Depression Therapists in La Grange Highlands, IL
![Photo of Julie Tepke Gurgone, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/146b1ec2-ce50-4417-ba00-a379881fa2bf/1/320x400.png)
Julie Tepke Gurgone
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grange Highlands, IL 60525
Waitlist for new clients
Julie works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma to parenting support and preventative mental health care for healthcare professionals and clergy and beyond. Julie utilizes evidence-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Julie addresses lifestyle choices and supports behavioral change for mental, emotional and physical health. Although the majority of Julie’s practice comprises adults, she also works with children to address personal, environmental, and systemic factors that impact families. Daytime hours only.
Julie works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma to parenting support and preventative mental health care for healthcare professionals and clergy and beyond. Julie utilizes evidence-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Julie addresses lifestyle choices and supports behavioral change for mental, emotional and physical health. Although the majority of Julie’s practice comprises adults, she also works with children to address personal, environmental, and systemic factors that impact families. Daytime hours only.
![Photo of Allison Rackow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54d377e1-48c4-4554-a3fa-3696ecb1966d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Rackow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Grange Highlands, IL 60525 (Online Only)
Are the challenges of parenting seeming to outweigh the joy of parenting lately? Are you struggling to keep up with all of the modern-day expectations of parenting? You’re not alone! Parenting is inherently challenging & sometimes we need a space where we can be honest about what frustrates us in parenting & work through the things about our children (or our spouse!) that keep us up at night.
Are the challenges of parenting seeming to outweigh the joy of parenting lately? Are you struggling to keep up with all of the modern-day expectations of parenting? You’re not alone! Parenting is inherently challenging & sometimes we need a space where we can be honest about what frustrates us in parenting & work through the things about our children (or our spouse!) that keep us up at night.
![Photo of Yadira Chavez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6edfce0a-8e32-4017-b095-d178a5c407cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Latina and child of immigrant parents, I strive to provide a safe space for clients of all backgrounds and experiences. I am here to offer acceptance and support while helping clients navigate and cope with life’s challenges. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to therapy and I find it important to explore specific strategies and tools that work for clients and their goals. I have experience working in community behavioral health and have extensive knowledge of various mental health needs.
As a Latina and child of immigrant parents, I strive to provide a safe space for clients of all backgrounds and experiences. I am here to offer acceptance and support while helping clients navigate and cope with life’s challenges. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to therapy and I find it important to explore specific strategies and tools that work for clients and their goals. I have experience working in community behavioral health and have extensive knowledge of various mental health needs.
![Photo of Jana Arthur, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d51e5470-8cb5-4e0f-8fd3-f19656ce19a1/4/320x400.jpeg)
Jana Arthur
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grange Highlands, IL 60525
Not accepting new clients
Life is tough, in therapy we learn to deal with painful thoughts and feelings so we can enjoy the meaning and beauty in life. As a biracial therapist with a mixed cultural heritage, I aim to create a safe environment needed for change for people of all backgrounds and experiences. It takes a lot of courage to take that first step towards change, so I intend to acknowledge your vulnerability by meeting you where you are. I have extensive knowledge working with people of diverse ages, backgrounds, and presenting needs due to my experience working in community mental health.
Life is tough, in therapy we learn to deal with painful thoughts and feelings so we can enjoy the meaning and beauty in life. As a biracial therapist with a mixed cultural heritage, I aim to create a safe environment needed for change for people of all backgrounds and experiences. It takes a lot of courage to take that first step towards change, so I intend to acknowledge your vulnerability by meeting you where you are. I have extensive knowledge working with people of diverse ages, backgrounds, and presenting needs due to my experience working in community mental health.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Nicole Howard (Walsh), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/330a8e1d-c97e-4db9-b284-b79c168a50b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from The University of Illinois at Chicago. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Nicole has worked in a variety of diverse settings serving children and youth in the Chicagoland area and at a Therapeutic day school.
Nicole earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from The University of Illinois at Chicago. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Nicole has worked in a variety of diverse settings serving children and youth in the Chicagoland area and at a Therapeutic day school.
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.
![Photo of Jennifer C Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5292c9de-7673-4aea-be21-9a357368b291/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Julie A Peterson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/278baea7-a6fe-4f6e-89d1-f7af0b3d1123/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peterson works with children and adults who struggle with symptoms of anxiety, depression, special needs, and developmental disabilities.
Dr. Peterson is a licensed clinical psychologist. In her therapy and testing work with clients, she places a large emphasis on support in addition to symptom reduction. She thoughtfully integrates perspectives from Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Adlerian theory to assist clients through discouragements in their lives that may cause them to feel stuck in life transitions. Her therapeutic interventions encourage the client's assets and creativity to empower his or her ability to enhance every aspect of his or her life. Dr. Peterson also provides psychological testing services as needed.
Peterson works with children and adults who struggle with symptoms of anxiety, depression, special needs, and developmental disabilities.
Dr. Peterson is a licensed clinical psychologist. In her therapy and testing work with clients, she places a large emphasis on support in addition to symptom reduction. She thoughtfully integrates perspectives from Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Adlerian theory to assist clients through discouragements in their lives that may cause them to feel stuck in life transitions. Her therapeutic interventions encourage the client's assets and creativity to empower his or her ability to enhance every aspect of his or her life. Dr. Peterson also provides psychological testing services as needed.
![Photo of Liz Reynolds, MA, LCSW, CDWF, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfa4063c-178e-4876-b7b5-d05b53816024/1/320x400.jpeg)
Liz Reynolds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, CDWF, RYT
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
Waitlist for new clients
Whether addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, postpartum or PTSD, I work diligently and enthusiastically to create a warm and safe space in order to accomplish clients goals for treatment.
I believe in the internal resources we all have to face life's challenges. It takes courage and strength to advocate for oneself to find the right therapist, and I appreciate you visiting my profile. We all need support along the way to reinforce our strengths and harness them for change. With over 20 years of experience with teens and adults in a variety of settings including schools, non profit, and residential facilities, I have had the privilege of supporting clients in their growth and change from their own place of awareness and strength.
Whether addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, postpartum or PTSD, I work diligently and enthusiastically to create a warm and safe space in order to accomplish clients goals for treatment.
I believe in the internal resources we all have to face life's challenges. It takes courage and strength to advocate for oneself to find the right therapist, and I appreciate you visiting my profile. We all need support along the way to reinforce our strengths and harness them for change. With over 20 years of experience with teens and adults in a variety of settings including schools, non profit, and residential facilities, I have had the privilege of supporting clients in their growth and change from their own place of awareness and strength.
![Photo of Nicole M. Chmela, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e63df5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dayrise Wellness - Dayrise Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cce76473-7425-40e0-b453-f4a57402c90e/1/320x400.png)
Now accepting NEW clients AGES 12-25! Immediate Availability- which is hard to find in this field! It is exhausting to navigate the challenging waters of young adult or teen depression and anxiety while advocating for your child in school and doing your best to support them through mental health challenges. We understand. That’s why you can count on our clinicians and every single care coordinator on our team. We are ready to equip both you and your child with the tools, resources, support, and the best therapy for teens and young adults.
Now accepting NEW clients AGES 12-25! Immediate Availability- which is hard to find in this field! It is exhausting to navigate the challenging waters of young adult or teen depression and anxiety while advocating for your child in school and doing your best to support them through mental health challenges. We understand. That’s why you can count on our clinicians and every single care coordinator on our team. We are ready to equip both you and your child with the tools, resources, support, and the best therapy for teens and young adults.
![Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, PsyD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1181c59-6110-4aae-ab34-860d8971f498/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
![Photo of Sarah Lesniak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a3e3d19-419b-40ff-af78-bc0f95f4038f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Lesniak, LSW, looks at the therapeutic process as a collaborative relationship. She meets clients halfway if they are willing to meet her halfway. Sarah treats clients as people and not their disorders, and she strives to provide a safe, comfortable place for them to open up. Sarah earned an MSW from University of St. Francis and has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and PTSD. She currently treats clients age 9 and up.
Sarah Lesniak, LSW, looks at the therapeutic process as a collaborative relationship. She meets clients halfway if they are willing to meet her halfway. Sarah treats clients as people and not their disorders, and she strives to provide a safe, comfortable place for them to open up. Sarah earned an MSW from University of St. Francis and has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and PTSD. She currently treats clients age 9 and up.
![Photo of Stephanie Quigley, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba35ee1c-508a-42d5-9670-c1424cf311ef/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Quigley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
My pragmatic approach is informed by Psychodynamic and Relational frameworks with areas of speciality to include treatment of anxiety, depression, severe trauma, and relationship concerns impacted by infidelity and loss.
I bring a compassionate, authentic, and genuine approach in working with individuals and couples. My practice is founded upon great empathy and the belief that each client has the potential to lead the meaningful life they envision for themselves. In entering the therapeutic process, treatment will evoke insight, and provide an accepting space to achieve goals developed in a solution-focused and collaborative manner.
My pragmatic approach is informed by Psychodynamic and Relational frameworks with areas of speciality to include treatment of anxiety, depression, severe trauma, and relationship concerns impacted by infidelity and loss.
I bring a compassionate, authentic, and genuine approach in working with individuals and couples. My practice is founded upon great empathy and the belief that each client has the potential to lead the meaningful life they envision for themselves. In entering the therapeutic process, treatment will evoke insight, and provide an accepting space to achieve goals developed in a solution-focused and collaborative manner.
![Photo of Amy Lambert, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbefa2c8-9722-4fdf-87cb-68fa501951e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
When things feel overwhelming and unmanageable it can be hard to ask for help, I am here to work with you to develop strategies that can lead to a healthier and more manageable life. I work with adults and young adults with various challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship issues & self worth. Offering In-Person & Telehealth sessions available during daytime and evening hours.
When things feel overwhelming and unmanageable it can be hard to ask for help, I am here to work with you to develop strategies that can lead to a healthier and more manageable life. I work with adults and young adults with various challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship issues & self worth. Offering In-Person & Telehealth sessions available during daytime and evening hours.
![Photo of Marianne Di Vittorio - Breakthrough Counseling & Clinical Services, LCPC, CADC, CGRP, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e8be039-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Breakthrough Counseling & Clinical Services
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CGRP, NCC
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
My goal at Breakthrough Counseling is to meet you exactly where you are in your stress, brokenness, anxiety, depression, marital conflict, grief, addiction, etc. YOU are not alone. You may be going through a challenging time in your life but there is REAL HOPE. It starts with you taking the first step by calling me to help you. My therapeutic approach is individualized and will vary based on your needs, but it will always be genuine and respectful. My goal is to help you heal from the inside out, develop coping skills that will bring real change to your life.
My goal at Breakthrough Counseling is to meet you exactly where you are in your stress, brokenness, anxiety, depression, marital conflict, grief, addiction, etc. YOU are not alone. You may be going through a challenging time in your life but there is REAL HOPE. It starts with you taking the first step by calling me to help you. My therapeutic approach is individualized and will vary based on your needs, but it will always be genuine and respectful. My goal is to help you heal from the inside out, develop coping skills that will bring real change to your life.
![Photo of Sandra Armendariz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d17f998-bedb-42a1-a0aa-6517aae7fcd2/2/320x400.png)
Sandra Armendariz, LPC, is an empathic and compassionate therapist who offers each client guidance, support, and knowledge as they discover their inner wisdom and resilience. Sandra earned a graduate degree in clinical mental health from Adler University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Central University of Ecuador. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Sandra worked around the world as a therapist and graduate level teacher. She helps teens and adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts, domestic abuse, and more.
Sandra Armendariz, LPC, is an empathic and compassionate therapist who offers each client guidance, support, and knowledge as they discover their inner wisdom and resilience. Sandra earned a graduate degree in clinical mental health from Adler University and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Central University of Ecuador. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Sandra worked around the world as a therapist and graduate level teacher. She helps teens and adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts, domestic abuse, and more.
![Photo of Nicole Powell, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf21cea4-59e7-47c9-b84a-f7d908af8138/1/320x400.jpeg)
You're probably reading through these pages because you know it is time for a change. Are you feeling stuck in a rut, struggling to get out of bed, having panic attacks, feeling unheard or experiencing weight changes due to stress? Maybe you have gone to therapy in the past and you know things are getting bad again? Or, maybe this is your first time seeking counseling? Either way, I can help. In addition to my skills for helping with anxiety and depression, I also have special insights to help people who struggle to maintain healthy eating habits. I am an LPC supervised by Rebecca Malley Fitzgerald, LCPC.
You're probably reading through these pages because you know it is time for a change. Are you feeling stuck in a rut, struggling to get out of bed, having panic attacks, feeling unheard or experiencing weight changes due to stress? Maybe you have gone to therapy in the past and you know things are getting bad again? Or, maybe this is your first time seeking counseling? Either way, I can help. In addition to my skills for helping with anxiety and depression, I also have special insights to help people who struggle to maintain healthy eating habits. I am an LPC supervised by Rebecca Malley Fitzgerald, LCPC.
![Photo of Alexandra Petrohilos, MA, LCPC, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e7d6934-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Petrohilos
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
My areas of expertise, include but are not limited to, anxiety, school refusal, depression, attentional issues such as ADHD, anger, behavior problems, divorce, bullying, academic challenges, OCD/perfectionism, self-esteem, dual diagnoses, coping skills, parent coaching and support, women's counseling,social skills, and screen-time dependence and overuse.
While it may be difficult for you to seek help for yourself or your family, my goal is to work together in a supportive and encouraging way to meet your needs. With over 20 years of professional experience, and as a former classroom teacher and school counselor I have developed my practice and included therapists to focus and specialize in working with school-aged children and adolescents to overcome challenges while providing support and psycho-education for the entire family. We also specialize in women's counseling and provide counseling and therapy to children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, and women.
My areas of expertise, include but are not limited to, anxiety, school refusal, depression, attentional issues such as ADHD, anger, behavior problems, divorce, bullying, academic challenges, OCD/perfectionism, self-esteem, dual diagnoses, coping skills, parent coaching and support, women's counseling,social skills, and screen-time dependence and overuse.
While it may be difficult for you to seek help for yourself or your family, my goal is to work together in a supportive and encouraging way to meet your needs. With over 20 years of professional experience, and as a former classroom teacher and school counselor I have developed my practice and included therapists to focus and specialize in working with school-aged children and adolescents to overcome challenges while providing support and psycho-education for the entire family. We also specialize in women's counseling and provide counseling and therapy to children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, and women.
![Photo of Jessica Nikkila (Fenstemacher), LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/522c66cf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Nikkila (Fenstemacher)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brookfield, IL 60513 (Online Only)
Some of the many issues that I enjoy working with are depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship difficulties, autistic spectrum, divorce and family issues.
Welcome! I believe that therapy can be a very empowering experience for all ages and genders. I facilitate this for my clients by priding myself as a therapist on being empathetic, inviting and engaging. I provide therapy for Children, Adolescents and Families as well as Adults. I believe that therapy is a safe space which allows one to resolve problems and create personal growth. I am dedicated to my client's well being as well as their own self determination within the therapeutic process and therapeutic relationship. I work psychodynamically and cognitively while also utilizing strength based and family dynamic systems work.
Some of the many issues that I enjoy working with are depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship difficulties, autistic spectrum, divorce and family issues.
Welcome! I believe that therapy can be a very empowering experience for all ages and genders. I facilitate this for my clients by priding myself as a therapist on being empathetic, inviting and engaging. I provide therapy for Children, Adolescents and Families as well as Adults. I believe that therapy is a safe space which allows one to resolve problems and create personal growth. I am dedicated to my client's well being as well as their own self determination within the therapeutic process and therapeutic relationship. I work psychodynamically and cognitively while also utilizing strength based and family dynamic systems work.
See more therapy options for La Grange Highlands
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for La Grange Highlands
- Brookfield
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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.