Depression Therapists in Loves Park, IL
![Photo of Alix Rose Kavran, LPC, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6be57aa0-b82e-4174-8830-8976802eab69/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alix Rose Kavran
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Loves Park, IL 61111
Through specialized training in EMDR and Brainspotting, as well as, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, I support my clients in re-processing their life experiences which can help create positive changes in how they think, feel and the actions that they take to live a fulfilling life of personal growth and opportunity. Many of us notice negative cycles that we want to get out of, but can't find the answer. Through an attuned therapeutic relationship, I will join you in your journey. I have several years of experience in working with children, teens and adults who are experiencing the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety and loss.
Through specialized training in EMDR and Brainspotting, as well as, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, I support my clients in re-processing their life experiences which can help create positive changes in how they think, feel and the actions that they take to live a fulfilling life of personal growth and opportunity. Many of us notice negative cycles that we want to get out of, but can't find the answer. Through an attuned therapeutic relationship, I will join you in your journey. I have several years of experience in working with children, teens and adults who are experiencing the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety and loss.
![Photo of Lynn Hamilton, MS, LCPC, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/418be66f-8d4a-487c-a0a6-d32c122ec889/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you're dealing with relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help.
Hi there, I'm Lynn. Do you feel overwhelmed? It could be constant worry or feelings of hopelessness. Are you struggling to feel connected in relationships? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help good people like you get their life back. This is a partnership, together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a client-centered approach, recognizing you are the expert on yourself. I also integrate mind-body approaches to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. If you are dealing with past trauma, I have years of experience working with survivors.
Whether you're dealing with relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help.
Hi there, I'm Lynn. Do you feel overwhelmed? It could be constant worry or feelings of hopelessness. Are you struggling to feel connected in relationships? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help good people like you get their life back. This is a partnership, together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a client-centered approach, recognizing you are the expert on yourself. I also integrate mind-body approaches to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. If you are dealing with past trauma, I have years of experience working with survivors.
![Photo of Tara White, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4686f217-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We specialize in treating individuals and their families with Traumatic Brain Injury, Stroke, Concussion, Headache, ADHD, Chronic Pain, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and numerous other medical and emotional conditions.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches with the belief that everyone's uniqueness requires an individualized approach to address his or her specific goals. In providing therapy, my goal is to establish a safe, therapeutic relationship with each client. This relationship will foster each client's ability to find their own resiliency to make the desired changes to enhance their life. I recognize change may be uncomfortable, however it is always possible.
We specialize in treating individuals and their families with Traumatic Brain Injury, Stroke, Concussion, Headache, ADHD, Chronic Pain, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and numerous other medical and emotional conditions.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches with the belief that everyone's uniqueness requires an individualized approach to address his or her specific goals. In providing therapy, my goal is to establish a safe, therapeutic relationship with each client. This relationship will foster each client's ability to find their own resiliency to make the desired changes to enhance their life. I recognize change may be uncomfortable, however it is always possible.
![Photo of Daniel E Sommer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/440e6613-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Being human is challenging. Who someone believes they 'should' be is often different than who the feeling parts of them 'want' to be. Conflict between thoughts and emotions can manifest as any number of mental health conditions including chronic anxiety, prolonged grief, post-traumatic stress, and depressed mood. As a psychotherapist, I help people to better understand and cultivate a relationship with the emotional parts of their mind. Our work together will focus less on 'fixing' or 'blocking' distressing emotions and more on learning how to integrate these important aspects of your mind into a more healthy and authentic you.
Being human is challenging. Who someone believes they 'should' be is often different than who the feeling parts of them 'want' to be. Conflict between thoughts and emotions can manifest as any number of mental health conditions including chronic anxiety, prolonged grief, post-traumatic stress, and depressed mood. As a psychotherapist, I help people to better understand and cultivate a relationship with the emotional parts of their mind. Our work together will focus less on 'fixing' or 'blocking' distressing emotions and more on learning how to integrate these important aspects of your mind into a more healthy and authentic you.
![Photo of Corina McCulloh, BSEd, MS, NCC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48bfed57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"If you are struggling with life adjustments, relationships, work life balance, stress, anxiety, depression and just do not feel your life is where it should be, I want to help you. I believe that every individual has the potential to heal and become stronger and more confident. Let me walk with you on that path to success and self care toward a stronger and healthier you." Corina McCulloh B.S.Ed, MS. NCC, LCPC, is a clinical professional counselor (LCPC) and a licensed educator (PEL) in the state of Illinois. Corina has therapeutic experience with children, adolescents, and adults.
"If you are struggling with life adjustments, relationships, work life balance, stress, anxiety, depression and just do not feel your life is where it should be, I want to help you. I believe that every individual has the potential to heal and become stronger and more confident. Let me walk with you on that path to success and self care toward a stronger and healthier you." Corina McCulloh B.S.Ed, MS. NCC, LCPC, is a clinical professional counselor (LCPC) and a licensed educator (PEL) in the state of Illinois. Corina has therapeutic experience with children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of Andrea K Olson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/440090c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea K Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loves Park, IL 61111
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a broad range of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults. I am committed to assisting individuals, couples, and families in their unique life circumstances. I believe that I can best help others by being a warm, welcoming and sincere person. I treat issues such as depression, anxiety, abuse and trauma. I also work with children and adolescents who are having behavior problems in school. I tend to have an eclectic approach, often using cognitive behavioral and solution focused counseling techniques.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a broad range of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults. I am committed to assisting individuals, couples, and families in their unique life circumstances. I believe that I can best help others by being a warm, welcoming and sincere person. I treat issues such as depression, anxiety, abuse and trauma. I also work with children and adolescents who are having behavior problems in school. I tend to have an eclectic approach, often using cognitive behavioral and solution focused counseling techniques.
![Photo of Nicole Ileen Didier, MSW, LSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8dadc4b0-2a73-47f9-b9d0-8ee88a14b655/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Ileen Didier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Loves Park, IL 61111
I have passion and experience working alongside youth, adults, and couples in navigating their overall mental health! Whether it's helping clients with depression decipher where their lack or misplaced motivation is coming from, finding ways to calm any level of anxiety (i.e. daily lingering anxiety to extreme levels where it feels crippling) that impacts a person on a daily life, understanding the levels of bi-polar and how to work with them, navigating familial issues such as divorce (teenage or adult children and parents), among other concerns!
I have passion and experience working alongside youth, adults, and couples in navigating their overall mental health! Whether it's helping clients with depression decipher where their lack or misplaced motivation is coming from, finding ways to calm any level of anxiety (i.e. daily lingering anxiety to extreme levels where it feels crippling) that impacts a person on a daily life, understanding the levels of bi-polar and how to work with them, navigating familial issues such as divorce (teenage or adult children and parents), among other concerns!
![Photo of Nicholas Duka, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79bb9dc7-cb1e-41b9-8e2b-a9a3bd572ac3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy helping and supporting those who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and obsessive-compulsive-related disorders.
Through my own struggles, I became passionate about helping others. This is where I discovered my love for mental health- on my own journey toward emotional and mental health. I am eager to help anyone who is willing and ready to receive help. I am here to create a compassionate, understanding, safe space that will help you achieve all the goals we set together in therapy. You do not have to face this struggle alone, and I am here to guide you through the challenges to help you achieve your best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life.
I enjoy helping and supporting those who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and obsessive-compulsive-related disorders.
Through my own struggles, I became passionate about helping others. This is where I discovered my love for mental health- on my own journey toward emotional and mental health. I am eager to help anyone who is willing and ready to receive help. I am here to create a compassionate, understanding, safe space that will help you achieve all the goals we set together in therapy. You do not have to face this struggle alone, and I am here to guide you through the challenges to help you achieve your best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life.
![Photo of Cyndi Brush, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1d27822-88e0-4f65-b42d-71ef3f2f6c9e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in Anxiety Disorder, Depression Disorder, Trauma, Grief & Interpersonal relationship.
Are you feeling sad, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you experiencing relationship problems or feeling lonely? Asking for help is a courageous thing to do. As a licensed clinical social worker, I offer a thoughtful, compassionate, and collaborative approach to dealing with life's difficulties. Together we can find solutions that will make you feel better as soon as possible. I can help you develop new coping strategies and a deeper understanding of your needs. I am committed to helping you use your strengths to grow personally and in your relationships with others.
I specialize in Anxiety Disorder, Depression Disorder, Trauma, Grief & Interpersonal relationship.
Are you feeling sad, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you experiencing relationship problems or feeling lonely? Asking for help is a courageous thing to do. As a licensed clinical social worker, I offer a thoughtful, compassionate, and collaborative approach to dealing with life's difficulties. Together we can find solutions that will make you feel better as soon as possible. I can help you develop new coping strategies and a deeper understanding of your needs. I am committed to helping you use your strengths to grow personally and in your relationships with others.
![Photo of Braden Norton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7498002-76a1-4636-aea5-17f2de59ccc5/3/320x400.png)
I primarily work with adults and older teenagers, however have enjoyed working clients of all ages. I have worked with countless clients who were struggling with anxiety, depression, grief / loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, phase of life problems, marital conflict, work issues, anger, and self-esteem to name a few. I find the therapeutic relationship most beneficial when clients are willing to engage during session and implement therapeutic skills and strategies into their daily lives.
I primarily work with adults and older teenagers, however have enjoyed working clients of all ages. I have worked with countless clients who were struggling with anxiety, depression, grief / loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, phase of life problems, marital conflict, work issues, anger, and self-esteem to name a few. I find the therapeutic relationship most beneficial when clients are willing to engage during session and implement therapeutic skills and strategies into their daily lives.
![Photo of Selma Cehic, MA, LCPC, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c55cacc-ede2-4be3-8388-c6194920de30/9/320x400.jpeg)
Selma Cehic
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loves Park, IL 61111 (Online Only)
I can support you with trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, relationships issues, adjustment challenges, attachment difficulties, and life transitions.
Each of us carry untold stories, experiences, and challenges that have impacted us in different ways and have molded us into the people we are today. As a therapist, I focus on meeting each client where they are at to collaboratively navigate through life’s complexities, process those stories, and work towards healthier choices, relationships, and more authentic living.
I can support you with trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, relationships issues, adjustment challenges, attachment difficulties, and life transitions.
Each of us carry untold stories, experiences, and challenges that have impacted us in different ways and have molded us into the people we are today. As a therapist, I focus on meeting each client where they are at to collaboratively navigate through life’s complexities, process those stories, and work towards healthier choices, relationships, and more authentic living.
15 Second Videos
Nicole Ileen Didier
Nicholas Duka
Transformations Counseling PLLC
Madeleine Stucky
Carli Recker
Cydney Oakes
![Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, PsyD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/befc0fb1-cd06-4df9-a99e-6a86948d02a4/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
![Photo of Paul D Fairbanks, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/482d1194-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paul D Fairbanks
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loves Park, IL 61111 (Online Only)
Life presents many challenges for all of us and at times we need assistance to move ahead. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and I am committed to providing the best treatment possible to help you succeed. Whether you are experiencing marital, family, couple, or personal challenges, together we will work to provide meaningful solutions to your unique situation. My areas of experience include Marriage and Couples Counseling, Blended Family Therapy, Individual, Adolescents, ADHD, Anxiety and Depression.
Life presents many challenges for all of us and at times we need assistance to move ahead. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and I am committed to providing the best treatment possible to help you succeed. Whether you are experiencing marital, family, couple, or personal challenges, together we will work to provide meaningful solutions to your unique situation. My areas of experience include Marriage and Couples Counseling, Blended Family Therapy, Individual, Adolescents, ADHD, Anxiety and Depression.
![Photo of Trisha Anderson, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/295a89e4-fb3e-4288-8754-0d35531d089a/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Licensed Social Worker, I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, and/or relationships.
“Sometimes, the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life,” Naeem Callaway. It can be intimidating to start on a journey unaware of what the outcome might be. Yet within those moments, you have the power to shape your own experiences. When you struggle to find that power, or you feel like experiences are no longer enjoyable, I will be ready to listen. I want to hear your story. I want to meet you where you are at. I will help support and guide you on your journey of navigating, managing, and understanding your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
As a Licensed Social Worker, I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, and/or relationships.
“Sometimes, the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life,” Naeem Callaway. It can be intimidating to start on a journey unaware of what the outcome might be. Yet within those moments, you have the power to shape your own experiences. When you struggle to find that power, or you feel like experiences are no longer enjoyable, I will be ready to listen. I want to hear your story. I want to meet you where you are at. I will help support and guide you on your journey of navigating, managing, and understanding your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
![Photo of Scott Zimber, MS, LCPC, DBTC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f4ae812-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Zimber
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Loves Park, IL 61111
I am experienced in treating those struggling with emotional instability, self-harm, low self-esteem, self-judgment, relationship discord, anxiety, depression, personal trauma and loss, grief, and career transition. I have been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and am certified thru the DBTNCAA. I focus on using evidence-based therapies without judgment to assist people to effectively manage life's challenges and transitions.
I am experienced in treating those struggling with emotional instability, self-harm, low self-esteem, self-judgment, relationship discord, anxiety, depression, personal trauma and loss, grief, and career transition. I have been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and am certified thru the DBTNCAA. I focus on using evidence-based therapies without judgment to assist people to effectively manage life's challenges and transitions.
![Photo of Shari Ramsey, MS, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25b6ac6d-49f1-449b-a26b-cbd110e0cb20/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Illinois and Wisconsin Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has extensive experience working with individuals, groups, couples, and families. I have worked with several different client populations including couples with marriage difficulties, adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and other life adjustment issues, physically and sexually abused adolescents and adults, adolescents with mental health issues related to school, home, adjustment, or mental illness, and even adolescents and adults on the verge of suicide.
I am an Illinois and Wisconsin Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has extensive experience working with individuals, groups, couples, and families. I have worked with several different client populations including couples with marriage difficulties, adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and other life adjustment issues, physically and sexually abused adolescents and adults, adolescents with mental health issues related to school, home, adjustment, or mental illness, and even adolescents and adults on the verge of suicide.
![Photo of Dr. Lisa A. Breisch - Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy, MA, LCPC, PsyD, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f3a111a-f4da-4b20-a41d-7ebb12623695/4/320x400.jpeg)
Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Loves Park, IL 61111
Lisa Breisch specializes in the following: Depression/Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Child/Adolescent Behavioral Problems, ADHD, Brief Psychological Testing, Couples & Family Therapy, Eating Disorders & Weight Problems, Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Addictions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic Pain, Stress Management, Hypnotherapy, Spirituality Concerns, and Holistic Healthcare.
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
Lisa Breisch specializes in the following: Depression/Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Child/Adolescent Behavioral Problems, ADHD, Brief Psychological Testing, Couples & Family Therapy, Eating Disorders & Weight Problems, Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Addictions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic Pain, Stress Management, Hypnotherapy, Spirituality Concerns, and Holistic Healthcare.
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
![Photo of Sean Sullivan, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9afaf18c-5431-47f8-a963-df1c5c8bf175/2/320x400.jpeg)
When it seems like nobody cares; I want you to know that I do! I want to help you not only work through your anxiety, depression, or whatever problems you might be faced with but also empower you to make a change for a better & happier life. As I listen to your concerns we will work together to develop a plan to help you reach your goals.
When it seems like nobody cares; I want you to know that I do! I want to help you not only work through your anxiety, depression, or whatever problems you might be faced with but also empower you to make a change for a better & happier life. As I listen to your concerns we will work together to develop a plan to help you reach your goals.
![Photo of Stephanie Hounnou, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acf2ddef-054d-4d88-8022-ee3a4db46ab2/1/320x400.jpeg)
my specialties lies in Anxiety, depression, grief and trauma.
Looking for professional guidance with changes or stressors in life? Reach out today! My name is Stephanie, and I am a licensed therapist here to walk alongside and help you navigate through your life struggles. My experience lies in working with individuals through relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, and stressful life transitions. Together, we can work towards your desired goals. Feel free to reach out today. I have a few open slots right now (June/July 2024), so I can get you in for a session soon.
my specialties lies in Anxiety, depression, grief and trauma.
Looking for professional guidance with changes or stressors in life? Reach out today! My name is Stephanie, and I am a licensed therapist here to walk alongside and help you navigate through your life struggles. My experience lies in working with individuals through relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, and stressful life transitions. Together, we can work towards your desired goals. Feel free to reach out today. I have a few open slots right now (June/July 2024), so I can get you in for a session soon.
![Photo of Sarah Basler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a57d8271-eec2-4fa3-bd44-e5e679948857/1/320x400.png)
My name is Sarah Basler, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW. Therapy is a big step. I am happy you are looking for a therapist for yourself or a loved one. I have over 20 years of experience providing counseling to adolescents and adults. I have experience treating substance use, anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. My goal is to help you on your path to healing. I like to meet you where you are and help you be the best version of yourself. Transitions and life can be hard. I am here to guide you through life's challenges.
My name is Sarah Basler, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW. Therapy is a big step. I am happy you are looking for a therapist for yourself or a loved one. I have over 20 years of experience providing counseling to adolescents and adults. I have experience treating substance use, anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. My goal is to help you on your path to healing. I like to meet you where you are and help you be the best version of yourself. Transitions and life can be hard. I am here to guide you through life's challenges.
See more therapy options for Loves Park
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for Loves Park
- Belvidere
- Byron
- Cherry Valley
- Genoa
- Harvard
- Machesney Park
- Marengo
- Rockford
- Rockton
- Roscoe
- South Beloit
- Winnebago
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.