Depression Therapists in Winfield, IL

Photo of Michelle Rogers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
Alone, terrified, and worried that your life will never change? Ready for a change but apprehensive about the process? Sometimes getting help extends beyond family/friends. Addiction counseling includes addressing co-existing issues such as family, relationships, employment, education, spirituality, physical/mental health and legal concerns. Healing and growth begins with a collaborative, compassionate, yet direct approach to change. I walk with you as you work to gain self-awareness, self-esteem, and empowerment. I assist clients in finding hidden strengths, so they can overcome their challenges. My specialty includes addictions, co-occurring disorders - depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, etc.
Alone, terrified, and worried that your life will never change? Ready for a change but apprehensive about the process? Sometimes getting help extends beyond family/friends. Addiction counseling includes addressing co-existing issues such as family, relationships, employment, education, spirituality, physical/mental health and legal concerns. Healing and growth begins with a collaborative, compassionate, yet direct approach to change. I walk with you as you work to gain self-awareness, self-esteem, and empowerment. I assist clients in finding hidden strengths, so they can overcome their challenges. My specialty includes addictions, co-occurring disorders - depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, etc.
(815) 390-9023 View (815) 390-9023
Photo of Linda Cunningham, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
She has experience working with a diverse range of struggles including anxiety, depression, treatment of trauma.
Linda K Cunningham is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been in the mental health field since 2003. Linda’s focus in therapy is on individuality. You are unique and the therapeutic process should absolutely celebrate that uniqueness. Well-being isn’t only about decreasing existing struggles; it should also build on your current strengths and develop new ones to help create the future you desire.
She has experience working with a diverse range of struggles including anxiety, depression, treatment of trauma.
Linda K Cunningham is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been in the mental health field since 2003. Linda’s focus in therapy is on individuality. You are unique and the therapeutic process should absolutely celebrate that uniqueness. Well-being isn’t only about decreasing existing struggles; it should also build on your current strengths and develop new ones to help create the future you desire.
(331) 216-1321 View (331) 216-1321
Photo of Barbara Giordan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Giordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
She worked extensively with women, children, adolescents, and couples and has treated individuals struggling with a variety of issues including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), chronic illness and grief.
Barb Giordan, MSW, LCSW, is gentle, compassionate and open. Her life is shaped by a passion to help others, and she is honored and privileged to listen to people's stories and come along side those who are suffering. Barb received an MSW from the University of Connecticut and a BA from Fairfield University. With over 20 years experience in the mental health field, Barb worked in an inpatient hospital, a day school program, and several private practice settings, including a Christian counseling center.
She worked extensively with women, children, adolescents, and couples and has treated individuals struggling with a variety of issues including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), chronic illness and grief.
Barb Giordan, MSW, LCSW, is gentle, compassionate and open. Her life is shaped by a passion to help others, and she is honored and privileged to listen to people's stories and come along side those who are suffering. Barb received an MSW from the University of Connecticut and a BA from Fairfield University. With over 20 years experience in the mental health field, Barb worked in an inpatient hospital, a day school program, and several private practice settings, including a Christian counseling center.
(331) 244-5225 View (331) 244-5225
Photo of Jessica K Colton, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica K Colton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
Seeking counseling is a courageous first step toward healing and I am here to help. Therapy is a wonderful way to find support, clarity, hope, and growth. I am constantly amazed by the positive changes that individuals experience in therapy. I enjoy connecting, understanding, and deeply caring about others as I walk alongside them in their journey. I work with individuals and family members affected by addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, shame & guilt, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and trauma.
Seeking counseling is a courageous first step toward healing and I am here to help. Therapy is a wonderful way to find support, clarity, hope, and growth. I am constantly amazed by the positive changes that individuals experience in therapy. I enjoy connecting, understanding, and deeply caring about others as I walk alongside them in their journey. I work with individuals and family members affected by addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, shame & guilt, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and trauma.
(630) 796-4489 View (630) 796-4489
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
(331) 207-1933 View (331) 207-1933
Photo of Jacqueline Chaidez, MAATC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline Chaidez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
I specialize in working with clients of all ages struggling with substance use issues, depression, anxiety, identity issues, and child of immigrant complexities.
Are you struggling with mood, substance, or relational issues that feel overwhelming? Do you have a difficult time accessing your feelings? Whether it’s through traditional talk therapy or the use of art therapy, I am here to help you move through your barriers and make changes in your life! As a therapist I am genuine, authentic, and compassionate. I practice unconditional positive regard for my clients and radical empathy. I am passionate about providing a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to explore and work through the challenges that bring them to therapy.
I specialize in working with clients of all ages struggling with substance use issues, depression, anxiety, identity issues, and child of immigrant complexities.
Are you struggling with mood, substance, or relational issues that feel overwhelming? Do you have a difficult time accessing your feelings? Whether it’s through traditional talk therapy or the use of art therapy, I am here to help you move through your barriers and make changes in your life! As a therapist I am genuine, authentic, and compassionate. I practice unconditional positive regard for my clients and radical empathy. I am passionate about providing a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to explore and work through the challenges that bring them to therapy.
(630) 426-7269 View (630) 426-7269
Photo of Allison Kowieski - Wayne/Winfield Area Youth/Family Services (WAYS), LCPC, LCSW, LSW
Wayne/Winfield Area Youth/Family Services (WAYS)
LCPC, LCSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
We work with all age groups including children ages 6+, teens, and adults with working to address a variety of concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, life adjustments, and behavioral challenges.
Taking the first step toward change is hard. Whether it is change for yourself, your family, or for your child we are here to support you. Our group of therapy professionals each take their own unique approach to therapy sessions but the main goal is the same: to support individuals in living their best life possible. Each therapy professional strives to truly listen and understand the individual that they are working with in order to provide the best services possible while maintaining a safe and comfortable environment where you will feel heard and supported.
We work with all age groups including children ages 6+, teens, and adults with working to address a variety of concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, life adjustments, and behavioral challenges.
Taking the first step toward change is hard. Whether it is change for yourself, your family, or for your child we are here to support you. Our group of therapy professionals each take their own unique approach to therapy sessions but the main goal is the same: to support individuals in living their best life possible. Each therapy professional strives to truly listen and understand the individual that they are working with in order to provide the best services possible while maintaining a safe and comfortable environment where you will feel heard and supported.
(331) 245-3773 View (331) 245-3773
Photo of Molly Wollenweber, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Wollenweber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
I work with new or expecting mothers, individuals & families affected by addiction, relationship issues, couples counseling, and those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, shame, and guilt.
Do you wish someone could truly understand why you have been so anxious and unsure recently? Maybe you are experiencing self-doubt and a lack of confidence in your abilities to make decisions? And you feel distant in your relationships? If you resonate with this, I am here to help you gain confidence and a sense of direction in your life. I will provide you a safe and judgment-free space where you feel free to be your authentic self.
I work with new or expecting mothers, individuals & families affected by addiction, relationship issues, couples counseling, and those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, shame, and guilt.
Do you wish someone could truly understand why you have been so anxious and unsure recently? Maybe you are experiencing self-doubt and a lack of confidence in your abilities to make decisions? And you feel distant in your relationships? If you resonate with this, I am here to help you gain confidence and a sense of direction in your life. I will provide you a safe and judgment-free space where you feel free to be your authentic self.
(630) 491-1344 View (630) 491-1344
Photo of Susan L Garrison - Susan L. Garrison, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan L. Garrison, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
Are you ready for change? Are you experiencing anxiety, relationship strain or irritability? Just feeling stuck? I have a heart for encouraging others to develop a deeper level of personal, social, spiritual & professional growth in their lives. It would be my privilege to support you as you create change and experience healing in your life. You can find inner peace and experience deeper satisfaction in your life & in your relationships. You can learn more effective ways to regulate emotions and resolve things like chronic anxiety, depression, relational trauma, codependency, grief/loss, & spiritual issues. Change is possible!
Are you ready for change? Are you experiencing anxiety, relationship strain or irritability? Just feeling stuck? I have a heart for encouraging others to develop a deeper level of personal, social, spiritual & professional growth in their lives. It would be my privilege to support you as you create change and experience healing in your life. You can find inner peace and experience deeper satisfaction in your life & in your relationships. You can learn more effective ways to regulate emotions and resolve things like chronic anxiety, depression, relational trauma, codependency, grief/loss, & spiritual issues. Change is possible!
(630) 448-6417 View (630) 448-6417
Photo of Debra F Nickerson, PsyD, SOE, SOTP, Psychologist
Debra F Nickerson
Psychologist, PsyD, SOE, SOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
My specialty is working with people who have issues arising from sexual behavior problems, including sexually abusive behavior, sexual addiction, pornography addiction and Internet addiction. While sex can be a pleasurable part of life, its misuse can lead to infinite heartache and misery. Sexual behavior problems are multifaceted, and are often rooted in an attempt to cope with painful non-sexual issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and broken relationships. I work with individuals who have acted out sexually and also with survivors of sexual abuse and trauma.
My specialty is working with people who have issues arising from sexual behavior problems, including sexually abusive behavior, sexual addiction, pornography addiction and Internet addiction. While sex can be a pleasurable part of life, its misuse can lead to infinite heartache and misery. Sexual behavior problems are multifaceted, and are often rooted in an attempt to cope with painful non-sexual issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and broken relationships. I work with individuals who have acted out sexually and also with survivors of sexual abuse and trauma.
(630) 672-0982 View (630) 672-0982
Photo of Briana Jakubik - Briana Jakubik, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Briana Jakubik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190  (Online Only)
I strive to find solutions that are "Skills Over Pills" when starting therapy. I am passionate about helping teens and adults that are struggling to better themselves. It can be scary to feel that you are “behind others” in life, but I can help you refocus on the positive aspects of yourself and what you are truly capable of. I specialize in LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD, and eating disorders. I have worked with individuals, groups, and in hospital settings. I also taught parenting classes and have experience with career counseling. All of my experience is focused on guiding others along their journey.
I strive to find solutions that are "Skills Over Pills" when starting therapy. I am passionate about helping teens and adults that are struggling to better themselves. It can be scary to feel that you are “behind others” in life, but I can help you refocus on the positive aspects of yourself and what you are truly capable of. I specialize in LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD, and eating disorders. I have worked with individuals, groups, and in hospital settings. I also taught parenting classes and have experience with career counseling. All of my experience is focused on guiding others along their journey.
(847) 380-8485 View (847) 380-8485
Photo of Sarah Larimore, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Sarah Larimore
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
How many times have you heard, “why can’t you just stop?” Do you find yourself wishing those around you would attempt to understand your experience and hear you? Addiction, anxiety, and depression are already so isolating and we often have a difficult time understanding our own behavior without trying to explain it to family and friends. We feel stuck, alone, frustrated, and misunderstood. Imagine what it would be like to identify the root cause of your addiction and start treating the source while learning coping skills for managing addictive behavior, anxiety, and depression.
How many times have you heard, “why can’t you just stop?” Do you find yourself wishing those around you would attempt to understand your experience and hear you? Addiction, anxiety, and depression are already so isolating and we often have a difficult time understanding our own behavior without trying to explain it to family and friends. We feel stuck, alone, frustrated, and misunderstood. Imagine what it would be like to identify the root cause of your addiction and start treating the source while learning coping skills for managing addictive behavior, anxiety, and depression.
(630) 333-4016 View (630) 333-4016
Photo of Kasia Tomanek, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kasia Tomanek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs and caring for yourself? Are you feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, and relationship problems? I strongly believe that, as individuals, we need to prioritize our own well-being to live a full and rewarding lives. Helping clients discover and access self-care and self-compassion as they begin their journey in therapy is a passion of mine. Beginnings are never easy, but I am here to walk alongside you in this journey and will be here to support and guide you through this rewarding and life changing process.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs and caring for yourself? Are you feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, and relationship problems? I strongly believe that, as individuals, we need to prioritize our own well-being to live a full and rewarding lives. Helping clients discover and access self-care and self-compassion as they begin their journey in therapy is a passion of mine. Beginnings are never easy, but I am here to walk alongside you in this journey and will be here to support and guide you through this rewarding and life changing process.
(630) 538-7405 View (630) 538-7405
Photo of Carrie Summers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
I have experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, perinatal and postpartum stressors, life transitions, work/ school stressors, relationship challenges (dating, divorce, marriage, friendships), trauma, and narcissistic abuse.
Ever ask yourself, ”How did I get here?” When you feel overwhelmed and discouraged, it's like trying to keep your head above water. Life can get hectic, basic everyday tasks become more difficult, relationships get strained, and the wear and tear of your different roles becomes harder and tougher to juggle. Finding a sense of emotional well-being and balance in life can sometimes feel like an impossible task, especially during unpredictable times. If you’re starting to question your values, your thoughts, or your choices because you know there’s more to life; I’m so glad you found me.
I have experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, perinatal and postpartum stressors, life transitions, work/ school stressors, relationship challenges (dating, divorce, marriage, friendships), trauma, and narcissistic abuse.
Ever ask yourself, ”How did I get here?” When you feel overwhelmed and discouraged, it's like trying to keep your head above water. Life can get hectic, basic everyday tasks become more difficult, relationships get strained, and the wear and tear of your different roles becomes harder and tougher to juggle. Finding a sense of emotional well-being and balance in life can sometimes feel like an impossible task, especially during unpredictable times. If you’re starting to question your values, your thoughts, or your choices because you know there’s more to life; I’m so glad you found me.
(630) 474-5275 View (630) 474-5275
Photo of Trudy L Walk - Trudy L Walk & Associates, MA, LMFT, LCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Trudy L Walk & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
In my 40 years of practicing, I have worked with a variety of people who want help to improve their lives. For some it is an acute crisis and for others they have been struggling with emotional and relational problems. I collaborate with other professionals so that my clients have continuity of care and the best type of support.
In my 40 years of practicing, I have worked with a variety of people who want help to improve their lives. For some it is an acute crisis and for others they have been struggling with emotional and relational problems. I collaborate with other professionals so that my clients have continuity of care and the best type of support.
(630) 517-0701 View (630) 517-0701
Photo of Julia Friesen, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Friesen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
Are you looking to increase your sense of effectiveness with family, work, and friends? I assist individuals and families in sorting out what current and past factors may be contributing to their situation, in order to resolve issues and create space for healing. I am a psychotherapist experienced in working with adults, children and families with a variety of concerns. With adults and teens, my approaches include insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy and parent coaching.
Are you looking to increase your sense of effectiveness with family, work, and friends? I assist individuals and families in sorting out what current and past factors may be contributing to their situation, in order to resolve issues and create space for healing. I am a psychotherapist experienced in working with adults, children and families with a variety of concerns. With adults and teens, my approaches include insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy and parent coaching.
(773) 599-2961 View (773) 599-2961
Photo of Betty A Riley, PsyD, Psychologist
Betty A Riley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
When life gets tough and everything is piling up, people wonder where they can turn and with whom they can talk. My patients often comment that they feel comfortable with me and that they find me "easy to talk to." However, people often postpone making an appointment with a therapist for various reasons. But most problems can get better faster when you are working with a competent professional. So why not make that call today to set up an appointment?
When life gets tough and everything is piling up, people wonder where they can turn and with whom they can talk. My patients often comment that they feel comfortable with me and that they find me "easy to talk to." However, people often postpone making an appointment with a therapist for various reasons. But most problems can get better faster when you are working with a competent professional. So why not make that call today to set up an appointment?
(630) 743-6022 View (630) 743-6022
Photo of Nora Ochoa, LCPC
Nora Ochoa
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
Nora Ochoa, LCPC, focuses on fostering a nurturing environment during sessions where clients can feel safe. She works in a variety of areas and populations, and incorporates exceptional clinical techniques to promote positive change. Nora earned a BA from University of Illinois at Chicago and an MA from National Louis University. For over a decade, Nora has worked in IOP, office, residential, and home-based services. She also has extensive experience working with foster families, adoptive families, and families involved with DCFS.
Nora Ochoa, LCPC, focuses on fostering a nurturing environment during sessions where clients can feel safe. She works in a variety of areas and populations, and incorporates exceptional clinical techniques to promote positive change. Nora earned a BA from University of Illinois at Chicago and an MA from National Louis University. For over a decade, Nora has worked in IOP, office, residential, and home-based services. She also has extensive experience working with foster families, adoptive families, and families involved with DCFS.
(331) 246-0622 View (331) 246-0622
Photo of Shannon Dudzienski, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Dudzienski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
Shannon Dudzienski is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with 4 years of experience. She received her Associate of Arts from then College of DuPage, and then transferred to Northern Illinois University to obtain her Bachelor in Psychology, followed by her Master in Social Work. Shannon believes in a strength-based and client-centered approach. She provides support, validation, a welcoming environment, and meets clients where they are at. Her treatment philosophy includes using interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, and play therapy.
Shannon Dudzienski is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with 4 years of experience. She received her Associate of Arts from then College of DuPage, and then transferred to Northern Illinois University to obtain her Bachelor in Psychology, followed by her Master in Social Work. Shannon believes in a strength-based and client-centered approach. She provides support, validation, a welcoming environment, and meets clients where they are at. Her treatment philosophy includes using interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, and play therapy.
(331) 259-8743 View (331) 259-8743
Photo of Toni Thill, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toni Thill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
Thinking about starting therapy can feel overwhelming, uncomfortable, and maybe even scary. Whatever has brought you to this place of considering asking for help, I want you to know I am here for you. My goal is to assist you in making the changes in your life in order to feel more confident, less anxious, and more hopeful about the future. Therapy is designed around you, your goals, at your pace. I am here to partner with you and provide you with a safe space and the coping skills necessary to help you feel empowered and supported.
Thinking about starting therapy can feel overwhelming, uncomfortable, and maybe even scary. Whatever has brought you to this place of considering asking for help, I want you to know I am here for you. My goal is to assist you in making the changes in your life in order to feel more confident, less anxious, and more hopeful about the future. Therapy is designed around you, your goals, at your pace. I am here to partner with you and provide you with a safe space and the coping skills necessary to help you feel empowered and supported.
(630) 349-6169 View (630) 349-6169
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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.