherapist, forensic clinician, addictions treatment professional and Lecturer. Telemental health care from a military veteran that is caring, collaborative and integrative. Through e-therapy, I provide online therapeutic care that combines traditional (Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavior (DBT), Motivational Interviewing), therapeutic counseling techniques, informed by neuropsychology, nutritional psychology, psychometrics, plus new-age (IM, neurofeedback) technologies.
Approach care with me for; depression disorders, drugs and alcohol abuse and dependency problems, anger management dynamics, anxiety and panic attacks, grief and loss experiences, trauma issues, adolescent misbehaving, AD/HD / Autism and neurodivergent dynamics, couples' and relational issues (all configurations), in addition to sex offenders' treatment.
In my Practice you will benefit from a humourous approach, shaped by over two decades as a general psychotherapist, forensic clinician, addictions treatment professional and Lecturer. Telemental health care from a military veteran that is caring, collaborative and integrative. Through e-therapy, I provide online therapeutic care that combines traditional (Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavior (DBT), Motivational Interviewing), therapeutic counseling techniques, informed by neuropsychology, nutritional psychology, psychometrics, plus new-age (IM, neurofeedback) technologies.
(773) 687-5071 View (773) 687-5071
Photo of Dr. Ari Richelson, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Ari Richelson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60467
In some ways, the decision you’re about to make is the hardest part of this process. Choosing the right therapist and “type of therapy” can be confusing. That’s why I’d like to explain a little about my training and my approach to make your choice a little easier. My training taught me that by knowing what to listen for, I can connect your symptoms to your past life experiences. Once we start to do that, I will help you identify the reasons those experiences were hard to resolve. When something is hard to resolve, we tend to avoid it, which is why our mind then tells us that something still feels unresolved by producing symptoms.
In some ways, the decision you’re about to make is the hardest part of this process. Choosing the right therapist and “type of therapy” can be confusing. That’s why I’d like to explain a little about my training and my approach to make your choice a little easier. My training taught me that by knowing what to listen for, I can connect your symptoms to your past life experiences. Once we start to do that, I will help you identify the reasons those experiences were hard to resolve. When something is hard to resolve, we tend to avoid it, which is why our mind then tells us that something still feels unresolved by producing symptoms.
(708) 478-9319 View (708) 478-9319
Photo of Emalee B Kay, LCPC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Emalee B Kay
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Homewood, IL 60430
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Certified Art Therapist, I approach the needs of my clients with customized treatment strategies and collaborative care. Every client that comes to therapy is sharing and their personal truth and life experiences. I respect the vulnerability that comes with the therapeutic process and strive to provide a safe and challenging environment in order to promote personal growth and achievement. I know that therapy and self-exploration can be hard to navigate but with guidance and support the therapeutic process can deliver such triumph over difficult circumstances.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Certified Art Therapist, I approach the needs of my clients with customized treatment strategies and collaborative care. Every client that comes to therapy is sharing and their personal truth and life experiences. I respect the vulnerability that comes with the therapeutic process and strive to provide a safe and challenging environment in order to promote personal growth and achievement. I know that therapy and self-exploration can be hard to navigate but with guidance and support the therapeutic process can deliver such triumph over difficult circumstances.
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Photo of Rita Sanders - The Kennedy Center for Counseling, MA, LCPC, Counselor
The Kennedy Center for Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
The Kennedy Center for Counseling provides a safe, confidential, and supportive atmosphere in which clients can work toward and achieve optimal growth and happiness. Our Therapist's address and treat a wide range of concerns and issues across the life span.
The Kennedy Center for Counseling provides a safe, confidential, and supportive atmosphere in which clients can work toward and achieve optimal growth and happiness. Our Therapist's address and treat a wide range of concerns and issues across the life span.
(815) 320-3749 View (815) 320-3749
Photo of Maria Kathryn Kroener, LPC, NCC, CRADC, CODP I, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Kathryn Kroener
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CRADC, CODP I, EMDR
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60467
Life brings many stressors, and we could all benefit from a safe and supportive place to sort out our feelings and process our concerns. In counseling, I aim to provide my clients with a warm and non-judgmental space to be genuinely heard so they can feel free to communicate openly and authentically. It would be best to share your life story, perspective, and goals at your own pace, with appropriate encouragement and therapeutic challenges when necessary. The relationship we develop with ourselves is the most crucial and influential in shaping our day-to-day experience.
Life brings many stressors, and we could all benefit from a safe and supportive place to sort out our feelings and process our concerns. In counseling, I aim to provide my clients with a warm and non-judgmental space to be genuinely heard so they can feel free to communicate openly and authentically. It would be best to share your life story, perspective, and goals at your own pace, with appropriate encouragement and therapeutic challenges when necessary. The relationship we develop with ourselves is the most crucial and influential in shaping our day-to-day experience.
(708) 905-2276 View (708) 905-2276
Photo of Lynn Panepinto, LCSW, CCTP-II, EMDR , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Panepinto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II, EMDR
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
If you’re struggling with difficult emotions, relationship/family issues, trauma, uncomfortable life transitions, or feeling stuck and overwhelmed, help is available. My passion is working with clients to develop self-awareness, inner strength, and coping skills so that true and lasting healing occurs. I believe that your overall sense of well-being and overall health includes mental and emotional wellness. My hope is that therapy will help you experience greater self-acceptance, understanding, and an ability to achieve your goals and increase your emotional wellness.
If you’re struggling with difficult emotions, relationship/family issues, trauma, uncomfortable life transitions, or feeling stuck and overwhelmed, help is available. My passion is working with clients to develop self-awareness, inner strength, and coping skills so that true and lasting healing occurs. I believe that your overall sense of well-being and overall health includes mental and emotional wellness. My hope is that therapy will help you experience greater self-acceptance, understanding, and an ability to achieve your goals and increase your emotional wellness.
(708) 316-9132 View (708) 316-9132

Online Therapists

Photo of Steve Heuertz, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Heuertz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Steve works with many people experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral, social and anger management concerns, as well as complex trauma and PTSD.
Steve is an Illinois State Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been providing services to individuals, couples and families for over 10 years. Steve received his Bachelor's Degree in psychology from the University of Kansas in 2002 and his Master's Degree in social work from the University of Chicago in 2004. Since then he has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings as either a clinical therapist or administrator.
Steve works with many people experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral, social and anger management concerns, as well as complex trauma and PTSD.
Steve is an Illinois State Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been providing services to individuals, couples and families for over 10 years. Steve received his Bachelor's Degree in psychology from the University of Kansas in 2002 and his Master's Degree in social work from the University of Chicago in 2004. Since then he has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings as either a clinical therapist or administrator.
(630) 618-2314 View (630) 618-2314
Photo of Sushma Cheturvedula, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sushma Cheturvedula
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60629  (Online Only)
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
(773) 915-0573 View (773) 915-0573
Photo of Marcy D Wilroy, LCSW, CADC, DSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcy D Wilroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, DSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addiction.
We all have challenges in our lives. Sometimes these challenges can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of worry and anxiety. At other times, these challenges can lead to depression and despair. I am here to listen. I am here to support you. I am here to give you the tools that you need to make needed changes. Together, we can explore possibilities and find the motivation for change that you have inside of you.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addiction.
We all have challenges in our lives. Sometimes these challenges can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of worry and anxiety. At other times, these challenges can lead to depression and despair. I am here to listen. I am here to support you. I am here to give you the tools that you need to make needed changes. Together, we can explore possibilities and find the motivation for change that you have inside of you.
(224) 250-2891 View (224) 250-2891
Photo of James Visinaiz, LCPC
James Visinaiz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morris, IL 60450
With over 19 years experience in behavioral health, my hope is to help you. I have experience with teens, adults and geriatric populations with a wide variety of diagnoses of depression, anxiety, stress, personality disorders, other chronic mental health struggles. I look forward to helping you be the best you can be.
With over 19 years experience in behavioral health, my hope is to help you. I have experience with teens, adults and geriatric populations with a wide variety of diagnoses of depression, anxiety, stress, personality disorders, other chronic mental health struggles. I look forward to helping you be the best you can be.
(779) 213-0720 View (779) 213-0720
Photo of Joshua Boyd, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joshua Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children to young adults to navigate things such as autism, trauma, anxiety & depression, identity, anger management, communication, eating disorders, and school/career decisions.
Even when life is seemingly going well, our thoughts and feelings can make our days and nights a struggle. Living with mental illness or going through a challenging time can be like there is an ever-looming cloud blocking us from feeling the sun. It is my belief that therapy can help us see and feel the light again. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral or personality issues, and abuse & trauma can make us feel like we’re alone and without hope. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to go through life’s struggles alone and get to learn coping strategies and solutions.
I specialize in working with children to young adults to navigate things such as autism, trauma, anxiety & depression, identity, anger management, communication, eating disorders, and school/career decisions.
Even when life is seemingly going well, our thoughts and feelings can make our days and nights a struggle. Living with mental illness or going through a challenging time can be like there is an ever-looming cloud blocking us from feeling the sun. It is my belief that therapy can help us see and feel the light again. Depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral or personality issues, and abuse & trauma can make us feel like we’re alone and without hope. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to go through life’s struggles alone and get to learn coping strategies and solutions.
(773) 830-3374 View (773) 830-3374
Photo of Sara A Forster, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara A Forster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I have experience and knowledge working with individuals who live with; depression, anxiety, bi-polar, personality disorders, schizophrenia, PTSD, substance abuse disorder, suicide and self-harm, LGBTQ+, and grief. I have an education in evidence-based therapies, such as but not limited to: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, harm-reduction, and SMART recovery. Newly (2024) added to my services, is animal assisted therapy. I acknowledge the uncertainty that comes with starting therapy, you’re not alone. I urge you though to not let fear stop you from getting the help you deserve.
I have experience and knowledge working with individuals who live with; depression, anxiety, bi-polar, personality disorders, schizophrenia, PTSD, substance abuse disorder, suicide and self-harm, LGBTQ+, and grief. I have an education in evidence-based therapies, such as but not limited to: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, harm-reduction, and SMART recovery. Newly (2024) added to my services, is animal assisted therapy. I acknowledge the uncertainty that comes with starting therapy, you’re not alone. I urge you though to not let fear stop you from getting the help you deserve.
(815) 859-8087 View (815) 859-8087
Photo of Bonnie Estensen - Guided Path Psychological Services, PsyD, LCPC, Counselor
Guided Path Psychological Services
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60074
"When life brings challenges that exceed your ability to cope, it might be the time to consider working with a competent, respectful, and understanding therapist. I believe in living life to the fullest extent possible, and sometimes that means peering into your past to understand how the solutions of yesterday transform to the problems of today. Whether your issue is substance abuse, unhealthy expression of anger, depression, anxiety, self esteem/body imagine or difficult relationships with others; counseling can be your first step towards a healthy way of living. Make that first step in your journey towards wellness.
"When life brings challenges that exceed your ability to cope, it might be the time to consider working with a competent, respectful, and understanding therapist. I believe in living life to the fullest extent possible, and sometimes that means peering into your past to understand how the solutions of yesterday transform to the problems of today. Whether your issue is substance abuse, unhealthy expression of anger, depression, anxiety, self esteem/body imagine or difficult relationships with others; counseling can be your first step towards a healthy way of living. Make that first step in your journey towards wellness.
(847) 243-6898 View (847) 243-6898
Photo of Hannah Payne, EdS, LCPC
Hannah Payne
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals & couples with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, addictions, family conflict, trauma, emotional distress, unexpected life changes, & identity concerns.
Beginning therapy and choosing a therapist can be scary and overwhelming, but I am excited that you are taking this step! As your therapist, I will empower you to reach your goals and be there for you through life's many stressors. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking support after experiencing adversity, processing current or past traumas, addressing beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve them, and exploring who they are and want to be. I believe in the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the many layers of my client's identities, and I aim to create a safe space to explore your unique context and experiences.
I have worked with individuals & couples with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, addictions, family conflict, trauma, emotional distress, unexpected life changes, & identity concerns.
Beginning therapy and choosing a therapist can be scary and overwhelming, but I am excited that you are taking this step! As your therapist, I will empower you to reach your goals and be there for you through life's many stressors. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking support after experiencing adversity, processing current or past traumas, addressing beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve them, and exploring who they are and want to be. I believe in the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the many layers of my client's identities, and I aim to create a safe space to explore your unique context and experiences.
(773) 692-9748 View (773) 692-9748
Photo of Kristina Jongsma, LCSW, PEL, MSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Jongsma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PEL, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435
I will help you develop inner strength and creativity toward depression, anxiety and unhappiness.
My ideal client is any human struggling with the present moment, any human suffering.
I will help you develop inner strength and creativity toward depression, anxiety and unhappiness.
My ideal client is any human struggling with the present moment, any human suffering.
(331) 481-5335 View (331) 481-5335
Photo of Emily Weber - Ellie Mental Health- Chicagoland , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Mental Health- Chicagoland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Why Seek Treatment? Because You Deserve to Thrive! Life can be tough—whether you're facing anxiety, depression, major life changes, or just feeling stuck, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Seeking help is a courageous step toward reclaiming your life. At Ellie Mental Health, we understand your struggles and are here to support you every step of the way. Our diverse team includes BIPOC-identified, LGBTQ+ , bilingual Spanish-speaking therapists, male therapists, and more, all committed to providing inclusive, empathetic care. You deserve to thrive, and we're here to help you!
Why Seek Treatment? Because You Deserve to Thrive! Life can be tough—whether you're facing anxiety, depression, major life changes, or just feeling stuck, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Seeking help is a courageous step toward reclaiming your life. At Ellie Mental Health, we understand your struggles and are here to support you every step of the way. Our diverse team includes BIPOC-identified, LGBTQ+ , bilingual Spanish-speaking therapists, male therapists, and more, all committed to providing inclusive, empathetic care. You deserve to thrive, and we're here to help you!
(630) 528-0691 View (630) 528-0691
Photo of Grant Stenzel - Stenzel Clinical Services, Ltd., MA, LCPC
Stenzel Clinical Services, Ltd.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Some of our specialties include; anxiety, depression, bi-polar, marriage, eating disorders, anger, co-dependence, grief, life transition, self-injury, abuse and trauma.
We recognize how difficult it can be to seek help with mental health issues. Our goal is to meet you where you are in a supportive, encouraging way. We never use shame as a motivator. Instead we seek to provide a balance between giving you time and space to heal and challenging and encouraging you to move forward to a healthier place. We have a staff of over 40 therapists each with different specialties; we all possess the same single passion: to walk with our clients on the path of healing.
Some of our specialties include; anxiety, depression, bi-polar, marriage, eating disorders, anger, co-dependence, grief, life transition, self-injury, abuse and trauma.
We recognize how difficult it can be to seek help with mental health issues. Our goal is to meet you where you are in a supportive, encouraging way. We never use shame as a motivator. Instead we seek to provide a balance between giving you time and space to heal and challenging and encouraging you to move forward to a healthier place. We have a staff of over 40 therapists each with different specialties; we all possess the same single passion: to walk with our clients on the path of healing.
(630) 387-9885 x301 View (630) 387-9885 x301
Photo of Dr. Zeeshan Rajani, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Zeeshan Rajani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, binge eating disorder, trauma/PTSD, addiction, women's/men's issues, domestic violence/abuse, and other socioemotional and interpersonal related concerns. Clinically, I work with clients (adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families) primarily through a cognitive-behavioral approach, fostering empathy and authenticity in a non-judgmental, safe, and supportive environment. I also work strongly through a collaborative approach, helping clients gain a deeper understanding into their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions in order to help cultivate positive change.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, binge eating disorder, trauma/PTSD, addiction, women's/men's issues, domestic violence/abuse, and other socioemotional and interpersonal related concerns. Clinically, I work with clients (adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families) primarily through a cognitive-behavioral approach, fostering empathy and authenticity in a non-judgmental, safe, and supportive environment. I also work strongly through a collaborative approach, helping clients gain a deeper understanding into their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions in order to help cultivate positive change.
(224) 458-2556 View (224) 458-2556
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.