Depression Therapists in Highwood, IL

Photo of Joshua Nathan, MD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joshua Nathan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MD
Verified Verified
Highwood, IL 60040
Nathan treats people struggling with mood and bipolar disorders, depression, adult ADHD, anxiety challenges such as panic disorder, agoraphobia, OCD, PTSD, and more.
Dr. Joshua Nathan, Board Certified Psychiatrist, sees stigma as the the biggest challenge in mental illness treatment - from others and from ourselves. He encourages people to not judge themselves on whatever problems they are facing, and he helps them feel safe to open up and allow for healing. Dr. Nathan takes joy in helping people with mental health concerns and values the trust patients place in him.
Nathan treats people struggling with mood and bipolar disorders, depression, adult ADHD, anxiety challenges such as panic disorder, agoraphobia, OCD, PTSD, and more.
Dr. Joshua Nathan, Board Certified Psychiatrist, sees stigma as the the biggest challenge in mental illness treatment - from others and from ourselves. He encourages people to not judge themselves on whatever problems they are facing, and he helps them feel safe to open up and allow for healing. Dr. Nathan takes joy in helping people with mental health concerns and values the trust patients place in him.
(847) 892-1806 View (847) 892-1806
Photo of Jeffrey Caldcleugh, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey Caldcleugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Highwood, IL 60040
I specialize in individual, couples and family therapy related to substance use disorders, eating disorders, process addictions, anxiety/ depression, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, shame, grief and loss and crisis intervention.
Hello! I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of my clients. I have years of experience working with Client's and Families/Couple's from working in both mental health treatment facilities and outpatient private practice. I integrate a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy, Psychodynamics and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.
I specialize in individual, couples and family therapy related to substance use disorders, eating disorders, process addictions, anxiety/ depression, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, shame, grief and loss and crisis intervention.
Hello! I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of my clients. I have years of experience working with Client's and Families/Couple's from working in both mental health treatment facilities and outpatient private practice. I integrate a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy, Psychodynamics and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Phanisushma Cheturvedula, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Phanisushma Cheturvedula
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Highwood, IL 60040
I am passionate about undoing loneliness, increasing one's capacity to self-love and care, create and maintain healthy and loving relationships and co-create the narrative to become the best version of yourself. When we understand and accept ourselves, growth and healing can occur!.
I am passionate about undoing loneliness, increasing one's capacity to self-love and care, create and maintain healthy and loving relationships and co-create the narrative to become the best version of yourself. When we understand and accept ourselves, growth and healing can occur!.
(224) 308-1364 View (224) 308-1364
Photo of Leila Ortiz, PhD
Leila Ortiz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Highwood, IL 60040
I strive to support people live to their full potential in a life that brings happiness and fulfillment and at the same time understand and transform whatever is interfering with that process. Our work together will empower you to transform old negative beliefs and patterns and grow into living with presence, integrity self-love and joy.
I strive to support people live to their full potential in a life that brings happiness and fulfillment and at the same time understand and transform whatever is interfering with that process. Our work together will empower you to transform old negative beliefs and patterns and grow into living with presence, integrity self-love and joy.
(312) 379-5851 View (312) 379-5851
Photo of Paulina Birgiolaite, LCSW, CCTP, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paulina Birgiolaite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, AASW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Highwood, IL 60040  (Online Only)
Are you a woman struggling with carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? Maybe you've been labeled a "perfectionist", or can't seem to find the courage to say no to projects at work? Perhaps you're second-guessing your life choices, not sure what direction to take with your career, relationships, or future? You're exhausted & anxious, tired of constantly problem solving and taking care of everyone else... but yourself? This chronic stress leads to burnout- feeling stuck, helpless, and exhausted. If you're motivated to make a change that helps you rediscover the inner Queen that you are, you've come to the right place
Are you a woman struggling with carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? Maybe you've been labeled a "perfectionist", or can't seem to find the courage to say no to projects at work? Perhaps you're second-guessing your life choices, not sure what direction to take with your career, relationships, or future? You're exhausted & anxious, tired of constantly problem solving and taking care of everyone else... but yourself? This chronic stress leads to burnout- feeling stuck, helpless, and exhausted. If you're motivated to make a change that helps you rediscover the inner Queen that you are, you've come to the right place
(312) 997-5495 View (312) 997-5495
Photo of Harlow Kedzie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harlow Kedzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highwood, IL 60040  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of the Chicago suburbs. I have worked within this field for over 8 years and in numerous therapeutic roles at domestic violence shelters, inpatient mental health and substance use programs, medical hospital systems, partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient program (PHP/IOP), and jail diversion programs. I have spent most of my career and specialize in working with adult patients.
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of the Chicago suburbs. I have worked within this field for over 8 years and in numerous therapeutic roles at domestic violence shelters, inpatient mental health and substance use programs, medical hospital systems, partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient program (PHP/IOP), and jail diversion programs. I have spent most of my career and specialize in working with adult patients.
(224) 516-0709 View (224) 516-0709
Photo of Julienne B Derichs, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Julienne B Derichs
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Highwood, IL 60040  (Online Only)
Couples often struggle with many relationship issues all at the same time. Marriage counseling can only go so far without having choices on how to move forward. Let's begin with these options: Starting fresh with new skills and approaches to being a couple. Making amends and forgiveness. Exploring your family culture and what you bring into your relationship. Restructuring, uncoupling, separation, or compassionate divorce. We'll discuss the main options and together agree upon the focus of our work moving forward. I take an integrated approach to working with couples which has been informed by many master clinicians.
Couples often struggle with many relationship issues all at the same time. Marriage counseling can only go so far without having choices on how to move forward. Let's begin with these options: Starting fresh with new skills and approaches to being a couple. Making amends and forgiveness. Exploring your family culture and what you bring into your relationship. Restructuring, uncoupling, separation, or compassionate divorce. We'll discuss the main options and together agree upon the focus of our work moving forward. I take an integrated approach to working with couples which has been informed by many master clinicians.
(847) 807-1780 View (847) 807-1780
Photo of Lori Ashbaugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Ashbaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highwood, IL 60040  (Online Only)
We all experience trauma in our lives, and sometimes severe life stressors leave us feeling stuck. As an ally, teacher, and therapist, Lori collaborates with you to go from surviving to thriving. She understands that healing is dynamic, and provides a mind-body-spirit approach to treatment. Therapy is an opportunity to honor our experience and become friends with ourselves. Lori uses a combination of holistic modalities including EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy and movement to tackle core issues.
We all experience trauma in our lives, and sometimes severe life stressors leave us feeling stuck. As an ally, teacher, and therapist, Lori collaborates with you to go from surviving to thriving. She understands that healing is dynamic, and provides a mind-body-spirit approach to treatment. Therapy is an opportunity to honor our experience and become friends with ourselves. Lori uses a combination of holistic modalities including EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy and movement to tackle core issues.
(630) 473-9671 View (630) 473-9671
Photo of Rena Sauve-Hansen, MA, LCPC, CMHIMP, Counselor
Rena Sauve-Hansen
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highwood, IL 60040  (Online Only)
Life provides us with many challenges and occasional obstacles in our path. It is natural to feel stuck or overwhelmed at times. I'm here to offer a different lens and help you create a new perspective. By offering insights and challenging the behaviors, emotions and beliefs that are no longer serving you, space is created for healthier patterns to develop. Our work together will support you in your journey to find your authentic self. As a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider, my approach to healing and wellness is a holistic one. By developing a healthy mind, body and spirit meaningful change is possible.
Life provides us with many challenges and occasional obstacles in our path. It is natural to feel stuck or overwhelmed at times. I'm here to offer a different lens and help you create a new perspective. By offering insights and challenging the behaviors, emotions and beliefs that are no longer serving you, space is created for healthier patterns to develop. Our work together will support you in your journey to find your authentic self. As a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider, my approach to healing and wellness is a holistic one. By developing a healthy mind, body and spirit meaningful change is possible.
(847) 469-9120 View (847) 469-9120

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robert R Dunevant, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Robert R Dunevant
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
I work with people who want to overcome personal obstacles that seem to recur again and again. While it is sometimes possible to face such issues alone, you may reach the point where another set of eyes and ears is necessary. Difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trust, and anger issues, can be more complex than they first appear. Together, we will pay close attention to the way you experience yourself and others. Over time, you may begin to see and do things differently and with a greater sense of freedom and authenticity.
I work with people who want to overcome personal obstacles that seem to recur again and again. While it is sometimes possible to face such issues alone, you may reach the point where another set of eyes and ears is necessary. Difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trust, and anger issues, can be more complex than they first appear. Together, we will pay close attention to the way you experience yourself and others. Over time, you may begin to see and do things differently and with a greater sense of freedom and authenticity.
(872) 228-2744 View (872) 228-2744
Photo of Caryn Goldberg, LCPC, Counselor
Caryn Goldberg
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
If you (or a loved one) is struggling because life has become more challenging and it is getting harder to show up and be the person you want to be, I am here to help! Our focus will be on helping you to gain the confidence, clarity and strength to feel and be your best. My experience working in a variety of therapeutic settings allows me to support those just like you, who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, social anxiety, family stressors, school/work issues, life changes, grief/loss and adjustment difficulties. Since you are here, you are probably overwhelmed and could use someone to talk to.
If you (or a loved one) is struggling because life has become more challenging and it is getting harder to show up and be the person you want to be, I am here to help! Our focus will be on helping you to gain the confidence, clarity and strength to feel and be your best. My experience working in a variety of therapeutic settings allows me to support those just like you, who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, social anxiety, family stressors, school/work issues, life changes, grief/loss and adjustment difficulties. Since you are here, you are probably overwhelmed and could use someone to talk to.
(847) 320-9209 View (847) 320-9209
Photo of Patricia Roy - The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
TMS therapy provides long-term results for people suffering from treatment resistant depression.
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
TMS therapy provides long-term results for people suffering from treatment resistant depression.
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
(224) 427-6245 View (224) 427-6245
Photo of Elizabeth Scheuer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Scheuer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
Elizabeth works with teens and adults providing trauma-informed telehealth services. She has a special interest in working with college-aged young adults, folks struggling with anxiety and depression, and those looking to find more meaning in their lives. Elizabeth understands that no two people are the same, and therapy should not be a “one size fits all approach”. She is passionate about meeting clients where they are at on their wellness journey and learning more about their specific needs, hopes, and goals.
Elizabeth works with teens and adults providing trauma-informed telehealth services. She has a special interest in working with college-aged young adults, folks struggling with anxiety and depression, and those looking to find more meaning in their lives. Elizabeth understands that no two people are the same, and therapy should not be a “one size fits all approach”. She is passionate about meeting clients where they are at on their wellness journey and learning more about their specific needs, hopes, and goals.
(847) 999-7423 View (847) 999-7423
Photo of Hope England - PsychSomatica, MA, LCPC, Counselor
PsychSomatica
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
We work with a variety of issues including: depression, anxiety, major life transitions, self esteem, grief, trauma, relationships, psychedelic integration, burnout etc.
Our practice is dedicated to the health, wellness, and collective liberation of all folks. Together we will work to help you figure out what’s getting in the way of living a meaningful, fulfilling and vibrant life. Our clinicians utilize a variety of different modalities and work with the nervous system to assist our clients in getting “unstuck” and offer support in recognizing old, outdated patterns that may be consciously or unconsciously holding you back. We believe that therapy is a deeply collaborative process, one that requires safety, trust, tenderness, and care.
We work with a variety of issues including: depression, anxiety, major life transitions, self esteem, grief, trauma, relationships, psychedelic integration, burnout etc.
Our practice is dedicated to the health, wellness, and collective liberation of all folks. Together we will work to help you figure out what’s getting in the way of living a meaningful, fulfilling and vibrant life. Our clinicians utilize a variety of different modalities and work with the nervous system to assist our clients in getting “unstuck” and offer support in recognizing old, outdated patterns that may be consciously or unconsciously holding you back. We believe that therapy is a deeply collaborative process, one that requires safety, trust, tenderness, and care.
(224) 269-7724 View (224) 269-7724
Photo of Jacqueline Ritz, LCPC, Counselor
Jacqueline Ritz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist who specializes in helping clients with complex trauma, anxiety/ depression, mood instability, addictions and relationship issues. My therapeutic lens is existential, and I implement an integrative approach to assist in uncovering self-defeating thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interfering with present-day living. Specializing in DBT, cognitive behavioral and trauma based modalities, my greatest hope is to bring out the best in you, help heal past wounds and shift negative perceptions into positive outcomes, and build mindful awareness of living life in the present moment.
I am a psychotherapist who specializes in helping clients with complex trauma, anxiety/ depression, mood instability, addictions and relationship issues. My therapeutic lens is existential, and I implement an integrative approach to assist in uncovering self-defeating thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interfering with present-day living. Specializing in DBT, cognitive behavioral and trauma based modalities, my greatest hope is to bring out the best in you, help heal past wounds and shift negative perceptions into positive outcomes, and build mindful awareness of living life in the present moment.
(847) 654-9841 View (847) 654-9841
Photo of Paul Nevin, PsyD, Psychologist
Paul Nevin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bannockburn, IL 60015
While I have a broad range of experience in addressing various clinical issues, my specialties include stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, couples therapy, and child/adolescent therapy.
At Heart Light, we believe that personal growth is a natural and empowering journey that ultimately belongs to you. Unlike some mental health professionals who see themselves as fixers, we view our role as facilitators of your process. We are here to provide support when needed while encouraging you to discover your own strengths. Our goal is to guide and empower you as you navigate life's challenges, helping you achieve a fulfilling and balanced life. Ready to explore your potential? Visit our website to learn more.
While I have a broad range of experience in addressing various clinical issues, my specialties include stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, couples therapy, and child/adolescent therapy.
At Heart Light, we believe that personal growth is a natural and empowering journey that ultimately belongs to you. Unlike some mental health professionals who see themselves as fixers, we view our role as facilitators of your process. We are here to provide support when needed while encouraging you to discover your own strengths. Our goal is to guide and empower you as you navigate life's challenges, helping you achieve a fulfilling and balanced life. Ready to explore your potential? Visit our website to learn more.
(847) 886-9462 View (847) 886-9462
Photo of Akilah Yates, NCC, LCPC, CCTP, CTMH
Akilah Yates
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, CCTP, CTMH
Verified Verified
Bannockburn, IL 60015  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that seem impossible to break? Do relationship issues, leave you feeling disconnected or unsure of your worth? Are you constantly overthinking, struggling with anxiety, or battling feelings of depression that make it hard to move forward? Maybe you’ve been pushing yourself to the limit as an overachiever, yet deep down you feel unfulfilled or burned out. Are procrastination and anxiety holding you back in college, making you feel like you’re falling behind? Or perhaps your traumatic childhood still impact your life today. Do you want to rebuild your confidence? Are you hoping to let go of the past?
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that seem impossible to break? Do relationship issues, leave you feeling disconnected or unsure of your worth? Are you constantly overthinking, struggling with anxiety, or battling feelings of depression that make it hard to move forward? Maybe you’ve been pushing yourself to the limit as an overachiever, yet deep down you feel unfulfilled or burned out. Are procrastination and anxiety holding you back in college, making you feel like you’re falling behind? Or perhaps your traumatic childhood still impact your life today. Do you want to rebuild your confidence? Are you hoping to let go of the past?
(224) 507-7790 View (224) 507-7790
Photo of Phillip Lee, MEd, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phillip Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks a non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and reality. They may face trauma, substance use, behavioral concerns, stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, gender identity, cultural challenges, or sexuality questions. They could be teens, adults 18+, parents, or families looking for support. Their goal is to feel heard, understood, and empowered, creating lasting change beyond our sessions. They desire a supportive, empathetic environment to achieve personal growth.
My ideal client seeks a non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and reality. They may face trauma, substance use, behavioral concerns, stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, gender identity, cultural challenges, or sexuality questions. They could be teens, adults 18+, parents, or families looking for support. Their goal is to feel heard, understood, and empowered, creating lasting change beyond our sessions. They desire a supportive, empathetic environment to achieve personal growth.
(708) 381-1740 View (708) 381-1740
Photo of Bonnie Fights, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Bonnie Fights
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
I specialize in: women, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, parenting, grief and loss life transitions.
I offer compassionate support and the chance to be truly heard and accepted just as you are. I work within a holistic framework that encompasses many different approaches (Person Centered, Behavioral, IFS, EMDR, Mindfulness, Body/Mind). Depending on your needs and preferences, your therapy may include exploring your inner world, getting feedback and support, healing past emotional wounds, obtaining clarity and insight, finding new directions, or trying on new behaviors and skills. We will work together to find approaches that are most effective for you.
I specialize in: women, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, parenting, grief and loss life transitions.
I offer compassionate support and the chance to be truly heard and accepted just as you are. I work within a holistic framework that encompasses many different approaches (Person Centered, Behavioral, IFS, EMDR, Mindfulness, Body/Mind). Depending on your needs and preferences, your therapy may include exploring your inner world, getting feedback and support, healing past emotional wounds, obtaining clarity and insight, finding new directions, or trying on new behaviors and skills. We will work together to find approaches that are most effective for you.
(224) 212-1130 View (224) 212-1130
Photo of Jennie Ozan, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennie Ozan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
I treat a range of presenting problems including: relationship challenges, life transitions, school and work-related issues, low self-esteem, identity development, postpartum depression/anxiety, eating disorders, and parenting challenges.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years of experience in mental health and wellness. My passion stems from wanting to help others learn new ways of coping with their environment and garnering new skills to help manage current life stressors and hurdles. My belief is that from early childhood we learn healthy, and sometimes unhealthy, strategies to manage challenges. Coping styles, especially maladaptive ones, work for a period of time, but may become ineffective. When this occurs, people often seek therapy. My job as a therapist is to help you learn, and implement, healthier coping strategies.
I treat a range of presenting problems including: relationship challenges, life transitions, school and work-related issues, low self-esteem, identity development, postpartum depression/anxiety, eating disorders, and parenting challenges.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years of experience in mental health and wellness. My passion stems from wanting to help others learn new ways of coping with their environment and garnering new skills to help manage current life stressors and hurdles. My belief is that from early childhood we learn healthy, and sometimes unhealthy, strategies to manage challenges. Coping styles, especially maladaptive ones, work for a period of time, but may become ineffective. When this occurs, people often seek therapy. My job as a therapist is to help you learn, and implement, healthier coping strategies.
(847) 744-8046 View (847) 744-8046

See more therapy options for Highwood

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.