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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tanya Leibman, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tanya Leibman
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Я говорю по-русски, и могу проводить сессии на русском языке. К сожалению, я не говорю по-украинский, но если вы предпочитаете русский английскому, могу это обеспечить
Я говорю по-русски, и могу проводить сессии на русском языке. К сожалению, я не говорю по-украинский, но если вы предпочитаете русский английскому, могу это обеспечить
(312) 766-9184 View (312) 766-9184
Photo of Victoria Troshina, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria Troshina
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
My specialization extends to addressing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use, and personal growth.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief in the healing power of authentic self-expression within a safe and nurturing setting.I offer a non-judgmental space for clients to explore their strengths and challenges. I employ trauma-informed care to facilitate recovery, and my practice is underpinned by a commitment to social justice and multicultural sensitivity. I recognize the complexities of identity and the unique challenges faced during acculturation. I assist clients in navigating these issues without re-traumatization, fostering resilience, and self-expression.
My specialization extends to addressing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use, and personal growth.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief in the healing power of authentic self-expression within a safe and nurturing setting.I offer a non-judgmental space for clients to explore their strengths and challenges. I employ trauma-informed care to facilitate recovery, and my practice is underpinned by a commitment to social justice and multicultural sensitivity. I recognize the complexities of identity and the unique challenges faced during acculturation. I assist clients in navigating these issues without re-traumatization, fostering resilience, and self-expression.
(773) 345-6558 View (773) 345-6558
Photo of Dina Yurchanka, LCPC, CMHIMP, Counselor
Dina Yurchanka
Counselor, LCPC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
I am convinced that anyone can experience signs of anxiety or depression at some point in their life. Nowadays it is very common to get affected physically and emotionally by the stress of our world of expectations and feel stuck. With my extensive experience in the clinical field, many individuals have found the necessary help and have been able to regain their well-being. My patients' symptoms vary from diverse paralyzing physical symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, avoidance behavior to low self-esteem, etc. I offer clinical help to recovery and a safe space for personal growth.
I am convinced that anyone can experience signs of anxiety or depression at some point in their life. Nowadays it is very common to get affected physically and emotionally by the stress of our world of expectations and feel stuck. With my extensive experience in the clinical field, many individuals have found the necessary help and have been able to regain their well-being. My patients' symptoms vary from diverse paralyzing physical symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, avoidance behavior to low self-esteem, etc. I offer clinical help to recovery and a safe space for personal growth.
(224) 347-7105 View (224) 347-7105
Photo of Alexander Kiseloff, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexander Kiseloff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Free 15 minute consultation. Specialization: Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, PTSD. My name is Alex and I am a master's level clinician and owner of BON VIE THERAPY. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and other forms of therapies aimed at helping individuals struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, trauma and other issues. A graduate of the Ohio State University, I have experience working with clients in an inpatient treatment setting as well as in my outpatient private practice where I see a lot of my patients. More information at bonvietherapy.com
Free 15 minute consultation. Specialization: Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, PTSD. My name is Alex and I am a master's level clinician and owner of BON VIE THERAPY. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and other forms of therapies aimed at helping individuals struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, trauma and other issues. A graduate of the Ohio State University, I have experience working with clients in an inpatient treatment setting as well as in my outpatient private practice where I see a lot of my patients. More information at bonvietherapy.com
(312) 535-8301 View (312) 535-8301
Photo of Victoriya Tsaran, PsyD, LPC, Psychologist
Victoriya Tsaran
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
My areas of clinical specialties are: Neurodevelopmental disorders, stress-related symptoms, Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorder, Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Behavioral Problems, Parenting Stress, Attention- Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Adolescent Issues, School Constulations.
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
My areas of clinical specialties are: Neurodevelopmental disorders, stress-related symptoms, Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorder, Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Behavioral Problems, Parenting Stress, Attention- Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Adolescent Issues, School Constulations.
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
(847) 786-2098 View (847) 786-2098
Photo of Lana Yael Logan, MA, LCPC, MMin, PhD, Counselor
Lana Yael Logan
Counselor, MA, LCPC, MMin, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
If you are experiencing burnout, depression, anxiety, compassion fatigue, trauma, or any life transition or loss, please reach out.
I specialize in primary and secondary trauma experienced by law enforcement officers, firefighters/paramedics, educators, veterans, mental health professionals, survivors of suicide, survivors of violent crimes, their families, and those struggling with complicated and traumatic grief. I see clients who need help managing their anger and addictive behaviors. Additionally, I work with survivors of Near Death Experiences (NDE). I am Certified in Critical Incident Response and conduct debriefings with the first responders. I also offer mandated psychotherapy for fit-for-duty protocols for law enforcement officers.
If you are experiencing burnout, depression, anxiety, compassion fatigue, trauma, or any life transition or loss, please reach out.
I specialize in primary and secondary trauma experienced by law enforcement officers, firefighters/paramedics, educators, veterans, mental health professionals, survivors of suicide, survivors of violent crimes, their families, and those struggling with complicated and traumatic grief. I see clients who need help managing their anger and addictive behaviors. Additionally, I work with survivors of Near Death Experiences (NDE). I am Certified in Critical Incident Response and conduct debriefings with the first responders. I also offer mandated psychotherapy for fit-for-duty protocols for law enforcement officers.
(773) 596-9387 View (773) 596-9387
Photo of Sophia Shlain - 360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC, Counselor
360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
(847) 807-1012 View (847) 807-1012
Photo of Inna Popko, MA, CADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Inna Popko
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CADC
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Using an eclectic psychotherapy approach to address unique client needs, Inna helps clients and their families overcome impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. Her strategies enable people to better manage anger, cope with depression and anxiety, overcome addiction, promote personal growth, and exude higher levels of self-esteem while living happier, more successful lives. Inna integrates cultural fluency, her diverse understanding of cultural intelligence and interpersonal communications in multiple languages allows her to conquer barriers associated with cross-cultural differences.
Using an eclectic psychotherapy approach to address unique client needs, Inna helps clients and their families overcome impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. Her strategies enable people to better manage anger, cope with depression and anxiety, overcome addiction, promote personal growth, and exude higher levels of self-esteem while living happier, more successful lives. Inna integrates cultural fluency, her diverse understanding of cultural intelligence and interpersonal communications in multiple languages allows her to conquer barriers associated with cross-cultural differences.
(847) 443-5471 View (847) 443-5471
Photo of Maria Yakimchuk, MA, ALMFT, cEFT M, CTP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Maria Yakimchuk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, ALMFT, cEFT M, CTP
Verified Verified
Wheeling, IL 60090
Working with moms and their families is my passion. While becoming a mother is often a long-awaited and magical experience, it can also be a vulnerable time for many of us. When we become mothers, we often re-experience childhood trauma which causes unresolved emotional pain to unexpectedly surface. These triggers may disrupt what would otherwise be a smooth transition into our parental role. Without understanding why, we may become increasingly anxious or depressed as new mothers and need additional support. Or we may feel that we have lost our identity somewhere between dishes, nap times, and ferrying kids to their activities.
Working with moms and their families is my passion. While becoming a mother is often a long-awaited and magical experience, it can also be a vulnerable time for many of us. When we become mothers, we often re-experience childhood trauma which causes unresolved emotional pain to unexpectedly surface. These triggers may disrupt what would otherwise be a smooth transition into our parental role. Without understanding why, we may become increasingly anxious or depressed as new mothers and need additional support. Or we may feel that we have lost our identity somewhere between dishes, nap times, and ferrying kids to their activities.
(847) 865-9424 View (847) 865-9424
Photo of Euginia Ivanova, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Euginia Ivanova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Wheeling, IL 60090
My career as a therapist has afforded me opportunities to work with individuals from all walks of life. I immigrated to the United States from Kiev, Ukraine and feel intimately familiar with the challenges faced by all of the groups I mentioned. I am able to work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families and treat a wide variety of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief / loss, relationship problems, family conflict, and addiction. I am proud member of Chicagoland’s Ukraine Community and am fluent in the Russian and Ukrainian languages.
My career as a therapist has afforded me opportunities to work with individuals from all walks of life. I immigrated to the United States from Kiev, Ukraine and feel intimately familiar with the challenges faced by all of the groups I mentioned. I am able to work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families and treat a wide variety of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief / loss, relationship problems, family conflict, and addiction. I am proud member of Chicagoland’s Ukraine Community and am fluent in the Russian and Ukrainian languages.
(224) 529-3188 View (224) 529-3188
Photo of Anna M Adams, PsyD, Psychologist
Anna M Adams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Hello and thank you for taking a moment to read my bio. Finding a therapist can be an overwhelming task. Your courage to seek help for yourself or a loved one is the first step to achieving well-being and mental health. I have a compassionate, empathic, respectful, and empowering approach to treatment. Every person I work with has strengths that we build on to help overcome the struggles in their life. Applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions, I use a collaborative approach with my client to develop an individualized treatment plan and focus on understanding the client's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in multiple situations.
Hello and thank you for taking a moment to read my bio. Finding a therapist can be an overwhelming task. Your courage to seek help for yourself or a loved one is the first step to achieving well-being and mental health. I have a compassionate, empathic, respectful, and empowering approach to treatment. Every person I work with has strengths that we build on to help overcome the struggles in their life. Applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions, I use a collaborative approach with my client to develop an individualized treatment plan and focus on understanding the client's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in multiple situations.
(847) 584-1597 View (847) 584-1597
Photo of Maria Shenkman, LCPC
Maria Shenkman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Maria’s clinical focus includes emerging adults, children, adolescents and families. Her approach focuses on expanding self-awareness and facilitating change. She incorporates evidence based mindfulness practices as well as mainstream psychotherapy approaches. Additionally, she utilizes an experiential Game Consulting method. Her multicultural background and passion for integral psychology allows her to incorporate progressive methods that are tailored to meet the needs of clients from diverse backgrounds. Maria provides therapy in Russian and English.
Maria’s clinical focus includes emerging adults, children, adolescents and families. Her approach focuses on expanding self-awareness and facilitating change. She incorporates evidence based mindfulness practices as well as mainstream psychotherapy approaches. Additionally, she utilizes an experiential Game Consulting method. Her multicultural background and passion for integral psychology allows her to incorporate progressive methods that are tailored to meet the needs of clients from diverse backgrounds. Maria provides therapy in Russian and English.
(224) 501-9814 View (224) 501-9814
Photo of Eugene Roginsky L C S W, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eugene Roginsky L C S W
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
As a Licensed Psychotherapist, Author, and Educator, I bring 28 years of clinical expertise and 20 years of teaching experience to my practice. I firmly believe that successful therapy requires an eclectic, progressive, evidenced based psychotherapeutic approach coupled (when necessary) with a deep understanding of the healthcare system. When working with clients, I prioritize solution-oriented, effective symptom relief methods. Recognizing the complexity of individuals, I address psychological and emotional concerns within the broader context of family dynamics, self-perception, work-related stress, and physical health.
As a Licensed Psychotherapist, Author, and Educator, I bring 28 years of clinical expertise and 20 years of teaching experience to my practice. I firmly believe that successful therapy requires an eclectic, progressive, evidenced based psychotherapeutic approach coupled (when necessary) with a deep understanding of the healthcare system. When working with clients, I prioritize solution-oriented, effective symptom relief methods. Recognizing the complexity of individuals, I address psychological and emotional concerns within the broader context of family dynamics, self-perception, work-related stress, and physical health.
(708) 854-1182 View (708) 854-1182
Photo of Asta Klimaite - Psychological Evaluations for Immigration, MA, LCPC
Psychological Evaluations for Immigration
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173  (Online Only)
We specialize in conducting Immigration Evaluations for Hardship Waiver, spousal abuse (VAWA), U-Visa, and T-Visa. Our evaluations are completed by a trilingual (Russian and Lithuanian) therapist. We also provide services through professional interpreters (Spanish).
We specialize in conducting Immigration Evaluations for Hardship Waiver, spousal abuse (VAWA), U-Visa, and T-Visa. Our evaluations are completed by a trilingual (Russian and Lithuanian) therapist. We also provide services through professional interpreters (Spanish).
(630) 491-9786 View (630) 491-9786
Photo of Sophia Shlain, LCSW, SSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Shlain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
Areas of clinical expertise include working with patients who struggle with stress management, anxiety, mood disorders, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, trauma, self-injury, and immigration/acculturation issues. Offering an eclectic approach to therapy. Sophia's holistic approach allows patients to experience an individualized and tailored made approached to therapy. Throughout the therapeutic process, patients are encouraged to use awareness to open up to new and alternative ways of being. Effectively exploring past and present, assisting patients to uncover insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behavior that will empower and support them in transforming their lives.
Areas of clinical expertise include working with patients who struggle with stress management, anxiety, mood disorders, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, trauma, self-injury, and immigration/acculturation issues. Offering an eclectic approach to therapy. Sophia's holistic approach allows patients to experience an individualized and tailored made approached to therapy. Throughout the therapeutic process, patients are encouraged to use awareness to open up to new and alternative ways of being. Effectively exploring past and present, assisting patients to uncover insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behavior that will empower and support them in transforming their lives.
(224) 803-3017 View (224) 803-3017
Photo of Gail Weil - CYN Counseling Center, LCSW, CADC, LCPC, LPC, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
CYN Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, LCPC, LPC, LSW
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
CYN has been in business for over 40 years treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups. Our counseling and psychotherapy services are confidential and we offer a relaxed, friendly setting. Located in Grayslake, Illinois, we understand the needs of the surrounding communities and our therapists encompass a wide range of specialties and treatment modalities. Regardless of the issues you face, let CYN assist you in your emotional growth and /or healing.
CYN has been in business for over 40 years treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups. Our counseling and psychotherapy services are confidential and we offer a relaxed, friendly setting. Located in Grayslake, Illinois, we understand the needs of the surrounding communities and our therapists encompass a wide range of specialties and treatment modalities. Regardless of the issues you face, let CYN assist you in your emotional growth and /or healing.
(847) 737-9226 View (847) 737-9226
Photo of Dennis A Lubchenko, LCPC, CADC, PCGC, Counselor
Dennis A Lubchenko
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, PCGC
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping people overcome their life stressors, past hurts, and to function in a healthier way. I help clients who suffer from mental health disorders, current problems, substance related addictions along with process related addictions (i.e. sex, gambling, shopping). I most frequently use Insight Oriented Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) approaches; as well as CBT and DBT when appropriate. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and family members.
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping people overcome their life stressors, past hurts, and to function in a healthier way. I help clients who suffer from mental health disorders, current problems, substance related addictions along with process related addictions (i.e. sex, gambling, shopping). I most frequently use Insight Oriented Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) approaches; as well as CBT and DBT when appropriate. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and family members.
(224) 935-4535 View (224) 935-4535
Photo of Neli Cohen, BS, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Neli Cohen
Psychologist, BS, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wheeling, IL 60090
The current healthcare industry has failed many people living with chronic physical and mental health diseases. People are faced with a large push for psychiatric medication, misdiagnosis, and a one-dimensional approach to treatment. It is time for a more holistic, whole-body solution to people’s health. This is the pledge that Nelmar Health Centers have made. No matter what you are struggling with, Nelmar Health Centers can help you live a happier and healthier life. We offer comprehensive diagnostic measures, counseling, Neurotherapy, cognitive rehabilitation, dietary and herb management, yoga, and meditation under one roof.
The current healthcare industry has failed many people living with chronic physical and mental health diseases. People are faced with a large push for psychiatric medication, misdiagnosis, and a one-dimensional approach to treatment. It is time for a more holistic, whole-body solution to people’s health. This is the pledge that Nelmar Health Centers have made. No matter what you are struggling with, Nelmar Health Centers can help you live a happier and healthier life. We offer comprehensive diagnostic measures, counseling, Neurotherapy, cognitive rehabilitation, dietary and herb management, yoga, and meditation under one roof.
(224) 970-2476 View (224) 970-2476

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.