Depression Therapists in Hinsdale, IL

Photo of Nina Drape, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nina Drape
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Nina is a seasoned clinician with an MA in Mental Health & Community Counseling specializing in trauma recovery, with over 10 years in the field Her work includes; crisis and trauma intervention with adolescents, young adults, couples and families as well as providing counseling to individuals who are struggling with life complications that result in depression, anxiety, and stress. Nina has extensive experience collaborating with other entities such as Social Services, Group Therapeutic Programs, Psychiatrists, and other community providers.Nina is passionate in supporting her community and individuals of all walks of life.
Nina is a seasoned clinician with an MA in Mental Health & Community Counseling specializing in trauma recovery, with over 10 years in the field Her work includes; crisis and trauma intervention with adolescents, young adults, couples and families as well as providing counseling to individuals who are struggling with life complications that result in depression, anxiety, and stress. Nina has extensive experience collaborating with other entities such as Social Services, Group Therapeutic Programs, Psychiatrists, and other community providers.Nina is passionate in supporting her community and individuals of all walks of life.
(630) 608-2143 View (630) 608-2143
Photo of Brian Weir, PsyD, Psychologist
Brian Weir
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
*Offering both online and in-person sessions. Are you looking for a therapist who is engaging, warm, understanding, experienced and very knowledgeable? If so, I'm your therapist. I have helped others like you improve their relationships, overcome anxiety, depression and anger. Even if you have lost hope, together we can build self-confidence, strengthen resilience, and find motivation to overcome the obstacles. Whether you come for individual, or for couples therapy, my clients are often surprised what can be overcome and how much better things can be.
*Offering both online and in-person sessions. Are you looking for a therapist who is engaging, warm, understanding, experienced and very knowledgeable? If so, I'm your therapist. I have helped others like you improve their relationships, overcome anxiety, depression and anger. Even if you have lost hope, together we can build self-confidence, strengthen resilience, and find motivation to overcome the obstacles. Whether you come for individual, or for couples therapy, my clients are often surprised what can be overcome and how much better things can be.
(630) 517-5554 View (630) 517-5554
Photo of Nicole M. Chmela, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Nicole M. Chmela
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I often use a mindfulness-based approach with clients to help manage depression,anxiety and stress.
Recognizing the need to make changes in your life and seeking support takes courage. Therapy can provide not only the understanding that supports change, but the tools to prepare you to live with more confidence, balance and intentionality. I help clients make meaning of their struggles, articulate their desires, and collaborate to reach their goals. I am mindful of the interdependence between body, mind, and spirit and support and encourage my clients in doing the same.
I often use a mindfulness-based approach with clients to help manage depression,anxiety and stress.
Recognizing the need to make changes in your life and seeking support takes courage. Therapy can provide not only the understanding that supports change, but the tools to prepare you to live with more confidence, balance and intentionality. I help clients make meaning of their struggles, articulate their desires, and collaborate to reach their goals. I am mindful of the interdependence between body, mind, and spirit and support and encourage my clients in doing the same.
(773) 657-4291 View (773) 657-4291
Photo of Michelle Kim, MS, LCPC
Michelle Kim
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Are you struggling with depression, fear, loneliness, or a sense of being trapped in life? Are you living with painful memories and emotions which cause you to feel insecure? Or, like me, are you a native of a different country and facing cross-cultural realities that only immigrants understand? If you are hoping to transform your hardships into empowerment, I will be able to create the space and provide the expertise into helping you find internal strength to re-write your life story.
Are you struggling with depression, fear, loneliness, or a sense of being trapped in life? Are you living with painful memories and emotions which cause you to feel insecure? Or, like me, are you a native of a different country and facing cross-cultural realities that only immigrants understand? If you are hoping to transform your hardships into empowerment, I will be able to create the space and provide the expertise into helping you find internal strength to re-write your life story.
(630) 446-2253 View (630) 446-2253
Photo of Mija Bradford, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mija Bradford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Mija Bradford, LPC, is a compassionate therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through their spiritual and emotional journeys. Mija believes that many struggles stem from a misalignment with one's true self and works to help clients reconnect with their inner essence. They provide a safe, sacred space for clients to explore their spiritual identity, moving beyond surfacelevel symptoms to address the root causes of distress. Mija specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma, particularly in those who feel disconnected from their authentic selves due to societal expectations, past traumas, or selflimiting beliefs.
Mija Bradford, LPC, is a compassionate therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through their spiritual and emotional journeys. Mija believes that many struggles stem from a misalignment with one's true self and works to help clients reconnect with their inner essence. They provide a safe, sacred space for clients to explore their spiritual identity, moving beyond surfacelevel symptoms to address the root causes of distress. Mija specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma, particularly in those who feel disconnected from their authentic selves due to societal expectations, past traumas, or selflimiting beliefs.
(855) 641-1658 View (855) 641-1658
Christine Saindon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a variety of people with a common set of experiences-the after effects of trauma, both childhood and throughout the lifespan. Untreated trauma is often accompanied by anxiety, depression, physical problems and addictions.
I work with a variety of people with a common set of experiences-the after effects of trauma, both childhood and throughout the lifespan. Untreated trauma is often accompanied by anxiety, depression, physical problems and addictions.
(773) 572-9437 View (773) 572-9437
Photo of Teri L Murphy, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Teri L Murphy
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Are you feeling down, depressed, anxious or confused? Are every day challenges starting to overwhelm you? Would you like greater satisfaction and meaning in relationships, work and in your life? Longing for greater self esteem? Are you in the midst of a tough life transition? My clients find answers, solutions, life change and positive results in our work together. They experience a deep sense of being cared for, understood and respected....Thank you for visiting my profile on Psychology Today. You may also want to visit me on FB at Facebook.com/TeriMurphyTherapy.
Are you feeling down, depressed, anxious or confused? Are every day challenges starting to overwhelm you? Would you like greater satisfaction and meaning in relationships, work and in your life? Longing for greater self esteem? Are you in the midst of a tough life transition? My clients find answers, solutions, life change and positive results in our work together. They experience a deep sense of being cared for, understood and respected....Thank you for visiting my profile on Psychology Today. You may also want to visit me on FB at Facebook.com/TeriMurphyTherapy.
(630) 812-7380 View (630) 812-7380
Photo of Nancy Lawrenz, Psychologist
Nancy Lawrenz
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Completing challenging graduate degrees and clinically practicing in Social Work, Psychology and Psychoanalysis has provided me with a broad range of experiences with many types of people, enabling me to offer the option of psychotherapy or psychoanalysis as needed. These combined trainings and professional work have provided the necessary tools, perspectives and resources to address people's ongoing unhappiness, unexpected pain and crises and the sometimes stunning blows of grief. Areas of expertise include: anxieties/phobias; low self-esteem/ depression/post-partum depression; complicated bereavement--loss of babies/children/parents/spouses; relationship conflicts--between adults or parents/child; and underachievement.
Completing challenging graduate degrees and clinically practicing in Social Work, Psychology and Psychoanalysis has provided me with a broad range of experiences with many types of people, enabling me to offer the option of psychotherapy or psychoanalysis as needed. These combined trainings and professional work have provided the necessary tools, perspectives and resources to address people's ongoing unhappiness, unexpected pain and crises and the sometimes stunning blows of grief. Areas of expertise include: anxieties/phobias; low self-esteem/ depression/post-partum depression; complicated bereavement--loss of babies/children/parents/spouses; relationship conflicts--between adults or parents/child; and underachievement.
(630) 914-9782 View (630) 914-9782
Photo of Nap Pozulp, PhD, Psychologist
Nap Pozulp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I have been in practice for over 30 years and feel that I'm best at dealing with individuals with anxiety, depression and relationship issues. The goal of all my work is to help individuals live up to their full potential. I have an expertise with numerous techniques to accomplish this goal. Traditional insight-oriented, cognitive/behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and specialty techniques such as hypnotherapy, biofeedback and relaxation training are just a few of the interventions I use.
I have been in practice for over 30 years and feel that I'm best at dealing with individuals with anxiety, depression and relationship issues. The goal of all my work is to help individuals live up to their full potential. I have an expertise with numerous techniques to accomplish this goal. Traditional insight-oriented, cognitive/behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and specialty techniques such as hypnotherapy, biofeedback and relaxation training are just a few of the interventions I use.
(773) 669-6930 View (773) 669-6930
Photo of Cleopatra Songa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cleopatra Songa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521  (Online Only)
Cleopatra Songa, LCSW, uses her experience, training, and supervision to provide the best evidenced-based therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Cleopatra earned an undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and an MSW from Grand Valley State University. With over 20 years of experience in social work, Cleopatra helps adults with depression, anxiety, life transitions, addictions, and more. In therapy, Cleopatra uses CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing to assist clients in working towards and accomplishing their personal goals.
Cleopatra Songa, LCSW, uses her experience, training, and supervision to provide the best evidenced-based therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Cleopatra earned an undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and an MSW from Grand Valley State University. With over 20 years of experience in social work, Cleopatra helps adults with depression, anxiety, life transitions, addictions, and more. In therapy, Cleopatra uses CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing to assist clients in working towards and accomplishing their personal goals.
(630) 360-8331 View (630) 360-8331
Photo of William McNichols, LCPC
William McNichols
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
My therapy style is distinguished by an underlying; Adlerian Individual Psychology, Rational Emotive Behavior, and Reality Therapeutic diagnostic approach toward the clients/patient's struggles addressed in session utilizing current best practice treatments associated with anxiety and depression found in DBT and Motivational Interviewing. I attempt to identify the patient's/client's mental disorder utilizing the DSM 5 and current best practice psychotherapy recommended by the ASA and psychotherapeutic model best suited to help the patient/client reach their goals as articulated by them in treatment.
My therapy style is distinguished by an underlying; Adlerian Individual Psychology, Rational Emotive Behavior, and Reality Therapeutic diagnostic approach toward the clients/patient's struggles addressed in session utilizing current best practice treatments associated with anxiety and depression found in DBT and Motivational Interviewing. I attempt to identify the patient's/client's mental disorder utilizing the DSM 5 and current best practice psychotherapy recommended by the ASA and psychotherapeutic model best suited to help the patient/client reach their goals as articulated by them in treatment.
(630) 412-7679 View (630) 412-7679
Photo of Cesar Rocha, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cesar Rocha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, Media and Theatre and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My formal training in the counseling field ranges from working with children with trauma, adults with depression and anxiety, couples therapy, substance abuse counseling, and wellness groups. I have worked with clients who want to change and with mandated clients. I have helped clients set and accomplish their goals. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor. I use different therapeutic approaches depending on the need of the client.
I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, Media and Theatre and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My formal training in the counseling field ranges from working with children with trauma, adults with depression and anxiety, couples therapy, substance abuse counseling, and wellness groups. I have worked with clients who want to change and with mandated clients. I have helped clients set and accomplish their goals. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor. I use different therapeutic approaches depending on the need of the client.
(630) 454-9036 View (630) 454-9036
Photo of Rebekah Kiefer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebekah Kiefer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Rebekah maintains a broad range of interests in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, adjustment to life transitions, and grief.
Rebekah provides individual, couple and group therapy to adolescents and adults of all ages.
Rebekah maintains a broad range of interests in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, adjustment to life transitions, and grief.
Rebekah provides individual, couple and group therapy to adolescents and adults of all ages.
(630) 325-5300 x285 View (630) 325-5300 x285
Photo of Lasma Maher, LCPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lasma Maher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Her impactful work extends to children and adolescents grappling with anxiety, depression, school-related challenges, and trauma.
Lasma Maher, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Illinois, brings a unique blend of artistic expertise and therapeutic acumen to her practice. With a career spanning from 2018, Lasma holds a Master of Arts in Fine Art and Design from Latvian Art Academy, coupled with a Master of Arts in Art Therapy/Counseling from Adler University. Her professional journey revolves around empowering individuals to tap into their creative potential, thereby facilitating the acquisition and application of effective coping skills in their daily lives.
Her impactful work extends to children and adolescents grappling with anxiety, depression, school-related challenges, and trauma.
Lasma Maher, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Illinois, brings a unique blend of artistic expertise and therapeutic acumen to her practice. With a career spanning from 2018, Lasma holds a Master of Arts in Fine Art and Design from Latvian Art Academy, coupled with a Master of Arts in Art Therapy/Counseling from Adler University. Her professional journey revolves around empowering individuals to tap into their creative potential, thereby facilitating the acquisition and application of effective coping skills in their daily lives.
(630) 528-2291 View (630) 528-2291
Photo of Amanda Del Aguila, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Del Aguila
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I hope to provide a safe, secure, and nonjudgmental space to provide you the opportunity to explore and develop as a human being. I strive to implement holistic, multicultural, and client-centered techniques, to ensure that you feel heard, validated, and seen. I understand how difficult it is sometimes to be a human sometimes, but you do not have to face your hardships alone. I strive to provide support in areas such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss, and more. I hope to be able to provide you with the best possible treatment in a way that is customizable and that works for you.
I hope to provide a safe, secure, and nonjudgmental space to provide you the opportunity to explore and develop as a human being. I strive to implement holistic, multicultural, and client-centered techniques, to ensure that you feel heard, validated, and seen. I understand how difficult it is sometimes to be a human sometimes, but you do not have to face your hardships alone. I strive to provide support in areas such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss, and more. I hope to be able to provide you with the best possible treatment in a way that is customizable and that works for you.
(331) 246-1326 View (331) 246-1326
Photo of Hadia Zarzour, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Hadia Zarzour
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children who struggle with depression, relationships, family issues, stress and anxiety management, addiction, phobias and panic attacks, cross-cultural issues, and career and life transitions.
As a compassionate, supportive, and direct therapist, I believe that people can be more fulfilled when they are grounded in self-knowledge. I value exploring the uniqueness of each individual and supporting them through their personal challenges. I have worked in the mental health field for ten years in a variety of treatment settings, including community mental health centers and hospitals, and specialize in therapy with individuals who have experienced trauma. Most recently, I've worked with refugee populations, and have seen firsthand the resilience and inner strength of individuals who have faced trauma in their lives.
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children who struggle with depression, relationships, family issues, stress and anxiety management, addiction, phobias and panic attacks, cross-cultural issues, and career and life transitions.
As a compassionate, supportive, and direct therapist, I believe that people can be more fulfilled when they are grounded in self-knowledge. I value exploring the uniqueness of each individual and supporting them through their personal challenges. I have worked in the mental health field for ten years in a variety of treatment settings, including community mental health centers and hospitals, and specialize in therapy with individuals who have experienced trauma. Most recently, I've worked with refugee populations, and have seen firsthand the resilience and inner strength of individuals who have faced trauma in their lives.
(630) 716-3973 View (630) 716-3973
Photo of Ellen Jorstad-Stein, PhD, Psychologist
Ellen Jorstad-Stein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Waitlist for new clients
Assessment and individual therapy is also offered to cancer patients and their family members experiencing anxiety and depression related to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship that impact quality of life.
The human experience of anxiety is normal and adaptive. We would not be adequately prepared for important challenges in life if we did not experience some anxiety and fear. Anxiety is not longer adaptive when it overpowers the person and creates obstacles and challenges that interfere with daily life. At this point, a diagnosable condition may have developed. I provide specialized treatment for adults with the various anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder (social phobia), generalized anxiety disorder, panic, specific phobias, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I also treat conditions that commonly occur with anxiety disorders like depression or sleep disturbance.
Assessment and individual therapy is also offered to cancer patients and their family members experiencing anxiety and depression related to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship that impact quality of life.
The human experience of anxiety is normal and adaptive. We would not be adequately prepared for important challenges in life if we did not experience some anxiety and fear. Anxiety is not longer adaptive when it overpowers the person and creates obstacles and challenges that interfere with daily life. At this point, a diagnosable condition may have developed. I provide specialized treatment for adults with the various anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder (social phobia), generalized anxiety disorder, panic, specific phobias, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I also treat conditions that commonly occur with anxiety disorders like depression or sleep disturbance.
(630) 812-7183 View (630) 812-7183
Photo of Karen C Shockley, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Karen C Shockley
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I have am certified in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and am experienced with its treatment for depression and anxiety.
I provide individual counseling to late adolescents and adults, with a special interest in adjustment and periods of transition. My clinical focus is on issues of mood and depression, stress and anxiety, adjustment to life transitions, relationship distress, grief, self-esteem and identity issues, self-harm, and trauma-related issues. I begin with a person-centered approach - believing in each person's potential - and utilize strategies appropriate to each client's unique situation, including CBT, family dynamics, relationship building, relaxation methods, DBT, and narrative therapy.
I have am certified in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and am experienced with its treatment for depression and anxiety.
I provide individual counseling to late adolescents and adults, with a special interest in adjustment and periods of transition. My clinical focus is on issues of mood and depression, stress and anxiety, adjustment to life transitions, relationship distress, grief, self-esteem and identity issues, self-harm, and trauma-related issues. I begin with a person-centered approach - believing in each person's potential - and utilize strategies appropriate to each client's unique situation, including CBT, family dynamics, relationship building, relaxation methods, DBT, and narrative therapy.
(630) 749-2511 View (630) 749-2511
Photo of Meghan Hintz, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Meghan Hintz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I have experience working at a behavioral hospital where I gained expertise working with children and adolescents experiencing severe trauma, anxiety, and depression, as well as, LGBTQIA+ concerns.
I am passionate about working with children, teens, and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, burnout/stress, anger, identity development, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. I work to create a safe and reassuring environment to facilitate growth and self-exploration throughout each session. Utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, I help clients identify, challenge, and modify negative thoughts and beliefs. I believe therapy is a place for self-exploration, internal growth, and a place to feel secure and safe to be completely you.
I have experience working at a behavioral hospital where I gained expertise working with children and adolescents experiencing severe trauma, anxiety, and depression, as well as, LGBTQIA+ concerns.
I am passionate about working with children, teens, and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, burnout/stress, anger, identity development, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. I work to create a safe and reassuring environment to facilitate growth and self-exploration throughout each session. Utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, I help clients identify, challenge, and modify negative thoughts and beliefs. I believe therapy is a place for self-exploration, internal growth, and a place to feel secure and safe to be completely you.
(708) 564-3511 View (708) 564-3511
Photo of Jennifer C Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues- Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues- Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
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Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.