Depression Therapists in Streamwood, IL

Photo of Sean Elliott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sean Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience in the field. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, coping skills, stress, and men's issues, and approach the therapeutic process with compassion and empathy, treating everyone with respect and dignity. During sessions, I use a mix of motivational interviewing, compassion and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), among other appropriate techniques. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically. Above all else, I value creating a safe, nonjudgmental and welcoming environment.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience in the field. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, coping skills, stress, and men's issues, and approach the therapeutic process with compassion and empathy, treating everyone with respect and dignity. During sessions, I use a mix of motivational interviewing, compassion and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), among other appropriate techniques. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically. Above all else, I value creating a safe, nonjudgmental and welcoming environment.
(773) 839-3081 View (773) 839-3081
Photo of Patrick J Kennelly - Patrick J Kennelly, PhD & Associates, PC, PhD, Psychologist
Patrick J Kennelly, PhD & Associates, PC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Streamwood, IL 60107
I see my role as helping people learn to trust themselves, to respect their own strength, and finally to build healthier relationships both personally and professionally. I am a solution focused therapist who takes a more active role n the counseling sessions. I have extensive experience with children, adolescents, and adults. I have specialized training and experience in treating depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and substance abuse, and family problems. In addition, I direct a practice of 11 psychologists. Together it means we have the ability to match the right person to your particular needs.
I see my role as helping people learn to trust themselves, to respect their own strength, and finally to build healthier relationships both personally and professionally. I am a solution focused therapist who takes a more active role n the counseling sessions. I have extensive experience with children, adolescents, and adults. I have specialized training and experience in treating depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and substance abuse, and family problems. In addition, I direct a practice of 11 psychologists. Together it means we have the ability to match the right person to your particular needs.
(847) 960-3319 View (847) 960-3319
Photo of Ray S Kim, PhD, Psychologist
Ray S Kim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
Specialty areas include depression, anxiety disorders, child and adolescent issues, relationship problems, substance abuse, and forensic issues.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I view my role as guiding individuals along a journey of self-discovery and growth. I assist people in gaining insight into their issues and finding solutions to their problems by providing direction, encouragement, support, and hope. In order for positive changes to occur, a person must begin to modify his or her dysfunctional thinking patterns and unhealthy behaviors. From a solution focused approach, I work with my clients in a collaborative relationship to strengthen their sense of self and improve their quality of life.
Specialty areas include depression, anxiety disorders, child and adolescent issues, relationship problems, substance abuse, and forensic issues.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I view my role as guiding individuals along a journey of self-discovery and growth. I assist people in gaining insight into their issues and finding solutions to their problems by providing direction, encouragement, support, and hope. In order for positive changes to occur, a person must begin to modify his or her dysfunctional thinking patterns and unhealthy behaviors. From a solution focused approach, I work with my clients in a collaborative relationship to strengthen their sense of self and improve their quality of life.
(847) 868-3606 View (847) 868-3606
Photo of Kristina Galuszka, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristina Galuszka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107  (Online Only)
I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC) but don’t let all the letters confuse you! I have worked with adolescents, young adults, adults, and older adults with OCD, anxiety, depression, substance use, and self-esteem.
My goal is to help individuals increase the knowledge of what may be going on and to bring a creative perspective on things. I enjoy putting a creative spin on techniques to help individuals find a way to relate to new skills that can be very helpful for them. I use my creative skills as much as possible to individualize treatment and how to relate to clients the best way that I can. I think outside of the box so that I can address the issues going on in the most effective way.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC) but don’t let all the letters confuse you! I have worked with adolescents, young adults, adults, and older adults with OCD, anxiety, depression, substance use, and self-esteem.
My goal is to help individuals increase the knowledge of what may be going on and to bring a creative perspective on things. I enjoy putting a creative spin on techniques to help individuals find a way to relate to new skills that can be very helpful for them. I use my creative skills as much as possible to individualize treatment and how to relate to clients the best way that I can. I think outside of the box so that I can address the issues going on in the most effective way.
(847) 320-0871 View (847) 320-0871
Photo of Tracy Olender, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Tracy Olender
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
In my 20+ years of providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, I have helped empower my clients to develop skills in overcoming such difficulties such as depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, etc.
I believe that everyone is capable of feeling better and overcoming their struggles as long as they find a positive mindset and believe in themselves. I provide an environment where you are free to explore your concerns without any judgement. It is important for me to develop a good rapport with my clients because it is the foundation for successful treatment. Developing a workable treatment plan with my clients helps guide the focus of our sessions and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
In my 20+ years of providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, I have helped empower my clients to develop skills in overcoming such difficulties such as depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, etc.
I believe that everyone is capable of feeling better and overcoming their struggles as long as they find a positive mindset and believe in themselves. I provide an environment where you are free to explore your concerns without any judgement. It is important for me to develop a good rapport with my clients because it is the foundation for successful treatment. Developing a workable treatment plan with my clients helps guide the focus of our sessions and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
(872) 241-1095 View (872) 241-1095
Photo of Rachela Ranaldi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachela Ranaldi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
I specialize in working with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, & suicidality & guide all of my treatment through a trauma-informed care model.
Therapy can often feel intimidating & taking the first step to growth takes a lot of strength. My goal is to guide you through the process of therapy with support, empathy, & the occasional cheesy joke. I create treatment plans that are flexible & individualized & allow for us to collaborate as a team to meet all of your therapeutic needs. I hope to develop a therapeutic relationship that allows you to feel comfortable delving into difficult topics while also allowing you the time & space to talk about the nuances of your day. I strive to help you develop the tools to combat those personal struggles & advocate for what you deserve.
I specialize in working with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, & suicidality & guide all of my treatment through a trauma-informed care model.
Therapy can often feel intimidating & taking the first step to growth takes a lot of strength. My goal is to guide you through the process of therapy with support, empathy, & the occasional cheesy joke. I create treatment plans that are flexible & individualized & allow for us to collaborate as a team to meet all of your therapeutic needs. I hope to develop a therapeutic relationship that allows you to feel comfortable delving into difficult topics while also allowing you the time & space to talk about the nuances of your day. I strive to help you develop the tools to combat those personal struggles & advocate for what you deserve.
(847) 851-4129 View (847) 851-4129
Photo of Christina Geiselhart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Geiselhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107  (Online Only)
Geiselhart graduated from University of Southern California with her Doctorate in Social Work where she focused on developing a treatment care protocol for fathers who were experiencing perinatal mental illness such as post-partum depression.
Dr. Geiselhart is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience in the medical and mental health field. She is passionate about helping people learn how their brain works and what changes they can make to find empowerment and control over their lives. She worked extensively with individuals who experience complex trauma as well as grief and end of life care. When not working directly with clients, she teaches at a variety of universities to help mentor the next generation of social workers.
Geiselhart graduated from University of Southern California with her Doctorate in Social Work where she focused on developing a treatment care protocol for fathers who were experiencing perinatal mental illness such as post-partum depression.
Dr. Geiselhart is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience in the medical and mental health field. She is passionate about helping people learn how their brain works and what changes they can make to find empowerment and control over their lives. She worked extensively with individuals who experience complex trauma as well as grief and end of life care. When not working directly with clients, she teaches at a variety of universities to help mentor the next generation of social workers.
(847) 999-7621 View (847) 999-7621
Photo of Rosio DiMaso, LCSW, ICDVP, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosio DiMaso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICDVP, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streamwood, IL 60107
I work with children, teens, adults, parents, and families who have goals like: reducing anxiety and depression, healing from past trauma and PTSD, developing skills to manage emotions and impulsive behaviors, improving stressful and conflict-filled relationships, and increasing self-acceptance and self-image to help people create the life they want.
It takes courage to realize you are struggling and suffering, your life is not where you want it to be, and you need help. Whether you want to ease your anxiety or depression, heal from trauma, decrease stress, or improve relationships, therapy can help. I am a trauma therapist trained in EMDR, Child Parent Psychotherapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I am passionate about helping people grow, heal, and thrive. If you're looking for acceptance, validation, and a space to heal and grow, I'd be honored to become a safe and supportive person for you. You deserve to ease your suffering and create the life you want.
I work with children, teens, adults, parents, and families who have goals like: reducing anxiety and depression, healing from past trauma and PTSD, developing skills to manage emotions and impulsive behaviors, improving stressful and conflict-filled relationships, and increasing self-acceptance and self-image to help people create the life they want.
It takes courage to realize you are struggling and suffering, your life is not where you want it to be, and you need help. Whether you want to ease your anxiety or depression, heal from trauma, decrease stress, or improve relationships, therapy can help. I am a trauma therapist trained in EMDR, Child Parent Psychotherapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I am passionate about helping people grow, heal, and thrive. If you're looking for acceptance, validation, and a space to heal and grow, I'd be honored to become a safe and supportive person for you. You deserve to ease your suffering and create the life you want.
(224) 263-4949 View (224) 263-4949
Photo of Elisa Balthazar, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elisa Balthazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
I work with teens, emerging adults, & adults in their 20's I support people who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief / loss, impulsive behaviors, school refusal, transitions to adulthood, self-confidence, self-esteem, conflict in relationships, LGBTQ+ and/or BIPOC identity issues and concerns.
It takes courage to realize when we are struggling and suffering and when life is not what we want it to be. Sometimes we know exactly what's making life difficult and causing us to feel anxious, depressed, stressed, or angry, but we have no idea how to deal with those feelings or what to do about our pain and distress. If you're ready and want to reduce your anxiety and depression, and stress, understand yourself more deeply and improve your relationships, I encourage you to try counseling. You don't have to be silent or alone with it all any longer. You deserve to ease your suffering, feel better, grow, heal, & embrace who you are
I work with teens, emerging adults, & adults in their 20's I support people who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief / loss, impulsive behaviors, school refusal, transitions to adulthood, self-confidence, self-esteem, conflict in relationships, LGBTQ+ and/or BIPOC identity issues and concerns.
It takes courage to realize when we are struggling and suffering and when life is not what we want it to be. Sometimes we know exactly what's making life difficult and causing us to feel anxious, depressed, stressed, or angry, but we have no idea how to deal with those feelings or what to do about our pain and distress. If you're ready and want to reduce your anxiety and depression, and stress, understand yourself more deeply and improve your relationships, I encourage you to try counseling. You don't have to be silent or alone with it all any longer. You deserve to ease your suffering, feel better, grow, heal, & embrace who you are
(224) 269-8873 View (224) 269-8873
Photo of Kassandra Leber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kassandra Leber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
Hello! My name is Kassandra Leber, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Families, and Minors. I have experience treating various conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, Phobias, PTSD, trauma, Family/Interpersonal Issues, Parenting Related Stress, Gender Dysmorphia, intimacy concerns, and more. I work with various theoretical approaches, including CBT, EMDR, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and strength-based. I believe I treat each individual to create lasting change in their life.
Hello! My name is Kassandra Leber, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Families, and Minors. I have experience treating various conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, Phobias, PTSD, trauma, Family/Interpersonal Issues, Parenting Related Stress, Gender Dysmorphia, intimacy concerns, and more. I work with various theoretical approaches, including CBT, EMDR, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and strength-based. I believe I treat each individual to create lasting change in their life.
(224) 267-9165 View (224) 267-9165
Photo of Khoa Ngo, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Khoa Ngo
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
It feels like people are always judging you or maybe you judge yourself. Either way, most of the time it feels like you could be doing something better or that you are not enough. Most adults come to therapy with low self-esteem and a combination of depression and anxiety. I create a space where adults can feel safe at opening up freely about difficult emotions, negative thoughts, and problematic behaviors. Together, we explore what is standing in the way of you meeting your goals, why you are doing what you’re doing, and then try different ways to address your problems.
It feels like people are always judging you or maybe you judge yourself. Either way, most of the time it feels like you could be doing something better or that you are not enough. Most adults come to therapy with low self-esteem and a combination of depression and anxiety. I create a space where adults can feel safe at opening up freely about difficult emotions, negative thoughts, and problematic behaviors. Together, we explore what is standing in the way of you meeting your goals, why you are doing what you’re doing, and then try different ways to address your problems.
(847) 443-1409 View (847) 443-1409
Photo of Brittany Lafin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Lafin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107  (Online Only)
Brittany Lafin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 13 years of experience utilizing the pillars of wellness to help clients improve daily functioning and reaching long term goals. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, life changes, marital issues, substance issues, trauma, ADHD, bipolar disorders (I and II), relationship issues, and more.
Brittany Lafin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 13 years of experience utilizing the pillars of wellness to help clients improve daily functioning and reaching long term goals. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, life changes, marital issues, substance issues, trauma, ADHD, bipolar disorders (I and II), relationship issues, and more.
(847) 534-8080 View (847) 534-8080
Photo of Lauren Campbell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streamwood, IL 60107
Coming to therapy can be an intimidating process. I do my best to make my clients feel comfortable whether we are meeting online or in person. The last thing people want is an uptight, professional that makes them feel like they need to censor themselves. I am conversational, warm, and look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with adolescent and adult clientele. I pride myself on being non-judgmental and create a safe space where clients can be vulnerable to share anything they may need to - expletives and all.
Coming to therapy can be an intimidating process. I do my best to make my clients feel comfortable whether we are meeting online or in person. The last thing people want is an uptight, professional that makes them feel like they need to censor themselves. I am conversational, warm, and look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with adolescent and adult clientele. I pride myself on being non-judgmental and create a safe space where clients can be vulnerable to share anything they may need to - expletives and all.
(847) 233-1377 View (847) 233-1377
Photo of Elizabeth Marx, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Marx
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
In my therapy practice, I work to create a space where clients feel accepted and free to express themselves. I work with clients to help empower them in their lives, to promote healthy relationships and to build resiliency for all of life’s changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them develop insight to achieve their goals. It is important to me that my relationship with clients is built upon trust and that what is important to them is the focus of their time in therapy.
In my therapy practice, I work to create a space where clients feel accepted and free to express themselves. I work with clients to help empower them in their lives, to promote healthy relationships and to build resiliency for all of life’s changes. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them develop insight to achieve their goals. It is important to me that my relationship with clients is built upon trust and that what is important to them is the focus of their time in therapy.
(618) 268-3165 View (618) 268-3165
Photo of Taylor Faust, LCPC, Counselor
Taylor Faust
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
Have you found yourself struggling recently, with an inability to “get back on track”? Do you feel out of control, lost, or stuck? My goal as a therapist is to help you develop insight into your own thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. We will work together to help increase your awareness into your personal motivations, goals, and strengths to help you make positive changes – whether they be big or small. As your therapist, I want to help equip you with the tools necessary to take control of your own journey and to live your best possible life.
Have you found yourself struggling recently, with an inability to “get back on track”? Do you feel out of control, lost, or stuck? My goal as a therapist is to help you develop insight into your own thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. We will work together to help increase your awareness into your personal motivations, goals, and strengths to help you make positive changes – whether they be big or small. As your therapist, I want to help equip you with the tools necessary to take control of your own journey and to live your best possible life.
(224) 268-1909 View (224) 268-1909
Photo of Amy Schuring, LCPC
Amy Schuring
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
I am very passionate about helping people find freedom from the things that have caused hurt and pain in their lives. I love working with my clients collaboratively on their journey to living the life they desire. Together we will learn what is getting in the way of living a life of more peace and joy. I will provide a safe, supportive and validating environment for people to share those things that are deep down inside of them. We all have a purpose and a destiny. I am excited to help you find yours!
I am very passionate about helping people find freedom from the things that have caused hurt and pain in their lives. I love working with my clients collaboratively on their journey to living the life they desire. Together we will learn what is getting in the way of living a life of more peace and joy. I will provide a safe, supportive and validating environment for people to share those things that are deep down inside of them. We all have a purpose and a destiny. I am excited to help you find yours!
(618) 268-3433 View (618) 268-3433
Photo of Shari Matthews Huizar (Bilingue Español E Ingles), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shari Matthews Huizar (Bilingue Español E Ingles)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
Do you feel that the path you are on is not leading you to where you want to go? Do you feel misunderstood in your relationship? Is it difficult to explain why you feel the way you do? Do you struggle with the loss of a loved one due to immigration difficulties? Do you feel your children don't understand their roots? Living in a new and different culture and community can be very difficult for families, especially children living in both worlds. I would be honored to join you on your journey to understanding and definition.
Do you feel that the path you are on is not leading you to where you want to go? Do you feel misunderstood in your relationship? Is it difficult to explain why you feel the way you do? Do you struggle with the loss of a loved one due to immigration difficulties? Do you feel your children don't understand their roots? Living in a new and different culture and community can be very difficult for families, especially children living in both worlds. I would be honored to join you on your journey to understanding and definition.
(847) 807-4085 View (847) 807-4085
Photo of Michelle Lawrence, MA, LCPC
Michelle Lawrence
MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
Waitlist for new clients
Appointments for new clients are available now! Do you need help with relationship struggles? I provide a warm and open approach to counseling individuals, families, and couples. I have experience helping with parental conflicts, self-esteem, and parent-child relationships.
Appointments for new clients are available now! Do you need help with relationship struggles? I provide a warm and open approach to counseling individuals, families, and couples. I have experience helping with parental conflicts, self-esteem, and parent-child relationships.
(630) 869-6819 View (630) 869-6819
Photo of Amanda Lai Wai Kuen - Awakenings Counseling Center - Amanda LWK, MA, NCC, LCPC, ICDVP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Awakenings Counseling Center - Amanda LWK
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, ICDVP
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
I want to take a second to acknowledge how brave you are for seeking therapy. If you are reading this, I hope you feel encouraged by your decision to receive support and grow as a person. It takes a lot of courage to share your story and experiences to a stranger! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a BSc (Hons) in Psychological Studies in Singapore. I also have an MA in Mental Health Counseling at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) in Deerfield, Illinois. Additionally, I am a certified Illinois Domestic Violence Professional (ICDVP).
I want to take a second to acknowledge how brave you are for seeking therapy. If you are reading this, I hope you feel encouraged by your decision to receive support and grow as a person. It takes a lot of courage to share your story and experiences to a stranger! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a BSc (Hons) in Psychological Studies in Singapore. I also have an MA in Mental Health Counseling at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) in Deerfield, Illinois. Additionally, I am a certified Illinois Domestic Violence Professional (ICDVP).
(847) 750-5910 View (847) 750-5910
Photo of Jordon Wolf, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordon Wolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Streamwood, IL 60107
Are you stuck, struggling or just looking to make personal improvements and soar to new heights? Are you having difficulties in your relationship, falling short at work or plainly not where you want to be in your life? Life is hard. One of the most profound things I have ever heard is, "if you keep doing what you always have done...you will always get what you always got". You must do something different. If you want something different than what you currently have call me now and let's get started!!! Together let's see how I can help you identify those stuck points, reset your goals and help you be successful!
Are you stuck, struggling or just looking to make personal improvements and soar to new heights? Are you having difficulties in your relationship, falling short at work or plainly not where you want to be in your life? Life is hard. One of the most profound things I have ever heard is, "if you keep doing what you always have done...you will always get what you always got". You must do something different. If you want something different than what you currently have call me now and let's get started!!! Together let's see how I can help you identify those stuck points, reset your goals and help you be successful!
(708) 381-1513 View (708) 381-1513
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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.