Depression Therapists in Naperville, IL

Photo of Maurice McClain, LCPC, CADC, CDBT, CCBT, Counselor
Maurice McClain
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CDBT, CCBT
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I strongly encourage clients to address urgent symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and drug/alcohol dependence, I offer psychoeducation and methods for altering oppressive behavioral and thinking patterns. I have spent my career supporting Adolescent boys and Adult Men who struggle with anger management and poor impulse control.
I strongly encourage clients to address urgent symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and drug/alcohol dependence, I offer psychoeducation and methods for altering oppressive behavioral and thinking patterns. I have spent my career supporting Adolescent boys and Adult Men who struggle with anger management and poor impulse control.
(331) 481-7467 View (331) 481-7467
Photo of Dr. Theresa A Bussert, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Theresa A Bussert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
We all need some help during different seasons of our lives. I have worked in a variety of setting helping client overcome obstacles and move beyond emotional struggles. I utilizes various approaches with my clients in developing practical strategies unique to the individual's own strengths. I specializes in eating disorders, body dissatisfaction, anxiety, depression, families with special needs, grief/loss and related difficulties.
We all need some help during different seasons of our lives. I have worked in a variety of setting helping client overcome obstacles and move beyond emotional struggles. I utilizes various approaches with my clients in developing practical strategies unique to the individual's own strengths. I specializes in eating disorders, body dissatisfaction, anxiety, depression, families with special needs, grief/loss and related difficulties.
(630) 560-4742 View (630) 560-4742
Photo of Jim Shalley - AFC Counselors, PsyD, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
AFC Counselors
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
We offer many different areas of specialty, including depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, co-dependence, addictions, self harm, marriage/relationship issues, abuse, eating disorders, chronic pain, women's issues, men's issues, and issues of faith and spirituality.
AFC Counselors are passionate about providing an environment of safety and integrity for you (children, adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, and families) to find and sustain your path to emotional health and well-being. We understand that seeking help isn't always easy, so we make every effort to make you feel welcome as you take this important step for yourself or your loved one.
We offer many different areas of specialty, including depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, co-dependence, addictions, self harm, marriage/relationship issues, abuse, eating disorders, chronic pain, women's issues, men's issues, and issues of faith and spirituality.
AFC Counselors are passionate about providing an environment of safety and integrity for you (children, adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, and families) to find and sustain your path to emotional health and well-being. We understand that seeking help isn't always easy, so we make every effort to make you feel welcome as you take this important step for yourself or your loved one.
(630) 733-1495 View (630) 733-1495
Photo of Karen Bailey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, complex trauma and adjustment issues (graduation, relational problems, etc.
TELEHEALTH SESSIONS now available! As a nation, we are being inundated with conflicting information, and you may find yourself feeling stressed, lonely and even overwhelmed during this time of uncertainty. Some of you may be thinking, "And I thought I was anxious before COVID-19!" You may be looking for help in better navigating your reactions, anxiety and depression, especially now as your emotional responses may feel especially strong. I specialize in both providing the "whys" behind these emotional reactions and the "hows" to promote lasting change.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, complex trauma and adjustment issues (graduation, relational problems, etc.
TELEHEALTH SESSIONS now available! As a nation, we are being inundated with conflicting information, and you may find yourself feeling stressed, lonely and even overwhelmed during this time of uncertainty. Some of you may be thinking, "And I thought I was anxious before COVID-19!" You may be looking for help in better navigating your reactions, anxiety and depression, especially now as your emotional responses may feel especially strong. I specialize in both providing the "whys" behind these emotional reactions and the "hows" to promote lasting change.
(630) 733-1861 View (630) 733-1861
Photo of Dr. Ashley Houchin, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Ashley Houchin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60565  (Online Only)
I obtained extensive experience evaluating and treating individuals with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety and Depression.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training and experience in development across the lifespan. I enjoy working with individuals on a wide range of issues, but specialize in ADHD diagnosis and treatment. We will work together to support your growth and healing.
I obtained extensive experience evaluating and treating individuals with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety and Depression.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with specialized training and experience in development across the lifespan. I enjoy working with individuals on a wide range of issues, but specialize in ADHD diagnosis and treatment. We will work together to support your growth and healing.
(630) 354-0225 View (630) 354-0225
Theresa M McCrillis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Are you looking for someone to come alongside you to navigate life's struggles? In the safe and confidential space of therapy we can work through issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma including sexual abuse, faith questions, relationship issues, parenting and communication skills, abandonment, grief & loss, life purpose and transitions, self-esteem, self-image issues and women's issues. When you enter into therapy, we will collaborate together on your healing journey to break through barriers to a more satisfying life.
Are you looking for someone to come alongside you to navigate life's struggles? In the safe and confidential space of therapy we can work through issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma including sexual abuse, faith questions, relationship issues, parenting and communication skills, abandonment, grief & loss, life purpose and transitions, self-esteem, self-image issues and women's issues. When you enter into therapy, we will collaborate together on your healing journey to break through barriers to a more satisfying life.
(331) 313-5174 View (331) 313-5174
Photo of Katie Chisholm, PsyD, Psychologist
Katie Chisholm
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
I am especially interested in working with adolescents and young adults who are experiencing difficulties related to issues such as life transitions, substance use, anxiety and/or depression, ADHD, academic concerns and relationship issues.
I strongly believe each of us has the ability to heal and grow, thereby creating a life in which we experience an inner sense of wellbeing, while being fulfilled and engaged in all that we do. As a therapist, I provide individuals with the nonjudgemental and respectful space one needs to discover and better understand the totality of who they are. Within the therapeutic relationship, I support and empower clients to discover their potential and to find ways to create healthy and positive life changes. My approach is relational and insight-oriented, while also focusing on practical tools to meet life's challenges.
I am especially interested in working with adolescents and young adults who are experiencing difficulties related to issues such as life transitions, substance use, anxiety and/or depression, ADHD, academic concerns and relationship issues.
I strongly believe each of us has the ability to heal and grow, thereby creating a life in which we experience an inner sense of wellbeing, while being fulfilled and engaged in all that we do. As a therapist, I provide individuals with the nonjudgemental and respectful space one needs to discover and better understand the totality of who they are. Within the therapeutic relationship, I support and empower clients to discover their potential and to find ways to create healthy and positive life changes. My approach is relational and insight-oriented, while also focusing on practical tools to meet life's challenges.
(630) 233-9536 View (630) 233-9536
Photo of Kyle A Weber, PhD, CEDS-S, Psychologist
Kyle A Weber
Psychologist, PhD, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60564
Dr. Weber has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in residential centers, in-patient psychiatric hospitals, and out-patient clinics, including home and school-based settings. In Dr. Weber's training she focuses in the diagnosis and treatment of individuals diagnosed with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders by providing diagnostic evaluations and individual counseling. Dr. Weber values the importance of psychological assessment to aide in treatment and has extensive experience in psychological assessment.
Dr. Weber has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in residential centers, in-patient psychiatric hospitals, and out-patient clinics, including home and school-based settings. In Dr. Weber's training she focuses in the diagnosis and treatment of individuals diagnosed with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders by providing diagnostic evaluations and individual counseling. Dr. Weber values the importance of psychological assessment to aide in treatment and has extensive experience in psychological assessment.
(630) 581-2215 View (630) 581-2215
Photo of Rosemary Hutchinson - The Center For Marital, Sex and Individual Therapy, MA, LCPC, AASECT
The Center For Marital, Sex and Individual Therapy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, AASECT
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Specializing in rapid results (2 to 8 visits on average) for marriage counseling, sex therapy, depression and anxiety for 30 years. Specializing in cases that have failed in previous marital, depression or sex therapy. "Chicago Magazine's" Top 500 physicians referred their own patients for decades. My reputation is built on its commitment and success at offering the most effective and rapid treatments available for marriage counseling, depression and anxiety, erectile dysfunction, loss of sexual desire for males and females, retarded and premature ejaculation, orgasmic difficulties, unconsumated marriage, and anxiety.
Specializing in rapid results (2 to 8 visits on average) for marriage counseling, sex therapy, depression and anxiety for 30 years. Specializing in cases that have failed in previous marital, depression or sex therapy. "Chicago Magazine's" Top 500 physicians referred their own patients for decades. My reputation is built on its commitment and success at offering the most effective and rapid treatments available for marriage counseling, depression and anxiety, erectile dysfunction, loss of sexual desire for males and females, retarded and premature ejaculation, orgasmic difficulties, unconsumated marriage, and anxiety.
(224) 412-5789 View (224) 412-5789
Photo of Sage Acharya - Mindfulness Sage Acharya, Be Counseling LLC, MSEd, LCPC, RDDP, Counselor
Mindfulness Sage Acharya, Be Counseling LLC
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, RDDP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564
I have 16 years of experience working with adults and adolescents with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
As a dedicated therapist specializing in mindfulness practices, I am passionate about helping individuals find inner peace, cultivate self-awareness, and achieve personal growth. Through the transformative power of mindfulness, my clients gain the tools to manage stress, increase self-compassion, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and experience greater joy and fulfillment in their lives. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or simply seeking greater self-awareness, I provide a safe and compassionate space for individuals to explore.
I have 16 years of experience working with adults and adolescents with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
As a dedicated therapist specializing in mindfulness practices, I am passionate about helping individuals find inner peace, cultivate self-awareness, and achieve personal growth. Through the transformative power of mindfulness, my clients gain the tools to manage stress, increase self-compassion, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and experience greater joy and fulfillment in their lives. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or simply seeking greater self-awareness, I provide a safe and compassionate space for individuals to explore.
(630) 672-0963 View (630) 672-0963
Photo of Alise Pedersen, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alise Pedersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Alise Pedersen, LSW, creates a safe, understanding, and welcoming environment where clients can find healing, empowerment, and the support they desire. Alise enjoys working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, crisis intervention, domestic violence, life transitions, relationship issues, and more. She believes in meeting people where they are and empowering clients to achieve their goals. In therapy, Alise uses a variety of techniques such as CBT, solution-focused, mindfulness, stress reduction, and task-centered/problem solving therapy.
Alise Pedersen, LSW, creates a safe, understanding, and welcoming environment where clients can find healing, empowerment, and the support they desire. Alise enjoys working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, crisis intervention, domestic violence, life transitions, relationship issues, and more. She believes in meeting people where they are and empowering clients to achieve their goals. In therapy, Alise uses a variety of techniques such as CBT, solution-focused, mindfulness, stress reduction, and task-centered/problem solving therapy.
(331) 216-1312 View (331) 216-1312
Photo of Cecilia Davis, LCPC, Counselor
Cecilia Davis
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
She feels confident working with a variety of concerns including relationships, depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, suicidal ideation, spiritual, multicultural and women issues.
Cecilia Davis's approach is to develop a partnership based on trust, non-judgement and genuineness with each person. Cecilia believes that natural conversations where validation and encouragement are provided can lead to meaningful and long-lasting growth. She is very personable and enjoys providing psychoeducation, sharing useful skills and, when needed, challenging perspectives. Cecilia enjoys working with teens, adults and a multicultural population and believes it's important that each person takes charge of their treatment and an active role in their own journey.
She feels confident working with a variety of concerns including relationships, depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, suicidal ideation, spiritual, multicultural and women issues.
Cecilia Davis's approach is to develop a partnership based on trust, non-judgement and genuineness with each person. Cecilia believes that natural conversations where validation and encouragement are provided can lead to meaningful and long-lasting growth. She is very personable and enjoys providing psychoeducation, sharing useful skills and, when needed, challenging perspectives. Cecilia enjoys working with teens, adults and a multicultural population and believes it's important that each person takes charge of their treatment and an active role in their own journey.
(331) 258-3478 View (331) 258-3478
Photo of Kristen Jopes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Jopes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Her specialties include working with depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, behavioral problems, substance use and addiction.
Kristen Jopes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. She received her Master's Degree in Social Work from DePaul University and her B.S. in Psychology from Illinois State University. Kristen's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, young adults, and older adults as well as external experience working with children and adolescents through athletic coaching. Her clinical experience consists of working within the community environment as well as a behavioral health hospital.
Her specialties include working with depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, behavioral problems, substance use and addiction.
Kristen Jopes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. She received her Master's Degree in Social Work from DePaul University and her B.S. in Psychology from Illinois State University. Kristen's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, young adults, and older adults as well as external experience working with children and adolescents through athletic coaching. Her clinical experience consists of working within the community environment as well as a behavioral health hospital.
(331) 979-3224 View (331) 979-3224
Photo of Amrit Kaur, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amrit Kaur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I have helped adults learn to manage and lessen anxiety and depression, overcome trauma, engage in healthy relationships, and build self-esteem.
I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship with an empathetic approach. My goal is to provide a safe environment for people to learn about themselves, begin to love who they are, and overcome social, emotional, economical, and vocational struggles while reaching their full potential in life. I believe in assisting clients in developing a toolbox of coping skills to use at their disposal. I work collaboratively to identify your strengths and find positive ways to cope with challenges.
I have helped adults learn to manage and lessen anxiety and depression, overcome trauma, engage in healthy relationships, and build self-esteem.
I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship with an empathetic approach. My goal is to provide a safe environment for people to learn about themselves, begin to love who they are, and overcome social, emotional, economical, and vocational struggles while reaching their full potential in life. I believe in assisting clients in developing a toolbox of coping skills to use at their disposal. I work collaboratively to identify your strengths and find positive ways to cope with challenges.
(331) 258-3435 View (331) 258-3435
Photo of Heather Treat, PsyD, Psychologist
Heather Treat
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Her specialties include working with both adolescents and adults struggling with all different types of anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and relationship issues.
Mindfulness is a way of life for Heather and it helped her develop her identity as a therapist. Heather now identifies as a contextual behavioral therapist using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) interventions/skills and an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach to intervene with her guests. She has one criteria for her guests: Willingness. Guests experience her as someone who teaches skills and helps them set attainable goals. Heather believes all people inherently have everything they need to move forward in their lives. She likes to help them find what they need and use it.
Her specialties include working with both adolescents and adults struggling with all different types of anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and relationship issues.
Mindfulness is a way of life for Heather and it helped her develop her identity as a therapist. Heather now identifies as a contextual behavioral therapist using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) interventions/skills and an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach to intervene with her guests. She has one criteria for her guests: Willingness. Guests experience her as someone who teaches skills and helps them set attainable goals. Heather believes all people inherently have everything they need to move forward in their lives. She likes to help them find what they need and use it.
(872) 201-3897 View (872) 201-3897
Photo of Lauren Rice - Bluebird Counseling Services, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bluebird Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60565  (Online Only)
My services cater to adults and adolescents aged 12 and above, particularly those dealing with ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, and domestic violence issues.
Hi ! I'm Lauren Rice, a dedicated social worker with a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges. My journey in this field began with a Bachelor's degree in Family Social Services from Northern Illinois University, followed by a Master's in Social Work from the University of Chicago in 2023. My professional experience includes specializing in domestic violence counseling and crisis intervention, where I employ various therapeutic techniques such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. I'm committed to staying up-to-date with new therapy methods to better serve my clients, always placing their needs at the forefront of my practice.
My services cater to adults and adolescents aged 12 and above, particularly those dealing with ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, and domestic violence issues.
Hi ! I'm Lauren Rice, a dedicated social worker with a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges. My journey in this field began with a Bachelor's degree in Family Social Services from Northern Illinois University, followed by a Master's in Social Work from the University of Chicago in 2023. My professional experience includes specializing in domestic violence counseling and crisis intervention, where I employ various therapeutic techniques such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. I'm committed to staying up-to-date with new therapy methods to better serve my clients, always placing their needs at the forefront of my practice.
(630) 448-8815 View (630) 448-8815
Photo of Talvir Shahi, MA, LCPC
Talvir Shahi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Hello! I am the Co-Director and Psychotherapist with The Naperville Counseling Center. My clinical experience focus on working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with substance abuse, relationship issues, work-life balance, stress, anxiety, depression, mood management, cultural identity issues, life transitions, and self-esteem. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. I also speak Punjabi and have full comprehension of Hindi/ Urdu and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
Hello! I am the Co-Director and Psychotherapist with The Naperville Counseling Center. My clinical experience focus on working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with substance abuse, relationship issues, work-life balance, stress, anxiety, depression, mood management, cultural identity issues, life transitions, and self-esteem. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. I also speak Punjabi and have full comprehension of Hindi/ Urdu and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
(847) 383-0561 x103 View (847) 383-0561 x103
Photo of Rebecca Karlinski, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Karlinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Do you feel overwhelmed with life, whether it's dealing with your own issues, or struggling to help your children navigate all of life's challenges? You have come to the right place. I am here to help you or your children not only manage life's crazy challenges, but foster change and growth. I specialize in the following: ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, divorce/break-ups/relationship loss, life changes/adjustment disorder, self-esteem/self-worth and stress management.
Do you feel overwhelmed with life, whether it's dealing with your own issues, or struggling to help your children navigate all of life's challenges? You have come to the right place. I am here to help you or your children not only manage life's crazy challenges, but foster change and growth. I specialize in the following: ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, divorce/break-ups/relationship loss, life changes/adjustment disorder, self-esteem/self-worth and stress management.
(331) 241-7604 View (331) 241-7604
Photo of Jordynn Lane, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordynn Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Jordynn Lane is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. Jordynn offers an approach of collaboration, mindfulness, empathy, and compassionate care to those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, conflict, trauma, behavioral problems, feeling misunderstood, and any other psychological/emotional distress. Jordynn's experiences working as a counselor in a residential psychiatric facility with children, in a county jail with adult inmates as a group facilitator, and as a therapist at a therapeutic day school have allowed her to see clients through many lenses.
Jordynn Lane is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. Jordynn offers an approach of collaboration, mindfulness, empathy, and compassionate care to those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, conflict, trauma, behavioral problems, feeling misunderstood, and any other psychological/emotional distress. Jordynn's experiences working as a counselor in a residential psychiatric facility with children, in a county jail with adult inmates as a group facilitator, and as a therapist at a therapeutic day school have allowed her to see clients through many lenses.
(630) 448-8436 View (630) 448-8436
Photo of Joe Glim - Labyrinth Counseling and Consulting, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Labyrinth Counseling and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I specialize in treating Trauma (single event, long-term and attachment) with experiential therapies, including EMDR & Somatic Experiencing. These interventions recognize the need to go beyond changing your thoughts and focus on helping people regulate the body sensations and emotions that continue to be experienced. For example: a person may know that a traumatic event is over and yet continue to feel the emotion of anxiety and the body sensation of muscle tension (never truly relaxing or feeling safe). This can activate an impulse to run away from situations, become angry/defensive or shut down (depressed/ avoidant/dissociative)
I specialize in treating Trauma (single event, long-term and attachment) with experiential therapies, including EMDR & Somatic Experiencing. These interventions recognize the need to go beyond changing your thoughts and focus on helping people regulate the body sensations and emotions that continue to be experienced. For example: a person may know that a traumatic event is over and yet continue to feel the emotion of anxiety and the body sensation of muscle tension (never truly relaxing or feeling safe). This can activate an impulse to run away from situations, become angry/defensive or shut down (depressed/ avoidant/dissociative)
(630) 504-0254 View (630) 504-0254
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.