Depression Therapists in Woodstock, IL

Photo of Desiree Hawley, PsyD, CEDS, Psychologist
Desiree Hawley
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
Desiree works with adults struggling with all types of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, self-harm, life transitions, stress, female issues, older adults, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Desiree’s primary goal as a clinician is to create a warm, supportive, and safe environment that promotes deeper exploration and understanding of one’s emotional experiences. She enjoys teaching others about mental health and how to cope in ways that individuals can feel proud of by utilizing psychoeducation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Person Centered Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Desiree works with adults struggling with all types of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, self-harm, life transitions, stress, female issues, older adults, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Desiree’s primary goal as a clinician is to create a warm, supportive, and safe environment that promotes deeper exploration and understanding of one’s emotional experiences. She enjoys teaching others about mental health and how to cope in ways that individuals can feel proud of by utilizing psychoeducation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Person Centered Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(815) 527-6267 View (815) 527-6267
Photo of Teri B Lindahl, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teri B Lindahl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098
“Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.” -John C. Maxwell Are you struggling with a difficulty in your life? Are you suffering from worry, depression , lack of self love, a loss, or trauma? You can overcome whatever it is and live your best life regardless of what you have gone through. My counseling practice is grounded in knowledge that challenges are part of life. I will help you identify skills within you to conquer your challenges and thrive in your life.
“Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.” -John C. Maxwell Are you struggling with a difficulty in your life? Are you suffering from worry, depression , lack of self love, a loss, or trauma? You can overcome whatever it is and live your best life regardless of what you have gone through. My counseling practice is grounded in knowledge that challenges are part of life. I will help you identify skills within you to conquer your challenges and thrive in your life.
(779) 261-2179 View (779) 261-2179
Photo of Jennifer Boston, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Boston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults, adolescents and children dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, grief, and adjusting to life transitions.
We all have times in our lives when things get hard to sort out, they are painful to bear, or frightening to face and we may want to make things better, but just seem stuck. It can be helpful then to turn to someone outside our circle of family and friends with knowledge and skills to give us the support we need. I feel privileged to be in that sort of position as a therapist, when clients allow me into their lives by sharing personal experiences and emotions. I enjoy helping them discover ways to overcome whatever difficulties they are having.
I work with adults, adolescents and children dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, grief, and adjusting to life transitions.
We all have times in our lives when things get hard to sort out, they are painful to bear, or frightening to face and we may want to make things better, but just seem stuck. It can be helpful then to turn to someone outside our circle of family and friends with knowledge and skills to give us the support we need. I feel privileged to be in that sort of position as a therapist, when clients allow me into their lives by sharing personal experiences and emotions. I enjoy helping them discover ways to overcome whatever difficulties they are having.
(815) 338-3590 View (815) 338-3590
Photo of Monet C Ramsey, LCPC
Monet C Ramsey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
Hello there. My name is Monet C. Ramsey. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience working with teenagers to adults who have, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Women's Issues, and Career Counseling. I incorporate a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, Supportive, and Trauma Focused therapies during my treatment session with clients. I believe that everyone at some point needed someone to be there for them to support and as a source of strength.
Hello there. My name is Monet C. Ramsey. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience working with teenagers to adults who have, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Women's Issues, and Career Counseling. I incorporate a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, Supportive, and Trauma Focused therapies during my treatment session with clients. I believe that everyone at some point needed someone to be there for them to support and as a source of strength.
(309) 248-6024 View (309) 248-6024
Photo of Torrie L Benson-Pryor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Torrie L Benson-Pryor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
Waitlist for new clients
My experience in social services consists of 20+ years of growth, first as a case manager and Social Svc. Director prior to licensure, then clinical experience as a child and family therapist in community mental health, an LCSW in an small group practice, and now my own practice since February 2016. I have extensive knowledge working with people living with grief/loss, Childhood trauma, Depression, Anxiety/Panic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and Personality disorders. I am experienced and passionate about working with First Responders, Military, Medical Professional, and anyone that has had traumatic experiences.
My experience in social services consists of 20+ years of growth, first as a case manager and Social Svc. Director prior to licensure, then clinical experience as a child and family therapist in community mental health, an LCSW in an small group practice, and now my own practice since February 2016. I have extensive knowledge working with people living with grief/loss, Childhood trauma, Depression, Anxiety/Panic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and Personality disorders. I am experienced and passionate about working with First Responders, Military, Medical Professional, and anyone that has had traumatic experiences.
(815) 322-6310 View (815) 322-6310
Photo of Bonnie Marable, PhD, Psychologist
Bonnie Marable
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098  (Online Only)
We all experience uncertainty and change. Adjusting to these circumstances can be challenging. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Duke University and a PhD in Clinical Psychology from NIU. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. My commitment is to the well-being of clients striving to ensure they receive the therapeutic attention they deserve to effect the changes they desire. I have experience working with individuals and families who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger and interpersonal relationships. I incorporate a strengths-based approach in our work.
We all experience uncertainty and change. Adjusting to these circumstances can be challenging. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Duke University and a PhD in Clinical Psychology from NIU. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. My commitment is to the well-being of clients striving to ensure they receive the therapeutic attention they deserve to effect the changes they desire. I have experience working with individuals and families who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger and interpersonal relationships. I incorporate a strengths-based approach in our work.
(779) 273-4310 x2 View (779) 273-4310 x2
Photo of Taylor Skinner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
Taylor works with individuals ages 18 and up and treats a variety of clinical issues including depression, anxiety disorders, and self esteem related issues.
Taylor believes that successful therapy begins with a strong therapeutic relationship. Taylor begins with a person-centered approach to facilitate the growth of the therapeutic relationship. Taylor also incorporates a variety of techniques from the modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) based on the unique needs of each client.
Taylor works with individuals ages 18 and up and treats a variety of clinical issues including depression, anxiety disorders, and self esteem related issues.
Taylor believes that successful therapy begins with a strong therapeutic relationship. Taylor begins with a person-centered approach to facilitate the growth of the therapeutic relationship. Taylor also incorporates a variety of techniques from the modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) based on the unique needs of each client.
(779) 237-8081 x2002 View (779) 237-8081 x2002
Photo of Sara Bardy, LCPC
Sara Bardy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098
Sara provides sessions both via telehealth and in office at our Woodstock location. Sara works with teens and adults dealing with issues such as anxiety and depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, parenting support, relationship issues, self-esteem, ADHD, psychosis, and self-harm. She believes that a strong therapeutic relationship is at the forefront of treatment and utilizes a wide variety of techniques to help meet each individual's needs including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), talk therapy, and expressive arts therapy.
Sara provides sessions both via telehealth and in office at our Woodstock location. Sara works with teens and adults dealing with issues such as anxiety and depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, parenting support, relationship issues, self-esteem, ADHD, psychosis, and self-harm. She believes that a strong therapeutic relationship is at the forefront of treatment and utilizes a wide variety of techniques to help meet each individual's needs including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), talk therapy, and expressive arts therapy.
(779) 246-3200 View (779) 246-3200
Photo of Elizabeth Dorantes de Inzunza, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Dorantes de Inzunza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with challenging relationships, loss of sense of self, cultural identity, anxiety/stress, self-esteem, or depression that affects your day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed, burned out, lost or frustrated by the demands of life and relationships, or just feel stuck in the past at times? Do you seek to understand yourself more deeply and are you ready and willing to explore how your past impacts your present? Together, we'll work to uncover insights, develop skills and cultivate the confidence needed to live a more fulfilling, authentic life. We can create a space to heal, grow and build stronger connections.
Do you struggle with challenging relationships, loss of sense of self, cultural identity, anxiety/stress, self-esteem, or depression that affects your day-to-day life? Do you feel overwhelmed, burned out, lost or frustrated by the demands of life and relationships, or just feel stuck in the past at times? Do you seek to understand yourself more deeply and are you ready and willing to explore how your past impacts your present? Together, we'll work to uncover insights, develop skills and cultivate the confidence needed to live a more fulfilling, authentic life. We can create a space to heal, grow and build stronger connections.
(779) 368-1558 View (779) 368-1558
Photo of Krystyna Wojtowicz, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Krystyna Wojtowicz
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
My clinical focus is on individuals struggling with depression, stress/anxiety, OCD, substance abuse, adjustment to life transitions, relationship distress, and parenting support. I believe that it is important to understand what brings each person into therapy, and tailor therapy to each individual's unique needs and goals. I offer sessions via telehealth/video and in person in our Woodstock location, so that you can participate in therapy from where you are most comfortable.
My clinical focus is on individuals struggling with depression, stress/anxiety, OCD, substance abuse, adjustment to life transitions, relationship distress, and parenting support. I believe that it is important to understand what brings each person into therapy, and tailor therapy to each individual's unique needs and goals. I offer sessions via telehealth/video and in person in our Woodstock location, so that you can participate in therapy from where you are most comfortable.
(779) 242-2189 View (779) 242-2189
Photo of Sara Lemke - Revival Therapy, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Revival Therapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098
Our areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, disordered eating, substance use disorders, personality disorders, grief, divorce, PTSD/trauma, co-dependency, narcissistic abuse, chronic illness, and life adjustments/transitions.
At Revival Therapy believe in compassionate care and authentic connections dedicated towards your wellness. Collectively our professional counselors have over 50 years of experience in the mental heath field working with individuals, couples and families. We believe the key towards your healing lies deeply within you. Our role is to be on the journey with you, helping guide you, and tap into those unrealized or forgotten strengths. We are with you every step of the way on your journey to a personal revival. We are accepting new clients. Let us help you begin your REVIVAL today. Your mental health matters!
Our areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, disordered eating, substance use disorders, personality disorders, grief, divorce, PTSD/trauma, co-dependency, narcissistic abuse, chronic illness, and life adjustments/transitions.
At Revival Therapy believe in compassionate care and authentic connections dedicated towards your wellness. Collectively our professional counselors have over 50 years of experience in the mental heath field working with individuals, couples and families. We believe the key towards your healing lies deeply within you. Our role is to be on the journey with you, helping guide you, and tap into those unrealized or forgotten strengths. We are with you every step of the way on your journey to a personal revival. We are accepting new clients. Let us help you begin your REVIVAL today. Your mental health matters!
(779) 243-5246 View (779) 243-5246
Photo of Jennifer Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, MA, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues- Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues- Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Judy A Carlson, LCSW, CRADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy A Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
I have over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups addressing the following: anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, substance use disorders, co-dependency, adolescent issues, relationship/family issues, grief and loss, adjustment issues, stress management and mood disorders.
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
I have over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups addressing the following: anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, substance use disorders, co-dependency, adolescent issues, relationship/family issues, grief and loss, adjustment issues, stress management and mood disorders.
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
(847) 813-7320 View (847) 813-7320
Photo of Christine Pope, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Christine Pope
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I use a strengths based approach and have worked with clients of all ages. My specialties include behavioral disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I have also worked with clients that have experienced trauma ranging from physical and sexual abuse, assault, and experiencing and witnessing violence and negligence. I do not believe there is a one size fits all approach to therapy and believe that every client is the expert on themselves.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I use a strengths based approach and have worked with clients of all ages. My specialties include behavioral disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I have also worked with clients that have experienced trauma ranging from physical and sexual abuse, assault, and experiencing and witnessing violence and negligence. I do not believe there is a one size fits all approach to therapy and believe that every client is the expert on themselves.
(224) 458-2401 View (224) 458-2401
Photo of Kristin Camorlinga, LCPC, Counselor
Kristin Camorlinga
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098
Common issues she has addressed effectively include; bullying, depression, anger management, ADHD, internet addictions, learning differences, social anxiety, eating disorders, divorce/separation, LGBTQ/identity issues, and oppositional behaviors.
Kristin Camorlinga, LCPC, received her Masters in Counseling from Loyola University in 2012. She specializes in working with children, adolescents and their families and has been doing so in different capacities since 1995. She has counseled bilingually in many settings including three schools, a domestic abuse shelter, two non-for-profits and two community public health agencies. She is passionate about helping people overcome mental health difficulties so they can reach their greatest potential and live their best life.
Common issues she has addressed effectively include; bullying, depression, anger management, ADHD, internet addictions, learning differences, social anxiety, eating disorders, divorce/separation, LGBTQ/identity issues, and oppositional behaviors.
Kristin Camorlinga, LCPC, received her Masters in Counseling from Loyola University in 2012. She specializes in working with children, adolescents and their families and has been doing so in different capacities since 1995. She has counseled bilingually in many settings including three schools, a domestic abuse shelter, two non-for-profits and two community public health agencies. She is passionate about helping people overcome mental health difficulties so they can reach their greatest potential and live their best life.
(224) 412-5788 View (224) 412-5788
Photo of Lynn Marie Hamsen, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Lynn Marie Hamsen
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098
I am looking forward to hearing about why you are considering counseling services at this time. Perhaps you have experienced an unexpected life change or a relationship issue that is hard to resolve. You may be wrestling with making a decision or a new medical diagnosis. You may be hoping for strategies on how to deal with stress, anxiety, depression, or alcohol abuse. You may be frustrated with unresolved parenting, blended family or marital conflicts. There may be family of origin hurts that continue to haunt you. And finally, perhaps you are questioning your purpose on earth. Whatever your need you can find caring help here.
I am looking forward to hearing about why you are considering counseling services at this time. Perhaps you have experienced an unexpected life change or a relationship issue that is hard to resolve. You may be wrestling with making a decision or a new medical diagnosis. You may be hoping for strategies on how to deal with stress, anxiety, depression, or alcohol abuse. You may be frustrated with unresolved parenting, blended family or marital conflicts. There may be family of origin hurts that continue to haunt you. And finally, perhaps you are questioning your purpose on earth. Whatever your need you can find caring help here.
(224) 509-6806 View (224) 509-6806
Photo of Cindy Forster, PsyD, Psychologist
Cindy Forster
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098  (Online Only)
I have over 30 years experience providing outpatient therapy and providing integrated psychological services in a large area hospital system. I specialize in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine. With an emphasis on behavioral health using supportive, cognitive-behavioral therapy, I see patients with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic pain and fibromyalgia, eating disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, headaches, marital discord, family discord, issues of aging, grief and loss, the psychological aspects of cancer treatment, coping with medical conditions, and managing diabetes. I am also a DBT therapist.
I have over 30 years experience providing outpatient therapy and providing integrated psychological services in a large area hospital system. I specialize in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine. With an emphasis on behavioral health using supportive, cognitive-behavioral therapy, I see patients with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic pain and fibromyalgia, eating disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, headaches, marital discord, family discord, issues of aging, grief and loss, the psychological aspects of cancer treatment, coping with medical conditions, and managing diabetes. I am also a DBT therapist.
(224) 263-0943 View (224) 263-0943
Photo of Alli Marifke, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alli Marifke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
At Irene Corzo and Associates, LLC, Alli also works with young adults in addressing everyday stressors, managing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Alli Marifke, LCSW graduated from UW-Whitewater with a Bachelor’s in Social work and completed her Master’s program at George Williams College of Aurora in clinical social work, as well as completing a Master’s program in School Social Work. She has previously worked for a non-profit organization and during her time there, she worked primarily with adolescents and their families. She worked in different areas and has experience working with adolescents and young adults who struggle with substance abuse within an inpatient setting, crisis assessment and treatment, as well as outpatient individual and group therapy.
At Irene Corzo and Associates, LLC, Alli also works with young adults in addressing everyday stressors, managing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Alli Marifke, LCSW graduated from UW-Whitewater with a Bachelor’s in Social work and completed her Master’s program at George Williams College of Aurora in clinical social work, as well as completing a Master’s program in School Social Work. She has previously worked for a non-profit organization and during her time there, she worked primarily with adolescents and their families. She worked in different areas and has experience working with adolescents and young adults who struggle with substance abuse within an inpatient setting, crisis assessment and treatment, as well as outpatient individual and group therapy.
(779) 256-4408 View (779) 256-4408
Photo of Emily Kunash, MA, LCPC, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Kunash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098
If you feel you need help with depression, anxiety, adjustment, PTSD, or athletic performance contact me today.
I have been in the counseling field for over 10 years and I use an eclectic approach to counseling and performance skills coaching. I specialize in clients with PTSD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, and relationship issues. I also specialize in athletes that are looking to improve their performance, become elite, or struggling to perform.
If you feel you need help with depression, anxiety, adjustment, PTSD, or athletic performance contact me today.
I have been in the counseling field for over 10 years and I use an eclectic approach to counseling and performance skills coaching. I specialize in clients with PTSD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, and relationship issues. I also specialize in athletes that are looking to improve their performance, become elite, or struggling to perform.
(224) 236-8790 View (224) 236-8790
Photo of Kasey Olson, LCSW , CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kasey Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CADC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
I will guide you through regulating your moods including anxiety and depression, freedom from substances, unhealthy behaviors or self-injury, managing interpersonal conflicts, or thriving through unexpected or challenging events.
I have openings within a week for both in person and video appointments! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a DBT therapist in a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified DBT Program and, a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor. I see people of all ages. I have worked in many different areas of social work that include child and adolescent treament, crisis intervention, domestic violence, sexual assault, substance use disorders, child welfare, and outpatient mental health services.
I will guide you through regulating your moods including anxiety and depression, freedom from substances, unhealthy behaviors or self-injury, managing interpersonal conflicts, or thriving through unexpected or challenging events.
I have openings within a week for both in person and video appointments! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a DBT therapist in a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified DBT Program and, a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor. I see people of all ages. I have worked in many different areas of social work that include child and adolescent treament, crisis intervention, domestic violence, sexual assault, substance use disorders, child welfare, and outpatient mental health services.
(779) 246-4301 View (779) 246-4301
1
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.