Photo of Stefanie Schanaberger, MA, LCPC
Stefanie Schanaberger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I specialize in counseling adults with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image issues, relationship conflict, life transitions, and other related challenges.
Life is a journey with unexpected challenges and changes, but it is also full of opportunities for growth and self-discovery. While some people struggle with fear and anxiety related to life transitions, others may struggle with feeling stuck in their lives, permanently on "autopilot" and feeling powerless to make a change. I am here to join you on a path of self-reflection and positive change, so that you can discover your inner strengths and build a life more congruent with your true values and goals.
I specialize in counseling adults with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image issues, relationship conflict, life transitions, and other related challenges.
Life is a journey with unexpected challenges and changes, but it is also full of opportunities for growth and self-discovery. While some people struggle with fear and anxiety related to life transitions, others may struggle with feeling stuck in their lives, permanently on "autopilot" and feeling powerless to make a change. I am here to join you on a path of self-reflection and positive change, so that you can discover your inner strengths and build a life more congruent with your true values and goals.
(847) 241-1544 View (847) 241-1544
Photo of Sonya Kontorovich, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Sonya Kontorovich
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, infertility/prenatal/postpartum, interpersonal dynamics, trauma, LGBTQ issues, codependency, communication, and parenting/family issues.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, frustrated and uncertain are common human experiences that can leave you disconnected from your best self. I help my clients bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be by understanding their priorities through a collaborative identification of barriers, fears, and hopes. We design a treatment plan to develop insight about how internal thoughts and belief systems evolve from unique life experiences and influence current interactions and behaviors. Effective strategies to cope with limitations are then built upon a foundation of self-awareness.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, infertility/prenatal/postpartum, interpersonal dynamics, trauma, LGBTQ issues, codependency, communication, and parenting/family issues.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, frustrated and uncertain are common human experiences that can leave you disconnected from your best self. I help my clients bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be by understanding their priorities through a collaborative identification of barriers, fears, and hopes. We design a treatment plan to develop insight about how internal thoughts and belief systems evolve from unique life experiences and influence current interactions and behaviors. Effective strategies to cope with limitations are then built upon a foundation of self-awareness.
(847) 973-7321 View (847) 973-7321
Photo of Catherine Ness - Affective Counseling, Counselor
Affective Counseling
Counselor
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
All therapists at Affective Counseling have an emphasis in treating affective (mood) disorders, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Dysthymia, and Cyclothymia.
Affective Counseling provides tailored counseling for adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff realize that you face unique life challenges and it is our goal to understand how you see the world, yourself and others so that we can better help you navigate life’s journey. Building on personal strengths, recognizing and challenging negative thoughts and developing tangible coping skills are some of the interventions our staff utilizes to assist you in reaching your personal goals.
All therapists at Affective Counseling have an emphasis in treating affective (mood) disorders, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Dysthymia, and Cyclothymia.
Affective Counseling provides tailored counseling for adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff realize that you face unique life challenges and it is our goal to understand how you see the world, yourself and others so that we can better help you navigate life’s journey. Building on personal strengths, recognizing and challenging negative thoughts and developing tangible coping skills are some of the interventions our staff utilizes to assist you in reaching your personal goals.
(224) 228-3656 View (224) 228-3656
Photo of Patricia Roy - The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
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 Brittany Salvador, LCPC, Counselor
Brittany Salvador
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
My areas of expertise include supporting those struggling with mood disorders such as Bipolar disorder, Depression, and Anxiety.
My Approach to Mental Health: Empowering You to Thrive I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal and grow, and my passion lies in helping individuals develop the tools they need to navigate life's challenges with strength and resilience. Through a collaborative and compassionate approach, I guide clients in building self-awareness and developing effective coping mechanisms. I draw upon a range of evidence-based techniques, including mindfulness, acceptance strategies, and cognitive behavioral therapy, to empower clients to identify patterns, challenge negative thoughts, and cultivate healthier behaviors.
My areas of expertise include supporting those struggling with mood disorders such as Bipolar disorder, Depression, and Anxiety.
My Approach to Mental Health: Empowering You to Thrive I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal and grow, and my passion lies in helping individuals develop the tools they need to navigate life's challenges with strength and resilience. Through a collaborative and compassionate approach, I guide clients in building self-awareness and developing effective coping mechanisms. I draw upon a range of evidence-based techniques, including mindfulness, acceptance strategies, and cognitive behavioral therapy, to empower clients to identify patterns, challenge negative thoughts, and cultivate healthier behaviors.
(224) 385-0208 View (224) 385-0208
Photo of Karen Robbins, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult and overwhelming at times. I am passionate about helping you where you're at within the context of a safe therapeutic environment. Have you had feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, or depression? Or are feeling stuck, wondering about life and where you fit in? Maybe you're struggling in a relationship or marriage? I enjoy working with young adults, adults, couples and families. I have extra training treating couples conflict, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, Self Injury, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) I also enjoy working with couples who are struggling in their marriage or relationship.
Life can be difficult and overwhelming at times. I am passionate about helping you where you're at within the context of a safe therapeutic environment. Have you had feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, or depression? Or are feeling stuck, wondering about life and where you fit in? Maybe you're struggling in a relationship or marriage? I enjoy working with young adults, adults, couples and families. I have extra training treating couples conflict, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, Self Injury, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) I also enjoy working with couples who are struggling in their marriage or relationship.
View
Photo of Kelly DeHaan - Cherry Hill Counseling
Cherry Hill Counseling
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
(847) 386-2109 View (847) 386-2109
Photo of Jackie Zagrans - Barrington Center for Marriage & Family Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barrington Center for Marriage & Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Barrington Center for Marriage & Family Therapy provides integrated psychotherapy on a wide range of mental health issues with a specialty in the treatment of relationship difficulties and trauma. We are a group of highly trained and experienced psychotherapists that offer individual therapy, marital and pre-marital counseling, family therapy, and child therapy in a safe and confidential setting.
Barrington Center for Marriage & Family Therapy provides integrated psychotherapy on a wide range of mental health issues with a specialty in the treatment of relationship difficulties and trauma. We are a group of highly trained and experienced psychotherapists that offer individual therapy, marital and pre-marital counseling, family therapy, and child therapy in a safe and confidential setting.
(224) 333-1025 View (224) 333-1025
Photo of Barbara Spaulding, LCSW, Anxiety, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Spaulding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Anxiety, Coach
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
Are you living with anxiety and panic attacks? Is anxiety ruining your life? Does your stress seem to be more than usual? Anxiety is our bodys way of telling us that things are off balance. Avoiding activities and friends wont make it go away. It just makes it get stronger. Are you sick and tired of feeling on edge or scared? It is time to get free of the hold anxiety or panic has on you. You deserve a happiness.
Are you living with anxiety and panic attacks? Is anxiety ruining your life? Does your stress seem to be more than usual? Anxiety is our bodys way of telling us that things are off balance. Avoiding activities and friends wont make it go away. It just makes it get stronger. Are you sick and tired of feeling on edge or scared? It is time to get free of the hold anxiety or panic has on you. You deserve a happiness.
(224) 385-0692 View (224) 385-0692

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lauren Hallerud, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Hallerud
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Grove, IL 60047
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, fellow old souls, and adults who face generalized/social/performance anxiety, depression, perfectionism, LGBTQ stressors, low self-esteem, low motivation, ADD/ADHD, and other attention or mood-related ailments. I bring experience from intensive outpatient programs for depression and anxiety in a behavioral health hospital to assist individuals seeking one on one assistance in managing life transitions and stressors. I enjoy teaching coping skills, stress reduction, increasing self-awareness with handouts, other visual aids and helping individuals organize their thoughts on paper.
I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, fellow old souls, and adults who face generalized/social/performance anxiety, depression, perfectionism, LGBTQ stressors, low self-esteem, low motivation, ADD/ADHD, and other attention or mood-related ailments. I bring experience from intensive outpatient programs for depression and anxiety in a behavioral health hospital to assist individuals seeking one on one assistance in managing life transitions and stressors. I enjoy teaching coping skills, stress reduction, increasing self-awareness with handouts, other visual aids and helping individuals organize their thoughts on paper.
(847) 260-9488 View (847) 260-9488
Photo of Jessica McGuire, LCPC, LPHA, Counselor
Jessica McGuire
Counselor, LCPC, LPHA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mundelein, IL 60060
I have worked with clients who experience depression, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic violence, low self-esteem, relationship issues, anger, and legal issues.
Currently providing in-person and/or virtual sessions for all Medicaid and private plans. Have areas of your life become stressful, overwhelming or seemingly unmanageable? Together, we will work together to identify your strengths, barriers, and areas of concern in your life and establish a plan to help you achieve your goals and objectives. Whether you struggle with negative thoughts, stress, mental health symptoms, addiction, feelings of inadequacy or finding balance in your life, I am able to help. Through a specifically tailored approach you will become empowered with the tools and skills needed to progress in life.
I have worked with clients who experience depression, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic violence, low self-esteem, relationship issues, anger, and legal issues.
Currently providing in-person and/or virtual sessions for all Medicaid and private plans. Have areas of your life become stressful, overwhelming or seemingly unmanageable? Together, we will work together to identify your strengths, barriers, and areas of concern in your life and establish a plan to help you achieve your goals and objectives. Whether you struggle with negative thoughts, stress, mental health symptoms, addiction, feelings of inadequacy or finding balance in your life, I am able to help. Through a specifically tailored approach you will become empowered with the tools and skills needed to progress in life.
(224) 571-9642 View (224) 571-9642
Photo of Ewa Nevler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ewa Nevler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
Ewa Nevler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of clinical experience in family services agencies. Ewa has significant experience and training working with children, adolescents, adults as well as geriatric population. Ewa provides integrative services to offer guidance related to issues of parenting and co-parenting, anxiety and depression, grief and loss, marriage and relationship concerns, separation and divorce, life transitions, as well as work and school related issues.
Ewa Nevler is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of clinical experience in family services agencies. Ewa has significant experience and training working with children, adolescents, adults as well as geriatric population. Ewa provides integrative services to offer guidance related to issues of parenting and co-parenting, anxiety and depression, grief and loss, marriage and relationship concerns, separation and divorce, life transitions, as well as work and school related issues.
(224) 808-4524 View (224) 808-4524
Photo of Bianca Gambino, LCPC, LPHA, Counselor
Bianca Gambino
Counselor, LCPC, LPHA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mundelein, IL 60060
I have experience working with clients who experience depression, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic violence, low self-esteem, relationship issues, anger, and legal issues.
**Currently providing virtual sessions for all Medicaid plans** Life does not always go as planned especially when our life seems overwhelming, stressful, or seemingly unmanageable? Together, we will work to identify your strengths and areas of concern in your life and establish a plan to help you achieve your goals. My goal is to provide a sincere, thoughtful, and safe environment where my clients can process their feelings and increase self-awareness, confidence, and learn new coping skills. Whether you struggle with negative thoughts, stress, depression, addiction, or finding balance in your life, I am able to help.
I have experience working with clients who experience depression, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic violence, low self-esteem, relationship issues, anger, and legal issues.
**Currently providing virtual sessions for all Medicaid plans** Life does not always go as planned especially when our life seems overwhelming, stressful, or seemingly unmanageable? Together, we will work to identify your strengths and areas of concern in your life and establish a plan to help you achieve your goals. My goal is to provide a sincere, thoughtful, and safe environment where my clients can process their feelings and increase self-awareness, confidence, and learn new coping skills. Whether you struggle with negative thoughts, stress, depression, addiction, or finding balance in your life, I am able to help.
(224) 246-8157 View (224) 246-8157
Photo of Danielle Beardsley, MA, LCPC, CADC, ATR, Counselor
Danielle Beardsley
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC, ATR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work to build trust with my clients by creating a safe and therapeutic atmosphere while promoting autonomy, commitment, respect and support. Work I do with clients aims to answer the question, "How do I become satisfied with my life?" I challenge my clients to explore their lives with honesty, open-mindedness and willingness in order to uncover suffering that has brought dysfunction to their lives. Goals to practice positive life skills are specifically created to one's individual treatment plan and speak to issues such as depression, anxiety, adjustment/transition challenges, addiction, grief, loss, and more.
I work to build trust with my clients by creating a safe and therapeutic atmosphere while promoting autonomy, commitment, respect and support. Work I do with clients aims to answer the question, "How do I become satisfied with my life?" I challenge my clients to explore their lives with honesty, open-mindedness and willingness in order to uncover suffering that has brought dysfunction to their lives. Goals to practice positive life skills are specifically created to one's individual treatment plan and speak to issues such as depression, anxiety, adjustment/transition challenges, addiction, grief, loss, and more.
(630) 883-0067 View (630) 883-0067
Photo of Erika Katzenmayer, BSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Katzenmayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
I specialize in working with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem, and trauma.
Do you have unexplained sadness, excessive worrying, irritability, or feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Everyone has the ability to be their best self but sometimes life's challenges prevent us from living the life we envisioned. Counseling is intended to help you gain understanding and make changes to obtain a better quality of life that you envision for yourself.
I specialize in working with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem, and trauma.
Do you have unexplained sadness, excessive worrying, irritability, or feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Everyone has the ability to be their best self but sometimes life's challenges prevent us from living the life we envisioned. Counseling is intended to help you gain understanding and make changes to obtain a better quality of life that you envision for yourself.
(847) 241-4342 View (847) 241-4342
Photo of Terre Cohen Tripoli, MA, LCPC, LPCC, LPC
Terre Cohen Tripoli
MA, LCPC, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Terre has expertise in depression, chronic thought and mood disorders and relationship issues; regardless of how that relationship is defined. Dysfunctional thoughts and emotions destroy us and those around us. Let her help you, through new thoughts and ideas, finally move towards a life that works for you rather than against you. Her practice is inspiring, motivational and directive when needed. She believes that we are all one and share in common the challenges of living life on life's terms; while still understanding that each of us brings our unique expression of these challenges into the session.
Terre has expertise in depression, chronic thought and mood disorders and relationship issues; regardless of how that relationship is defined. Dysfunctional thoughts and emotions destroy us and those around us. Let her help you, through new thoughts and ideas, finally move towards a life that works for you rather than against you. Her practice is inspiring, motivational and directive when needed. She believes that we are all one and share in common the challenges of living life on life's terms; while still understanding that each of us brings our unique expression of these challenges into the session.
(847) 908-3219 View (847) 908-3219
Photo of Sarah Christian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Christian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
Life brings many stressors and we can all benefit from having a confidential place to sort out our concerns. I have been in practice for over 30 years helping clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues and stress management. I have worked with individuals, adolescents and couples in a relationally based, psychodynamic format. I was also the director of, and involved with, a psycho-educational parenting program for over 12 years. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and with adolescents as they grow through facing the challenges of life.
Life brings many stressors and we can all benefit from having a confidential place to sort out our concerns. I have been in practice for over 30 years helping clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues and stress management. I have worked with individuals, adolescents and couples in a relationally based, psychodynamic format. I was also the director of, and involved with, a psycho-educational parenting program for over 12 years. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and with adolescents as they grow through facing the challenges of life.
(847) 979-4339 View (847) 979-4339
Photo of Abby Bosco, LCPC
Abby Bosco
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Do feelings of anxiety or depression leave you feeling "stuck" in life? Do you find yourself awake at night because you just can't quiet your mind, and expecting the worst when walking into unfamiliar situations, or starting new relationships? When things happen to us that are not within our control, feelings of anxiety are common. Life altering experiences are not always obvious... in fact, they can appear quite subtle, yet have a large impact on the way we view the world, and view ourselves.
Do feelings of anxiety or depression leave you feeling "stuck" in life? Do you find yourself awake at night because you just can't quiet your mind, and expecting the worst when walking into unfamiliar situations, or starting new relationships? When things happen to us that are not within our control, feelings of anxiety are common. Life altering experiences are not always obvious... in fact, they can appear quite subtle, yet have a large impact on the way we view the world, and view ourselves.
(847) 744-9836 View (847) 744-9836
Photo of Carolynne Funk, PsyD, Psychologist
Carolynne Funk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
My clinical practice includes adolescents, adults, and couples who are experiencing a range of challenges including: depression, anxiety, career stress, marital difficulties, attention deficit and learning disorders, divorce and life transitions, and issues related to sexuality and gender.
Depression, anxiety or stress can keep you stuck with negative thoughts and behaviors. I can work with you to identify the obstacles in your way. I view therapy as a collaborative experience where you will develop new patterns and make positive changes in your life.
My clinical practice includes adolescents, adults, and couples who are experiencing a range of challenges including: depression, anxiety, career stress, marital difficulties, attention deficit and learning disorders, divorce and life transitions, and issues related to sexuality and gender.
Depression, anxiety or stress can keep you stuck with negative thoughts and behaviors. I can work with you to identify the obstacles in your way. I view therapy as a collaborative experience where you will develop new patterns and make positive changes in your life.
(847) 962-1484 View (847) 962-1484
Photo of Dr. Zeeshan Rajani, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Zeeshan Rajani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, binge eating disorder, trauma/PTSD, addiction, women's/men's issues, domestic violence/abuse, and other socioemotional and interpersonal related concerns. Clinically, I work with clients (adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families) primarily through a cognitive-behavioral approach, fostering empathy and authenticity in a non-judgmental, safe, and supportive environment. I also work strongly through a collaborative approach, helping clients gain a deeper understanding into their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions in order to help cultivate positive change.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, binge eating disorder, trauma/PTSD, addiction, women's/men's issues, domestic violence/abuse, and other socioemotional and interpersonal related concerns. Clinically, I work with clients (adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families) primarily through a cognitive-behavioral approach, fostering empathy and authenticity in a non-judgmental, safe, and supportive environment. I also work strongly through a collaborative approach, helping clients gain a deeper understanding into their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions in order to help cultivate positive change.
(224) 458-2556 View (224) 458-2556

Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

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

What happens in therapy for depression?

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

What therapy types help with depression?

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

Can therapy for depression be done online?

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

How effective is therapy for depression?

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