Depression Therapists in Montgomery, IL

Photo of Samantha Wagner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
I'm Sam (she/her). I am a licensed clinical social worker in the Chicago-land area with 7 years of experience. I have provided individual, family, and group counseling as well as having extensive experience with crisis intervention. Throughout my career I have worked with clients during all stages of the lifespan. I am especially passionate about working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma and life transitions. I tend to gravitate towards interventions that integrate mind and body, but I fundamentally believe that each client requires an individualized approach.
I'm Sam (she/her). I am a licensed clinical social worker in the Chicago-land area with 7 years of experience. I have provided individual, family, and group counseling as well as having extensive experience with crisis intervention. Throughout my career I have worked with clients during all stages of the lifespan. I am especially passionate about working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma and life transitions. I tend to gravitate towards interventions that integrate mind and body, but I fundamentally believe that each client requires an individualized approach.
(847) 565-1798 View (847) 565-1798
Photo of Keren Cardenas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Keren Cardenas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538  (Online Only)
Keren Cardenas has experience in providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families who are struggling to overcome barriers in life. She provides therapeutic cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and strategies to promote the psychological health and wholeness of the clients. Over the years, she has helped individuals achieve their goals by instilling hope. She values collaboration and communication when fostering a therapeutic relationship and believes each client requires personalized treatment. Keren specializes in treating clients with depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, ADHD, and traumas.
Keren Cardenas has experience in providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families who are struggling to overcome barriers in life. She provides therapeutic cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and strategies to promote the psychological health and wholeness of the clients. Over the years, she has helped individuals achieve their goals by instilling hope. She values collaboration and communication when fostering a therapeutic relationship and believes each client requires personalized treatment. Keren specializes in treating clients with depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, ADHD, and traumas.
(872) 278-1753 View (872) 278-1753
Photo of Cloie Mcphail, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cloie Mcphail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
For the past 7 years I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and couples struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, self-harm, trauma, ADHD, oppositional defiance, domestic violence, grief, crisis, LGBTQIA specific issues, and other social and emotional challenges.
I have a specialty in working with members of the LGBTQIA community. I consider and provide care that is specific to the needs of these individuals. I am able to provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy to these clients. I assist in linking clients to medical professionals, if necessary, for living an authentic life and affirming their gender identity. I have knowledge specific to issues of this population including sexual orientation and gender exploration, gender transition, gender dysphoria, relationship and sexual issues, and family/social issues.
For the past 7 years I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and couples struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, self-harm, trauma, ADHD, oppositional defiance, domestic violence, grief, crisis, LGBTQIA specific issues, and other social and emotional challenges.
I have a specialty in working with members of the LGBTQIA community. I consider and provide care that is specific to the needs of these individuals. I am able to provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy to these clients. I assist in linking clients to medical professionals, if necessary, for living an authentic life and affirming their gender identity. I have knowledge specific to issues of this population including sexual orientation and gender exploration, gender transition, gender dysphoria, relationship and sexual issues, and family/social issues.
(331) 215-8415 View (331) 215-8415
Photo of Sandra Dunn, LCPC, Counselor
Sandra Dunn
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
As a counselor, I believe we all strive to live happy, healthy, successful, and independent lives, but sometimes find the stresses of our every day responsibilities to be overwhelming. This is where counseling can make a difference. Counseling has long been a proven tool in the successful management of stress. My office is a safe space to explore any number of private topics you may want to discuss such as wellness, depression, anxiety, trauma, or other areas of concern. We will meet to discuss these important issues and work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.
As a counselor, I believe we all strive to live happy, healthy, successful, and independent lives, but sometimes find the stresses of our every day responsibilities to be overwhelming. This is where counseling can make a difference. Counseling has long been a proven tool in the successful management of stress. My office is a safe space to explore any number of private topics you may want to discuss such as wellness, depression, anxiety, trauma, or other areas of concern. We will meet to discuss these important issues and work collaboratively to help you reach your goals.
(630) 626-8605 View (630) 626-8605
Photo of Deborah Brozewski, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Brozewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Deb Brozewski, LCPC, CADC, is collaborative and non-judgmental, knowing the decision to enter therapy can be difficult. Deb assists clients in assessing and developing strengths to empower positive and healthy decisions. Deb received both a BA and an MA from Northern Illinois University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Deb also has a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is attune to the obstacles that individuals of this community may face.
Deb Brozewski, LCPC, CADC, is collaborative and non-judgmental, knowing the decision to enter therapy can be difficult. Deb assists clients in assessing and developing strengths to empower positive and healthy decisions. Deb received both a BA and an MA from Northern Illinois University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Deb also has a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is attune to the obstacles that individuals of this community may face.
(630) 349-7168 View (630) 349-7168
Photo of Laura Kenward, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Kenward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
She treats anxiety, depression, trauma and stress, ADHD, personality disorders, negative body image and low self-esteem, anger management, boundary issues, relationship dysfunction, and more.
Laura Sauer-Kenward is a Licensed Social Worker with a special interest in identity formation, breaking shame cycles, and mending communication barriers. Her approach is to listen first to allow her clients space to share their story and struggles without judgment. She aims to assist her clients to recognize their own potential, build their inner and outer resources, and embrace their individuality. She values creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. Laura sees individuals aged 11 and up as well as families and couples.
She treats anxiety, depression, trauma and stress, ADHD, personality disorders, negative body image and low self-esteem, anger management, boundary issues, relationship dysfunction, and more.
Laura Sauer-Kenward is a Licensed Social Worker with a special interest in identity formation, breaking shame cycles, and mending communication barriers. Her approach is to listen first to allow her clients space to share their story and struggles without judgment. She aims to assist her clients to recognize their own potential, build their inner and outer resources, and embrace their individuality. She values creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. Laura sees individuals aged 11 and up as well as families and couples.
(630) 592-2778 View (630) 592-2778
Photo of Sandra Rincon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Rincon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Sandra Rincon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from the University of St. Francis with a Bachelor's of Social Work and from Aurora University with a Master's of Social Work. Sandra has experience with working in communitybased mental health alongside first responders as a police social worker with a background in suicide prevention, grief, and crisis stabilization. She has competency in working with individuals that have experienced symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and needing crisis stabilization.
Sandra Rincon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from the University of St. Francis with a Bachelor's of Social Work and from Aurora University with a Master's of Social Work. Sandra has experience with working in communitybased mental health alongside first responders as a police social worker with a background in suicide prevention, grief, and crisis stabilization. She has competency in working with individuals that have experienced symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and needing crisis stabilization.
(630) 349-4487 View (630) 349-4487
Photo of Ryan Muir, LCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryan Muir
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
His expertise extends to helping people deal with issues such as low self-esteem, confidence issues, depression, anxiety, addictions, grief and loss, trauma, acceptance, coping with physical disabilities and navigating life's transitions and changes.
Ryan Muir is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has an MS in Clinical Mental Health/Addiction from National Louis University and a BA in Accounting from North Central College. As a person with a disability, Ryan leads his life with the mindset of "differently abled" rather than "disabled. " This mindset carries over into his therapeutic approach. Finding a balance between out-of-the-box thinking and openness for growth and change can become incredibly healing.
His expertise extends to helping people deal with issues such as low self-esteem, confidence issues, depression, anxiety, addictions, grief and loss, trauma, acceptance, coping with physical disabilities and navigating life's transitions and changes.
Ryan Muir is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has an MS in Clinical Mental Health/Addiction from National Louis University and a BA in Accounting from North Central College. As a person with a disability, Ryan leads his life with the mindset of "differently abled" rather than "disabled. " This mindset carries over into his therapeutic approach. Finding a balance between out-of-the-box thinking and openness for growth and change can become incredibly healing.
(331) 207-9109 View (331) 207-9109
Photo of Christine Caputo, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Christine Caputo
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
(815) 709-0306 View (815) 709-0306
Photo of Jaclyn Harwey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Harwey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(630) 523-9348 View (630) 523-9348
Photo of Kyle Fiore, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Fiore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Kyle Fiore is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Kyle takes a no-nonsense approach to helping his clients. He is empathetic and soothing. Kyle tries to bring humor and his genuine self into sessions. His clinical interests include helping others struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, emerging adulthood, and gaming culture. Kyle is confident that, together, he can help you heal and help you move forward in life differently. His therapeutic style is firmly rooted in a client-centered approach.
Kyle Fiore is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Kyle takes a no-nonsense approach to helping his clients. He is empathetic and soothing. Kyle tries to bring humor and his genuine self into sessions. His clinical interests include helping others struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, emerging adulthood, and gaming culture. Kyle is confident that, together, he can help you heal and help you move forward in life differently. His therapeutic style is firmly rooted in a client-centered approach.
(331) 235-9007 View (331) 235-9007
Photo of Fio Millon, MA, LCPC
Fio Millon
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538
Whether you are dealing with issues of anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, self-esteem, or other of life’s hurdles, I would consider it a privilege to assist you in getting over them.
It feels hopeless. It is intimidating. It may even feel insurmountable. It is the pain of life, and it is real. But, what if I told you it is not hopeless? That you hold the key to making things better. Seeking help can feel equally daunting, but it is the first step of breaking through the negative cloud of despair. I meet my clients where they are in their life’s journey and I consider myself a “fellow traveler.” I join them it that journey to help them gain insight, to provide perspective, and to collaborate and determine the best course of treatment to regain the direction of their destination.
Whether you are dealing with issues of anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, self-esteem, or other of life’s hurdles, I would consider it a privilege to assist you in getting over them.
It feels hopeless. It is intimidating. It may even feel insurmountable. It is the pain of life, and it is real. But, what if I told you it is not hopeless? That you hold the key to making things better. Seeking help can feel equally daunting, but it is the first step of breaking through the negative cloud of despair. I meet my clients where they are in their life’s journey and I consider myself a “fellow traveler.” I join them it that journey to help them gain insight, to provide perspective, and to collaborate and determine the best course of treatment to regain the direction of their destination.
(630) 474-6828 View (630) 474-6828
Photo of Touwanna Edwards, PsyD, CADC, Psychologist
Touwanna Edwards
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Certified Addictions Counselor, Dr. Touwanna Edwards specializes in family-based interventions for adults, couples therapy, issues of diversity, and addictions. Her practice includes treating anxiety, depression, grief, personality disorders, codependency traits, self-esteem, transitional stages in life, addiction maintenance, and recovery. Additionally, she is an alumna of the Chicago area Christian Training Consortium where she received specialized clinical training in the integration of faith-based practice and psychology.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and a Certified Addictions Counselor, Dr. Touwanna Edwards specializes in family-based interventions for adults, couples therapy, issues of diversity, and addictions. Her practice includes treating anxiety, depression, grief, personality disorders, codependency traits, self-esteem, transitional stages in life, addiction maintenance, and recovery. Additionally, she is an alumna of the Chicago area Christian Training Consortium where she received specialized clinical training in the integration of faith-based practice and psychology.
(331) 246-1418 View (331) 246-1418
Photo of Jeannine Pacetti, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeannine Pacetti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Jeannine Pacetti, LPC, RD, LDN Strives to help clients achieve healthy relationships and life balance. She serves clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and more. Jeannine is a licensed professional counselor, registered dietitian, and has over 25 years experience in education & clinical settings. She's a well respected therapist and advocate and was named School Counselor of the Year in her academic role and has developed a nationally recognized school counseling program. In therapy, Jeannine uses CBT, Healthy Mindset & Lifestyle, and Holistic Wellness to achieve client goals.
Jeannine Pacetti, LPC, RD, LDN Strives to help clients achieve healthy relationships and life balance. She serves clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and more. Jeannine is a licensed professional counselor, registered dietitian, and has over 25 years experience in education & clinical settings. She's a well respected therapist and advocate and was named School Counselor of the Year in her academic role and has developed a nationally recognized school counseling program. In therapy, Jeannine uses CBT, Healthy Mindset & Lifestyle, and Holistic Wellness to achieve client goals.
(331) 253-4886 View (331) 253-4886
Photo of Meghan Peters, LSW, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Meghan Peters
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538
I am particularly interested in supporting individuals, facing challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal conflict.
I passionately believe in the transformative power of embracing one's inner shine and strength. With warmth and empathy, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through a strengths-based approach, I help individuals recognize their unique talents, resilience, and capacity for growth. My therapeutic style is grounded in authenticity and compassion, creating a calm space for clients to explore challenges, recognize their inherent strengths, and move toward solutions. I work to help clients embrace their authenticity, shine brightly in their lives, and harness their inner strength to overcome obstacles.
I am particularly interested in supporting individuals, facing challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal conflict.
I passionately believe in the transformative power of embracing one's inner shine and strength. With warmth and empathy, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through a strengths-based approach, I help individuals recognize their unique talents, resilience, and capacity for growth. My therapeutic style is grounded in authenticity and compassion, creating a calm space for clients to explore challenges, recognize their inherent strengths, and move toward solutions. I work to help clients embrace their authenticity, shine brightly in their lives, and harness their inner strength to overcome obstacles.
(815) 745-5982 View (815) 745-5982
Photo of Heather A Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather A Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538
I flourish working with diverse clients, from children (age 5+) to adults, couples, and families. My passion is helping individuals and couples overcome challenges like anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. Using evidence-based methods tailored to each client's needs, I empower them to identify goals and achieve greater life satisfaction. My solution-focused approach equips them with the tools and strategies they need to navigate life's challenges with confidence and build a more fulfilling future, fostering stronger relationships and a greater sense of purpose.
I flourish working with diverse clients, from children (age 5+) to adults, couples, and families. My passion is helping individuals and couples overcome challenges like anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. Using evidence-based methods tailored to each client's needs, I empower them to identify goals and achieve greater life satisfaction. My solution-focused approach equips them with the tools and strategies they need to navigate life's challenges with confidence and build a more fulfilling future, fostering stronger relationships and a greater sense of purpose.
(630) 313-2696 View (630) 313-2696
Photo of Michelle Hatchett, LCPC, Counselor
Michelle Hatchett
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538  (Online Only)
Michelle Barraco is a Master’s level psychotherapist, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). She has 13 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents and adults challenged with a variety of mental health and life concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, stress, substance use, addiction, and relationship conflicts.
Michelle Barraco is a Master’s level psychotherapist, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). She has 13 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents and adults challenged with a variety of mental health and life concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, stress, substance use, addiction, and relationship conflicts.
(630) 517-0967 View (630) 517-0967
Photo of Kristina Thomas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm really glad you are here. It shows you are ready to take a step forward in your healing journey. I believe no two clients are alike therefore each session with me will be a unique experience. During our time together, you are in control and I’m merely a guide assisting you on your journey. I am there to light the way by not only providing support and validation but also to share the tools I’ve picked up along the way.
Hello! I'm really glad you are here. It shows you are ready to take a step forward in your healing journey. I believe no two clients are alike therefore each session with me will be a unique experience. During our time together, you are in control and I’m merely a guide assisting you on your journey. I am there to light the way by not only providing support and validation but also to share the tools I’ve picked up along the way.
(331) 258-8652 View (331) 258-8652
Photo of Dean Rashkow, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dean Rashkow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Dean Rashkow is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2018. He received a BA in Criminal Justice and a Master of Social Work degree from Aurora University. Dean has counseling experience with couples, families, and individuals from 12 to 84. He also has experience treating people with mental health and developmental diagnosis. Dean has the ability to work in chaotic environments, lower the chaos, and help people hear each other.
Dean Rashkow is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2018. He received a BA in Criminal Justice and a Master of Social Work degree from Aurora University. Dean has counseling experience with couples, families, and individuals from 12 to 84. He also has experience treating people with mental health and developmental diagnosis. Dean has the ability to work in chaotic environments, lower the chaos, and help people hear each other.
(630) 528-2049 View (630) 528-2049
Photo of Joy Lockett, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joy Lockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, IL 60538
Joy uses her compassion and down-to-earth nature to provide an environment where clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. She understands that seeking change, or something different, is not an easy process. Joy forms collaborative partnerships with her clients when developing therapeutic goals and a plan for care. She uses mindfulness, empathy and insight to aid in the empowerment of clients. In addition, Joy also utilizes a varity of therapy techniques.
Joy uses her compassion and down-to-earth nature to provide an environment where clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. She understands that seeking change, or something different, is not an easy process. Joy forms collaborative partnerships with her clients when developing therapeutic goals and a plan for care. She uses mindfulness, empathy and insight to aid in the empowerment of clients. In addition, Joy also utilizes a varity of therapy techniques.
(630) 827-8430 View (630) 827-8430
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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.