Depression Therapists in North Aurora, IL

Photo of Callie J. Rezin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Callie J. Rezin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
I believe strongly in the power of human connection, especially during times of suffering. I am here to celebrate diversity and provide a warm atmosphere for growth and change. I have a passion for working with individuals of any age facing anxiety, depression, family issues, behavioral concerns, self injury, trauma and individuals who identify as LGBTQ+. The therapuetic modalities I use most include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness based interventions, yet I appreciate getting creative and using eclectic approaches to meet each client where they are at.
I believe strongly in the power of human connection, especially during times of suffering. I am here to celebrate diversity and provide a warm atmosphere for growth and change. I have a passion for working with individuals of any age facing anxiety, depression, family issues, behavioral concerns, self injury, trauma and individuals who identify as LGBTQ+. The therapuetic modalities I use most include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness based interventions, yet I appreciate getting creative and using eclectic approaches to meet each client where they are at.
(779) 228-3881 View (779) 228-3881
Photo of Anthony Fasano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anthony Fasano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and retirement transitions.
Are you looking for a therapist you can be real with? My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental and focused. I use evidence-based practices that meet the clients where they are at emotionally. I am easy-going and interactive, and I strive to make my clients as comfortable as possible. By providing a safe environment, I allow for shifts in therapy as needed, enabling clients to be vulnerable, open, and honest.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and retirement transitions.
Are you looking for a therapist you can be real with? My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental and focused. I use evidence-based practices that meet the clients where they are at emotionally. I am easy-going and interactive, and I strive to make my clients as comfortable as possible. By providing a safe environment, I allow for shifts in therapy as needed, enabling clients to be vulnerable, open, and honest.
(630) 552-6473 View (630) 552-6473
Photo of Danna Young, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danna Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in attachment therapy, grief therapy, spirituality, trauma, life transitions, self-compassion, body image, self esteem, family and peer conflict, anxiety, depression, teen issues, women's issues, parental guidance, communication challenges, and boundary-setting.
For as long as I can remember, I have loved helping others. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I will guide you in exploring how experiences and relationships in your life have created a blueprint of who you are today. Together, we can explore the deepest parts within to understand how to live a life full of true authenticity. I approach therapy with a full heart and deep compassion for my clients. I love working with individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds. I provide a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings to create meaningful long-term change.
I specialize in attachment therapy, grief therapy, spirituality, trauma, life transitions, self-compassion, body image, self esteem, family and peer conflict, anxiety, depression, teen issues, women's issues, parental guidance, communication challenges, and boundary-setting.
For as long as I can remember, I have loved helping others. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I will guide you in exploring how experiences and relationships in your life have created a blueprint of who you are today. Together, we can explore the deepest parts within to understand how to live a life full of true authenticity. I approach therapy with a full heart and deep compassion for my clients. I love working with individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds. I provide a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings to create meaningful long-term change.
(331) 320-2304 View (331) 320-2304
Photo of Courtney M Siewak, LCPC, Counselor
Courtney M Siewak
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
My approach to therapy is collaborative and supportive. I make sure to provide all clients with a safe, welcoming space to explore any struggles that they may be going through. I get it, life can be difficult! I am here to help you navigate whatever comes your way, even using humor at times! I have been a Therapist since 2018 and have worked with a wide variety of disorders, but my main focus is working with those who suffer from Anxiety, Depression, Relationship obstacles, Grief/loss, trauma, self-esteem issues, and overall life stressors.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and supportive. I make sure to provide all clients with a safe, welcoming space to explore any struggles that they may be going through. I get it, life can be difficult! I am here to help you navigate whatever comes your way, even using humor at times! I have been a Therapist since 2018 and have worked with a wide variety of disorders, but my main focus is working with those who suffer from Anxiety, Depression, Relationship obstacles, Grief/loss, trauma, self-esteem issues, and overall life stressors.
(331) 294-8312 View (331) 294-8312
Photo of Chanel Hampton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chanel Hampton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
It takes great courage to acknowledge and embrace the things that challenge us. I understand this strength and the importance of starting the journey to change the things that no longer serve you. I am a compassionate therapist trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities. I have worked in social services for over ten years, working in various capacities, from medical social workers to therapists. I seek to help individuals and families address anxiety, depression, and trauma issues. I believe that healing takes place by identifying the source of the problem. The therapy hour is a sacred time of healing owned by the client.
It takes great courage to acknowledge and embrace the things that challenge us. I understand this strength and the importance of starting the journey to change the things that no longer serve you. I am a compassionate therapist trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities. I have worked in social services for over ten years, working in various capacities, from medical social workers to therapists. I seek to help individuals and families address anxiety, depression, and trauma issues. I believe that healing takes place by identifying the source of the problem. The therapy hour is a sacred time of healing owned by the client.
(708) 847-9874 View (708) 847-9874
Photo of Lauryn Lewis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauryn Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
Life is to short to surrender to anxiety, depression, unhealthy relationships, hold grudges, or let trauma control us.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. You deserve to live a life that keeps you excited to wake up every morning! I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for while enjoying the therapy process as much as possible. Calling a therapist can be nerve-racking, but I hope you take a moment, a deep breath, and call to see how I can help!
Life is to short to surrender to anxiety, depression, unhealthy relationships, hold grudges, or let trauma control us.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. You deserve to live a life that keeps you excited to wake up every morning! I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for while enjoying the therapy process as much as possible. Calling a therapist can be nerve-racking, but I hope you take a moment, a deep breath, and call to see how I can help!
(630) 552-6139 View (630) 552-6139
Photo of Andrea Holm, MA, LCPC, ESMHL
Andrea Holm
MA, LCPC, ESMHL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
I feel everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, teens and young adults with emotional and behavioral concerns. Conditions I commonly address include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationships, and trauma. I have a background in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), utilizing horses as fellow "co-therapists" to aid in treatment goals and objectives outside the traditional office setting. I am certified through the "Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship" (PATH) as an "Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning" (ESMHL).
I feel everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, teens and young adults with emotional and behavioral concerns. Conditions I commonly address include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationships, and trauma. I have a background in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), utilizing horses as fellow "co-therapists" to aid in treatment goals and objectives outside the traditional office setting. I am certified through the "Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship" (PATH) as an "Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning" (ESMHL).
(262) 205-2975 View (262) 205-2975
Photo of Tracy P Leung, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Tracy P Leung
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542  (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
Photo of Eva McCallister James - Eva McCallister James, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eva McCallister James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
I specialize in a variety of mental disorders and have extensive experience with: Bipolar Disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, ADHD, parenting trouble, career issues, grief and loss, anger management, substance abuse, assisting couples on improving general communication skills and relationship dynamics and coping with divorce.
Today is the best time to start feeling better about yourself. Improving your mental health will have positive effects on your entire well-being. My name is Eva McCallister and my office allows you a safe and comfortable place to express your thoughts, feelings, worries and anxieties. My goal is to provide you with a safe environment in which you can overcome difficult life transitions, improve relationships and work through specific problems that may be interfering with your ability to enjoy life. My promise is to gently assist you in taking steps forward to obtain a happier, healthier, life.
I specialize in a variety of mental disorders and have extensive experience with: Bipolar Disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, ADHD, parenting trouble, career issues, grief and loss, anger management, substance abuse, assisting couples on improving general communication skills and relationship dynamics and coping with divorce.
Today is the best time to start feeling better about yourself. Improving your mental health will have positive effects on your entire well-being. My name is Eva McCallister and my office allows you a safe and comfortable place to express your thoughts, feelings, worries and anxieties. My goal is to provide you with a safe environment in which you can overcome difficult life transitions, improve relationships and work through specific problems that may be interfering with your ability to enjoy life. My promise is to gently assist you in taking steps forward to obtain a happier, healthier, life.
(224) 637-1227 View (224) 637-1227
Photo of Camille Hoffman, BAEEd, MSW, LSW
Camille Hoffman
BAEEd, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
Are you or a loved one experiencing struggles that could benefit from a new approach? Many people experience symptoms from anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, stress, behavioral or academic concerns, life transitions or relationship issues that contribute to a life out of balance. Seeking support with these issues can help you regain equilibrium and achieve your goals. I start by establishing a connection with each client based on empathy and understanding each person’s perspective. I utilize an evidenced-based treatment approach and the bio-psycho-social approach tailored to the client’s unique needs.
Are you or a loved one experiencing struggles that could benefit from a new approach? Many people experience symptoms from anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, stress, behavioral or academic concerns, life transitions or relationship issues that contribute to a life out of balance. Seeking support with these issues can help you regain equilibrium and achieve your goals. I start by establishing a connection with each client based on empathy and understanding each person’s perspective. I utilize an evidenced-based treatment approach and the bio-psycho-social approach tailored to the client’s unique needs.
(331) 244-2087 View (331) 244-2087
Photo of Adam L Chunn, MSW, LSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam L Chunn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating through depression, anxiety, addictions, identity issues, and spiritual concerns.
Do you feel overwhelmed by persistent feelings of sadness, worry, or fear? Are you struggling with behaviors that seem to control your life? Do you find yourself questioning who you are and where you belong? If you're reading this, chances are you're looking for support on your journey, and I'm here to offer you a safe space for exploration, healing, and growth. Whether you're seeking relief from overwhelming emotions, healing from past traumas, or clarity on your life's purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you on your path to wellness.
I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating through depression, anxiety, addictions, identity issues, and spiritual concerns.
Do you feel overwhelmed by persistent feelings of sadness, worry, or fear? Are you struggling with behaviors that seem to control your life? Do you find yourself questioning who you are and where you belong? If you're reading this, chances are you're looking for support on your journey, and I'm here to offer you a safe space for exploration, healing, and growth. Whether you're seeking relief from overwhelming emotions, healing from past traumas, or clarity on your life's purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you on your path to wellness.
(630) 756-5036 View (630) 756-5036
Photo of Daniel Michaels, LCPC, ADHD-CC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Michaels
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
Hello! I’m Daniel Michaels, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). My practice is rooted in a passion for offering targeted, effective strategies for managing ADHD, while also providing comprehensive mental health services. My background in including inpatient care, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), and intensive outpatient programs (IOP). This diverse experience has not only deepened my understanding of ADHD but also enhanced my ability to address a wide spectrum of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more.
Hello! I’m Daniel Michaels, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). My practice is rooted in a passion for offering targeted, effective strategies for managing ADHD, while also providing comprehensive mental health services. My background in including inpatient care, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), and intensive outpatient programs (IOP). This diverse experience has not only deepened my understanding of ADHD but also enhanced my ability to address a wide spectrum of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more.
(630) 864-6224 View (630) 864-6224
Photo of Adam Lawrence Maldonado, MS, LCPC
Adam Lawrence Maldonado
MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
My greatest wish in life is to be able to help make a difference in the world; counseling is my way. I have confronted a variety of issues, and work well with complex conditions. Some include depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, adoption, self-esteem, bullying, family conflict, ADHD, defiant behaviors, anger management, and attachment concerns. My work also extends to parental support in working with their children / adolescents more effectively in communication, discipline and affection. My main desire is for all clients to know they are not alone and help them on their journey. I will adapt to meet your needs.
My greatest wish in life is to be able to help make a difference in the world; counseling is my way. I have confronted a variety of issues, and work well with complex conditions. Some include depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, adoption, self-esteem, bullying, family conflict, ADHD, defiant behaviors, anger management, and attachment concerns. My work also extends to parental support in working with their children / adolescents more effectively in communication, discipline and affection. My main desire is for all clients to know they are not alone and help them on their journey. I will adapt to meet your needs.
(815) 513-7010 View (815) 513-7010
Photo of Katherine Harris, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Katherine Harris
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
I am a Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) Psychologist who specializes in OCD and Anxiety including panic, worry, social anxiety, health anxiety, and agoraphobia . I use highly effective treatments such as Exposure and Response Prevention and Panic Control Treatment. I am a member of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) and the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). I completed my Doctoral Degree at Northern Illinois University, my Clinical Psychology Internship at the Ann Arbor VA, and my Postdoctoral Residency at the University of Michigan Consortium. I am a proud co-owner of OakHeart, Center for Counseling.
I am a Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) Psychologist who specializes in OCD and Anxiety including panic, worry, social anxiety, health anxiety, and agoraphobia . I use highly effective treatments such as Exposure and Response Prevention and Panic Control Treatment. I am a member of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) and the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). I completed my Doctoral Degree at Northern Illinois University, my Clinical Psychology Internship at the Ann Arbor VA, and my Postdoctoral Residency at the University of Michigan Consortium. I am a proud co-owner of OakHeart, Center for Counseling.
(331) 256-2138 View (331) 256-2138
Photo of Lizzy Lowe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lizzy Lowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
I am working toward specialization in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma.
Are you looking for a therapist to help you unravel the messiness of life or those difficult internal experiences? Maybe you are looking to better understand yourself, or change behaviors that are holding you back from having a more vital life? Whatever the reason you are on this page, I am happy you landed here. I tailor my approach to therapy based on the individual needs of my clients. Clients know themselves the best and offers valuable insight into their treatment goals. It is my goal to create a non-judgmental and safe space for every client I meet.
I am working toward specialization in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma.
Are you looking for a therapist to help you unravel the messiness of life or those difficult internal experiences? Maybe you are looking to better understand yourself, or change behaviors that are holding you back from having a more vital life? Whatever the reason you are on this page, I am happy you landed here. I tailor my approach to therapy based on the individual needs of my clients. Clients know themselves the best and offers valuable insight into their treatment goals. It is my goal to create a non-judgmental and safe space for every client I meet.
(630) 895-9462 View (630) 895-9462
Photo of Ameir Zeidan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ameir Zeidan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Ameir. Do you feel alone or stuck in your situation? Are you feeling lost and uncertain about the way your life is going? Are you struggling with feelings of stress, anxiety or depression? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I want to congratulate you on taking the first step to reach out for help. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. My first goal upon meeting you is working to establish a genuine and collaborative connection. This will serve as the foundation for the work necessary to deal with daily feelings, build understanding, and make positive changes in life.
Hi there, I'm Ameir. Do you feel alone or stuck in your situation? Are you feeling lost and uncertain about the way your life is going? Are you struggling with feelings of stress, anxiety or depression? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I want to congratulate you on taking the first step to reach out for help. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. My first goal upon meeting you is working to establish a genuine and collaborative connection. This will serve as the foundation for the work necessary to deal with daily feelings, build understanding, and make positive changes in life.
(630) 412-7291 View (630) 412-7291
Photo of Kate Nash, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Nash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
If so, I am a licensed professional counselor that is working toward specializing in chronic pain, caregiver support, grief and bereavement, behavioral interventions for attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety disorders, including social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder (worry), and health anxiety.
Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed by your emotions or what you have to accomplish? Do you struggle to find time for yourself or notice that you don't have the energy to meet your own needs after taking care of everyone else? Do you lose concentration easily and get sick tracked so much so that you end up not accomplishing everything you need to complete? Are you looking for stability and strategies to manage the world around you and within you?
If so, I am a licensed professional counselor that is working toward specializing in chronic pain, caregiver support, grief and bereavement, behavioral interventions for attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety disorders, including social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder (worry), and health anxiety.
Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed by your emotions or what you have to accomplish? Do you struggle to find time for yourself or notice that you don't have the energy to meet your own needs after taking care of everyone else? Do you lose concentration easily and get sick tracked so much so that you end up not accomplishing everything you need to complete? Are you looking for stability and strategies to manage the world around you and within you?
(779) 256-6086 View (779) 256-6086
Photo of Lindsey Maltese, MSEd, LCPC, LGBTQ+, Ally, Counselor
Lindsey Maltese
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, LGBTQ+, Ally
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
I have experience working with a variety of concerns including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and LGBTQ+ issues as well as providing services to individuals, couples, and families.
At some point in life, everyone finds themselves facing something. The question is, "Are you ready to face it?" Come take the first step with counseling and I will gladly walk with you! I make it my mission to cater to the specific needs of each person using creative techniques that fit you. My counseling style is based on the foundation of transparency and mutual trust, using collaborative efforts to meet your personal goals. I believe that every person has the power within themselves to create lasting change. My goal is to help you grow, one step at a time.
I have experience working with a variety of concerns including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and LGBTQ+ issues as well as providing services to individuals, couples, and families.
At some point in life, everyone finds themselves facing something. The question is, "Are you ready to face it?" Come take the first step with counseling and I will gladly walk with you! I make it my mission to cater to the specific needs of each person using creative techniques that fit you. My counseling style is based on the foundation of transparency and mutual trust, using collaborative efforts to meet your personal goals. I believe that every person has the power within themselves to create lasting change. My goal is to help you grow, one step at a time.
(630) 626-5011 View (630) 626-5011
Photo of Andrew Hamilton, MS, LCPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Hamilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
I primarily work with adults, adolescents, and couples with concerns relating to life transitions, relationship struggles, grief and loss, as well as varying conditions of anxiety, depression, and other mood related conditions. My experience includes working with others through difficult transitions and periods of time, when a sense of direction may feel lost and motivation is a struggle.
I primarily work with adults, adolescents, and couples with concerns relating to life transitions, relationship struggles, grief and loss, as well as varying conditions of anxiety, depression, and other mood related conditions. My experience includes working with others through difficult transitions and periods of time, when a sense of direction may feel lost and motivation is a struggle.
(630) 394-6213 View (630) 394-6213
Photo of Tiffany Wu, MA, NCC, LCPC, EMDR, Counselor
Tiffany Wu
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
My experiences include working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, divorce, co-parenting, addictions, grief, mood disorders, among other challenges.
As a mental health clinician, my goal is to help my clients explore themselves to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to have a happier future by their own definition. I believe that we all need someone to talk with - who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment -a safe place to explore the issues that you want to discuss with me. I was trained as a plastic surgeon in China for 9 years. I also speak Mandarin and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
My experiences include working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, divorce, co-parenting, addictions, grief, mood disorders, among other challenges.
As a mental health clinician, my goal is to help my clients explore themselves to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to have a happier future by their own definition. I believe that we all need someone to talk with - who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment -a safe place to explore the issues that you want to discuss with me. I was trained as a plastic surgeon in China for 9 years. I also speak Mandarin and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
(773) 570-2399 View (773) 570-2399
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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.