Photo of Taylor Underwood - Therapy Solutions AH, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy Solutions AH
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I specialize in adult/teen depression, anxiety, ADHD and relationship/family issues. Response time 24 business hours to calls or emails. My first priority is to understand you as a person. If you are feeling hesitant about therapy, understand that this is normal: letting another person into your private space can be frightening. A good therapist, however, will accept you as you are, with all the good and the ugly. Courage!
I specialize in adult/teen depression, anxiety, ADHD and relationship/family issues. Response time 24 business hours to calls or emails. My first priority is to understand you as a person. If you are feeling hesitant about therapy, understand that this is normal: letting another person into your private space can be frightening. A good therapist, however, will accept you as you are, with all the good and the ugly. Courage!
(224) 441-2151 View (224) 441-2151
Photo of Christine Gardner - Christine Gardner (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.), MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christine Gardner (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I have immediate openings for both in person and online appointments. I believe the relationship you form with your therapist is one of the most important predictors of whether therapy is successful. I offer a caring and supportive environment to explore life’s challenges. I completely recognize the strength and courage it took to make that first step. The struggles of our day to day challenges, anxiety and depression can make our lives seem unmanageable and overwhelming. Life is meant to be enjoyed. My desire is to come alongside you and help you to navigate through these challenges while meeting your personal goals.
I have immediate openings for both in person and online appointments. I believe the relationship you form with your therapist is one of the most important predictors of whether therapy is successful. I offer a caring and supportive environment to explore life’s challenges. I completely recognize the strength and courage it took to make that first step. The struggles of our day to day challenges, anxiety and depression can make our lives seem unmanageable and overwhelming. Life is meant to be enjoyed. My desire is to come alongside you and help you to navigate through these challenges while meeting your personal goals.
(847) 447-2776 View (847) 447-2776
Photo of Dr. David Raczynski, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. David Raczynski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I take a Solution-Focused & evidence based approach designed to create solutions rather than focus on problems. My practice helps adolescents and adults overcome normal life circumstances that often involve some form of trauma, anxiety, stress, and/or depression. To accomplish this, we work together to pick apart and sort out any emotionally charged snags that frequently involve stressful situations, thoughts, feelings, past memories, losses, fears, etc. Once this has been accomplished, clients generally feel better and progress towards goals is usually swift.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I take a Solution-Focused & evidence based approach designed to create solutions rather than focus on problems. My practice helps adolescents and adults overcome normal life circumstances that often involve some form of trauma, anxiety, stress, and/or depression. To accomplish this, we work together to pick apart and sort out any emotionally charged snags that frequently involve stressful situations, thoughts, feelings, past memories, losses, fears, etc. Once this has been accomplished, clients generally feel better and progress towards goals is usually swift.
(331) 231-2187 View (331) 231-2187
Photo of Sally Secker - Sally Secker (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.), MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Sally Secker (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.)
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Do you feel alone, lost, or just stuck? Therapy is for everyone, but I know it can feel hard to take that step. My passion is to come alongside you in your struggles to encourage and empower you to find hope and joy in your life. I have immediate openings for both online appointments and in person at my Barrington office. Whether you are dealing with depression and anxiety, struggling with the effects of past trauma, coping with loss, or just dealing with life changes, I would love to help.
Do you feel alone, lost, or just stuck? Therapy is for everyone, but I know it can feel hard to take that step. My passion is to come alongside you in your struggles to encourage and empower you to find hope and joy in your life. I have immediate openings for both online appointments and in person at my Barrington office. Whether you are dealing with depression and anxiety, struggling with the effects of past trauma, coping with loss, or just dealing with life changes, I would love to help.
(630) 948-4419 View (630) 948-4419
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 Angelica Newton, LCPC, PMH-C, Counselor
Angelica Newton
Counselor, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
The areas that I specialize in include women's/perinatal wellness, effective communication, negative feelings related to adjustments in life, relational conflict, depression & anxiety, and mood management.
I would love to see each individual experiencing life at their full potential. I also understand that there are many things that can get in the way of that. I strive to create a safe, comfortable, empowering and creative environment in which my clients can work towards their individual goals. My commitment is to come along side you by providing skills, knowledge, reflection, support, and encouragement.
The areas that I specialize in include women's/perinatal wellness, effective communication, negative feelings related to adjustments in life, relational conflict, depression & anxiety, and mood management.
I would love to see each individual experiencing life at their full potential. I also understand that there are many things that can get in the way of that. I strive to create a safe, comfortable, empowering and creative environment in which my clients can work towards their individual goals. My commitment is to come along side you by providing skills, knowledge, reflection, support, and encouragement.
(847) 558-7783 View (847) 558-7783
Photo of Denise Casey, PsyD, CADC, NBCCHT, Psychologist
Denise Casey
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC, NBCCHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Casey has traveled with people from all walks of life to deal with interventions, addiction recovery, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, loss & grief, sexual abuse, women's issues and codependency.
HOPE, HELP, HEALING. Dr. Casey would best describe her intentions for her clients in one word "Transformation". As founder of Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, she has created a "home" for people where growth and healing are possible. Her own journey has taught her as much as the diplomas on her wall and the credentials behind her name. She was on staff at Lutheran General Hospital and taught at Northeastern IL University. She is trained as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor, is versed in Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is also an Employee Assistance Provider.
Casey has traveled with people from all walks of life to deal with interventions, addiction recovery, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, loss & grief, sexual abuse, women's issues and codependency.
HOPE, HELP, HEALING. Dr. Casey would best describe her intentions for her clients in one word "Transformation". As founder of Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, she has created a "home" for people where growth and healing are possible. Her own journey has taught her as much as the diplomas on her wall and the credentials behind her name. She was on staff at Lutheran General Hospital and taught at Northeastern IL University. She is trained as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor, is versed in Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is also an Employee Assistance Provider.
(888) 265-6418 View (888) 265-6418
Photo of Lisa K LaBute, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa K LaBute
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
I’m comfortable and confident working with a variety of issues- anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues, perinatal/postpartum mental health and the transition to parenthood, sexual abuse issues, eating disorders, addictions, trauma recovery, couples and individuals going through divorce, unexpected life transitions, etc.
The philosopher Pascal wrote, “We know the truth not only by reason but by the heart.” In this world full of self-help books, social media, and memes, finding time for real connection is so important. Together we will use both heart and mind in an effort to help stimulate self-discovery, uncover faulty messages from the past, develop new positive coping, increase self-awareness, and uncover strengths. Through these efforts it will be my joy to finally see you safely to a place of balance and authenticity.
I’m comfortable and confident working with a variety of issues- anxiety, depression, family and relationship issues, perinatal/postpartum mental health and the transition to parenthood, sexual abuse issues, eating disorders, addictions, trauma recovery, couples and individuals going through divorce, unexpected life transitions, etc.
The philosopher Pascal wrote, “We know the truth not only by reason but by the heart.” In this world full of self-help books, social media, and memes, finding time for real connection is so important. Together we will use both heart and mind in an effort to help stimulate self-discovery, uncover faulty messages from the past, develop new positive coping, increase self-awareness, and uncover strengths. Through these efforts it will be my joy to finally see you safely to a place of balance and authenticity.
(224) 298-7224 x197 View (224) 298-7224 x197
Photo of Ana R Florencio, LCPC
Ana R Florencio
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Not accepting new clients
Some of the issues people who find benefit working with me are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, struggles with shame, feeling frozen in life, difficulty in relationships in their personal life and/or at work, feeling disconnected from self and from others, physical symptoms that do not have a medical explanation, developmental or complex trauma, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, being frequently and/or easily triggered, issues with spirituality, and other.
Some of the issues people who find benefit working with me are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, struggles with shame, feeling frozen in life, difficulty in relationships in their personal life and/or at work, feeling disconnected from self and from others, physical symptoms that do not have a medical explanation, developmental or complex trauma, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, being frequently and/or easily triggered, issues with spirituality, and other.
(224) 479-0689 View (224) 479-0689
Photo of Amanda Berge, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Amanda Berge
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I have specialized training in treating depression, anxiety and trauma.
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I am a clinical therapist. I help people who are stuck because of overwhelming feelings, bad habits, relationship problems or work challenges. If you want to feel better or live better, I'm here. I understand that life is not always easy and I can help you move from where you are to where you want to be. Therapy is all about finding the right fit. So, give me a call or schedule a consultation to see if I'm the right person for you.
I have specialized training in treating depression, anxiety and trauma.
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I am a clinical therapist. I help people who are stuck because of overwhelming feelings, bad habits, relationship problems or work challenges. If you want to feel better or live better, I'm here. I understand that life is not always easy and I can help you move from where you are to where you want to be. Therapy is all about finding the right fit. So, give me a call or schedule a consultation to see if I'm the right person for you.
(847) 239-5858 View (847) 239-5858
Photo of Richard Damiani, LCPC
Richard Damiani
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
We were designed for connection; marriage and relationships should be a delight - a life giving connection with the one you love above all others. We marry or are in a relationship with that one person with whom we hope that we will find happiness, joy and peace. We bring ourselves with all our differing personalities, history, baggage, wounds, and family of origin issues to each other and our lives together, and these things can make it very hard to find what we long for.emotional issues that come from trauma, as well as depression, anxiety, and low self worth.
We were designed for connection; marriage and relationships should be a delight - a life giving connection with the one you love above all others. We marry or are in a relationship with that one person with whom we hope that we will find happiness, joy and peace. We bring ourselves with all our differing personalities, history, baggage, wounds, and family of origin issues to each other and our lives together, and these things can make it very hard to find what we long for.emotional issues that come from trauma, as well as depression, anxiety, and low self worth.
(331) 225-1645 View (331) 225-1645
Photo of Douglas N Neal, PsyD, Psychologist
Douglas N Neal
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
For 39 years, I have been passionate about helping people find freedom from personal struggles of depression, anxiety and marriage/ family problems. I treat first with natural alternatives rather than medications. I also specialize in Attention Deficit Disorder and I am a parent of an adult child with ADHD. I personally know the challenges and victory in helping someone with ADHD live their life successfully. I am viewed as the Sherlock Holmes doctor since I work with the most difficult to diagnose cases and help to crack the case of what is causing a person to struggle.
For 39 years, I have been passionate about helping people find freedom from personal struggles of depression, anxiety and marriage/ family problems. I treat first with natural alternatives rather than medications. I also specialize in Attention Deficit Disorder and I am a parent of an adult child with ADHD. I personally know the challenges and victory in helping someone with ADHD live their life successfully. I am viewed as the Sherlock Holmes doctor since I work with the most difficult to diagnose cases and help to crack the case of what is causing a person to struggle.
(815) 828-4356 View (815) 828-4356
Photo of Dan Gleason, LCPC
Dan Gleason
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Hello! My name is Dan Gleason and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and trained to work with individuals, groups, those seeking career counseling, and families. I am interested in working with people struggling with OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, spiritual concerns, finding direction in life, and those who would like to further their relationship with God. I strongly believe in building trusting relationships and having enjoyable, life-changing conversations in a therapeutic environment.
Hello! My name is Dan Gleason and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and trained to work with individuals, groups, those seeking career counseling, and families. I am interested in working with people struggling with OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, spiritual concerns, finding direction in life, and those who would like to further their relationship with God. I strongly believe in building trusting relationships and having enjoyable, life-changing conversations in a therapeutic environment.
(630) 354-0356 View (630) 354-0356
Photo of Christine Hill, MA, MEd, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Christine Hill
Counselor, MA, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Christine specializes in working with individuals struggling with complex trauma, PTSD, dissociative disorders, depression and anxiety.
Do anxiety, trauma and uncertainty run your life more than your values and dreams? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it's hard to convince your heart otherwise. Perhaps you feel stuck in not knowing how to move through distressing events of your past which is impacting your present day functioning. If this resonates with you, I would encourage you to take that brave first step in reaching out for support! There is hope and you don’t have to walk this journey alone.
Christine specializes in working with individuals struggling with complex trauma, PTSD, dissociative disorders, depression and anxiety.
Do anxiety, trauma and uncertainty run your life more than your values and dreams? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it's hard to convince your heart otherwise. Perhaps you feel stuck in not knowing how to move through distressing events of your past which is impacting your present day functioning. If this resonates with you, I would encourage you to take that brave first step in reaching out for support! There is hope and you don’t have to walk this journey alone.
(224) 218-5167 View (224) 218-5167
Photo of Stephen Hughes Borgman (Telehealth) - Stephen Borgman, LCPC, LCPC, Counselor
Stephen Borgman, LCPC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Michael had felt lifelong stress, nightmares, jitteriness, and struggles with past traumatic events. On top of that, he was struggling with a new promotion at work, and he wasn’t getting along with his boss. He’d started yelling at his wife more, and his kids were starting to avoid him. He wanted help, and fast. Practical, empathetic, and non-judgemental help. Do you feel like Michael? You're not alone! According to a study cited by Good Therapy, over 14% of men experience some type of mental health problem. That’s almost 2 in every 10 men!
Michael had felt lifelong stress, nightmares, jitteriness, and struggles with past traumatic events. On top of that, he was struggling with a new promotion at work, and he wasn’t getting along with his boss. He’d started yelling at his wife more, and his kids were starting to avoid him. He wanted help, and fast. Practical, empathetic, and non-judgemental help. Do you feel like Michael? You're not alone! According to a study cited by Good Therapy, over 14% of men experience some type of mental health problem. That’s almost 2 in every 10 men!
(847) 386-2126 View (847) 386-2126
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 Mya Williams - Mya Williams, MA, LPC, Counselor
Mya Williams
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I have found great joy in serving under the umbrella of Behavioral Health. I began my professional journey as a mental health counselor at Allendale Associates in 2013. I was passionate about my discipline, but I quickly realized the need to explore the correlation between behavior, trauma, and family in order to become more effective in my service and purpose. Additionally, the nexus of disciplines inherent in this helping profession, fuels my unequivocal appreciation for the dynamics of the home life and its impact on the youth; hence, I became a Certified Parent Educator and Licensed Professional Counselor.
I have found great joy in serving under the umbrella of Behavioral Health. I began my professional journey as a mental health counselor at Allendale Associates in 2013. I was passionate about my discipline, but I quickly realized the need to explore the correlation between behavior, trauma, and family in order to become more effective in my service and purpose. Additionally, the nexus of disciplines inherent in this helping profession, fuels my unequivocal appreciation for the dynamics of the home life and its impact on the youth; hence, I became a Certified Parent Educator and Licensed Professional Counselor.
(224) 427-6490 View (224) 427-6490
Photo of Barrington Behavioral Health And Wellness - Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, PsyD, LCSW, LCPC, CADC, NBCCHT, Psychologist
Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LCPC, CADC, NBCCHT
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
We welcome you online or in person. We embrace the concept of body, mind & spirit and believe in treating the whole person. We believe in resilience, transformation and personal growth. Each clinician practices in different areas including; mood disorders, addiction recovery, services to senior citizens, veterans, children and adolescents, couples, womens issues, trauma, divorce recovery, mood disorders, life transitions, professional development or supervision. We have hours 7 days a week both in person and via telehealth. Insurance Friendly.
We welcome you online or in person. We embrace the concept of body, mind & spirit and believe in treating the whole person. We believe in resilience, transformation and personal growth. Each clinician practices in different areas including; mood disorders, addiction recovery, services to senior citizens, veterans, children and adolescents, couples, womens issues, trauma, divorce recovery, mood disorders, life transitions, professional development or supervision. We have hours 7 days a week both in person and via telehealth. Insurance Friendly.
(877) 968-2745 View (877) 968-2745
Photo of Ashley Mika, MA, LCPC, LPC, NCC, CGP, Counselor
Ashley Mika
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, NCC, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
Navigating life changes and transitions can be difficult and stressful. It takes strength and courage to reach out for help. As a counselor for over 6 years, I am passionate about joining others on their journey to self-healing. Whether struggling with management of current stress/mental health conditions, grief and loss, relationships, or life transitions, I am here to assist and journey alongside you as you navigate the current season you are in.
Navigating life changes and transitions can be difficult and stressful. It takes strength and courage to reach out for help. As a counselor for over 6 years, I am passionate about joining others on their journey to self-healing. Whether struggling with management of current stress/mental health conditions, grief and loss, relationships, or life transitions, I am here to assist and journey alongside you as you navigate the current season you are in.
(262) 500-4935 View (262) 500-4935
Photo of Jennifer Decal - Sana Wellness Center, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Sana Wellness Center
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Sana means heal and we strive to create a nurturing environment for you to explore your healing. Sana Wellness Center is dedicated to providing holistic and effective mental health services to anyone who seeks to collaboratively address and heal adverse life experiences and current concerns in a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. Through unconditional acceptance, we will walk with you as you develop insights while respecting your individuality to achieve your goals. In tandem with mental health services, Sana offers Reiki, sound healing, and trauma yoga to help integrate supportive services into your journey.
Sana means heal and we strive to create a nurturing environment for you to explore your healing. Sana Wellness Center is dedicated to providing holistic and effective mental health services to anyone who seeks to collaboratively address and heal adverse life experiences and current concerns in a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. Through unconditional acceptance, we will walk with you as you develop insights while respecting your individuality to achieve your goals. In tandem with mental health services, Sana offers Reiki, sound healing, and trauma yoga to help integrate supportive services into your journey.
(224) 427-3485 View (224) 427-3485
1

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.