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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer L Jackson, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jennifer L Jackson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Westville, IL 61883
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma. I am an eclectic therapist who uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, and Couples Therapy during treatment with my clients. I believe in creating an egalitarian relationship with you to foster a safe and empowering environment for long-term recovery and stability.
Hello, my name is Jennifer Lee Jackson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 14 years of clinical experience working with clients living with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Excoriation Disorder, addiction, unhelpful thinking styles, low self-esteem, codependency, poor boundary setting, PMDD, and trauma. I am an eclectic therapist who uses Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, and Couples Therapy during treatment with my clients. I believe in creating an egalitarian relationship with you to foster a safe and empowering environment for long-term recovery and stability.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Vickie L McCarty, PhD, LCPC, Pastoral Counselor
Vickie L McCarty
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Catlin, IL 61817
My goal is not just to help people have a better life here on earth, but to help people have a right relationship with God. Over and over again we see the connection between spiritual health and emotional, mental and physical health. While spiritual health alone does not make every problem go away...spiritual health is critical to bringing emotional, mental and physical health. Most of us have experienced feelings of hurt, disappointment, fear, rejection, loneliness, grief, guilt, and/or shame. These feelings may cause us to project an image that is not necessarily true to who we really are.
My goal is not just to help people have a better life here on earth, but to help people have a right relationship with God. Over and over again we see the connection between spiritual health and emotional, mental and physical health. While spiritual health alone does not make every problem go away...spiritual health is critical to bringing emotional, mental and physical health. Most of us have experienced feelings of hurt, disappointment, fear, rejection, loneliness, grief, guilt, and/or shame. These feelings may cause us to project an image that is not necessarily true to who we really are.
(217) 651-4709 View (217) 651-4709

Online Therapists

Photo of Jacob Holthoff, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jacob Holthoff
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Jake has experience treating clients with a broad array of issues, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, autism, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse disorder just to name a few.
It is no secret that mental distress can be a devastating roadblock in life. It is my hope that together, we can create a completely safe and understanding environment in which we can work together toward achieving balance, implementing healthy coping strategies, and navigating life’s many obstacles toward growth. Therapy can be quite a daunting step to take for many, but I have no doubt in my mind that together, we can lay the foundation for personal growth.
Jake has experience treating clients with a broad array of issues, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, autism, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse disorder just to name a few.
It is no secret that mental distress can be a devastating roadblock in life. It is my hope that together, we can create a completely safe and understanding environment in which we can work together toward achieving balance, implementing healthy coping strategies, and navigating life’s many obstacles toward growth. Therapy can be quite a daunting step to take for many, but I have no doubt in my mind that together, we can lay the foundation for personal growth.
(217) 290-1629 View (217) 290-1629
Photo of Jessica Wright - Wright Choice Counseling, Group Practice, LCSW, EMDR, Couples, BSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wright Choice Counseling, Group Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, Couples, BSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Effingham, IL 62401
We turn challenges into opportunities and inspire self-exploration in a shame-free, supportive space! Specializing in helping children, tackling burnout, managing ADHD and anxiety, boosting body image and self-esteem, overcoming depression, navigating divorce, handling grief and loss, addressing OCD, resolving relationship issues, and healing from trauma.
Taking the first step to tackle life's challenges and seek help is a big deal! At Wright Choice Counseling, we're here to support you every step of the way. Our diverse team of awesome clinicians is ready to help individuals, couples, and families. We believe everyone has unique strengths, and we're all about helping you grow and shine. Whether you prefer a cozy chat in one of our beautiful offices or a comfy online Let's make magic happen together! We turn challenges into opportunities and inspire self-exploration in a shame-free, supportive space!
We turn challenges into opportunities and inspire self-exploration in a shame-free, supportive space! Specializing in helping children, tackling burnout, managing ADHD and anxiety, boosting body image and self-esteem, overcoming depression, navigating divorce, handling grief and loss, addressing OCD, resolving relationship issues, and healing from trauma.
Taking the first step to tackle life's challenges and seek help is a big deal! At Wright Choice Counseling, we're here to support you every step of the way. Our diverse team of awesome clinicians is ready to help individuals, couples, and families. We believe everyone has unique strengths, and we're all about helping you grow and shine. Whether you prefer a cozy chat in one of our beautiful offices or a comfy online Let's make magic happen together! We turn challenges into opportunities and inspire self-exploration in a shame-free, supportive space!
(618) 266-2693 View (618) 266-2693
Photo of Kristen Marie Scott, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Kristen Marie Scott
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Beecher, IL 60401
Whether you are struggling with a typical life transition such as: marriage, divorce, adoption, or death, or suffering from anxiety, anger, depression, or self-harm/sabotaging behaviors, therapy will be tailored to your individual situation.
I believe that, without exception, every individual carries within, the capacity required for healing to occur. As a therapist, it is my honor and privilege to help clients and their families uncover and understand the meanings and feelings associated with their symptoms. Whether the primary client is a child, adolescent, or adult, I work collaboratively with couples/parents to create a treatment plan that is right for the family as a whole. From this perspective we can then work together to discover more adaptive and creative ways to solve problems, build relationships, and live rich and fulfilling lives.
Whether you are struggling with a typical life transition such as: marriage, divorce, adoption, or death, or suffering from anxiety, anger, depression, or self-harm/sabotaging behaviors, therapy will be tailored to your individual situation.
I believe that, without exception, every individual carries within, the capacity required for healing to occur. As a therapist, it is my honor and privilege to help clients and their families uncover and understand the meanings and feelings associated with their symptoms. Whether the primary client is a child, adolescent, or adult, I work collaboratively with couples/parents to create a treatment plan that is right for the family as a whole. From this perspective we can then work together to discover more adaptive and creative ways to solve problems, build relationships, and live rich and fulfilling lives.
(773) 598-4532 View (773) 598-4532
Photo of Sabrina Washington, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabrina Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Monee, IL 60449  (Online Only)
I believe that dealing with stressful situations can become tough and overwhelming. But, I also believe that you have the ability – with professional guidance – to unlock your own potential and solve the problems that are holding you back from a more fulfilling life. My role is to partner with you in change, create specific and achievable goals, and work together in lock-step to help you reach your full potential. My ideal client has been suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, immigration and acculturation issues, LGBTQIA+, burnout, trauma, and substance abuse and is looking to make a change for the better.
I believe that dealing with stressful situations can become tough and overwhelming. But, I also believe that you have the ability – with professional guidance – to unlock your own potential and solve the problems that are holding you back from a more fulfilling life. My role is to partner with you in change, create specific and achievable goals, and work together in lock-step to help you reach your full potential. My ideal client has been suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship problems, immigration and acculturation issues, LGBTQIA+, burnout, trauma, and substance abuse and is looking to make a change for the better.
(708) 938-3148 View (708) 938-3148
Photo of Dina Glaser, PsyD, Psychologist
Dina Glaser
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853  (Online Only)
Overall, I view myself as generalist who is comfortable working with a range of concerns including: individual and couples counseling, grief and loss, coping with substance use/abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, perfectionism, women's issues, relationship conflict and concerns, and separation and/or divorce.
I am currently taking on new clients throughout Illinois via telehealth appointments. Seeking a therapist takes courage and demonstrates a readiness to move forward in new directions. I see myself as a catalyst for exploration into various areas of your life, such as relationship patterns or emotional barriers that may be impacting you in negative ways. I believe it is important to work collaboratively and to understand these parts of your identity/experience. It is important to find the right fit for this work, so I encourage you to reach out for a consultation.
Overall, I view myself as generalist who is comfortable working with a range of concerns including: individual and couples counseling, grief and loss, coping with substance use/abuse, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, perfectionism, women's issues, relationship conflict and concerns, and separation and/or divorce.
I am currently taking on new clients throughout Illinois via telehealth appointments. Seeking a therapist takes courage and demonstrates a readiness to move forward in new directions. I see myself as a catalyst for exploration into various areas of your life, such as relationship patterns or emotional barriers that may be impacting you in negative ways. I believe it is important to work collaboratively and to understand these parts of your identity/experience. It is important to find the right fit for this work, so I encourage you to reach out for a consultation.
(708) 554-3817 View (708) 554-3817
Photo of William Weckhorst, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
William Weckhorst
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
He has worked with clients experiencing many issues, including grief, relationship issues, career transitions, crises, transition to adulthood, anxiety, depression, and many others.
Often, we find ourselves operating out of patterns, beliefs, or wounds we've accumulated throughout life. The better we understand ourselves, the more mastery we can have over our lives and accomplish our goals. Life is good and beautiful but can also be hard, painful, and overwhelming. I want to team up with you to see you discover your world in new perspectives, help you discover strategies to overcome your obstacles, and lead a fulfilling life. "That which we need the most will be found where we least want to look." -Carl Jung
He has worked with clients experiencing many issues, including grief, relationship issues, career transitions, crises, transition to adulthood, anxiety, depression, and many others.
Often, we find ourselves operating out of patterns, beliefs, or wounds we've accumulated throughout life. The better we understand ourselves, the more mastery we can have over our lives and accomplish our goals. Life is good and beautiful but can also be hard, painful, and overwhelming. I want to team up with you to see you discover your world in new perspectives, help you discover strategies to overcome your obstacles, and lead a fulfilling life. "That which we need the most will be found where we least want to look." -Carl Jung
(217) 360-7782 View (217) 360-7782
Photo of Becky Rzegocki, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Becky Rzegocki
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bradley, IL 60915
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with five years of clinical experience. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential programs. I have treated a variety of issues including: eating disorders, self injury, anxiety, depression, stress management, OCD, relationship issues, suicidal ideation, PTSD and trauma related issues. In my work with clients, I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy. I believe in creating a supportive therapeutic relationship and working together in determining what the client's goals are for treatment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with five years of clinical experience. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential programs. I have treated a variety of issues including: eating disorders, self injury, anxiety, depression, stress management, OCD, relationship issues, suicidal ideation, PTSD and trauma related issues. In my work with clients, I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy. I believe in creating a supportive therapeutic relationship and working together in determining what the client's goals are for treatment.
(815) 873-6344 View (815) 873-6344
Photo of Kyle Lamb, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kyle Lamb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Kyle Lamb is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois, currently working for a local practice called reSourced Wellness Group. He graduated with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Kyle services both individual and couples. He offers a person-centered, existential approach to address a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, spiritual, and couples/relationship difficulties. Kyle's clients have come to expect a warm, welcoming, and empathetic environment where they can sort through life's most challenging problems to meet their wellness goals.
Kyle Lamb is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois, currently working for a local practice called reSourced Wellness Group. He graduated with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Kyle services both individual and couples. He offers a person-centered, existential approach to address a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, spiritual, and couples/relationship difficulties. Kyle's clients have come to expect a warm, welcoming, and empathetic environment where they can sort through life's most challenging problems to meet their wellness goals.
(815) 200-8518 View (815) 200-8518
Photo of Brenda Sommer - Brenda Sommer Therapy & Consulting, LLC, MA, LCPC
Brenda Sommer Therapy & Consulting, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Savoy, IL 61874
Hope is the Anchor for the Soul. Anxiety, depression, stress, grief, and trauma can be overwhelming to live with. Change and recovery are possible for everyone; one step at a time. Establishing and maintaining healthy relationships with yourself and others is life changing, and empowering! Managing everyday conflict is a game changer! Be in control of your own health and healing! You can do it!
Hope is the Anchor for the Soul. Anxiety, depression, stress, grief, and trauma can be overwhelming to live with. Change and recovery are possible for everyone; one step at a time. Establishing and maintaining healthy relationships with yourself and others is life changing, and empowering! Managing everyday conflict is a game changer! Be in control of your own health and healing! You can do it!
(217) 216-1963 View (217) 216-1963
Photo of Roopa Pandya, LCPC
Roopa Pandya
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
I am here to support you with whatever life may throw at you in a friendly and warm environment. I have extensive experience supporting clients managing anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma/PTSD, grief, relationship issues, career concerns, and cultural struggles. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming provider and enjoy working with individuals and couples of all backgrounds.
I am here to support you with whatever life may throw at you in a friendly and warm environment. I have extensive experience supporting clients managing anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma/PTSD, grief, relationship issues, career concerns, and cultural struggles. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming provider and enjoy working with individuals and couples of all backgrounds.
(708) 847-0853 View (708) 847-0853
Photo of Philip A Kirk, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Philip A Kirk
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bradley, IL 60915
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor focusing on adolescents, adults, families, couples and those experiencing coping problems with life's challenges, depression, anxiety, & relationship difficulties.
Are your feelings of sadness and anxiety preventing you from enjoying life? Are you struggling with relationship difficulties or life transitions? Do you feel stuck? Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner/spouse? Do you want to improve your communications? You are not alone. Seeking therapy is the 1st step toward achieving a more satisfying life and/or relief from suffering. The decision to seek therapy can be difficult but helpful when we are overwhelmed by life experiences and unhappy with relationships in our lives. Treatment is confidential. My office is located in a private, safe & comfortable setting.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor focusing on adolescents, adults, families, couples and those experiencing coping problems with life's challenges, depression, anxiety, & relationship difficulties.
Are your feelings of sadness and anxiety preventing you from enjoying life? Are you struggling with relationship difficulties or life transitions? Do you feel stuck? Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner/spouse? Do you want to improve your communications? You are not alone. Seeking therapy is the 1st step toward achieving a more satisfying life and/or relief from suffering. The decision to seek therapy can be difficult but helpful when we are overwhelmed by life experiences and unhappy with relationships in our lives. Treatment is confidential. My office is located in a private, safe & comfortable setting.
(815) 261-1617 View (815) 261-1617
Photo of Jaymie McCammon, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaymie McCammon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, IL 62523
I work with children ages 12 and up and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, mood issues, school issues, relationship issues, family problems, trauma, transitions, and OCD. I partner with clients to find solutions that work for them and offer support through the change process.
I work with children ages 12 and up and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, mood issues, school issues, relationship issues, family problems, trauma, transitions, and OCD. I partner with clients to find solutions that work for them and offer support through the change process.
(815) 249-1120 View (815) 249-1120
Photo of R.j. McNicholl, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
R.j. McNicholl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
My specialties include: relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, identity issues, Men's issues, Pornography and sexual behaviors, PTSD, risk assessment, self-sabotaging behavior & life transitions.
Are you experiencing difficulty in your relationships, engaging in self-sabotoging behavior, feeling paralyzed in your life? You can create change. You don't have to remain anxious, depressed, confused or paralyzed in relationships or in life. Together we can create a safe space for you to feel both understood and empowered. We will work as a partnership exploring the hurdles that prevent growth, and the patterns of behavior that are no longer helpful but difficult to let go of. Together we will lay the foundation for lasting change.
My specialties include: relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, identity issues, Men's issues, Pornography and sexual behaviors, PTSD, risk assessment, self-sabotaging behavior & life transitions.
Are you experiencing difficulty in your relationships, engaging in self-sabotoging behavior, feeling paralyzed in your life? You can create change. You don't have to remain anxious, depressed, confused or paralyzed in relationships or in life. Together we can create a safe space for you to feel both understood and empowered. We will work as a partnership exploring the hurdles that prevent growth, and the patterns of behavior that are no longer helpful but difficult to let go of. Together we will lay the foundation for lasting change.
(217) 645-6703 View (217) 645-6703
Photo of Deanna Morelli, LCPC, Counselor
Deanna Morelli
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community, as well as providing therapy to those coping with anxiety, depression, trauma history, autism, body image/eating disorders, substance use, and relationship conflict.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with advanced experience in marriage and family counseling. For nearly a decade, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in a variety of settings and circumstances. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, whether that is working with individuals, families, or couples. My focus is to work with my clients to identify their individual needs, and establish goals that not only assist in meeting those needs, but that celebrate the strengths and gifts that already exist in them.
I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ+ community, as well as providing therapy to those coping with anxiety, depression, trauma history, autism, body image/eating disorders, substance use, and relationship conflict.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with advanced experience in marriage and family counseling. For nearly a decade, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in a variety of settings and circumstances. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, whether that is working with individuals, families, or couples. My focus is to work with my clients to identify their individual needs, and establish goals that not only assist in meeting those needs, but that celebrate the strengths and gifts that already exist in them.
(866) 420-3256 View (866) 420-3256
Photo of Bob Rogers, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Bob Rogers
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61704
Over the years, I have developed a broad experience working with adults and teenagers on a variety of issues including: depression, anxiety/stress, self-esteem/assertiveness, marital issues, sports-related concerns, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss, adjustment issues, identity issues, addictions, among others.
Hello - Are you feeling stuck, confused, uncertain, sad? Life often presents us with challenges and obstacles that limit us in reaching our full potential. As a licensed therapist and nationally certified counselor with 25 years of experience, I would love the opportunity to help you become "unstuck" and reach that full potential. I typically use cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy in a safe and collaborative environment. My hope is by working collaboratively, you will experience insight, growth and empowerment that will lead to a life of happiness, positive change and improved coping strategies.
Over the years, I have developed a broad experience working with adults and teenagers on a variety of issues including: depression, anxiety/stress, self-esteem/assertiveness, marital issues, sports-related concerns, relationship issues, trauma, grief/loss, adjustment issues, identity issues, addictions, among others.
Hello - Are you feeling stuck, confused, uncertain, sad? Life often presents us with challenges and obstacles that limit us in reaching our full potential. As a licensed therapist and nationally certified counselor with 25 years of experience, I would love the opportunity to help you become "unstuck" and reach that full potential. I typically use cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy in a safe and collaborative environment. My hope is by working collaboratively, you will experience insight, growth and empowerment that will lead to a life of happiness, positive change and improved coping strategies.
(309) 938-4853 View (309) 938-4853
Photo of Dr. Aaron Godwin, DMA, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Aaron Godwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DMA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61822  (Online Only)
I'm dedicated to helping my clients identify and work through current and past challenges and begin to live the lives they dream for themselves.
I'm dedicated to helping my clients identify and work through current and past challenges and begin to live the lives they dream for themselves.
(217) 394-5155 View (217) 394-5155
Photo of Lindsay Haitz, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Haitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Urbana, IL 61802
I have experience working as a therapist, life coach, business coach, and/or career coach. I can help with stress management, anxiety management, relationship & communication skills, and disability disclosure and/or accommodations. I understand the complexity of intersecting identities that many of us have (i.e. race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, ability status) and take a strengths based approach to your needs and your experience. I see my role as your partner and coach to support you through difficult times, complex situations while giving you skills and tools to further your growth as a productive member of society.
I have experience working as a therapist, life coach, business coach, and/or career coach. I can help with stress management, anxiety management, relationship & communication skills, and disability disclosure and/or accommodations. I understand the complexity of intersecting identities that many of us have (i.e. race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, ability status) and take a strengths based approach to your needs and your experience. I see my role as your partner and coach to support you through difficult times, complex situations while giving you skills and tools to further your growth as a productive member of society.
(217) 269-1720 View (217) 269-1720
Photo of Henry Woolsey, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Henry Woolsey
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Change is a major source of stress and life is full of change. I believe one of the most helpful applications of therapy is to help clients deal with the changes they experience and incorporate them into their lives-children growing up and leaving home (the client might be the parent or the child), relationship changes, job-related change, dealing with death, or any other changes that challenge you. I offer a safe place to express your feelings about the changes in your life and strive to be a non-judgmental companion through that process.
Change is a major source of stress and life is full of change. I believe one of the most helpful applications of therapy is to help clients deal with the changes they experience and incorporate them into their lives-children growing up and leaving home (the client might be the parent or the child), relationship changes, job-related change, dealing with death, or any other changes that challenge you. I offer a safe place to express your feelings about the changes in your life and strive to be a non-judgmental companion through that process.
(217) 703-0391 View (217) 703-0391
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.