Depression Therapists in 60014

Photo of Kris Kester, LCPC, RDDP, Counselor
Kris Kester
Counselor, LCPC, RDDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
My specialties include working with children to adults with a variety of problems including depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life transitions.
Do you find it difficult to manage intense emotions? Do you feel out of control and nothing you have tried has helped...several treatments, self-harm, even substances? Whatever actions/behaviors you have tried you still feel the pain? Well I am here to help. I will listen to your problems, help you to identify things that are not currently effective, and "together" find solutions to make some changes in your life.
My specialties include working with children to adults with a variety of problems including depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life transitions.
Do you find it difficult to manage intense emotions? Do you feel out of control and nothing you have tried has helped...several treatments, self-harm, even substances? Whatever actions/behaviors you have tried you still feel the pain? Well I am here to help. I will listen to your problems, help you to identify things that are not currently effective, and "together" find solutions to make some changes in your life.
(224) 643-0766 View (224) 643-0766
Photo of Katharina Klakus, PsyD, Psychologist
Katharina Klakus
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed child psychologist with extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, emerging adults, and families. My specialization lies in helping clients navigate through various challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, peer and family stress, learning, behavioral and attention difficulties, life transitions, trauma, separation, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, I offer guidance to parents, helping them understand their children's challenges and strengths more deeply, enhance family communication and connection, and learn effective parenting and coping skills.
I am a licensed child psychologist with extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, emerging adults, and families. My specialization lies in helping clients navigate through various challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, peer and family stress, learning, behavioral and attention difficulties, life transitions, trauma, separation, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, I offer guidance to parents, helping them understand their children's challenges and strengths more deeply, enhance family communication and connection, and learn effective parenting and coping skills.
(847) 499-1427 View (847) 499-1427
Photo of Aditra Albright, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Aditra Albright
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014  (Online Only)
My specialty is the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, motherhood challenges, and work-life balance.
Drawing on 15 years of experience as a clinical therapist, I am shifting my area of practice to helping women of all ages live their best life. My belief is treatment should focus on developing an emotionally safe relationship to create an environment you are comfortable sharing your truth. My practice approach is primarily client centered and solution focused. I enjoy exploring life struggles and providing the tools to help you navigate through them.
My specialty is the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, motherhood challenges, and work-life balance.
Drawing on 15 years of experience as a clinical therapist, I am shifting my area of practice to helping women of all ages live their best life. My belief is treatment should focus on developing an emotionally safe relationship to create an environment you are comfortable sharing your truth. My practice approach is primarily client centered and solution focused. I enjoy exploring life struggles and providing the tools to help you navigate through them.
(872) 231-3283 View (872) 231-3283
Photo of Jonpaul Figueroa, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonpaul Figueroa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I work with children and up who are experiencing anxiety, depression, issues related to trauma, and executive functioning disorders (Spectrum and ADHD). I have experience working with clients with developmental delays or developmental disorders, along with learning difficulties.
I work with children and up who are experiencing anxiety, depression, issues related to trauma, and executive functioning disorders (Spectrum and ADHD). I have experience working with clients with developmental delays or developmental disorders, along with learning difficulties.
(815) 857-8400 View (815) 857-8400
Photo of Susan M Olesch, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Susan M Olesch
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
If you are reading this you have taken your first step toward positive change! For some, the thought of therapy can be intimidating. However, finding the "right fit" in a client/therapist relationship is essential to sharing your feelings and overcoming your fears. In a safe, positive environment you can accomplish your goals and move towards a better, happier life. I promote an atmosphere of exceptance, no matter what you are experiencing....anxiety, depression, stress over life transitions, fear or shame, sharing traumatic events, or relationship issues. You deserve the best life possible!
If you are reading this you have taken your first step toward positive change! For some, the thought of therapy can be intimidating. However, finding the "right fit" in a client/therapist relationship is essential to sharing your feelings and overcoming your fears. In a safe, positive environment you can accomplish your goals and move towards a better, happier life. I promote an atmosphere of exceptance, no matter what you are experiencing....anxiety, depression, stress over life transitions, fear or shame, sharing traumatic events, or relationship issues. You deserve the best life possible!
(847) 242-2324 View (847) 242-2324
Photo of Jennifer Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, MA, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
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
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
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 x132 View (847) 813-7320 x132
Photo of Stephanie E Sanchez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie E Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Welcome! My name is Stephanie Sanchez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with individuals and family members struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma related issues. I have cultivated a career working with children, teens, and adults and I strive in anyway possible to help achieve therapy goals so that you or family member can cultivate a healthy and prosperous self.
Welcome! My name is Stephanie Sanchez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with individuals and family members struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma related issues. I have cultivated a career working with children, teens, and adults and I strive in anyway possible to help achieve therapy goals so that you or family member can cultivate a healthy and prosperous self.
(224) 505-8552 View (224) 505-8552
Photo of Kelly Canavan, MSEd, LCPC, NBCC
Kelly Canavan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
My specialties include working with children to adults with a variety of problems including depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life transitions.
Hello and Welcome - My journey into counseling began with a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges and find fulfillment. I opened my practice in 2014 after meeting and working with Brene Brown’s team in San Antonio, Texas. If her work resonates with you our office is named after the “Man in the Arena Quote” - Arena Counseling LLC. With close to 20 years of experience. I've had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families facing various issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, and trauma. My approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and empowerment.
My specialties include working with children to adults with a variety of problems including depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life transitions.
Hello and Welcome - My journey into counseling began with a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges and find fulfillment. I opened my practice in 2014 after meeting and working with Brene Brown’s team in San Antonio, Texas. If her work resonates with you our office is named after the “Man in the Arena Quote” - Arena Counseling LLC. With close to 20 years of experience. I've had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families facing various issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, and trauma. My approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and empowerment.
(815) 769-5331 View (815) 769-5331
Photo of Deirdre Flynn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deirdre Flynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I specialize in anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, and the challenges of adjusting to life changes.
Reaching out can be a challenge! Take the next step and let's discuss how we can work together to meet your needs. My approach is rooted in the belief that clients are the experts in how they feel, think and what they need. I foster a collaborative and non-judgmental environment where clients can work towards their personal and relational goals while empowering clients to discover their strengths, build resilience and develop effective coping strategies. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, confidential space where we explore your concerns and work towards positive change.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, and the challenges of adjusting to life changes.
Reaching out can be a challenge! Take the next step and let's discuss how we can work together to meet your needs. My approach is rooted in the belief that clients are the experts in how they feel, think and what they need. I foster a collaborative and non-judgmental environment where clients can work towards their personal and relational goals while empowering clients to discover their strengths, build resilience and develop effective coping strategies. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, confidential space where we explore your concerns and work towards positive change.
(815) 240-8699 View (815) 240-8699
Photo of Tracy Soos, LCPC, CADC, ERYT, Counselor
Tracy Soos
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, ERYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I have been helping clients for the past 24 years working through their mental health and substance use challenges. I am committed to helping you reducing your stress and better manage/change your overall mood through a variety of counseling & stress management techniques. I can help you increase your self-esteem, self worth and work through any body image and acceptance issues that may be challenging your patience. I truly understand anxiety disorders, codependency, health issues, relationship issues, women specific issues, depression and post-partum depressive disorders. I would love to help you make lasting lifestyle changes.
I have been helping clients for the past 24 years working through their mental health and substance use challenges. I am committed to helping you reducing your stress and better manage/change your overall mood through a variety of counseling & stress management techniques. I can help you increase your self-esteem, self worth and work through any body image and acceptance issues that may be challenging your patience. I truly understand anxiety disorders, codependency, health issues, relationship issues, women specific issues, depression and post-partum depressive disorders. I would love to help you make lasting lifestyle changes.
(815) 584-0108 View (815) 584-0108
Photo of Ashley Hawks, MA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Hawks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
My therapeutic approach is drawn from Neurofeedback, which involves recording brainwaves and providing instant feedback to the individual through visual or auditory cues. This feedback helps the brain learn to self-regulate, promoting more balanced and efficient functioning. Neurofeedback therapy has shown success in addressing a variety of conditions, including but not limited to: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Sleep disorders, TBI.
My therapeutic approach is drawn from Neurofeedback, which involves recording brainwaves and providing instant feedback to the individual through visual or auditory cues. This feedback helps the brain learn to self-regulate, promoting more balanced and efficient functioning. Neurofeedback therapy has shown success in addressing a variety of conditions, including but not limited to: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Sleep disorders, TBI.
(847) 233-1734 View (847) 233-1734
Photo of Melissa Karner, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Melissa Karner
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Through my warm, empathic and interactive approach to counseling, I help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, past trauma/hurt, relationships, and complicated family issues.
I work with adolescents, and adults to navigate the challenges in life that we face to find healing and wholeness. My role as a therapist is to offer support and tools that help you live a life that is more genuine, fulfilling and aligns with your goals and desires for yourself and your family. I practice out of a trauma informed perspective to help you dig in to find true healing.
Through my warm, empathic and interactive approach to counseling, I help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, past trauma/hurt, relationships, and complicated family issues.
I work with adolescents, and adults to navigate the challenges in life that we face to find healing and wholeness. My role as a therapist is to offer support and tools that help you live a life that is more genuine, fulfilling and aligns with your goals and desires for yourself and your family. I practice out of a trauma informed perspective to help you dig in to find true healing.
(847) 495-7224 x105 View (847) 495-7224 x105
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners Pllc - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
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 Mercedes Conus, MS, LPC, EMDR, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mercedes Conus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
(847) 469-9869 x101 View (847) 469-9869 x101
Photo of Ashley Capri Flanagan, LCPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Capri Flanagan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
My focus as a therapist is to help individuals who have experienced trauma, anxieties, and depression. Through the therapeutic relationship, I work with people to increase their personal discovery and gain access to the expression of authentic emotion. I believe we are innately designed to survive, and sometimes our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are negatively enacted. My framework identifies that each person is doing the best they can in the moment and it is the therapist’s job to investigate additional moments of resilience, persistence, and self-compassion toward healing.
My focus as a therapist is to help individuals who have experienced trauma, anxieties, and depression. Through the therapeutic relationship, I work with people to increase their personal discovery and gain access to the expression of authentic emotion. I believe we are innately designed to survive, and sometimes our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are negatively enacted. My framework identifies that each person is doing the best they can in the moment and it is the therapist’s job to investigate additional moments of resilience, persistence, and self-compassion toward healing.
(847) 610-6932 View (847) 610-6932
Photo of Sara Lemke - Revival Therapy, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Revival Therapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
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 Erin Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Do you feel like your emotions are getting the best of you? Do you feel like you could be a better parent or partner? Do you feel like you are drowning with no hope in sight? My purpose in working with you is to help you deal with your emotions more effectively so that you can improve your life. Too often people have all the ability and just don't know what step to take next. My purpose is to help you make those decisions so that can feel more confident and happy. My specialties include working with children to adults with a variety of problems including depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life
Do you feel like your emotions are getting the best of you? Do you feel like you could be a better parent or partner? Do you feel like you are drowning with no hope in sight? My purpose in working with you is to help you deal with your emotions more effectively so that you can improve your life. Too often people have all the ability and just don't know what step to take next. My purpose is to help you make those decisions so that can feel more confident and happy. My specialties include working with children to adults with a variety of problems including depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life
(779) 246-3831 View (779) 246-3831
Photo of Jayda Orenbas, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jayda Orenbas
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I specialize in helping people navigate anxiety, depression, PTSD, life changes, and ADHD.
I’m here to help you discover your true self and grow in a way that highlights your unique value and potential. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, face challenges, and find your true path. With solid training and a dedication to ongoing learning, I tailor my approach to fit your specific needs. Together, we’ll build a supportive and empowering relationship to help you overcome obstacles and lead a fulfilling life.
I specialize in helping people navigate anxiety, depression, PTSD, life changes, and ADHD.
I’m here to help you discover your true self and grow in a way that highlights your unique value and potential. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, face challenges, and find your true path. With solid training and a dedication to ongoing learning, I tailor my approach to fit your specific needs. Together, we’ll build a supportive and empowering relationship to help you overcome obstacles and lead a fulfilling life.
(815) 384-6584 View (815) 384-6584
Photo of Jasmine Soto, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine Soto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
My clinical specialties include working with children, teens, and young adults, working through anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, building self-esteem, generational trauma, attachment issues, parenting skills, and developmental delays.
My passion has always been to help others during difficult times, especially children, teens, and young adults. I am dedicated in serving my community and guiding others on a self-discovery journey to feeling better and learning effective ways of coping with diverse situations. My diverse experience working in the field has given me insight on the resilience we all carry within us and in our unique stories. Something I consider in my therapeutic approach: It's not about what’s wrong with you, it’s about what’s happened to you and in how you decide to move forward, regardless of the difficult baggage, you don’t need to do it alone.
My clinical specialties include working with children, teens, and young adults, working through anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, building self-esteem, generational trauma, attachment issues, parenting skills, and developmental delays.
My passion has always been to help others during difficult times, especially children, teens, and young adults. I am dedicated in serving my community and guiding others on a self-discovery journey to feeling better and learning effective ways of coping with diverse situations. My diverse experience working in the field has given me insight on the resilience we all carry within us and in our unique stories. Something I consider in my therapeutic approach: It's not about what’s wrong with you, it’s about what’s happened to you and in how you decide to move forward, regardless of the difficult baggage, you don’t need to do it alone.
(815) 826-6759 x31 View (815) 826-6759 x31
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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.