Photo of Susan M Shanks, LPC, LCPC, CAMS-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan M Shanks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
My specialty areas include: supervising interns & post grads, anger management, domestic violence, anxiety, grief, depression, bipolar, and ADHD.
Are you looking for a therapist that you can easily relate to? Someone who is easy to talk with? I am that therapist. Having overcome much adversity in my own life, I have the capacity to truly understand clients. I offer individual, child, couples, family, pastoral, and group counseling. The techniques I use in therapy are evidence-based. These include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Therapy, Existential Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
My specialty areas include: supervising interns & post grads, anger management, domestic violence, anxiety, grief, depression, bipolar, and ADHD.
Are you looking for a therapist that you can easily relate to? Someone who is easy to talk with? I am that therapist. Having overcome much adversity in my own life, I have the capacity to truly understand clients. I offer individual, child, couples, family, pastoral, and group counseling. The techniques I use in therapy are evidence-based. These include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Therapy, Existential Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
(815) 908-9903 View (815) 908-9903
Photo of William C Edleman, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William C Edleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
Sadness, frustration, irritability, loneliness, and feelings of emptiness are signs and symptoms of mood disorders, panic disovers, grief, anxiety and depression.
Since I've received my master's degree I have provided mental health services in the Northern IL and Suburban Chicago as a Licensed Social Worker for over 30 years. I use cognitive/ behavioral therapy to provide, I found most current studies indicate that cognitive/ behavioral therapy is to be most effective for many mood disorders and panic disorders. I listen,interact, and provide you with the proper "tools" and education to help you help yourself to a more efficient, happier lifestyle.
Sadness, frustration, irritability, loneliness, and feelings of emptiness are signs and symptoms of mood disorders, panic disovers, grief, anxiety and depression.
Since I've received my master's degree I have provided mental health services in the Northern IL and Suburban Chicago as a Licensed Social Worker for over 30 years. I use cognitive/ behavioral therapy to provide, I found most current studies indicate that cognitive/ behavioral therapy is to be most effective for many mood disorders and panic disorders. I listen,interact, and provide you with the proper "tools" and education to help you help yourself to a more efficient, happier lifestyle.
(815) 290-0668 x2 View (815) 290-0668 x2
Photo of Cindy A Stear - Connections Therapy Center, PsyD, MS, MSCP, BS, Psychologist
Connections Therapy Center
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MSCP, BS
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
Dr. Stear offers 30 years experience compassionately serving children, adolescents, adults and families. Receive expert assistance solving anxiety, depression, relationship issues, medical concerns, as well as the full range of treatment needs. Hypnosis, play therapy, executive coaching, psychological testing, and life style wellness coaching are available in addition to individualized therapy. Additionally, she has built a play therapy, art therapy and yoga space at the office. Meditation practice, yoga classes, pet therapy, & support groups are all available. It is Dr. Stear's highest honor to serve you and your loved ones.
Dr. Stear offers 30 years experience compassionately serving children, adolescents, adults and families. Receive expert assistance solving anxiety, depression, relationship issues, medical concerns, as well as the full range of treatment needs. Hypnosis, play therapy, executive coaching, psychological testing, and life style wellness coaching are available in addition to individualized therapy. Additionally, she has built a play therapy, art therapy and yoga space at the office. Meditation practice, yoga classes, pet therapy, & support groups are all available. It is Dr. Stear's highest honor to serve you and your loved ones.
(815) 270-5292 View (815) 270-5292
Photo of Monica Benton, MA, LCPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Benton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roscoe, IL 61073
My experience includes depression, anxiety, trauma, family of origin issues, and help with decision making.
I believe that life is a journey with moments including lessons, hardships, and celebrations. All can lead us towards personal growth- especially with some help along the way. We are all equipped with the ability to make choices that redefine our lives and, in the process, find peace in the midst of suffering. We are not defined by our weaknesses, strengths, past traumas, choices, or diagnoses. Rather, we are all equipped with the inner strength to change our destiny. Together, we can work together to help achieve your goals so we can live a richer life and learn to play in the rain.
My experience includes depression, anxiety, trauma, family of origin issues, and help with decision making.
I believe that life is a journey with moments including lessons, hardships, and celebrations. All can lead us towards personal growth- especially with some help along the way. We are all equipped with the ability to make choices that redefine our lives and, in the process, find peace in the midst of suffering. We are not defined by our weaknesses, strengths, past traumas, choices, or diagnoses. Rather, we are all equipped with the inner strength to change our destiny. Together, we can work together to help achieve your goals so we can live a richer life and learn to play in the rain.
(847) 423-6095 View (847) 423-6095
Photo of Jamie Renee Wagner - HOPE Child and Family Counseling/Teen & Adult Tx, MA, LCPC, RPT-S, Counselor
HOPE Child and Family Counseling/Teen & Adult Tx
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roscoe, IL 61073
Adult therapy address depression, anxiety, family dynamics/relationship issues, parenting, self-esteem, trauma, and PTSD.
The counselors at HOPE - Child and Family Counseling/Adolescent and Adult Therapy specialize in therapy to promote emotional healing across the lifespan. We provide an atmosphere of acceptance and hope. Our skills are grounded in interpersonal connections and current interventions in neurobiology, attachment, cognitive-behavioral, trauma, family systems, child/play therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and more. We apply principles that treat the whole person while knowing that the body, mind, and social world can interplay with how we feel, think, and navigate through life. Locations: Roscoe, IL, Gurnee, IL, and Janesville, WI.
Adult therapy address depression, anxiety, family dynamics/relationship issues, parenting, self-esteem, trauma, and PTSD.
The counselors at HOPE - Child and Family Counseling/Adolescent and Adult Therapy specialize in therapy to promote emotional healing across the lifespan. We provide an atmosphere of acceptance and hope. Our skills are grounded in interpersonal connections and current interventions in neurobiology, attachment, cognitive-behavioral, trauma, family systems, child/play therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and more. We apply principles that treat the whole person while knowing that the body, mind, and social world can interplay with how we feel, think, and navigate through life. Locations: Roscoe, IL, Gurnee, IL, and Janesville, WI.
(815) 977-8751 View (815) 977-8751
Photo of Tarica Riley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tarica Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
I strive to create a welcoming, emotionally supportive, safe and non-judgmental therapeutic environment for you to work on your therapeutic goals. My approach to therapy is collaborative and client-centered. I believe in coming along side you in the therapeutic process to help create and prioritize achievable goals. I have experience providing individual and group counseling in a variety of areas including grief/loss, anxiety, depression, anger management, behavior modification, ADHD, self-esteem, work/life balance and career conflict. Thank you for considering me on your therapeutic journey.
I strive to create a welcoming, emotionally supportive, safe and non-judgmental therapeutic environment for you to work on your therapeutic goals. My approach to therapy is collaborative and client-centered. I believe in coming along side you in the therapeutic process to help create and prioritize achievable goals. I have experience providing individual and group counseling in a variety of areas including grief/loss, anxiety, depression, anger management, behavior modification, ADHD, self-esteem, work/life balance and career conflict. Thank you for considering me on your therapeutic journey.
(847) 447-2009 View (847) 447-2009
Photo of Morgan Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I’ve worked with various populations since 2015, when I worked as an advocate for domestic violence survivors. I’ve worked with children and adults dealing with life-changing situations, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and ADHD. My most utilized approaches with clients are client-centered and solution-focused therapies. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy. I believe therapy is a team effort that works best when we’re both invested in its success.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois. I’ve worked with various populations since 2015, when I worked as an advocate for domestic violence survivors. I’ve worked with children and adults dealing with life-changing situations, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and ADHD. My most utilized approaches with clients are client-centered and solution-focused therapies. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy. I believe therapy is a team effort that works best when we’re both invested in its success.
(872) 267-9276 View (872) 267-9276
Photo of Tracy Martin - Advanced Counseling Therapies, LCPC, MSEd, NCC, Counselor
Advanced Counseling Therapies
Counselor, LCPC, MSEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
Adult treatment effectiveness programs include: depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, and couples difficulties.
Do you want to feel, think and/or act differently? Advanced Counseling Therapies(ACT) focuses on creating lasting change for yourself and within your relationships. ACT Therapies addresses your issues with care and confidentiality. Through extensive counseling experience we help to resolve problems and conflicts with work, school, relationships or the ability to enjoy life.
Adult treatment effectiveness programs include: depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, and couples difficulties.
Do you want to feel, think and/or act differently? Advanced Counseling Therapies(ACT) focuses on creating lasting change for yourself and within your relationships. ACT Therapies addresses your issues with care and confidentiality. Through extensive counseling experience we help to resolve problems and conflicts with work, school, relationships or the ability to enjoy life.
(815) 314-0752 View (815) 314-0752
Photo of Jesse Belle, LCPC, Counselor
Jesse Belle
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
I am EMDR Certified (EMDRIA) and treat trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other diagnoses with this evidence-based approach.
Jesse Belle is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the Rockford area. She works with a variety of clients across the lifespan including children, adolescents and adults, and has worked as a therapist in child welfare, schools, and as a trauma educator. She takes a nurturing and strength-based approach to treat trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-harm, abuse, foster care and adoption, communication and social skill building, sibling issues, self-esteem issues, and attachment-related issues through uses of trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, movement, CBT, and evidence-based therapies.
I am EMDR Certified (EMDRIA) and treat trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other diagnoses with this evidence-based approach.
Jesse Belle is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the Rockford area. She works with a variety of clients across the lifespan including children, adolescents and adults, and has worked as a therapist in child welfare, schools, and as a trauma educator. She takes a nurturing and strength-based approach to treat trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-harm, abuse, foster care and adoption, communication and social skill building, sibling issues, self-esteem issues, and attachment-related issues through uses of trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, movement, CBT, and evidence-based therapies.
(815) 597-2371 View (815) 597-2371
Photo of Sherry A Falsetti, PhD, Psychologist
Sherry A Falsetti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073  (Online Only)
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people need help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Whether you struggle with anxiety, burn out from your job, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, low self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. Are you ready to try a comprehensive approach to your mental health? I specialize in supporting individuals in their desire to experience optimal mental and physical wellbeing to meet their life goals.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people need help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Whether you struggle with anxiety, burn out from your job, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, low self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. Are you ready to try a comprehensive approach to your mental health? I specialize in supporting individuals in their desire to experience optimal mental and physical wellbeing to meet their life goals.
(779) 201-6815 View (779) 201-6815
Photo of Willow Creek Counseling - Willow Creek Counseling, LCSW, LCPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Willow Creek Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
Our therapists bring their experiences and education to assist individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, chronic pain, and grief and loss issues, among other difficulties.
Willow Creek Counseling therapists have over 150 years of child welfare and mental health experience. We work with children, adults, couples and families to treat mental health and emotional health issues and we utilize a variety of treatment methods. We currently work closely with the family and juvenile courts in an attempt to assist families involved in the court systems. We have extensive experience providing Reunification Counseling and Therapeutic sessions, and provide Parental Capacity and Mental Health Assessments. We also provide Bariatric assessments and assist with ADHD assessments.
Our therapists bring their experiences and education to assist individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, chronic pain, and grief and loss issues, among other difficulties.
Willow Creek Counseling therapists have over 150 years of child welfare and mental health experience. We work with children, adults, couples and families to treat mental health and emotional health issues and we utilize a variety of treatment methods. We currently work closely with the family and juvenile courts in an attempt to assist families involved in the court systems. We have extensive experience providing Reunification Counseling and Therapeutic sessions, and provide Parental Capacity and Mental Health Assessments. We also provide Bariatric assessments and assist with ADHD assessments.
(815) 240-0685 View (815) 240-0685
Photo of Stephanie Hounnou, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Hounnou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
my specialties lies in Anxiety, depression, grief and trauma.
Looking for professional guidance with changes or stressors in life? Reach out today! My name is Stephanie, and I am a licensed therapist here to walk alongside and help you navigate through your life struggles. My experience lies in working with individuals through relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, and stressful life transitions. Together, we can work towards your desired goals. Feel free to reach out today. I have a few open slots right now (June/July 2024), so I can get you in for a session soon.
my specialties lies in Anxiety, depression, grief and trauma.
Looking for professional guidance with changes or stressors in life? Reach out today! My name is Stephanie, and I am a licensed therapist here to walk alongside and help you navigate through your life struggles. My experience lies in working with individuals through relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, and stressful life transitions. Together, we can work towards your desired goals. Feel free to reach out today. I have a few open slots right now (June/July 2024), so I can get you in for a session soon.
(815) 201-8439 View (815) 201-8439
Photo of Trisha Anderson, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trisha Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
As a Licensed Social Worker, I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, and/or relationships.
“Sometimes, the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life,” Naeem Callaway. It can be intimidating to start on a journey unaware of what the outcome might be. Yet within those moments, you have the power to shape your own experiences. When you struggle to find that power, or you feel like experiences are no longer enjoyable, I will be ready to listen. I want to hear your story. I want to meet you where you are at. I will help support and guide you on your journey of navigating, managing, and understanding your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
As a Licensed Social Worker, I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, and/or relationships.
“Sometimes, the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life,” Naeem Callaway. It can be intimidating to start on a journey unaware of what the outcome might be. Yet within those moments, you have the power to shape your own experiences. When you struggle to find that power, or you feel like experiences are no longer enjoyable, I will be ready to listen. I want to hear your story. I want to meet you where you are at. I will help support and guide you on your journey of navigating, managing, and understanding your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(779) 273-4367 View (779) 273-4367
Photo of Laura L Trippiedi, MS, LCPC
Laura L Trippiedi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will examine long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will examine long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(815) 595-8904 View (815) 595-8904
Photo of Kimberly Greyson-Bost, LCPC, Counselor
Kimberly Greyson-Bost
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor my goal is to match you with the best of traditional and Positive Psychology methods to reduce or eliminate distress while increasing your ability to thrive. I apply both evidence-based and existential treatments for you to develop and master your best possible self. I believe that the best outcomes begin with honoring your life experiences, inherent wisdom and personal strengths. Together we will explore and heal the areas of your life that need attention. I am here to listen and to guide you through the creative process of being your own architect of your most authentic self.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor my goal is to match you with the best of traditional and Positive Psychology methods to reduce or eliminate distress while increasing your ability to thrive. I apply both evidence-based and existential treatments for you to develop and master your best possible self. I believe that the best outcomes begin with honoring your life experiences, inherent wisdom and personal strengths. Together we will explore and heal the areas of your life that need attention. I am here to listen and to guide you through the creative process of being your own architect of your most authentic self.
(779) 210-6112 View (779) 210-6112
Photo of Kathleen E Cox - Kathleen E Cox PC & Associates, ATR, LMT, LCPC, Counselor
Kathleen E Cox PC & Associates
Counselor, ATR, LMT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
We want clients to feel comfortable and at ease while focusing on the issues that bring them to counseling. You will be heard, listened to and taken care of while working on short term or long term problems. My office has a group of other therapists on staff. Our team of professionals work together to insure you and your loved ones receive the highest level of care.
We want clients to feel comfortable and at ease while focusing on the issues that bring them to counseling. You will be heard, listened to and taken care of while working on short term or long term problems. My office has a group of other therapists on staff. Our team of professionals work together to insure you and your loved ones receive the highest level of care.
(815) 718-6196 View (815) 718-6196
Photo of Theresa Mleczko, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Theresa Mleczko
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
I try to establish a good therapeutic relationship with my clients by striving to make them feel understood. I also try to make my clients feel relaxed by providing therapy in a welcoming, comfortable environment.
I try to establish a good therapeutic relationship with my clients by striving to make them feel understood. I also try to make my clients feel relaxed by providing therapy in a welcoming, comfortable environment.
(815) 572-4521 View (815) 572-4521
Photo of Jay Swanson, MA, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jay Swanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
Not accepting new clients
Every individual holds many intricate, intersecting identities that influence our experiences and journeys through life. These identities shape who we are, how we see ourselves, and how others see us. Navigating the challenges and stresses of life, especially through the pandemic and amidst all of the political turmoil going on has only become more challenging. When we are able to understand ourselves and channel our strengths, we are able to make more positive, healthy changes. I work with clients to identify personalized goals for therapy and a clear path to gaining self-insight and feeling empowered to lead a healthier life.
Every individual holds many intricate, intersecting identities that influence our experiences and journeys through life. These identities shape who we are, how we see ourselves, and how others see us. Navigating the challenges and stresses of life, especially through the pandemic and amidst all of the political turmoil going on has only become more challenging. When we are able to understand ourselves and channel our strengths, we are able to make more positive, healthy changes. I work with clients to identify personalized goals for therapy and a clear path to gaining self-insight and feeling empowered to lead a healthier life.
(815) 396-5003 View (815) 396-5003

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Braden Norton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Braden Norton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Loves Park, IL 61111
I primarily work with teenagers and adults, however have enjoyed working clients of all ages. I have worked with countless clients who were struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, phase of life problems, marital conflict, work issues, anger, and self-esteem to name a few. I find the therapeutic relationship most beneficial when clients are willing to engage during session and implement therapeutic skills and strategies into their daily lives.
I primarily work with teenagers and adults, however have enjoyed working clients of all ages. I have worked with countless clients who were struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, phase of life problems, marital conflict, work issues, anger, and self-esteem to name a few. I find the therapeutic relationship most beneficial when clients are willing to engage during session and implement therapeutic skills and strategies into their daily lives.
(815) 240-0558 View (815) 240-0558
Photo of Selma Cehic, MA, LCPC, CCTP, Counselor
Selma Cehic
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I can support you with trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, relationships issues, adjustment challenges, attachment difficulties, and life transitions.
Each of us carry untold stories, experiences, and challenges that have impacted us in different ways and have molded us into the people we are today. As a therapist, I focus on meeting each client where they are at to collaboratively navigate through life’s complexities, process those stories, and work towards healthier choices, relationships, and more authentic living.
I can support you with trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, relationships issues, adjustment challenges, attachment difficulties, and life transitions.
Each of us carry untold stories, experiences, and challenges that have impacted us in different ways and have molded us into the people we are today. As a therapist, I focus on meeting each client where they are at to collaboratively navigate through life’s complexities, process those stories, and work towards healthier choices, relationships, and more authentic living.
(815) 629-3472 View (815) 629-3472

See more therapy options for Roscoe

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.