Depression Therapists in South Beloit, IL
![Photo of Annette McLean - Annette McLean Counseling, MS, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dc40556-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Annette McLean Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
South Beloit, IL 61080 (Online Only)
I spent years teaching a women's issue class so am very familiar with issues like domestic violence, harassment and depression and anxiety, especially in women.
I really enjoy working with adults. My ideal client is likely one who is struggling with food and weight issues and motivated to heal. I am a nationally certified specialist in eating disorders and have years of experience in this area.
I spent years teaching a women's issue class so am very familiar with issues like domestic violence, harassment and depression and anxiety, especially in women.
I really enjoy working with adults. My ideal client is likely one who is struggling with food and weight issues and motivated to heal. I am a nationally certified specialist in eating disorders and have years of experience in this area.
![Photo of Andrea Lissuzzo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9011c69-a10d-4b51-9fcd-e429025dd250/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience in mental health, I have worked with a variety of populations in multiple settings, including outpatient, inpatient, residential, judicial, and educational. As a psychiatric social worker for a large medical system, I provided direct service to individuals struggling with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship and parenting issues. My collaborative, problem-solving approach to working with clients helps them better understand, navigate, and overcome the challenges of life.
As a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience in mental health, I have worked with a variety of populations in multiple settings, including outpatient, inpatient, residential, judicial, and educational. As a psychiatric social worker for a large medical system, I provided direct service to individuals struggling with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship and parenting issues. My collaborative, problem-solving approach to working with clients helps them better understand, navigate, and overcome the challenges of life.
![Photo of Latavia S Agada, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44ec2bea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Latavia S Agada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Beloit, IL 61080 (Online Only)
I have worked for a variety of non-profit organizations that served troubled children and teenagers, immigrants, refugees, people with disabilities, and people who were in crisis with suicidal ideations or who have struggled with anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis and other mental health concerns.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, who is compassionate and supportive in helping you overcome life challenges. I am a big believer in your ability to persevere and overcome life's challenges and sit with you as an interactive listener, source of support and also a challenger of thoughts. I strongly believe in trauma-informed care and my specialties are in trauma, grief, cultural issues and adjustments, amongst other presenting issues. You, your situation, and your life are very important and I want you to feel that way in your session.
I have worked for a variety of non-profit organizations that served troubled children and teenagers, immigrants, refugees, people with disabilities, and people who were in crisis with suicidal ideations or who have struggled with anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis and other mental health concerns.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, who is compassionate and supportive in helping you overcome life challenges. I am a big believer in your ability to persevere and overcome life's challenges and sit with you as an interactive listener, source of support and also a challenger of thoughts. I strongly believe in trauma-informed care and my specialties are in trauma, grief, cultural issues and adjustments, amongst other presenting issues. You, your situation, and your life are very important and I want you to feel that way in your session.
![Photo of J Scott Nelson - Transformations Counseling PLLC, EdD, NCC, LCPC, CRADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e728e602-4298-464f-8317-5fde991ccd99/1/320x400.jpeg)
Transformations Counseling PLLC
Counselor, EdD, NCC, LCPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Beloit, IL 61080
Most of us struggle with anxiety, depression, and other issues from time to time.
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
Most of us struggle with anxiety, depression, and other issues from time to time.
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
![Photo of Melissa Shanley, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5e296cd-1111-463b-95b6-39f3ee832d64/2/320x400.png)
My name is Melissa Shanley and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am here to help. I graduated from Eastern Illinois University where I studied to earn my Master of Science in Clinical Counseling. I have years of experience working in and supervising community mental health centers, college settings, hospital settings, and as an outpatient therapist to all ages and populations. My professional interests include working with people who have experienced complex trauma/PTSD, family systems issues, and supporting people with attachment, anxiety, and mood disorders.
My name is Melissa Shanley and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am here to help. I graduated from Eastern Illinois University where I studied to earn my Master of Science in Clinical Counseling. I have years of experience working in and supervising community mental health centers, college settings, hospital settings, and as an outpatient therapist to all ages and populations. My professional interests include working with people who have experienced complex trauma/PTSD, family systems issues, and supporting people with attachment, anxiety, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Amanda Marie Messinger, MS, LCPC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/491d9438-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Marie Messinger
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
South Beloit, IL 61080
Not accepting new clients
I am a down to earth therapist who believes therapy is a process of two people working together to solve a problem. I believe that individuals struggling with issues be it chemical dependency, mental health, or life transitions can return to a full and healthy existence with the right interventions and support. I practice using humor and positive insight. Everyone deserves a life with happiness and peace! I strive to help people become the best they can!
I am a down to earth therapist who believes therapy is a process of two people working together to solve a problem. I believe that individuals struggling with issues be it chemical dependency, mental health, or life transitions can return to a full and healthy existence with the right interventions and support. I practice using humor and positive insight. Everyone deserves a life with happiness and peace! I strive to help people become the best they can!
![Photo of Tonya Ramsey - Life By Design Counseling, MS, LPC, CSAC, CCTP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43df0a84-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life By Design Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Beloit, IL 61080
I founded my private practice on the principle of helping others create the life that they want. Often times that means resolving past trauma or issues that stand in our way. Change can be a difficult process, but with someone who understands how change occurs and the pitfalls that can hinder change it is possible. Every one deserves to be the person they want and I am here to help you on your journey of change and healing.
I founded my private practice on the principle of helping others create the life that they want. Often times that means resolving past trauma or issues that stand in our way. Change can be a difficult process, but with someone who understands how change occurs and the pitfalls that can hinder change it is possible. Every one deserves to be the person they want and I am here to help you on your journey of change and healing.
![Photo of Cristina Gloria, LCPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/344d67f0-1e14-4295-a455-625a0e12226e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cristina Gloria
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Beloit, IL 61080
Life isn't easy and we are not born all knowing. Throughout our life span, we face exciting and terrifying situations that impact the way we function every day and how we interact with others. Then, we feel like we are the only ones suffering, and feelings of loneliness emerge. Our first reaction is to hide and portray that we are doing fine. Then we try dealing with the problem on our own. Later, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed. We start experiencing extreme difficulties just trying to deal with simple daily life tasks. This is where I come in!
Life isn't easy and we are not born all knowing. Throughout our life span, we face exciting and terrifying situations that impact the way we function every day and how we interact with others. Then, we feel like we are the only ones suffering, and feelings of loneliness emerge. Our first reaction is to hide and portray that we are doing fine. Then we try dealing with the problem on our own. Later, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed. We start experiencing extreme difficulties just trying to deal with simple daily life tasks. This is where I come in!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Selma Cehic, MA, LCPC, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c55cacc-ede2-4be3-8388-c6194920de30/9/320x400.jpeg)
Selma Cehic
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Machesney Park, IL 61115 (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.
![Photo of Corina McCulloh, BSEd, MS, NCC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48bfed57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"If you are struggling with life adjustments, relationships, work life balance, stress, anxiety, depression and just do not feel your life is where it should be, I want to help you. I believe that every individual has the potential to heal and become stronger and more confident. Let me walk with you on that path to success and self care toward a stronger and healthier you." Corina McCulloh B.S.Ed, MS. NCC, LCPC, is a clinical professional counselor (LCPC) and a licensed educator (PEL) in the state of Illinois. Corina has therapeutic experience with children, adolescents, and adults.
"If you are struggling with life adjustments, relationships, work life balance, stress, anxiety, depression and just do not feel your life is where it should be, I want to help you. I believe that every individual has the potential to heal and become stronger and more confident. Let me walk with you on that path to success and self care toward a stronger and healthier you." Corina McCulloh B.S.Ed, MS. NCC, LCPC, is a clinical professional counselor (LCPC) and a licensed educator (PEL) in the state of Illinois. Corina has therapeutic experience with children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of William C Edleman, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/434eddc9-1218-4c09-901c-92755d2d0072/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, PsyD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/befc0fb1-cd06-4df9-a99e-6a86948d02a4/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. 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 offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
![Photo of Braden Norton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7498002-76a1-4636-aea5-17f2de59ccc5/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Susan M Shanks, LPC, LCPC, CAMS-II, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4063df46-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Monica Benton, MA, LCPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eef5d65-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Daniel E Sommer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/440e6613-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Being human is challenging. Who someone believes they 'should' be is often different than who the feeling parts of them 'want' to be. Conflict between thoughts and emotions can manifest as any number of mental health conditions including chronic anxiety, prolonged grief, post-traumatic stress, and depressed mood. As a psychotherapist, I help people to better understand and cultivate a relationship with the emotional parts of their mind. Our work together will focus less on 'fixing' or 'blocking' distressing emotions and more on learning how to integrate these important aspects of your mind into a more healthy and authentic you.
Being human is challenging. Who someone believes they 'should' be is often different than who the feeling parts of them 'want' to be. Conflict between thoughts and emotions can manifest as any number of mental health conditions including chronic anxiety, prolonged grief, post-traumatic stress, and depressed mood. As a psychotherapist, I help people to better understand and cultivate a relationship with the emotional parts of their mind. Our work together will focus less on 'fixing' or 'blocking' distressing emotions and more on learning how to integrate these important aspects of your mind into a more healthy and authentic you.
![Photo of Alix Rose Kavran, LPC, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b17a8a9e-d3a7-416c-ac9e-782e1b87f0c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alix Rose Kavran
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Machesney Park, IL 61115
“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.” — Fred Rogers. As your therapist, my focus is to provide a safe space for healing and personal growth. I understand that a felt sense of safety takes time and as your support in the process, I will guide you through at your own pace. I have been in the field for over a decade and have experience working with individuals experiencing PTSD, adjustment to life changes, grief, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other Mental Health concerns.
“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.” — Fred Rogers. As your therapist, my focus is to provide a safe space for healing and personal growth. I understand that a felt sense of safety takes time and as your support in the process, I will guide you through at your own pace. I have been in the field for over a decade and have experience working with individuals experiencing PTSD, adjustment to life changes, grief, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other Mental Health concerns.
![Photo of Cindy A Stear - Connections Therapy Center, PsyD, MS, MSCP, BS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5165ca71-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connections Therapy Center
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MSCP, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockton, IL 61072
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.
![Photo of Barbara A Hallstrom, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b97ec24-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara A Hallstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roscoe, IL 61073
Not accepting new clients
I treat those suffering from grief/loss, depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, disabilities, traumatic brain injury, and those in need of cognitive retraining.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years of experience which include counseling for individuals, couples, families, and adolescent in the Rockford and surrounding areas. I received my Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois ten years after being widowed with five children at home. I am certified in gereatric counseling and EMDR. I specialize in bereavement both for couples, families, and individuals.
I treat those suffering from grief/loss, depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, disabilities, traumatic brain injury, and those in need of cognitive retraining.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years of experience which include counseling for individuals, couples, families, and adolescent in the Rockford and surrounding areas. I received my Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois ten years after being widowed with five children at home. I am certified in gereatric counseling and EMDR. I specialize in bereavement both for couples, families, and individuals.
![Photo of Stacy Schroepfer, MS, LPC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85c17170-3da1-4690-a7ac-7b03d5e51a1a/4/320x400.jpeg)
“In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” – Albert Einstein Life can be extremely challenging and overwhelming. That is where I come in- I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can freely express themselves and feel validated. I work with adults and teenagers alike struggling with life stressors, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma. Using a collaborative approach core issues are addressed so a sense of peace and happiness can be achieved. Walking beside my clients and witnessing their transformation is a true honor and my greatest reward!
“In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” – Albert Einstein Life can be extremely challenging and overwhelming. That is where I come in- I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can freely express themselves and feel validated. I work with adults and teenagers alike struggling with life stressors, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma. Using a collaborative approach core issues are addressed so a sense of peace and happiness can be achieved. Walking beside my clients and witnessing their transformation is a true honor and my greatest reward!
See more therapy options for South Beloit
Nearby Depression Therapists Searches for South Beloit
- Belvidere
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- Loves Park
- Machesney Park
- Marengo
- Poplar Grove
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Depression Therapists
What is the goal of therapy for depression?
Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.
What happens in therapy for depression?
Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.
What therapy types help with depression?
Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.
Can therapy for depression be done online?
Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.
How effective is therapy for depression?
Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.