Therapists in Lake Zurich, IL
![Photo of Sonya Kontorovich, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c031a0c7-d26a-45b5-9751-5207df205b04/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Catherine Ness - Affective Counseling, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49379832-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Patricia Roy - The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a684ce0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Brittany Salvador, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3786766a-cb2e-42c4-84a8-5aa1bd89cc7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Juli Brown, LCSW, CDVP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/544f8dcc-0b00-44d8-9896-757a4a8c9c67/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I partner with my clients to support and empower them to create the life they want to live. Sometimes even with your best efforts to move forward, you can feel stuck and like nothing is working. You are not alone – and you can heal and thrive! I focus on helping adults who are dealing with anxiety, self-doubt, depression, life transitions, or who want to heal from abuse or trauma. I am a certified domestic violence professional and also assist clients who are currently experiencing verbal or physical abuse.
Hello! I partner with my clients to support and empower them to create the life they want to live. Sometimes even with your best efforts to move forward, you can feel stuck and like nothing is working. You are not alone – and you can heal and thrive! I focus on helping adults who are dealing with anxiety, self-doubt, depression, life transitions, or who want to heal from abuse or trauma. I am a certified domestic violence professional and also assist clients who are currently experiencing verbal or physical abuse.
![Photo of Jackie Ann Rhew - Center for Emotional Wellness of the Northwest, CADC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43ad6938-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Joanie Albrecht, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a46c36-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Brittany Rotelli, LCPC, CST, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d7ec042-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Leslie Velgach, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4b6a3c0-f410-4f17-ad6b-c89f18362c00/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie Velgach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047 (Online Only)
Using a combination of behavioral modalities including DBT, CBT and ACT, I work with teens and adults who are struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, life-transitions, cross-cultural issues, relationship struggles; and mothers, fathers, and guardians experiencing the hardship of raising a family.
There are times we might feel like we have failed, are stuck, or feel like there is no hope for change. Asking for help can be very difficult, and it takes a lot of strength and courage to reach out to another. I believe therapy is not just for those experiencing a life crisis or current difficulty - therapy is an opportunity to gain new insight into self, learn new skills, and position oneself to increase health and wellness. I am a Licenced Clinical Social Worker who approaches therapy from a relational, collaborative, and strength-based. I believe everyone deserves a safe space to speak freely.
Using a combination of behavioral modalities including DBT, CBT and ACT, I work with teens and adults who are struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, life-transitions, cross-cultural issues, relationship struggles; and mothers, fathers, and guardians experiencing the hardship of raising a family.
There are times we might feel like we have failed, are stuck, or feel like there is no hope for change. Asking for help can be very difficult, and it takes a lot of strength and courage to reach out to another. I believe therapy is not just for those experiencing a life crisis or current difficulty - therapy is an opportunity to gain new insight into self, learn new skills, and position oneself to increase health and wellness. I am a Licenced Clinical Social Worker who approaches therapy from a relational, collaborative, and strength-based. I believe everyone deserves a safe space to speak freely.
![Photo of Kelly DeHaan - Cherry Hill Counseling](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4093b79c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Melissa A. Frey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6c64ed5-efd3-4f14-817e-96de20574ef5/5/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa A. Frey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047 (Online Only)
If you are dealing with a relationship concern, a health issue, or you are caregiving for someone with a health issue, we can help. Living with a challenging relationship or health condition can make you feel like you've tried everything and nothing is working. You may feel like you're the only person who has faced your specific struggle and aren't sure what to do. Your friends and family try to help, but their feedback seems biased, or they don't understand.
If you are dealing with a relationship concern, a health issue, or you are caregiving for someone with a health issue, we can help. Living with a challenging relationship or health condition can make you feel like you've tried everything and nothing is working. You may feel like you're the only person who has faced your specific struggle and aren't sure what to do. Your friends and family try to help, but their feedback seems biased, or they don't understand.
![Photo of Barbara Spaulding, LCSW, Anxiety, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64d32bc1-2b61-4ff0-8833-bf6bd3edab07/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Brenda L. Danielson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc8164d4-14b3-486a-997b-d386a297d6a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brenda L. Danielson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Not accepting new clients
If you are feeling disempowered, stressed in your relationships, facing a loss or in the midst of a life transition you have come to the right place. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Illinois and Wisconsin practicing as a psychotherapist since 2007. I emphasize a wholistic, strength based approach that helps my clients realize their inner potential and break free from destructive environments and patterns.
If you are feeling disempowered, stressed in your relationships, facing a loss or in the midst of a life transition you have come to the right place. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Illinois and Wisconsin practicing as a psychotherapist since 2007. I emphasize a wholistic, strength based approach that helps my clients realize their inner potential and break free from destructive environments and patterns.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jordan A Dobrowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bd1fb73-ebbd-4e53-9dbf-bd9412ac1260/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan A Dobrowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004 (Online Only)
Jordan is LGBTQ-affirming and has experience working with individuals from a variety of cultural and spiritual backgrounds. Her clinical interests include individual, partner, and family therapy; treatment-resistant depression; sexual and gender identity development; trauma recovery; relief from codependency; immigration; and chronic illness resilience. Utilizing a biopsychosocial-spiritual approach to therapy, Jordan invites clients to show-up and be seen as their full selves, worthy and capable of care.
Jordan is LGBTQ-affirming and has experience working with individuals from a variety of cultural and spiritual backgrounds. Her clinical interests include individual, partner, and family therapy; treatment-resistant depression; sexual and gender identity development; trauma recovery; relief from codependency; immigration; and chronic illness resilience. Utilizing a biopsychosocial-spiritual approach to therapy, Jordan invites clients to show-up and be seen as their full selves, worthy and capable of care.
![Photo of Stephanie Yunez - Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, LPC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d7b289b-11ba-48dc-b73b-aba8061fef49/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sara Luce, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/410962a8-2626-420c-9a80-786572f93cf0/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Danielle Beardsley, MA, LCPC, CADC, ATR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0fb70a6-0704-44ea-b144-9860a8dac9bd/4/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Marina Murphy, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/544620c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
Choosing to engage in therapy can be an overwhelming and intimidating experience and I am here to support you through this decision to get help and move forward. In my work as a professional counselor I strive to always have an empathetic and non-judgmental approach to helping my clients reach the positive changes that they are seeking. I use various therapeutic strategies tailored to my client's needs and strengths. I greatly enjoy being a therapist and feel that it is an honor to get to help and support others.
I specialize in working with depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
Choosing to engage in therapy can be an overwhelming and intimidating experience and I am here to support you through this decision to get help and move forward. In my work as a professional counselor I strive to always have an empathetic and non-judgmental approach to helping my clients reach the positive changes that they are seeking. I use various therapeutic strategies tailored to my client's needs and strengths. I greatly enjoy being a therapist and feel that it is an honor to get to help and support others.
![Photo of Terre Cohen Tripoli, MA, LCPC, LPCC, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e42e205-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Patti J. Reid, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c38d420-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
There are times in all our lives when grief, sadness, anxiety or depression becomes overwhelming.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and have worked in the field for 20 years. I work with individual adults and adolescents, I have also participated in the LGBT post-graduate certification program.
There are times in all our lives when grief, sadness, anxiety or depression becomes overwhelming.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and have worked in the field for 20 years. I work with individual adults and adolescents, I have also participated in the LGBT post-graduate certification program.
See more therapy options for Lake Zurich
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Lake Zurich
- Barrington
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- Deer Park
- Fox River Grove
- Hawthorn Woods
- Inverness
- Long Grove
- Mundelein
- Palatine
- South Barrington
- Vernon Hills
- Wauconda
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.