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 Jackie Ann Rhew - Center for Emotional Wellness of the Northwest, CADC, LCPC, Counselor
Center for Emotional Wellness of the Northwest
Counselor, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
From navigating relationship dynamics to managing anxiety and depression, our expert team is here to help.
At the Center for Emotional Wellness, we are committed to helping our clients live their best life. Our team of clinicians are devoted to providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other best practices in treating diverse disorders affecting children, adolescents, and adults. We are continually working to bring the most effective and innovative techniques and approaches to our center in order to better serve the individuals and families in our community. With over 10 therapists, we will match each client with the clinician with the most appropriate style and expertise to match individual needs.
From navigating relationship dynamics to managing anxiety and depression, our expert team is here to help.
At the Center for Emotional Wellness, we are committed to helping our clients live their best life. Our team of clinicians are devoted to providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other best practices in treating diverse disorders affecting children, adolescents, and adults. We are continually working to bring the most effective and innovative techniques and approaches to our center in order to better serve the individuals and families in our community. With over 10 therapists, we will match each client with the clinician with the most appropriate style and expertise to match individual needs.
(847) 550-3946 View (847) 550-3946
Photo of Karen Kozlowski Graham, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Kozlowski Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Not accepting new clients
I work with a diverse group of people but do have some specializations: adoption, illness and disability, depression and anxiety, relationship, family and life transition issues, and addictive behavior.
Feeling anxious or down? Going through a transition and can't seem to adjust? Problems with your teenagers? I'm a veteran licensed clinical social worker who is here to talk with you about your life, your family, and your relationships. Together we can develop ways of coping and even finding new meaning in your life. Send me an email or give me a call, let's talk.
I work with a diverse group of people but do have some specializations: adoption, illness and disability, depression and anxiety, relationship, family and life transition issues, and addictive behavior.
Feeling anxious or down? Going through a transition and can't seem to adjust? Problems with your teenagers? I'm a veteran licensed clinical social worker who is here to talk with you about your life, your family, and your relationships. Together we can develop ways of coping and even finding new meaning in your life. Send me an email or give me a call, let's talk.
(847) 386-8957 View (847) 386-8957
Photo of Joanie Albrecht, PhD
Joanie Albrecht
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I have extensive experience helping people resolve anxiety, PTSD and depression.
Real change for real people. You may need short-term support to learn specific tools, or you may want to dig more deeply to recognize relationship patterns or other behaviors that get in the way of peace and happiness in your life. You may find yourself feeling depressed, anxious and in conflict with the ones you love. I would like to help you manage and resolve these feelings and to help you transform what feels like vulnerability into strength. We will work together to accomplish the goals we co-create.
I have extensive experience helping people resolve anxiety, PTSD and depression.
Real change for real people. You may need short-term support to learn specific tools, or you may want to dig more deeply to recognize relationship patterns or other behaviors that get in the way of peace and happiness in your life. You may find yourself feeling depressed, anxious and in conflict with the ones you love. I would like to help you manage and resolve these feelings and to help you transform what feels like vulnerability into strength. We will work together to accomplish the goals we co-create.
(847) 268-4219 View (847) 268-4219
Photo of Brittany Rotelli, LCPC, CST, Counselor
Brittany Rotelli
Counselor, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Healing is a journey and I strive to provide a pleasant, cozy, and warm environment to feel safe and comfortable as you identify and assess your goals within the therapeutic space. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, low motivation, past trauma, identity concerns, or sexual struggles we can work through them in a empathetic and non-judgmental environment as a team.
Healing is a journey and I strive to provide a pleasant, cozy, and warm environment to feel safe and comfortable as you identify and assess your goals within the therapeutic space. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, low motivation, past trauma, identity concerns, or sexual struggles we can work through them in a empathetic and non-judgmental environment as a team.
(224) 228-3845 View (224) 228-3845
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
Photo of Allison Bisher-Fry, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Bisher-Fry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Sometimes it is hard to ask for help. During our lives, we all reach the point where the stress becomes too much. One way to address that is by finding a supportive person to help. I aim to be that supportive person for you. I have been working with children ranging from 7-17, parents, adults, and families since 2007. I have taken time to raise my own children. I recognize the stress of balancing family, work, and personal lives. It is my goal to help you develop your strengths and coping skills to navigate life when it feels like too much. I have experience in helping families navigate difficult parent/child interactions.
Sometimes it is hard to ask for help. During our lives, we all reach the point where the stress becomes too much. One way to address that is by finding a supportive person to help. I aim to be that supportive person for you. I have been working with children ranging from 7-17, parents, adults, and families since 2007. I have taken time to raise my own children. I recognize the stress of balancing family, work, and personal lives. It is my goal to help you develop your strengths and coping skills to navigate life when it feels like too much. I have experience in helping families navigate difficult parent/child interactions.
(224) 676-9800 x28 View (224) 676-9800 x28

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Karner, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Melissa Karner
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Through my warm, empathic and interactive approach to counseling, I help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, past trauma/hurt, relationships, and complicated family issues.
I work with adolescents, and adults to navigate the challenges in life that we face to find healing and wholeness. My role as a therapist is to offer support and tools that help you live a life that is more genuine, fulfilling and aligns with your goals and desires for yourself and your family. I practice out of a trauma informed perspective to help you dig in to find true healing.
Through my warm, empathic and interactive approach to counseling, I help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, past trauma/hurt, relationships, and complicated family issues.
I work with adolescents, and adults to navigate the challenges in life that we face to find healing and wholeness. My role as a therapist is to offer support and tools that help you live a life that is more genuine, fulfilling and aligns with your goals and desires for yourself and your family. I practice out of a trauma informed perspective to help you dig in to find true healing.
(847) 495-7224 View (847) 495-7224
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 Lynda Throm, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Lynda Throm
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
Not accepting new clients
I have a great deal of experience helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other life stressors.
I want to commend you for your bravery in taking the first step towards reaching out for help. Counseling can give you a non-judgmental place to vent as well as a place to learn about new ways to manage overwhelming feelings. As a therapist, my main way of understanding how people work is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It can help us challenge our negative thoughts and utilize healthy coping skills. I primarily take a humanistic approach with my clients and make sure to address psychosocial, biological, developmental, spiritual, and cultural issues as needed since every client is unique.
I have a great deal of experience helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other life stressors.
I want to commend you for your bravery in taking the first step towards reaching out for help. Counseling can give you a non-judgmental place to vent as well as a place to learn about new ways to manage overwhelming feelings. As a therapist, my main way of understanding how people work is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It can help us challenge our negative thoughts and utilize healthy coping skills. I primarily take a humanistic approach with my clients and make sure to address psychosocial, biological, developmental, spiritual, and cultural issues as needed since every client is unique.
(224) 231-6951 View (224) 231-6951
Photo of Sara Luce, LCPC, Counselor
Sara Luce
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
I specialize in assisting adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, and communication building.
Let's face it - life can be pretty tough sometimes. Work, family, relationships, anxiety, stress... It can be a long list. The positive spin is that you do not need to tackle it all by yourself. Therapy is an excellent place to receive extra support and work towards positive change. My role is to meet you where you're at, help you identify your goals, and start making steps to reach those goals.
I specialize in assisting adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, and communication building.
Let's face it - life can be pretty tough sometimes. Work, family, relationships, anxiety, stress... It can be a long list. The positive spin is that you do not need to tackle it all by yourself. Therapy is an excellent place to receive extra support and work towards positive change. My role is to meet you where you're at, help you identify your goals, and start making steps to reach those goals.
(847) 558-1755 View (847) 558-1755
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 Stephanie Yunez - Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
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 an Integrative approach and help 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 an Integrative approach and help 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
Photo of Megan Sayre, LCSW, CEDS-S, WPATH P, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Sayre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-S, WPATH P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
My expertise includes treating depression, anxiety, self-injury, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ clients, eating disorders, and developing healthy boundaries.
My strengths include making authentic connections, practicing compassionate accountability, and bringing gentle humor into therapy. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy techniques in my sessions. I am a relational therapist and focus on developing clients' strengths while also providing support for clients to stretch beyond their comfort zones. My treatment motto has become "It's through discomfort that we change." I will provide you with the education, compassion and support needed for you to face any fears or discomfort to become a healthier and happier person.
My expertise includes treating depression, anxiety, self-injury, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ clients, eating disorders, and developing healthy boundaries.
My strengths include making authentic connections, practicing compassionate accountability, and bringing gentle humor into therapy. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy techniques in my sessions. I am a relational therapist and focus on developing clients' strengths while also providing support for clients to stretch beyond their comfort zones. My treatment motto has become "It's through discomfort that we change." I will provide you with the education, compassion and support needed for you to face any fears or discomfort to become a healthier and happier person.
(847) 305-3182 View (847) 305-3182
Photo of Kate Geiser, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kate Geiser
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
South Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
I believe that people have primary accountability for their own lives, and that within each of us is the power and capacity to make choices that will lead to happiness and fulfillment. However, sometimes there are obstacles that must first be overcome (for example, anger, depression, trauma, anxiety, sexual identity issues, relationship problems, etc.) to be able to make healthy choices. I assist my clients along their journey of self-discovery as they learn how to empower themselves to overcome their obstacles. They then are able to make choices that will lead them to the life they want to have.
I believe that people have primary accountability for their own lives, and that within each of us is the power and capacity to make choices that will lead to happiness and fulfillment. However, sometimes there are obstacles that must first be overcome (for example, anger, depression, trauma, anxiety, sexual identity issues, relationship problems, etc.) to be able to make healthy choices. I assist my clients along their journey of self-discovery as they learn how to empower themselves to overcome their obstacles. They then are able to make choices that will lead them to the life they want to have.
(224) 268-1651 View (224) 268-1651

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.