Depression Therapists in Naperville, IL

Photo of Annamarie Savio, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annamarie Savio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
My work with adults has focused on life transitions, relational challenges, and issues related to anxiety and feelings of depression.
What we experience changes how we see the world and our place in it. Through the painful and difficult times, I come alongside you and help you navigate through, so you grow and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. I help you to identify specific triggers and process emotions while guiding you to learn new ways to achieve your goals. My purpose is to help you feel supported as we work together to identify and address the underlying causes of concern.
My work with adults has focused on life transitions, relational challenges, and issues related to anxiety and feelings of depression.
What we experience changes how we see the world and our place in it. Through the painful and difficult times, I come alongside you and help you navigate through, so you grow and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. I help you to identify specific triggers and process emotions while guiding you to learn new ways to achieve your goals. My purpose is to help you feel supported as we work together to identify and address the underlying causes of concern.
(847) 469-1803 View (847) 469-1803
Photo of Josh Kaplan - Josh Kaplan - OCD, Anxiety & Depression Specialist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josh Kaplan - OCD, Anxiety & Depression Specialist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Hi, and thanks for viewing my profile. My name is Josh Kaplan, I’m a compassionate and experienced therapist with a mission to help individuals overcome Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Depression. With over a decade of experience specializing in these areas, I have developed a deep understanding of these conditions and their profound impact on one's life. Whether you are dealing with the recurrent cycle of OCD, endless thoughts of anxiety, or the deep sadness of depression, I'm here to guide you through your recovery journey.
Hi, and thanks for viewing my profile. My name is Josh Kaplan, I’m a compassionate and experienced therapist with a mission to help individuals overcome Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Depression. With over a decade of experience specializing in these areas, I have developed a deep understanding of these conditions and their profound impact on one's life. Whether you are dealing with the recurrent cycle of OCD, endless thoughts of anxiety, or the deep sadness of depression, I'm here to guide you through your recovery journey.
(331) 259-8463 View (331) 259-8463
Photo of Walter Gaskew IV, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Walter Gaskew IV
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Practicing Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I began working in the mental health field in 2012 at an inpatient mental health facility in Chicago working with individuals who struggled with behavioral disorders. Since then, I have worked with and assisted individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder issues in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I connect well with both men and women.
I am a Licensed Clinical Practicing Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I began working in the mental health field in 2012 at an inpatient mental health facility in Chicago working with individuals who struggled with behavioral disorders. Since then, I have worked with and assisted individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder issues in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I connect well with both men and women.
(331) 225-1657 View (331) 225-1657
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 Kelsey Romanoff, LCPC, MA
Kelsey Romanoff
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I specialize in working with clients with anxiety, and depression, for teens and college students. I believe each client needs a safe and comfortable space to process their thoughts and emotions. I use various skills and techniques, as we work together, to navigate the areas in life that you are ready to explore. Genuine empathy and interpersonal connection are the baseline. It’s my goal that my clients feel heard, valued, and accepted. Email me today to get scheduled!
I specialize in working with clients with anxiety, and depression, for teens and college students. I believe each client needs a safe and comfortable space to process their thoughts and emotions. I use various skills and techniques, as we work together, to navigate the areas in life that you are ready to explore. Genuine empathy and interpersonal connection are the baseline. It’s my goal that my clients feel heard, valued, and accepted. Email me today to get scheduled!
(331) 225-4171 x1 View (331) 225-4171 x1
Photo of David C Clinton, MA, LCPC, Counselor
David C Clinton
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I have been in private practice for 14 years, during which I have worked with adolescents and adults sorting through a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues and spiritual struggles related to mental health.
I have been in private practice for 14 years, during which I have worked with adolescents and adults sorting through a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues and spiritual struggles related to mental health.
(630) 733-1962 View (630) 733-1962
Photo of Anna K Zabiegly - Anna K Zabiegly, Psy.D., P.C., PsyD, Psychologist
Anna K Zabiegly, Psy.D., P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
As a licensed clinical psychologist I dedicate my practice to the treatment of adolescent, adult, and older adult populations. I help clients overcome traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, & adjustment difficulties. I combine compassion and collaborative psychotherapy with EMDR to help clients reach optimal performance and transform their lives. In addition, I appreciate the personal difficulties athletes face and assist in breaking through mental barriers that prevent them from performing to their potential.
As a licensed clinical psychologist I dedicate my practice to the treatment of adolescent, adult, and older adult populations. I help clients overcome traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, & adjustment difficulties. I combine compassion and collaborative psychotherapy with EMDR to help clients reach optimal performance and transform their lives. In addition, I appreciate the personal difficulties athletes face and assist in breaking through mental barriers that prevent them from performing to their potential.
(630) 812-0922 View (630) 812-0922
Photo of Kunal Sachdev, PsyD, Psychologist
Kunal Sachdev
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I have particular expertise in adult AD/HD, anxiety, identity development, self-esteem, depression, cultural issues, and relationship concerns.
***Dr. Sachdev currently has limited daytime availability at both offices***A therapist can be an ally and partner during times when life presents us with challenges that make us feel stuck. A strong therapeutic relationship can help us feel safe and comfortable as we work to understand ourselves and get 'unstuck'. As a clinician, I aim to develop a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I am present and accessible to my clients. I have a warm and very down-to-earth style that helps my clients find their voice as we embark on a journey towards empowerment.
I have particular expertise in adult AD/HD, anxiety, identity development, self-esteem, depression, cultural issues, and relationship concerns.
***Dr. Sachdev currently has limited daytime availability at both offices***A therapist can be an ally and partner during times when life presents us with challenges that make us feel stuck. A strong therapeutic relationship can help us feel safe and comfortable as we work to understand ourselves and get 'unstuck'. As a clinician, I aim to develop a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I am present and accessible to my clients. I have a warm and very down-to-earth style that helps my clients find their voice as we embark on a journey towards empowerment.
(312) 489-8100 View (312) 489-8100
Photo of Alexis Rodriguez, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60564
Alexis Rodriguez is a Licensed Social Worker that graduated from the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work. Ms. Rodriguez specializes in anxiety, depression ADHD, bullying, trauma work, and domestic violence. She utilizes CBT, exposure therapy, operant conditioning, radical acceptance, reframing thoughts, music therapy, interpersonal therapy, positive affirmations, modeling emotional regulation and art therapy in her approach to clients.
Alexis Rodriguez is a Licensed Social Worker that graduated from the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work. Ms. Rodriguez specializes in anxiety, depression ADHD, bullying, trauma work, and domestic violence. She utilizes CBT, exposure therapy, operant conditioning, radical acceptance, reframing thoughts, music therapy, interpersonal therapy, positive affirmations, modeling emotional regulation and art therapy in her approach to clients.
(630) 593-7183 View (630) 593-7183
Photo of Melissa Theresa Woolever, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Melissa Theresa Woolever
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I have specialized experience treating teenagers, young adults, and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and body image issues.
Change is not always easy and it often requires hard work. However, change does not have to be made alone. It's important that you have someone to listen, validate, support, and, at times, challenge you. My therapy style is a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, warmth, humor, and insight-oriented methods that can be tailored to fit your individual needs and treatment goals.
I have specialized experience treating teenagers, young adults, and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and body image issues.
Change is not always easy and it often requires hard work. However, change does not have to be made alone. It's important that you have someone to listen, validate, support, and, at times, challenge you. My therapy style is a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, warmth, humor, and insight-oriented methods that can be tailored to fit your individual needs and treatment goals.
(630) 448-8099 View (630) 448-8099
Photo of Adam S Ratner, LCSW, MA, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam S Ratner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Individuals/Families Experiencing Challenges with: Depression, Anxiety, Interpersonal Relationships, Behavioral Issues, Professional/Career Challenges, the Family System and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescent, Young Adult, Adult. Clients consistently find Adam to be very down to earth, accepting and tremendously easy to talk to. Each quickly learns that Adam always strives to over deliver on the care and services he provides. For more information please visit: https://www.growwellnessgroup.com
Individuals/Families Experiencing Challenges with: Depression, Anxiety, Interpersonal Relationships, Behavioral Issues, Professional/Career Challenges, the Family System and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescent, Young Adult, Adult. Clients consistently find Adam to be very down to earth, accepting and tremendously easy to talk to. Each quickly learns that Adam always strives to over deliver on the care and services he provides. For more information please visit: https://www.growwellnessgroup.com
(331) 702-9356 View (331) 702-9356
Photo of Liza Devaney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liza Devaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
(630) 884-4319 x3005 View (630) 884-4319 x3005
Photo of Patricia Borela Jones, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Patricia Borela Jones
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, OCD, shame, issues related to low self-esteem and low self-confidence, parent training, child and adolescent behavior and family issues; treating adult/childhood trauma, grieving, life transitions, interpersonal relationship difficulties, identity development, vocational issues, ​and goal-setting.
I help my clients break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life and alleviate suffering. I believe that everyone can find their true potential and live a fulfilled life despite their life circumstances. I help my clients learn and develop skills to manage stressors and overcome the barriers that are standing in the way of their life goals. I believe that my clients can develop a more compassionate way to understand and accept what they cannot change and focus on what they can change in order to live a life aligned with their true values, improving the quality of their life and the lives of their loved ones.
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, OCD, shame, issues related to low self-esteem and low self-confidence, parent training, child and adolescent behavior and family issues; treating adult/childhood trauma, grieving, life transitions, interpersonal relationship difficulties, identity development, vocational issues, ​and goal-setting.
I help my clients break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life and alleviate suffering. I believe that everyone can find their true potential and live a fulfilled life despite their life circumstances. I help my clients learn and develop skills to manage stressors and overcome the barriers that are standing in the way of their life goals. I believe that my clients can develop a more compassionate way to understand and accept what they cannot change and focus on what they can change in order to live a life aligned with their true values, improving the quality of their life and the lives of their loved ones.
(847) 718-8973 View (847) 718-8973
Photo of Alina Moore, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Alina Moore
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
I specialize in complex traumas, anxiety, depression, family and intimate relationships concerns, and recovery from narcissistic abuse.
Sometimes the hardest thing is asking for help. Choosing to enter therapy is a courageous act and one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Finding the right therapist for you, someone whom you can trust, who makes you feel safe, and believes in you might feel difficult and daunting at times but is also one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy. I feel honored and grateful to each and every one of my clients who entrusted me with their stories and embarked on their healing journey with me. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you gain the necessary insight and skills to live the life you want and deserve.
I specialize in complex traumas, anxiety, depression, family and intimate relationships concerns, and recovery from narcissistic abuse.
Sometimes the hardest thing is asking for help. Choosing to enter therapy is a courageous act and one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Finding the right therapist for you, someone whom you can trust, who makes you feel safe, and believes in you might feel difficult and daunting at times but is also one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy. I feel honored and grateful to each and every one of my clients who entrusted me with their stories and embarked on their healing journey with me. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you gain the necessary insight and skills to live the life you want and deserve.
(630) 478-8074 View (630) 478-8074
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 Molly Kaitlin Lown, MSW, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Kaitlin Lown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
My primary focus lies with individuals who are working to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, major life events, adjustments/transitions, and chronic health issues.
My name is Molly Lown. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), experienced in working with children, adolescents, adults of all ages, couples and families. I have had the pleasure of providing therapeutic services in a myriad of settings including: outpatient and inpatient behavioral health hospitals/treatment centers, mental health courts within the legal system, schools, chronic care facilities and private practice.
My primary focus lies with individuals who are working to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, major life events, adjustments/transitions, and chronic health issues.
My name is Molly Lown. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), experienced in working with children, adolescents, adults of all ages, couples and families. I have had the pleasure of providing therapeutic services in a myriad of settings including: outpatient and inpatient behavioral health hospitals/treatment centers, mental health courts within the legal system, schools, chronic care facilities and private practice.
(331) 207-9501 View (331) 207-9501
Photo of Melissa Forte, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC, PEL
Melissa Forte
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC, PEL
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
I love with working children through young adulthood as well as adults as they become well rounded, healthy individuals as they struggle with relationship issues, anxiety and stress, depression, parenting concerns, and family conflict.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's Degree from Lewis University. My background encompasses many different areas to include the mental health field, educational academic and career performance, corporate business and training, and EAP. I have 11 years in K-12 and higher education counseling and teaching experience as well as over 15 years in corporate business. My passion and vast experience in all of these settings and now within the clinical mental health setting for almost 7 years is how I thrive to assist all individuals in achieving complete satisfaction and success in all aspects of life!
I love with working children through young adulthood as well as adults as they become well rounded, healthy individuals as they struggle with relationship issues, anxiety and stress, depression, parenting concerns, and family conflict.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's Degree from Lewis University. My background encompasses many different areas to include the mental health field, educational academic and career performance, corporate business and training, and EAP. I have 11 years in K-12 and higher education counseling and teaching experience as well as over 15 years in corporate business. My passion and vast experience in all of these settings and now within the clinical mental health setting for almost 7 years is how I thrive to assist all individuals in achieving complete satisfaction and success in all aspects of life!
(224) 509-6040 View (224) 509-6040
Photo of Shannon Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540  (Online Only)
I know how hard it can be to find a therapist with which you can connect. I am hoping this profile gives you a preview of how you and I can work together so that you can live a more authentic and meaningful life. My niche is working with people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and I am an ally to the BIPOC community. I enjoy working with young adults and adults. I have over 22 years of experience helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, and substance use. I like working with people who are going through difficult life transitions and are interested in fostering their confidence and resiliency.
I know how hard it can be to find a therapist with which you can connect. I am hoping this profile gives you a preview of how you and I can work together so that you can live a more authentic and meaningful life. My niche is working with people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and I am an ally to the BIPOC community. I enjoy working with young adults and adults. I have over 22 years of experience helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, and substance use. I like working with people who are going through difficult life transitions and are interested in fostering their confidence and resiliency.
(630) 256-8848 View (630) 256-8848
Photo of Anna Hammond, PsyD, Psychologist
Anna Hammond
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Today, teens and young adults face many stressors including sadness, anxiety, loneliness, and uncertainty about the future. They want to feel the confidence to cope with an unpredictable world as they mature. I provide a safe, nurturing environment for teens and young adults to explore these challenges and stressors. I work closely with parents so they can support their teen's successful growth outside of the office. My passion is teaching skills to manage independence, social anxiety, depression and relationship dynamics. Clients benefit from improved social and coping skills, with a focus on mindfulness, acceptance and commitment.
Today, teens and young adults face many stressors including sadness, anxiety, loneliness, and uncertainty about the future. They want to feel the confidence to cope with an unpredictable world as they mature. I provide a safe, nurturing environment for teens and young adults to explore these challenges and stressors. I work closely with parents so they can support their teen's successful growth outside of the office. My passion is teaching skills to manage independence, social anxiety, depression and relationship dynamics. Clients benefit from improved social and coping skills, with a focus on mindfulness, acceptance and commitment.
(630) 557-8391 View (630) 557-8391
Photo of Tracy P Leung, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Tracy P Leung
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Children become victims in families where parents are depressed and fight constantly.
Are you tired of facing your problems alone, yet feeling uncertain about discussing them with a stranger? Are you feeling trapped in your anxious and depressive thoughts, but feeling too embarrassed to talk, but also too desperate NOT to? For most people, finding a therapist IS very anxiety provoking. They are afraid of being judged and of the unknown. So allow me to first applaud your courage and wisdom for taking action! To help my clients feel accepted and motivated, my approach is warm, casual, and collaborative. My focus is always on emphasizing the strengths, NOT on what "disorders" you might have.
Children become victims in families where parents are depressed and fight constantly.
Are you tired of facing your problems alone, yet feeling uncertain about discussing them with a stranger? Are you feeling trapped in your anxious and depressive thoughts, but feeling too embarrassed to talk, but also too desperate NOT to? For most people, finding a therapist IS very anxiety provoking. They are afraid of being judged and of the unknown. So allow me to first applaud your courage and wisdom for taking action! To help my clients feel accepted and motivated, my approach is warm, casual, and collaborative. My focus is always on emphasizing the strengths, NOT on what "disorders" you might have.
(630) 239-1025 View (630) 239-1025
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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.