Depression Therapists in Wood River, IL

Photo of Sarah Lerch-Halliday, LCPC
Sarah Lerch-Halliday
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wood River, IL 62095
I specialize in treating symptoms of depression, anxiety (including social anxiety), anger, self-esteem, grief, and substance abuse.
Hello! My name is Sarah Lerch-Halliday and I've been working as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for 12 years. I provide therapy to people experiencing increased symptoms related to stress, relationships, depression, anxiety, and more. I’ll work with you as a compassionate and trauma-informed therapist, using evidenced-based coping strategies to help you move towards improved mental health. I work with teens, young adults, and adults who are facing problems at school, work, in relationships, recent loss, and just general life stressors.
I specialize in treating symptoms of depression, anxiety (including social anxiety), anger, self-esteem, grief, and substance abuse.
Hello! My name is Sarah Lerch-Halliday and I've been working as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for 12 years. I provide therapy to people experiencing increased symptoms related to stress, relationships, depression, anxiety, and more. I’ll work with you as a compassionate and trauma-informed therapist, using evidenced-based coping strategies to help you move towards improved mental health. I work with teens, young adults, and adults who are facing problems at school, work, in relationships, recent loss, and just general life stressors.
(773) 207-3177 View (773) 207-3177
Photo of Patricia Ellen Horn, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Patricia Ellen Horn
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wood River, IL 62095
My approach to therapy is client-centered and tailored to the indivicual needs of each client. In my 25+ years of counseling I have helped clients cope with with problems such as depression, anxiety, marital and relationship issuses, grief and loss, and unresolved family-of-origin issues. I also teach relaxation exercises and visualization, and use a "theratapper" to help clients reprocess traumatic experiences.
My approach to therapy is client-centered and tailored to the indivicual needs of each client. In my 25+ years of counseling I have helped clients cope with with problems such as depression, anxiety, marital and relationship issuses, grief and loss, and unresolved family-of-origin issues. I also teach relaxation exercises and visualization, and use a "theratapper" to help clients reprocess traumatic experiences.
(618) 688-0552 View (618) 688-0552
Photo of Michelle Graham - Bridge of Hope Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridge of Hope Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wood River, IL 62095
If you suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, or trauma, Brainspotting can relieve you of your deeply rooted symptoms.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or a self-defeating behavior? People seek therapy for different reasons. You may be reading this because you are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, relationship problems, etc. Our lives are constantly evolving and changing; sometimes those changes can be challenging and even overwhelming. I offer a highly personalized approach to resolve some of the challenges you are facing. I work with individuals from a strength based perspective. During therapy sessions, we will work together to identify your strengths and explore areas for growth and change.
If you suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, or trauma, Brainspotting can relieve you of your deeply rooted symptoms.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or a self-defeating behavior? People seek therapy for different reasons. You may be reading this because you are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, relationship problems, etc. Our lives are constantly evolving and changing; sometimes those changes can be challenging and even overwhelming. I offer a highly personalized approach to resolve some of the challenges you are facing. I work with individuals from a strength based perspective. During therapy sessions, we will work together to identify your strengths and explore areas for growth and change.
(618) 319-6085 View (618) 319-6085
Photo of Angela A Perkinson, MA, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Angela A Perkinson
Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Wood River, IL 62095
I can support and guide you on your journey toward wellness and having a more balanced life whether you are having a difficult time managing daily challenges and stressors, coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, or life changes.
I can support and guide you on your journey toward wellness and having a more balanced life whether you are having a difficult time managing daily challenges and stressors, coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, or life changes.
(618) 205-9437 View (618) 205-9437
Photo of Kelsie Miller, QMHP, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelsie Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, QMHP, MA
Verified Verified
Wood River, IL 62095
Hello, I'm so glad you're here! Starting therapy, whether it's the first or tenth time, can be overwhelming. My mission is to provide clients of all ages with a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can truly feel heard, respected, and empowered. I don't claim to be the expert on your life; instead, I view therapy as a collaborative process where your voice matters most. I specialize in addressing a variety of issues, including coping and self-regulation skills, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting support, self-esteem, safe expression of feelings and self, grief, ADHD, safety planning, healthy relationships, and boundaries
Hello, I'm so glad you're here! Starting therapy, whether it's the first or tenth time, can be overwhelming. My mission is to provide clients of all ages with a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can truly feel heard, respected, and empowered. I don't claim to be the expert on your life; instead, I view therapy as a collaborative process where your voice matters most. I specialize in addressing a variety of issues, including coping and self-regulation skills, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting support, self-esteem, safe expression of feelings and self, grief, ADHD, safety planning, healthy relationships, and boundaries
(618) 423-8460 View (618) 423-8460
Photo of Carrie Shalosky, LPCC, Counselor
Carrie Shalosky
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Wood River, IL 62095
My theoretical orientation is a holistic and diversified approach based on current research, best practice, and evidence-based treatment. I value integrating the total well-being of the individual to assist in accessing their greatest potential for change and sense of purpose. I understand that individuals and their situations are unique, and my counseling methodology is responsive to the personal needs and learning styles of the client.
My theoretical orientation is a holistic and diversified approach based on current research, best practice, and evidence-based treatment. I value integrating the total well-being of the individual to assist in accessing their greatest potential for change and sense of purpose. I understand that individuals and their situations are unique, and my counseling methodology is responsive to the personal needs and learning styles of the client.
(708) 853-5965 View (708) 853-5965
Photo of Patricia Gregory, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wood River, IL 62095  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Everyday life is a challenge and situations occur that make it more difficult. Families can be problematic, growing-up is challenging for the adolescent and parents, relationships are difficult, grief is painful, jobs can be strenuous, financial worries weigh heavy, medical problems can wear us down and the list goes on. If life challenges have caused you to experience less pleasure, more sadness and anxiety, disturbed sleep, or behaviors that are not normal for you, it often helps to seek an experienced counselor to talk to.
Everyday life is a challenge and situations occur that make it more difficult. Families can be problematic, growing-up is challenging for the adolescent and parents, relationships are difficult, grief is painful, jobs can be strenuous, financial worries weigh heavy, medical problems can wear us down and the list goes on. If life challenges have caused you to experience less pleasure, more sadness and anxiety, disturbed sleep, or behaviors that are not normal for you, it often helps to seek an experienced counselor to talk to.
(833) 211-3577 View (833) 211-3577

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Barbara Adams, LCPC, Counselor
Barbara Adams
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Edwardsville, IL 62025
My name is Barb Adams. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have provided individual, couples, family, as well as group therapy for over 30 years. I also specialize in working with impaired professionals. I have an extensive history of working with many differing diagnoses. Some of my specialties include working with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, among others. I have also spent over 10 years working specifically with impaired professionals in the medical and legal professions.
My name is Barb Adams. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have provided individual, couples, family, as well as group therapy for over 30 years. I also specialize in working with impaired professionals. I have an extensive history of working with many differing diagnoses. Some of my specialties include working with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, among others. I have also spent over 10 years working specifically with impaired professionals in the medical and legal professions.
(773) 945-9916 View (773) 945-9916
Photo of Robin L. Turner - Dr Robin L Turner, MSW, LCSW, D CSW, Psa, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr Robin L Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, D CSW, Psa, PsyD
Verified Verified
Edwardsville, IL 62025
My strengths: Children/Adolescents/Adults: relationships, depression/anxiety, gender issues, family, issues, work related, men's and women's issues.
My life's work is to help individuals understand intimately themselves through psychotherapy. To utilize the deeper levels of the self, achieve richer relationships,and an appreciation for who they are. Primary, to successful therapy is the relationship between the client and therapist. My work: Children,Adolescents and Adults. Child/Adolescents-self esteem, depression anxiety, relationship, family issues, school issues. Adults: depression, anxiety, relationship,gender issues,grief. Psychotherapist/Psychoanalyst, child, adolescent and adult and seniors. Faculty member/the St. Louis Psychoanalytic Institute(president 2010-2013), Asst. Clinical professor, Dept. of Psychiatry, St. Louis Universityjoint appt./Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital.
My strengths: Children/Adolescents/Adults: relationships, depression/anxiety, gender issues, family, issues, work related, men's and women's issues.
My life's work is to help individuals understand intimately themselves through psychotherapy. To utilize the deeper levels of the self, achieve richer relationships,and an appreciation for who they are. Primary, to successful therapy is the relationship between the client and therapist. My work: Children,Adolescents and Adults. Child/Adolescents-self esteem, depression anxiety, relationship, family issues, school issues. Adults: depression, anxiety, relationship,gender issues,grief. Psychotherapist/Psychoanalyst, child, adolescent and adult and seniors. Faculty member/the St. Louis Psychoanalytic Institute(president 2010-2013), Asst. Clinical professor, Dept. of Psychiatry, St. Louis Universityjoint appt./Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital.
(314) 696-5443 View (314) 696-5443
Photo of Amy Minor - CalmWaters Counseling & Resource Center, LCPC, Counselor
CalmWaters Counseling & Resource Center
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alton, IL 62002
groups! Some of the issues we specialize in include: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, marital and relationship conflict, family issues, trauma, emotional and behavioral struggles, substance abuse and addictions.
Whatever may be going on, life can get overwhelming and an outside perspective can help. At CalmWaters you will be treated with respect, dignity, and empathy. We have 7 therapists available to see in person or virtually. If you aren't sure which counselor you want to see, we'll help you find the best fit. You are not alone. Difficult things happen to everyone in life and sometimes a helping hand is just what is needed. Our licensed counselors will walk with you through the situation that brings you into therapy until it is resolved or improved. We meet each client where they are, provide support and tools, and foster growth.
groups! Some of the issues we specialize in include: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, marital and relationship conflict, family issues, trauma, emotional and behavioral struggles, substance abuse and addictions.
Whatever may be going on, life can get overwhelming and an outside perspective can help. At CalmWaters you will be treated with respect, dignity, and empathy. We have 7 therapists available to see in person or virtually. If you aren't sure which counselor you want to see, we'll help you find the best fit. You are not alone. Difficult things happen to everyone in life and sometimes a helping hand is just what is needed. Our licensed counselors will walk with you through the situation that brings you into therapy until it is resolved or improved. We meet each client where they are, provide support and tools, and foster growth.
(618) 867-4565 View (618) 867-4565
Photo of Becky Heck, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becky Heck
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alton, IL 62002  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals with serious and persistent mental health issues, addiction, dual diagnosis/co-occurring, Bi Polar disorder, depression, anxiety, and LGBTQ+.
Sometimes we all feel a little bit broken, we can get so caught up in what's going wrong or what's not working. Sometimes life get's hard, too much stress at home or work, relationship issues, grief and loss, addiction, depression, anxiety or feeling like we have just lost our way. No matter what is going on, you have taken that first step and you have come to the right place.
I have worked with individuals with serious and persistent mental health issues, addiction, dual diagnosis/co-occurring, Bi Polar disorder, depression, anxiety, and LGBTQ+.
Sometimes we all feel a little bit broken, we can get so caught up in what's going wrong or what's not working. Sometimes life get's hard, too much stress at home or work, relationship issues, grief and loss, addiction, depression, anxiety or feeling like we have just lost our way. No matter what is going on, you have taken that first step and you have come to the right place.
(314) 926-9854 View (314) 926-9854
Photo of Melia Adams, MA, LPC, MT-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melia Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edwardsville, IL 62025
I offer counseling and music therapy services for individuals and groups who struggle with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, self-esteem, trauma, spiritual issues, and more.
I believe in addressing the physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and creative aspects of the whole individual. My goal is to encourage and help you discover the strengths that you already possess to navigate difficult emotions and experiences. Collaboration is a huge part of each therapy session because you are the true expert of your life!
I offer counseling and music therapy services for individuals and groups who struggle with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief, self-esteem, trauma, spiritual issues, and more.
I believe in addressing the physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and creative aspects of the whole individual. My goal is to encourage and help you discover the strengths that you already possess to navigate difficult emotions and experiences. Collaboration is a huge part of each therapy session because you are the true expert of your life!
(618) 627-5155 View (618) 627-5155
Photo of Joseph Graham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edwardsville, IL 62025
I specialize in Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Crisis Intervention, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in the following treatment areas: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, grief, behavioral issues, self-esteem, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with fifteen years of clinical experience. I completed my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and my Master's degree in Social Work, with an emphasis in Family Systems Theory, at Saint Louis University. I understand that clients are the experts of their own lives and join with clients to determine treatment goals. I work throughout the time we have together focusing on helping those I serve achieve emotional balance.
I specialize in Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Crisis Intervention, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in the following treatment areas: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, grief, behavioral issues, self-esteem, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with fifteen years of clinical experience. I completed my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and my Master's degree in Social Work, with an emphasis in Family Systems Theory, at Saint Louis University. I understand that clients are the experts of their own lives and join with clients to determine treatment goals. I work throughout the time we have together focusing on helping those I serve achieve emotional balance.
(618) 643-9928 View (618) 643-9928
Photo of Andi Burgess, LCPC, Counselor
Andi Burgess
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Edwardsville, IL 62025  (Online Only)
My areas of focus include: Life Transitions; Depression & Anxiety; Eating Disorders; LGBTQ; and Relational Difficulty.
Helping others find peace, healing and empowerment is the center of my work as a therapist. Drawing from several theoretical approaches, I have helped individuals work through trauma, family conflict, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I offer a safe place to help individuals heal past wounds, improve relationships and restore balance.
My areas of focus include: Life Transitions; Depression & Anxiety; Eating Disorders; LGBTQ; and Relational Difficulty.
Helping others find peace, healing and empowerment is the center of my work as a therapist. Drawing from several theoretical approaches, I have helped individuals work through trauma, family conflict, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I offer a safe place to help individuals heal past wounds, improve relationships and restore balance.
(618) 248-4403 View (618) 248-4403
Photo of Dr. Robin L Myers, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Robin L Myers
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Edwardsville, IL 62025
Therapy is quite beneficial in treating depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, panic attacks, grief and loss, stress management and relationship issues.
Welcome. You have decided to take one step closer towards making some positive changes in your life. We can work together to manage the difficult challenges that prevent you from leading a more satisfying life. As a solution focused therapist, I utilize a cognitive-behavioral approach to identify problematic behaviors and thought patterns and to develop new strategies of coping. Therapy can produce long lasting benefits for challenges and open the door to a more productive life. Therapy is beneficial for sudden changes, such as death of a loved one, divorce, stress management, and work transitions.
Therapy is quite beneficial in treating depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, panic attacks, grief and loss, stress management and relationship issues.
Welcome. You have decided to take one step closer towards making some positive changes in your life. We can work together to manage the difficult challenges that prevent you from leading a more satisfying life. As a solution focused therapist, I utilize a cognitive-behavioral approach to identify problematic behaviors and thought patterns and to develop new strategies of coping. Therapy can produce long lasting benefits for challenges and open the door to a more productive life. Therapy is beneficial for sudden changes, such as death of a loved one, divorce, stress management, and work transitions.
(618) 205-6775 View (618) 205-6775
Photo of Latavia Jo Harley, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Latavia Jo Harley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Alton, IL 62002
Hi, I am so happy you're here. Seeking counseling takes a lot of courage and strength. Thank yourself for getting this far. What brought you here? Anxiety, depression, grief, life changes and transitions? I am here to guide you on your healing journey. I have recently worked with co-occurring disorders, addiction, depression, anxiety, stress related disorders, amongst many others.
Hi, I am so happy you're here. Seeking counseling takes a lot of courage and strength. Thank yourself for getting this far. What brought you here? Anxiety, depression, grief, life changes and transitions? I am here to guide you on your healing journey. I have recently worked with co-occurring disorders, addiction, depression, anxiety, stress related disorders, amongst many others.
(618) 852-1362 View (618) 852-1362
Photo of Elizabeth Lee, MA, LCPC
Elizabeth Lee
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Edwardsville, IL 62025  (Online Only)
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm and relationship difficulties.
My priority is to offer a therapeutic relationship where you feel comfortable and accepted in a safe and non-judgmental environment. I see my clients as a whole person, not as your presenting problem. It is imperative to me that you feel heard and understood. I love being a therapist and my goal is to instill hope and peace back into your life.
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm and relationship difficulties.
My priority is to offer a therapeutic relationship where you feel comfortable and accepted in a safe and non-judgmental environment. I see my clients as a whole person, not as your presenting problem. It is imperative to me that you feel heard and understood. I love being a therapist and my goal is to instill hope and peace back into your life.
(618) 389-5401 View (618) 389-5401
Photo of Tracy A Hermanson, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Tracy A Hermanson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edwardsville, IL 62025
Waitlist for new clients
My work involves helping people in troubled relationships find what is important to them, personally and in relationship to others. I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, guilt, fear, and other emotions that are keeping them stuck as they attempt to move forward. The clients I see hope to rebuild their lives, make sense of their experiences, and move on. I am an EMDR-trained and practicing therapist where trust is key. Once trust is built between the team of client and therapist, great inroads to health and recovery are possible with this therapeutic practice.
My work involves helping people in troubled relationships find what is important to them, personally and in relationship to others. I work with people experiencing depression, anxiety, guilt, fear, and other emotions that are keeping them stuck as they attempt to move forward. The clients I see hope to rebuild their lives, make sense of their experiences, and move on. I am an EMDR-trained and practicing therapist where trust is key. Once trust is built between the team of client and therapist, great inroads to health and recovery are possible with this therapeutic practice.
(618) 974-9054 View (618) 974-9054
Photo of Jessica Surges, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Surges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Moro, IL 62067
Hi! My name is Jessica Surges and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I tend to use patient and solution-focused CBT modalities to help my clients overcome obstacles and manage everyday life stress. I have found that all people, despite our differences, experience some form of stress or anxiety at some point in life. It could stem from grief and loss, trauma, pivotal life changes, questioning decisions, or just feeling overwhelmed, depressed, and burnt out. I am confident in my ability to unpack and address these issues to help my clients lead happy and fulfilled lives.
Hi! My name is Jessica Surges and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I tend to use patient and solution-focused CBT modalities to help my clients overcome obstacles and manage everyday life stress. I have found that all people, despite our differences, experience some form of stress or anxiety at some point in life. It could stem from grief and loss, trauma, pivotal life changes, questioning decisions, or just feeling overwhelmed, depressed, and burnt out. I am confident in my ability to unpack and address these issues to help my clients lead happy and fulfilled lives.
(217) 763-7105 View (217) 763-7105
Photo of Michelle Witt, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Witt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edwardsville, IL 62025
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relational issues, and trauma.
We all face times in life that call for support and a safe environment to slow down and gain perspective about the challenges we face. I believe there is hope and consider it a privilege to walk with clients through the challenges they are facing.
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relational issues, and trauma.
We all face times in life that call for support and a safe environment to slow down and gain perspective about the challenges we face. I believe there is hope and consider it a privilege to walk with clients through the challenges they are facing.
(618) 248-8961 View (618) 248-8961

See more therapy options for Wood River

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.