Depression Therapists in Riverwoods, IL

Photo of Oksoon Cho - Chicago Mental Health Institute, PhD, NCC, LCPC, ACS, Counselor
Chicago Mental Health Institute
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LCPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Riverwoods, IL 60015
Her specialties include immigrant women's issues, couple and parenting issues, children and adolescent issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
Dr. Oksoon Cho is the founder of the Chicago Mental Health Institute (CMHI) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a counselor educator, and clinical supervisor. Her approach is integrative with Multicultural Counseling, Client-Centered, CBT, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused, EMDR, Strength-Based, and play therapy. CMHI provides in-person sessions and telemental health services for culturally diverse clients in English and Korean. To meet our professional team, visit www.KOREANcounseling.com and www.CHICAGOmhi.com.
Her specialties include immigrant women's issues, couple and parenting issues, children and adolescent issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
Dr. Oksoon Cho is the founder of the Chicago Mental Health Institute (CMHI) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a counselor educator, and clinical supervisor. Her approach is integrative with Multicultural Counseling, Client-Centered, CBT, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused, EMDR, Strength-Based, and play therapy. CMHI provides in-person sessions and telemental health services for culturally diverse clients in English and Korean. To meet our professional team, visit www.KOREANcounseling.com and www.CHICAGOmhi.com.
(630) 556-8162 View (630) 556-8162
Photo of Maria N Feldgreber, MS, LCPC
Maria N Feldgreber
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Riverwoods, IL 60015
I am committed to providing high quality psychological care for individuals, children and families who are facing a variety of issues in their lives. Whether your needs are for short-term problem solving or long-term growth work, we can work collaboratively to create goals for the future. Helping clients with issues such as ADD/ODD, Behavior Issues, Depression and Anxiety, Divorce issues, Family Counseling, Grief Counseling, Hospice Counseling, Individual Counseling and School Issues.
I am committed to providing high quality psychological care for individuals, children and families who are facing a variety of issues in their lives. Whether your needs are for short-term problem solving or long-term growth work, we can work collaboratively to create goals for the future. Helping clients with issues such as ADD/ODD, Behavior Issues, Depression and Anxiety, Divorce issues, Family Counseling, Grief Counseling, Hospice Counseling, Individual Counseling and School Issues.
(224) 249-6006 View (224) 249-6006
Photo of April Lococo, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
April Lococo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Riverwoods, IL 60015
I bring passion, empathy, and extensive experience treating Substance Use Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Trauma, and Mood Disorders.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 10 years post-master’s degree diverse clinical experience with children, adolescents, and adults. It is an essential part of my therapeutic approach to implement evidence-based best practices while encouraging cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion.
I bring passion, empathy, and extensive experience treating Substance Use Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Trauma, and Mood Disorders.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 10 years post-master’s degree diverse clinical experience with children, adolescents, and adults. It is an essential part of my therapeutic approach to implement evidence-based best practices while encouraging cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion.
(708) 726-3144 View (708) 726-3144
Photo of Barbara Siegel, LCPC, ICDVP, CCTP, Counselor
Barbara Siegel
Counselor, LCPC, ICDVP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Riverwoods, IL 60015
Divorce is a difficult transition. It is an emotional upheaval that unleashes a multitude of fears and losses. In my 25 years of experience, the men and women I have counseled who were facing divorce, showed a marked improvement when they had a supported safe place to work through their fears, mourn their losses, and move on with their lives. I offer counseling to help reduce the anxiety and de-escalate these emotions while helping you to have a better understanding of the legal process. My extensive legal knowledge and experience can save you time and money as you navigate the legal system.
Divorce is a difficult transition. It is an emotional upheaval that unleashes a multitude of fears and losses. In my 25 years of experience, the men and women I have counseled who were facing divorce, showed a marked improvement when they had a supported safe place to work through their fears, mourn their losses, and move on with their lives. I offer counseling to help reduce the anxiety and de-escalate these emotions while helping you to have a better understanding of the legal process. My extensive legal knowledge and experience can save you time and money as you navigate the legal system.
(224) 231-6925 View (224) 231-6925
Photo of Lisa Moss, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Moss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverwoods, IL 60015
Waitlist for new clients
As a clinical social worker, I see myself as a coach, working to reduce anxiety by identifying the patterns that have created problems and stress in your life and formulating a plan for change. I believe change is possible at any age or stage of life. As a certified Parenting Effectiveness Instructor, I can support parents in improving communication with their children, reducing power struggles and managing their own anxiety to become more confident and effective.
As a clinical social worker, I see myself as a coach, working to reduce anxiety by identifying the patterns that have created problems and stress in your life and formulating a plan for change. I believe change is possible at any age or stage of life. As a certified Parenting Effectiveness Instructor, I can support parents in improving communication with their children, reducing power struggles and managing their own anxiety to become more confident and effective.
(847) 834-9953 View (847) 834-9953
Photo of Teresa Gonzalez, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverwoods, IL 60015
Are you noticing that at times life is difficult to cope with? Do you want to gain a deeper understanding of yourself in an effort to promote overall wellness? I understand that the healing process can become a bit frustrating and confusing, overcoming the challenges of life is not always easy. I fully recognize that every individual has a different background and deals with a unique set of challenges. But we have the capacity to get up from each fall and regain strength to move forward. If we give ourselves the opportunity, this can be something that can make us strong and resilient people. Thank you for taking the step to be here.
Are you noticing that at times life is difficult to cope with? Do you want to gain a deeper understanding of yourself in an effort to promote overall wellness? I understand that the healing process can become a bit frustrating and confusing, overcoming the challenges of life is not always easy. I fully recognize that every individual has a different background and deals with a unique set of challenges. But we have the capacity to get up from each fall and regain strength to move forward. If we give ourselves the opportunity, this can be something that can make us strong and resilient people. Thank you for taking the step to be here.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Aaron Petersen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aaron Petersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
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 Vilija Ball, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Vilija Ball
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
My broad expertise gained through clinical practice, advanced training, and as a professor helps me facilitate change for individuals of all ages, families, and couples from diverse cultural backgrounds and to help those suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, insomnia, eating disorders, behavioral and relationship issues, and other concerns.
I enjoy helping individuals heal, see breakthroughs, and increase their resilience and ability to find effective approaches to their presenting concerns.  My passion is to empower clients to manage life difficulties that encroach on their envisioned life architecture by gently identifying and removing obstacles, learning adaptive coping, finding meaning and strength, and sometimes rebuilding from the very foundation when faced with life-changing adversities.  Issues germinate and gain destructive power if ignored or dealt with using unhelpful distractions, so you can feel good about taking that first step to call me with no delay.
My broad expertise gained through clinical practice, advanced training, and as a professor helps me facilitate change for individuals of all ages, families, and couples from diverse cultural backgrounds and to help those suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, insomnia, eating disorders, behavioral and relationship issues, and other concerns.
I enjoy helping individuals heal, see breakthroughs, and increase their resilience and ability to find effective approaches to their presenting concerns.  My passion is to empower clients to manage life difficulties that encroach on their envisioned life architecture by gently identifying and removing obstacles, learning adaptive coping, finding meaning and strength, and sometimes rebuilding from the very foundation when faced with life-changing adversities.  Issues germinate and gain destructive power if ignored or dealt with using unhelpful distractions, so you can feel good about taking that first step to call me with no delay.
(833) 710-7770 x3 View (833) 710-7770 x3
Photo of Stacey Max, PsyD, Psychologist
Stacey Max
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I specialize in helping adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting challenges, ADHD, eating disorders, and trouble with life stressors and adjustments.
Therapy can be a very emotional and rewarding experience. Treatment is most successful when you feel a strong connection with your therapist based on comfort and trust. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment to allow you to explore deeply personal issues and patterns in your life. I use a collaborative therapeutic approach to help you gain insight, set goals, and develop realistic strategies based on your strengths to increase your overall happiness and satisfaction in life.
I specialize in helping adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting challenges, ADHD, eating disorders, and trouble with life stressors and adjustments.
Therapy can be a very emotional and rewarding experience. Treatment is most successful when you feel a strong connection with your therapist based on comfort and trust. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment to allow you to explore deeply personal issues and patterns in your life. I use a collaborative therapeutic approach to help you gain insight, set goals, and develop realistic strategies based on your strengths to increase your overall happiness and satisfaction in life.
(847) 416-2652 View (847) 416-2652
Photo of Hillary Schoninger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hillary Schoninger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
Hi! I’m Hillary. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Families, Minors, Preteens, and Couples with Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Self Esteem, and Family Conflict. In therapy, I typically use a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), Holistic, Compassion Focused, and Strength-Based approaches. I believe in creating an open and positive environment where my clients can feel comfortable growing.
Hi! I’m Hillary. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Families, Minors, Preteens, and Couples with Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Self Esteem, and Family Conflict. In therapy, I typically use a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), Holistic, Compassion Focused, and Strength-Based approaches. I believe in creating an open and positive environment where my clients can feel comfortable growing.
(815) 345-2077 View (815) 345-2077
Photo of Jennifer Welbel Lcpc, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jennifer Welbel Lcpc
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
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 Cathy J. Drucker - Cathy Drucker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy Drucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
In June of 2023, I will reach forty years as a psychotherapist. I have practiced in the states of Ohio, Arizona, and currently in Illinois. I have worked with a wide range client population. My six specialties include adolescent and adult substance abuse, anger management, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and stress management. Other areas include all those stated in this profile. Moreover, I provide individual, couples counseling, family therapy, and group therapy. Making the decision to get counseling, can be a very anxiety provoking situation. Actually, taking the step to get counseling is an enormous strength!
In June of 2023, I will reach forty years as a psychotherapist. I have practiced in the states of Ohio, Arizona, and currently in Illinois. I have worked with a wide range client population. My six specialties include adolescent and adult substance abuse, anger management, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and stress management. Other areas include all those stated in this profile. Moreover, I provide individual, couples counseling, family therapy, and group therapy. Making the decision to get counseling, can be a very anxiety provoking situation. Actually, taking the step to get counseling is an enormous strength!
(847) 331-7292 View (847) 331-7292
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 Phillip Lee, MEd, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phillip Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks a non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and reality. They may face trauma, substance use, behavioral concerns, stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, gender identity, cultural challenges, or sexuality questions. They could be teens, adults 18+, parents, or families looking for support. Their goal is to feel heard, understood, and empowered, creating lasting change beyond our sessions. They desire a supportive, empathetic environment to achieve personal growth.
My ideal client seeks a non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and reality. They may face trauma, substance use, behavioral concerns, stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, grief, gender identity, cultural challenges, or sexuality questions. They could be teens, adults 18+, parents, or families looking for support. Their goal is to feel heard, understood, and empowered, creating lasting change beyond our sessions. They desire a supportive, empathetic environment to achieve personal growth.
(708) 381-1740 View (708) 381-1740
Photo of Jacqueline Ritz, LCPC, Counselor
Jacqueline Ritz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist who specializes in helping clients with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, mood instability, addictions and relationship issues. My therapeutic lens is existential, and I implement an integrative approach to assist in uncovering self-defeating thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interfering with present-day living. Specializing in DBT, cognitive behavioral and trauma based modalities, my greatest hope is to bring out the best in you, help heal past wounds and shift negative perceptions into positive outcomes, and build mindful awareness of living life in the present moment.
I am a psychotherapist who specializes in helping clients with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, mood instability, addictions and relationship issues. My therapeutic lens is existential, and I implement an integrative approach to assist in uncovering self-defeating thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interfering with present-day living. Specializing in DBT, cognitive behavioral and trauma based modalities, my greatest hope is to bring out the best in you, help heal past wounds and shift negative perceptions into positive outcomes, and build mindful awareness of living life in the present moment.
(847) 654-9841 View (847) 654-9841
Photo of Jan Gosselin, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jan Gosselin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
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
Deerfield, IL 60015
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 Ronald Villejo, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ronald Villejo
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Prairie View, IL 60069
His main areas of focus include depression and anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, ADHD with school and behavioral problems, and eating disorders among adults and adolescents.
Ron Villejo is a clinician, who has been practicing since 1981. He graduated from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago with a PhD in clinical psychology. Ron believes in understanding the underlying reasons for one's mental health struggles, which may be described as psychodynamic or insight-oriented therapy. At the same time, it's also important to look at practical ways to feel better, such as reframing how one looks at these struggles, part of a cognitive-behavioral approach.
His main areas of focus include depression and anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, ADHD with school and behavioral problems, and eating disorders among adults and adolescents.
Ron Villejo is a clinician, who has been practicing since 1981. He graduated from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago with a PhD in clinical psychology. Ron believes in understanding the underlying reasons for one's mental health struggles, which may be described as psychodynamic or insight-oriented therapy. At the same time, it's also important to look at practical ways to feel better, such as reframing how one looks at these struggles, part of a cognitive-behavioral approach.
(847) 551-0238 View (847) 551-0238
Photo of Lauren Madden, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Lauren Madden
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Utilizing a variety of approaches and styles, my passion is helping individuals and systems overcome life changes, stressors, and figuring out the “why”. I have experience supporting those of all ages with depression, anxiety, executive functioning issues, career development, and most recently, I spent 2 years leading facilities catered to those struggling with the disease of addiction. Discomfort comes from incongruence within yourself - between what is present and what you’d like to be. You are the expert on your life, and together we can make sure you are on the path to being the best version of you possible!
Utilizing a variety of approaches and styles, my passion is helping individuals and systems overcome life changes, stressors, and figuring out the “why”. I have experience supporting those of all ages with depression, anxiety, executive functioning issues, career development, and most recently, I spent 2 years leading facilities catered to those struggling with the disease of addiction. Discomfort comes from incongruence within yourself - between what is present and what you’d like to be. You are the expert on your life, and together we can make sure you are on the path to being the best version of you possible!
(224) 218-5091 View (224) 218-5091
Photo of Amy Edelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Edelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (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 View (224) 208-1186

See more therapy options for Riverwoods

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.