Depression Therapists in Oswego, IL

Photo of Michelle Locke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Locke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Hello, My name is Michelle Locke. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been actively practicing as a social worker since 1996 and as an LCSW since 2015. My skill set and professional experience lend themselves to supporting various individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), and Spirituality. I enjoy keeping people in therapy through Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Compassion Focused, Strength-Based, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe that treatment helps people find true hope and healing for the pain we experience at times in life.
Hello, My name is Michelle Locke. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been actively practicing as a social worker since 1996 and as an LCSW since 2015. My skill set and professional experience lend themselves to supporting various individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), and Spirituality. I enjoy keeping people in therapy through Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Compassion Focused, Strength-Based, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe that treatment helps people find true hope and healing for the pain we experience at times in life.
(618) 268-5043 View (618) 268-5043
Photo of Raul Arambula, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raul Arambula
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Raul S. Arambula, MSW, LCSW, is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. Armed with a Master’s of Social Work from Southern Illinois University, Raul specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to guide individuals through challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, coping skills, and self-esteem. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Raul possesses a profound understanding of the Latinx community and diverse cultures. This enables him to establish meaningful connections and provide culturally sensitive therapy.
Raul S. Arambula, MSW, LCSW, is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. Armed with a Master’s of Social Work from Southern Illinois University, Raul specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to guide individuals through challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, coping skills, and self-esteem. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Raul possesses a profound understanding of the Latinx community and diverse cultures. This enables him to establish meaningful connections and provide culturally sensitive therapy.
(331) 276-6276 View (331) 276-6276
Photo of Kyle Opperman-Hill, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Opperman-Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543  (Online Only)
I have experience working with families, teens and adults with mood dysregulation, depression, ADHD, anxiety, grief, trauma, and issues with substance use.
I believe the most significant element of successful therapy is the genuine bond between the client and therapist. My approach to therapy is interactive, nonjudgmental, and empathic. I strive to create a warm and nurturing environment so you feel comfortable to communicate the challenges you face in your life. My goal is to help you better understand your relationship with your innermost self, your needs and how the patterns of your choices affect your life. If you notice signs of depression, anxiety, ADHD, or strained family relationships, we can work together to sort through it and create a more solid path forward.
I have experience working with families, teens and adults with mood dysregulation, depression, ADHD, anxiety, grief, trauma, and issues with substance use.
I believe the most significant element of successful therapy is the genuine bond between the client and therapist. My approach to therapy is interactive, nonjudgmental, and empathic. I strive to create a warm and nurturing environment so you feel comfortable to communicate the challenges you face in your life. My goal is to help you better understand your relationship with your innermost self, your needs and how the patterns of your choices affect your life. If you notice signs of depression, anxiety, ADHD, or strained family relationships, we can work together to sort through it and create a more solid path forward.
(331) 258-3389 View (331) 258-3389
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
(331) 444-7455 View (331) 444-7455
Photo of Diane Brasfield, LCSW, MAEL, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Brasfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAEL, PEL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
I believe in the power of one’s strengths, and my focus is on helping my client find theirs. What is holding you back? I have developed a rich and diverse skill set through my experience as a school social worker. I believe in collaboration and creating a warm, inviting environment. I am committed to my client’s well-being. I practice solution-focused and strengths-based approaches in addressing various challenges such as stress, anxiety, anger, depression and adjustment disorders as well as school related issues.
I believe in the power of one’s strengths, and my focus is on helping my client find theirs. What is holding you back? I have developed a rich and diverse skill set through my experience as a school social worker. I believe in collaboration and creating a warm, inviting environment. I am committed to my client’s well-being. I practice solution-focused and strengths-based approaches in addressing various challenges such as stress, anxiety, anger, depression and adjustment disorders as well as school related issues.
(331) 253-4431 View (331) 253-4431
Photo of Amanda Comer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Comer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I use evidenced based treatment to soothe symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress of life challenges.
My ideal client is someone who is interested in getting to know themselves better with a willingness to change and try something new, someone who may be seeking clarity and inner peace. I welcome a variety of clients from different backgrounds, cultures, genders, and stories. My ideal client would also have a bit of a sense of humor along with willingness to get deeper.
I use evidenced based treatment to soothe symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress of life challenges.
My ideal client is someone who is interested in getting to know themselves better with a willingness to change and try something new, someone who may be seeking clarity and inner peace. I welcome a variety of clients from different backgrounds, cultures, genders, and stories. My ideal client would also have a bit of a sense of humor along with willingness to get deeper.
(331) 267-7768 View (331) 267-7768
Photo of Kyle Fiore, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Fiore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Kyle Fiore is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Kyle takes a no-nonsense approach to helping his clients. He is empathetic and soothing. Kyle tries to bring humor and his genuine self into sessions. His clinical interests include helping others struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, emerging adulthood, and gaming culture. Kyle is confident that, together, he can help you heal and help you move forward in life differently. His therapeutic style is firmly rooted in a client-centered approach.
Kyle Fiore is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Kyle takes a no-nonsense approach to helping his clients. He is empathetic and soothing. Kyle tries to bring humor and his genuine self into sessions. His clinical interests include helping others struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, emerging adulthood, and gaming culture. Kyle is confident that, together, he can help you heal and help you move forward in life differently. His therapeutic style is firmly rooted in a client-centered approach.
(331) 235-9007 View (331) 235-9007
Photo of Gita Mahanti, MA, LCSW, CYT, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gita Mahanti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, CYT, SEP
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I have experience providing services to those who have struggles with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems and stress management.
Therapy involves empathy, a nonjudgmental attitude and the creation of a safe space where you learn to break free of old ideas and patterns that are restricting your happiness. The relationship between the therapist and the client is the foundation for therapeutic change. I value the impact of one’s culture and life circumstances all the while recognizing the importance of one’s relationships and sense of belonging. I know the importance of needing to be acknowledged during life’s most difficult times. I strive to provide an atmosphere of warmth to foster unconditional regard and a deeper understanding of life’s problems.
I have experience providing services to those who have struggles with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems and stress management.
Therapy involves empathy, a nonjudgmental attitude and the creation of a safe space where you learn to break free of old ideas and patterns that are restricting your happiness. The relationship between the therapist and the client is the foundation for therapeutic change. I value the impact of one’s culture and life circumstances all the while recognizing the importance of one’s relationships and sense of belonging. I know the importance of needing to be acknowledged during life’s most difficult times. I strive to provide an atmosphere of warmth to foster unconditional regard and a deeper understanding of life’s problems.
(331) 271-1154 View (331) 271-1154
Photo of Araceli Ascencio, MSEd,  LCPC, Counselor
Araceli Ascencio
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Araceli Ascencio, LCPC, is dedicated to helping individuals across Illinois navigate the complexities of life with empathy and expertise. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, or life transitions, Araceli is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for you to explore your challenges and work towards healing. Specializing in individual and group therapy, she serves a diverse population, including teens, adults, and seniors, with a focus on cultural effectiveness and inclusion. Her collaborative and clientcentered approach ensures that therapy is tailored to each person's unique strengths and needs.
Araceli Ascencio, LCPC, is dedicated to helping individuals across Illinois navigate the complexities of life with empathy and expertise. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, or life transitions, Araceli is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for you to explore your challenges and work towards healing. Specializing in individual and group therapy, she serves a diverse population, including teens, adults, and seniors, with a focus on cultural effectiveness and inclusion. Her collaborative and clientcentered approach ensures that therapy is tailored to each person's unique strengths and needs.
(855) 641-1658 View (855) 641-1658
Photo of Christine Caputo, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Christine Caputo
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
I work with a number of clients clients including adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Several issues I feel comfortable working with include anxiety, depression, stress management, grief issues, adjustment and change issues, Bipolar Disorders, working through past trauma, issues with self-injury, suicidal ideation, sexual/verbal/emotional/physical abuse issues, self-esteem/self-worth issues, bullying, communication issues, sexual or intimacy struggles. I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community and other gender and sexually diverse populations.
(815) 709-0306 View (815) 709-0306
Photo of Fio Millon, MA, LCPC
Fio Millon
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
Whether you are dealing with issues of anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, self-esteem, or other of life’s hurdles, I would consider it a privilege to assist you in getting over them.
It feels hopeless. It is intimidating. It may even feel insurmountable. It is the pain of life, and it is real. But, what if I told you it is not hopeless? That you hold the key to making things better. Seeking help can feel equally daunting, but it is the first step of breaking through the negative cloud of despair. I meet my clients where they are in their life’s journey and I consider myself a “fellow traveler.” I join them it that journey to help them gain insight, to provide perspective, and to collaborate and determine the best course of treatment to regain the direction of their destination.
Whether you are dealing with issues of anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, self-esteem, or other of life’s hurdles, I would consider it a privilege to assist you in getting over them.
It feels hopeless. It is intimidating. It may even feel insurmountable. It is the pain of life, and it is real. But, what if I told you it is not hopeless? That you hold the key to making things better. Seeking help can feel equally daunting, but it is the first step of breaking through the negative cloud of despair. I meet my clients where they are in their life’s journey and I consider myself a “fellow traveler.” I join them it that journey to help them gain insight, to provide perspective, and to collaborate and determine the best course of treatment to regain the direction of their destination.
(630) 474-6828 View (630) 474-6828
Photo of Ana Drake, LCPC, Counselor
Ana Drake
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543  (Online Only)
I have been providing therapy in treatment of anxiety, depression, anger/stress management, body image issues, coping skills, self-esteem, and cultural adaptation for the last 8 years in the US and previously in Brazil. I help adult clients of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, and cultures. I typically counsel in English but can also accommodate Portuguese speakers.
I have been providing therapy in treatment of anxiety, depression, anger/stress management, body image issues, coping skills, self-esteem, and cultural adaptation for the last 8 years in the US and previously in Brazil. I help adult clients of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, and cultures. I typically counsel in English but can also accommodate Portuguese speakers.
(331) 267-6656 View (331) 267-6656
Photo of Amanda Hutera, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Hutera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I specialize in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, grief/loss, trauma, caregiver burnout, self-esteem issues, illness, and more.
I understand how hard it is to take the first step to reach out to speak with someone about your inner most thoughts, feelings, and struggles. I will listen to you, help you learn tools to improve the way you feel, and provide a warm, supportive, non-judgmental environment for you to share. I look forward to building a therapeutic partnership with you to help you reach your goals, learn healthy coping skills, and empower you to make positive changes in your life. Please take the first step to finding the help that you need and deserve.
I specialize in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, grief/loss, trauma, caregiver burnout, self-esteem issues, illness, and more.
I understand how hard it is to take the first step to reach out to speak with someone about your inner most thoughts, feelings, and struggles. I will listen to you, help you learn tools to improve the way you feel, and provide a warm, supportive, non-judgmental environment for you to share. I look forward to building a therapeutic partnership with you to help you reach your goals, learn healthy coping skills, and empower you to make positive changes in your life. Please take the first step to finding the help that you need and deserve.
(331) 267-4932 View (331) 267-4932
Photo of Laura Donavon, LCSW, CADC, CODP I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Donavon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CODP I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
My practice experience covers a range of presenting concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, challenging relationship dynamics, court ordered treatment, and life transitions.
With over 25 years of social work practice experience and over 10 years as a social work educator, I consider it a privilege to be able to partner with others to identify strategies to overcome current challenges, and navigate life stressors. I have extensive experience and expansive knowledge working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and emerging professionals. Empathetic, strengths-based approaches are the core of the focus of my work.
My practice experience covers a range of presenting concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, challenging relationship dynamics, court ordered treatment, and life transitions.
With over 25 years of social work practice experience and over 10 years as a social work educator, I consider it a privilege to be able to partner with others to identify strategies to overcome current challenges, and navigate life stressors. I have extensive experience and expansive knowledge working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and emerging professionals. Empathetic, strengths-based approaches are the core of the focus of my work.
(331) 253-5726 View (331) 253-5726
Photo of Miranda Brennan, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
My specialties include individual and family support counseling in order to help clients work through various issues such as anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment disorder, and social skills.
I earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at Aurora University in Aurora, IL, and am a Licensed Social Worker. I have provided counseling to clients since 2021 in a variety of settings, including residential, outpatient, and community mental health. My professional experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and children. I specializes in engaging with adolescents who may be experiencing a multitude of behavioral and mental struggles including anxiety and depression.
My specialties include individual and family support counseling in order to help clients work through various issues such as anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment disorder, and social skills.
I earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at Aurora University in Aurora, IL, and am a Licensed Social Worker. I have provided counseling to clients since 2021 in a variety of settings, including residential, outpatient, and community mental health. My professional experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and children. I specializes in engaging with adolescents who may be experiencing a multitude of behavioral and mental struggles including anxiety and depression.
(815) 660-0945 View (815) 660-0945
Photo of Robert Bender, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Bender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
He helps individuals, families, and groups struggling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, and more.
Rob Bender, LCSW, CADC, helps clients experience immediate and sustained relief, improved mood, and enhanced performance. He supports children, adolescents and adults with identifying and building on strengths. Rob received an undergraduate degree from Illinois Benedictine and an MSW from Aurora University. He has over 20 years of experience in corporate therapy, private practice, schools, and juvenile probation. In addition to his counseling experience, Rob served as an adjunct professor for graduate and undergraduate clinical programs at Aurora University. In therapy, Rob specializes in a strength-based, solution-focused approach.
He helps individuals, families, and groups struggling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, and more.
Rob Bender, LCSW, CADC, helps clients experience immediate and sustained relief, improved mood, and enhanced performance. He supports children, adolescents and adults with identifying and building on strengths. Rob received an undergraduate degree from Illinois Benedictine and an MSW from Aurora University. He has over 20 years of experience in corporate therapy, private practice, schools, and juvenile probation. In addition to his counseling experience, Rob served as an adjunct professor for graduate and undergraduate clinical programs at Aurora University. In therapy, Rob specializes in a strength-based, solution-focused approach.
(708) 627-2338 View (708) 627-2338
Photo of Meghan Peters, LSW, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Meghan Peters
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
I am particularly interested in supporting individuals, facing challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal conflict.
I passionately believe in the transformative power of embracing one's inner shine and strength. With warmth and empathy, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through a strengths-based approach, I help individuals recognize their unique talents, resilience, and capacity for growth. My therapeutic style is grounded in authenticity and compassion, creating a calm space for clients to explore challenges, recognize their inherent strengths, and move toward solutions. I work to help clients embrace their authenticity, shine brightly in their lives, and harness their inner strength to overcome obstacles.
I am particularly interested in supporting individuals, facing challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal conflict.
I passionately believe in the transformative power of embracing one's inner shine and strength. With warmth and empathy, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through a strengths-based approach, I help individuals recognize their unique talents, resilience, and capacity for growth. My therapeutic style is grounded in authenticity and compassion, creating a calm space for clients to explore challenges, recognize their inherent strengths, and move toward solutions. I work to help clients embrace their authenticity, shine brightly in their lives, and harness their inner strength to overcome obstacles.
(815) 745-5982 View (815) 745-5982
Photo of Mary Ann Griffith, MAC, LCPC, Counselor
Mary Ann Griffith
Counselor, MAC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
People don't just want to be listened to, they want to know you "get it", so that you can really help them. When an individual feels "gotten" a connection will form and a nonjudgmental environment is created. I believe in individualizing treatment to each client's needs. I help individuals and couples address various types of issues like symptoms of anxiety, depression, and relational conflict I specialize in Mood disorders, PTSD and Family and Marital conflict.
People don't just want to be listened to, they want to know you "get it", so that you can really help them. When an individual feels "gotten" a connection will form and a nonjudgmental environment is created. I believe in individualizing treatment to each client's needs. I help individuals and couples address various types of issues like symptoms of anxiety, depression, and relational conflict I specialize in Mood disorders, PTSD and Family and Marital conflict.
(331) 207-3033 View (331) 207-3033
Photo of Althea Olson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Althea Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, obsessions, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, chronic mental illness, trauma, and couples counseling.
You are the focus! With over 30 years of experience as a seasoned clinician, I recognize the uniqueness of each person who walks through my door. As the client, you guide the pace of treatment, and together as a team, we identify the steps to enhance your quality of life. Whether you seek short-term sessions or a more extended journey, I'm here to help you create the life you desire and navigate challenges, be it a life transition, a relationship issue, or a lifelong wound. Let's work together on this journey.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, obsessions, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, chronic mental illness, trauma, and couples counseling.
You are the focus! With over 30 years of experience as a seasoned clinician, I recognize the uniqueness of each person who walks through my door. As the client, you guide the pace of treatment, and together as a team, we identify the steps to enhance your quality of life. Whether you seek short-term sessions or a more extended journey, I'm here to help you create the life you desire and navigate challenges, be it a life transition, a relationship issue, or a lifelong wound. Let's work together on this journey.
(815) 661-2951 View (815) 661-2951
Photo of Dr. Kristy Camille-McKiness, EdD, LCPC, ACS, Counselor
Dr. Kristy Camille-McKiness
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
I believe that the 'fit' with a therapist is one of the most important aspects of the therapy process. I am the founder of KM Institute; a private practice that is dedicated to customizing your unique needs in order to ensure an effective 'fit' for your therapy process. I bring over years of experience working in schools, jail, residential, emergency room, and outpatient settings. I am dedicated to helping adolescents, adults, couples, and families with finding and implementing tools that help them reach their goals, and improve their emotional health. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, first responders, depression, and anxiety.
I believe that the 'fit' with a therapist is one of the most important aspects of the therapy process. I am the founder of KM Institute; a private practice that is dedicated to customizing your unique needs in order to ensure an effective 'fit' for your therapy process. I bring over years of experience working in schools, jail, residential, emergency room, and outpatient settings. I am dedicated to helping adolescents, adults, couples, and families with finding and implementing tools that help them reach their goals, and improve their emotional health. My specialties include trauma/PTSD, first responders, depression, and anxiety.
(331) 425-6162 View (331) 425-6162
1
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.