Depression Therapists in Northbrook, IL

Photo of Aaron Petersen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aaron Petersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I have experience working with teens suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, school and identity issues.
I have worked in the human services field for over 20 years and in many different capacities. My work has generally focused on teens and children during transitional points in their lives. I practice with the respect and validation that many children do not get, but need. Working and collaborating with schools and caretakers is a foundation of the work I do along with an expectation of continued contact with both schools and families throughout the work.
I have experience working with teens suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, school and identity issues.
I have worked in the human services field for over 20 years and in many different capacities. My work has generally focused on teens and children during transitional points in their lives. I practice with the respect and validation that many children do not get, but need. Working and collaborating with schools and caretakers is a foundation of the work I do along with an expectation of continued contact with both schools and families throughout the work.
(312) 663-8631 View (312) 663-8631
Photo of Jennifer Calliss, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jennifer Calliss
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I work with adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, self esteem concerns, substance abuse, adjustment difficulties, eating disorders, self harm, life transitions, grief/loss, and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and have been in private practice since 2002. I have had my own practice for over 15 years and recently joined Lakeshore Psychology Group in Northbrook. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families around a myriad of clinical issues and emotional difficulties. I believe in building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. I recognize that success comes with knowing someone believes that change can happen and I want to guide you through that process. My style is direct, engaging, supportive, and solution focused.
I work with adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, self esteem concerns, substance abuse, adjustment difficulties, eating disorders, self harm, life transitions, grief/loss, and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and have been in private practice since 2002. I have had my own practice for over 15 years and recently joined Lakeshore Psychology Group in Northbrook. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families around a myriad of clinical issues and emotional difficulties. I believe in building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. I recognize that success comes with knowing someone believes that change can happen and I want to guide you through that process. My style is direct, engaging, supportive, and solution focused.
(847) 220-7965 View (847) 220-7965
Photo of Christopher Chayse Schustor, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Chayse Schustor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or something else, this therapist genuinely wants to help.
We all strive for something, and we can struggle achieving the things that bring us satisfaction. Sometimes we feel a drive within ourselves, but we lack a sense of direction which can leave us feeling lost. Some strive for self-improvement and others want healthier relationships, no matter the need therapy can help. It requires a strong rapport between the client and therapist as well as a safe space to be yourself where you can feel heard, accepted, and validated.
Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or something else, this therapist genuinely wants to help.
We all strive for something, and we can struggle achieving the things that bring us satisfaction. Sometimes we feel a drive within ourselves, but we lack a sense of direction which can leave us feeling lost. Some strive for self-improvement and others want healthier relationships, no matter the need therapy can help. It requires a strong rapport between the client and therapist as well as a safe space to be yourself where you can feel heard, accepted, and validated.
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Photo of Jennifer Welbel Lcpc, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jennifer Welbel Lcpc
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
At the North Suburban Center for Anxiety, I specialize in treating adults, young adults, adolescents, and children with anxiety, OCD, and depression. I recognize that anxiety can be overwhelming, scary, and isolating. However, it is also treatable! Using a skills based approach, I empower clients with the necessary tools to modify their irrational thoughts, confront their fears, and decrease their overall anxiety. I know that therapy (and, let's face it, life) can be difficult, so I take a compassionate, collaborative, and direct approach to teach clients to lean into the anxiety and step out of their comfort zone.
At the North Suburban Center for Anxiety, I specialize in treating adults, young adults, adolescents, and children with anxiety, OCD, and depression. I recognize that anxiety can be overwhelming, scary, and isolating. However, it is also treatable! Using a skills based approach, I empower clients with the necessary tools to modify their irrational thoughts, confront their fears, and decrease their overall anxiety. I know that therapy (and, let's face it, life) can be difficult, so I take a compassionate, collaborative, and direct approach to teach clients to lean into the anxiety and step out of their comfort zone.
(224) 803-3816 View (224) 803-3816
Photo of EJ Tolle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
EJ Tolle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
It is my intention to help clients effectively manage symptoms associated with relationship issues, anxiety, addiction, depression, codependency & eating disorders.
When life gets too challenging, I'm here to help lighten your load . As a therapist for 25+ years, I have learned that relationships & connection to others is the basis for all healing. People can successfully move through their pain & disappointments by the simple act of talking to another person & being heard. I am dedicated to helping clients make changes which will enable them to fully enjoy their personal & professional lives. Finding a therapist that you connect with is essential. I offer a safe & supportive environment where we can work together to explore your challenges & determine what changes you would like to achieve.
It is my intention to help clients effectively manage symptoms associated with relationship issues, anxiety, addiction, depression, codependency & eating disorders.
When life gets too challenging, I'm here to help lighten your load . As a therapist for 25+ years, I have learned that relationships & connection to others is the basis for all healing. People can successfully move through their pain & disappointments by the simple act of talking to another person & being heard. I am dedicated to helping clients make changes which will enable them to fully enjoy their personal & professional lives. Finding a therapist that you connect with is essential. I offer a safe & supportive environment where we can work together to explore your challenges & determine what changes you would like to achieve.
(224) 204-0910 View (224) 204-0910
Photo of Susan Anewalt, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Anewalt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
My therapeutic approach focuses on supporting adult individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, disempowerment, spiritual confusion or other issues. I provide a safe and supportive environment for self-exploration, where you can learn effective strategies and skills to face and cope with life's challenges from an empowered place.
My therapeutic approach focuses on supporting adult individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, disempowerment, spiritual confusion or other issues. I provide a safe and supportive environment for self-exploration, where you can learn effective strategies and skills to face and cope with life's challenges from an empowered place.
(224) 269-8120 View (224) 269-8120
Photo of Jan Gosselin, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jan Gosselin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I am effective in helping adults young and old who struggle with anxiety, depression and low self-worth, and self-defeating patterns in their lives. Sometimes we feel too overwhelmed, ashamed, or discouraged to deal with these parts of ourselves, and need the help of an attuned listener to understand and work through our problems. The process of talking about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within a trusting therapeutic relationship helps relieve emotional distress and increases your capacity to manage difficult feelings.
I am effective in helping adults young and old who struggle with anxiety, depression and low self-worth, and self-defeating patterns in their lives. Sometimes we feel too overwhelmed, ashamed, or discouraged to deal with these parts of ourselves, and need the help of an attuned listener to understand and work through our problems. The process of talking about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within a trusting therapeutic relationship helps relieve emotional distress and increases your capacity to manage difficult feelings.
(847) 750-4421 View (847) 750-4421
Photo of Heather Goldman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I have been a social worker for 20 years. I enjoy working with individuals ages 4 to 104. I am experienced with counseling adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, school refusal, peer relationships, self esteem, and emotional dysregulation. I attempt to approach all adolescents and parents within a family systems model. I also have training in marital counseling and enjoy helping couples reconnect again after feeling disconnected for various reasons. My practice is strengths and relationship based and incorporates mindfulness, CBT, DBT and ACT when appropriate.
I have been a social worker for 20 years. I enjoy working with individuals ages 4 to 104. I am experienced with counseling adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, school refusal, peer relationships, self esteem, and emotional dysregulation. I attempt to approach all adolescents and parents within a family systems model. I also have training in marital counseling and enjoy helping couples reconnect again after feeling disconnected for various reasons. My practice is strengths and relationship based and incorporates mindfulness, CBT, DBT and ACT when appropriate.
(224) 501-9259 View (224) 501-9259
Photo of Margo Cohn Pactanac, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margo Cohn Pactanac
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
I provide individual counseling for adults ages eighteen and older. I am a supportive, non-judgmental therapist with years of clinical experience. Some of my specialty areas include perinatal mood disorders, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, depression, and anxiety. My job is to provide guidance and ride along with you on your journey to finding answers. My philosophy is that healing happens when you have a safe place to reflect and a reassuring person joining you on your path.
I provide individual counseling for adults ages eighteen and older. I am a supportive, non-judgmental therapist with years of clinical experience. Some of my specialty areas include perinatal mood disorders, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, depression, and anxiety. My job is to provide guidance and ride along with you on your journey to finding answers. My philosophy is that healing happens when you have a safe place to reflect and a reassuring person joining you on your path.
(773) 840-0265 View (773) 840-0265
Photo of Beth Sackett, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Sackett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I have extensive experience working with individuals encountering anxiety, depression, addiction, or general life transitions.
My approach to therapy is genuine, honest, collaborative and non-judgmental. I aim to provide a safe space for my clients to help them feel comfortable exploring the challenges they encounter. I understand that it can be overwhelming to seek therapy and it is essential that my clients feel understood and supported. It can be difficult to know how to articulate your innermost thoughts and feelings. I work alongside my clients to help them learn coping skills and gain a better awareness of how to communicate their needs directly and when to utilize these tools if they are upset, frustrated, feeling alone or feeling out of control.
I have extensive experience working with individuals encountering anxiety, depression, addiction, or general life transitions.
My approach to therapy is genuine, honest, collaborative and non-judgmental. I aim to provide a safe space for my clients to help them feel comfortable exploring the challenges they encounter. I understand that it can be overwhelming to seek therapy and it is essential that my clients feel understood and supported. It can be difficult to know how to articulate your innermost thoughts and feelings. I work alongside my clients to help them learn coping skills and gain a better awareness of how to communicate their needs directly and when to utilize these tools if they are upset, frustrated, feeling alone or feeling out of control.
(224) 808-3250 View (224) 808-3250
Photo of Amy Edelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Edelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
At Lakeshore Psychology Group, I work with children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life stressors, and transitions.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings in the mental health field over the past 15 years, with an emphasis on loss and grief. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I create a safe space to support clients so they feel comfortable discussing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I use a strength-based interactive therapeutic approach, and I enjoy being an advocate for my clients.
At Lakeshore Psychology Group, I work with children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life stressors, and transitions.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings in the mental health field over the past 15 years, with an emphasis on loss and grief. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I create a safe space to support clients so they feel comfortable discussing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I use a strength-based interactive therapeutic approach, and I enjoy being an advocate for my clients.
(224) 208-1186 x7 View (224) 208-1186 x7
Photo of Martine Gorstein, PsyD, Psychologist
Martine Gorstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
At Lakeshore Psychology Group, I work with individuals experiencing problems including depression, anxiety, loneliness, stress, relationship difficulties, medical issues, grief/loss, family conflict, abuse and trauma.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 18 years of experience. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families who are struggling with a wide range of issues. I work towards providing an atmosphere of comfort and trust where individuals feel safe exploring their thoughts and feelings and understanding their difficulties. I believe there is no "one size fits all" form of therapy and I utilize various interventions to fit my clients needs and circumstances. I work collaboratively with my clients utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities. I am described as warm, engaging, caring, accepting and insightful.
At Lakeshore Psychology Group, I work with individuals experiencing problems including depression, anxiety, loneliness, stress, relationship difficulties, medical issues, grief/loss, family conflict, abuse and trauma.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 18 years of experience. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families who are struggling with a wide range of issues. I work towards providing an atmosphere of comfort and trust where individuals feel safe exploring their thoughts and feelings and understanding their difficulties. I believe there is no "one size fits all" form of therapy and I utilize various interventions to fit my clients needs and circumstances. I work collaboratively with my clients utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities. I am described as warm, engaging, caring, accepting and insightful.
(847) 564-1800 x4 View (847) 564-1800 x4
Photo of Laura Gilbert Gerber, PhD, LCPC
Laura Gilbert Gerber
PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Working with those who feel nervous, anxious, sad, or depressed is my area of expertise.
Being invited on the journey with the individuals I work with is an honor. I believe the relationship between the therapist and the client is the key to successful forward movement. Clients who want to work from a strengths based client centered approach will benefit from the work we will do together. I have a strong background in cognitive behavioral therapy but I believe in meeting the client where they are when they come in the door and work to provide a safe and empathic environment in which to assist the client in meeting their goals.
Working with those who feel nervous, anxious, sad, or depressed is my area of expertise.
Being invited on the journey with the individuals I work with is an honor. I believe the relationship between the therapist and the client is the key to successful forward movement. Clients who want to work from a strengths based client centered approach will benefit from the work we will do together. I have a strong background in cognitive behavioral therapy but I believe in meeting the client where they are when they come in the door and work to provide a safe and empathic environment in which to assist the client in meeting their goals.
(847) 737-4411 View (847) 737-4411
Photo of Alana J Goldberg, PsyD, Psychologist
Alana J Goldberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
I work with individuals who struggle with major depression, social anxiety, panic attacks, relationship issues, difficulty adjusting to change, low self-worth, and issues related to grief and loss.
Initiating a phone call or e-mail to a therapist can feel intimidating, and takes a great deal of courage. The benefits, however, are immeasurable. By effectively utilizing the therapeutic relationship, I provide a warm, supportive environment where clients can comfortably express their true, authentic selves and gain the skills needed to manage painful emotions and difficult relationships. My treatment approach utilizes evidence-based practices, such as dialectical behavioral therapy (“DBT”), as well as acceptance and commitment therapy (“ACT”), in addition to a relational psychotherapeutic approach.
I work with individuals who struggle with major depression, social anxiety, panic attacks, relationship issues, difficulty adjusting to change, low self-worth, and issues related to grief and loss.
Initiating a phone call or e-mail to a therapist can feel intimidating, and takes a great deal of courage. The benefits, however, are immeasurable. By effectively utilizing the therapeutic relationship, I provide a warm, supportive environment where clients can comfortably express their true, authentic selves and gain the skills needed to manage painful emotions and difficult relationships. My treatment approach utilizes evidence-based practices, such as dialectical behavioral therapy (“DBT”), as well as acceptance and commitment therapy (“ACT”), in addition to a relational psychotherapeutic approach.
(224) 490-2772 View (224) 490-2772
Photo of Sara Lewis, MS, LCPC, CCATP, NCC, Counselor
Sara Lewis
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CCATP, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
You're not alone. Whether you or a loved one are dealing with a challenging situation or relationship, a tough transition, or a difficult decision - I’m here to help. I believe that no one should have to struggle alone and that there is a light at the end of every tunnel. I'm here to listen, support, and give valuable counsel while partnering with you to find options and solutions. I specialize in working with individuals and couples - college age through adults - dealing with anxiety, depression, relational difficulties, life stressors (divorce/single parenting), and phase-of-life transitions (midlife/empty nest).
You're not alone. Whether you or a loved one are dealing with a challenging situation or relationship, a tough transition, or a difficult decision - I’m here to help. I believe that no one should have to struggle alone and that there is a light at the end of every tunnel. I'm here to listen, support, and give valuable counsel while partnering with you to find options and solutions. I specialize in working with individuals and couples - college age through adults - dealing with anxiety, depression, relational difficulties, life stressors (divorce/single parenting), and phase-of-life transitions (midlife/empty nest).
(224) 479-0894 View (224) 479-0894
Photo of Lynne Sheban, PhD, Psychologist
Lynne Sheban
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Waitlist for new clients
While I have experience assisting with a wide variety of issues, I have a particular specialty helping with depression and anxiety.
Welcome to my practice! I am a licensed psychologist with a doctorate in both clinical and developmental psychology. I work with adults, adolescents, children, couples and families. I have training in various approaches to therapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and utilize those that best fit your needs. While we may look at your background to best understand your current situation, my primary focus is on improving your here and now functioning. I also coordinate care with your other providers or school personnel as needed. My clients find me to be very supportive, compassionate, and responsive to their needs.
While I have experience assisting with a wide variety of issues, I have a particular specialty helping with depression and anxiety.
Welcome to my practice! I am a licensed psychologist with a doctorate in both clinical and developmental psychology. I work with adults, adolescents, children, couples and families. I have training in various approaches to therapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and utilize those that best fit your needs. While we may look at your background to best understand your current situation, my primary focus is on improving your here and now functioning. I also coordinate care with your other providers or school personnel as needed. My clients find me to be very supportive, compassionate, and responsive to their needs.
(847) 302-0419 View (847) 302-0419
Photo of Rachel Cope, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Cope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I most commonly work with young people struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, suicide ideation, grief & loss, family conflict, and trauma.
Deciding to begin therapy is a brave step towards healing. As a therapist I strive to create a non-judgmental and caring space where you can explore yourself, your experiences, and your relationships. I meet you where you are in your journey and focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship. I believe people heal in relationship with others. No theory or intervention will be successful if you do not feel unconditionally accepted and supported by your therapist. It is a humbling experience to bear witness to others pain, and I do not take the responsibility lightly. I am honored to be a part of your story in some small way
I most commonly work with young people struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, suicide ideation, grief & loss, family conflict, and trauma.
Deciding to begin therapy is a brave step towards healing. As a therapist I strive to create a non-judgmental and caring space where you can explore yourself, your experiences, and your relationships. I meet you where you are in your journey and focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship. I believe people heal in relationship with others. No theory or intervention will be successful if you do not feel unconditionally accepted and supported by your therapist. It is a humbling experience to bear witness to others pain, and I do not take the responsibility lightly. I am honored to be a part of your story in some small way
(312) 766-5721 View (312) 766-5721
Photo of Sara R. Bartus, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara R. Bartus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults affected by anxiety disorders, depression, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), executive functioning challenges, behavioral challenges and social skills challenges. I also work with couples and families working on relationship challenges and with individuals who want to focus on parenting.
I specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults affected by anxiety disorders, depression, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), executive functioning challenges, behavioral challenges and social skills challenges. I also work with couples and families working on relationship challenges and with individuals who want to focus on parenting.
(847) 693-3862 View (847) 693-3862
Photo of Mariana Tokar, PsyD, Psychologist
Mariana Tokar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
As a licensed Clinical Psychologist, I specialize in work woth adolescents and adults in a private and comfortable office setting. I am experienced in individual and family therapy dealing with self-esteem, coping skills, stress, anxiety, depression, and serious mental illness. I conduct comprehensive psychologoical assessments to answer diagnostic questions and provide detailed information to shape the direction of therapy. (Click website link to see my practice and learn more!)
As a licensed Clinical Psychologist, I specialize in work woth adolescents and adults in a private and comfortable office setting. I am experienced in individual and family therapy dealing with self-esteem, coping skills, stress, anxiety, depression, and serious mental illness. I conduct comprehensive psychologoical assessments to answer diagnostic questions and provide detailed information to shape the direction of therapy. (Click website link to see my practice and learn more!)
(845) 868-4796 View (845) 868-4796
Photo of Mary Elston, MA, LCPC
Mary Elston
MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Are you overwhelmed & anxious? Are you experiencing burnout? Are you ready to receive support to work through life’s challenges & learn new skills? I am ready to support you & your goals! I grew up in the Northern Suburbs of Chicago, and I understand the weight expectations and responsibilities can place on children and adults. I am passionate about working with children, teens, young adults, adults, athletes, couples, families & parents who present with a range of struggles such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, performance anxiety, burnout, intimacy issues, & social anxiety.
Are you overwhelmed & anxious? Are you experiencing burnout? Are you ready to receive support to work through life’s challenges & learn new skills? I am ready to support you & your goals! I grew up in the Northern Suburbs of Chicago, and I understand the weight expectations and responsibilities can place on children and adults. I am passionate about working with children, teens, young adults, adults, athletes, couples, families & parents who present with a range of struggles such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, performance anxiety, burnout, intimacy issues, & social anxiety.
(847) 807-1845 View (847) 807-1845
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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.