Photo of Lina Costelloe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60093, IL
Lina Costelloe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northfield, IL 60093
I act as a facilitator of change for individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, various traumas, panic, grief/loss, stress, postpartum blues and depression, low self-esteem, and who are going through life transitions and have parenting challenges. I believe that human birthright is to experience joy in life. Individual journeys in healing and growth are the ways to achieve that.
I act as a facilitator of change for individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, various traumas, panic, grief/loss, stress, postpartum blues and depression, low self-esteem, and who are going through life transitions and have parenting challenges. I believe that human birthright is to experience joy in life. Individual journeys in healing and growth are the ways to achieve that.
(224) 408-5048 View (224) 408-5048
Photo of DALIA Vaisaite, Marriage & Family Therapist in 60093, IL
DALIA Vaisaite
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northfield, IL 60093
My clinical experience ranges from working with individuals, couples, and families whose primary symptoms are related to depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, trauma, stress, grief, and who are going through life transitions.
I believe in everyone's uniqueness, authenticity, resiliency, and strength. I will guide you through the process of self-discovery, self-growth, self-love, and clarity. I assist individuals in setting personal goals and visions and working toward desired results and healthy life. Also, I work with couples who may need some guidance and support while navigating their relationships. My goal is for these couples to leave therapy feeling more connected and secure in their relationships. When working with families, I look at the family as a whole, and address transitions, divorce, trauma, grief, and marital/financial problem.
My clinical experience ranges from working with individuals, couples, and families whose primary symptoms are related to depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, trauma, stress, grief, and who are going through life transitions.
I believe in everyone's uniqueness, authenticity, resiliency, and strength. I will guide you through the process of self-discovery, self-growth, self-love, and clarity. I assist individuals in setting personal goals and visions and working toward desired results and healthy life. Also, I work with couples who may need some guidance and support while navigating their relationships. My goal is for these couples to leave therapy feeling more connected and secure in their relationships. When working with families, I look at the family as a whole, and address transitions, divorce, trauma, grief, and marital/financial problem.
(847) 641-2680 View (847) 641-2680
Photo of Aysha Ali Hagene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60093, IL
Aysha Ali Hagene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093  (Online Only)
Are you feeling depressed, anxious or having family issues? You are not alone. Let me help you get back to being you again. I am a Northwestern University trained clinician with over 22 years of experience using proven methodologies to help people begin to live healthier, more satisfying lives. I am the lead counselor and supervisor of my group practice, Simply Counseling, LLC. I also help couples communicate more effectively. Please reach out with any questions and I’m happy to help.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious or having family issues? You are not alone. Let me help you get back to being you again. I am a Northwestern University trained clinician with over 22 years of experience using proven methodologies to help people begin to live healthier, more satisfying lives. I am the lead counselor and supervisor of my group practice, Simply Counseling, LLC. I also help couples communicate more effectively. Please reach out with any questions and I’m happy to help.
(773) 692-4118 View (773) 692-4118
Photo of Steven M. Yousha, Psychologist in 60093, IL
Steven M. Yousha
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
Dr. Steve Yousha is a Psychologist and Senior Consultant who has been practicing since 1990. In addition to his clinical practice, he is Principal at Strategic Talent Management Consultants LLP. As a Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Steve Yousha specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, adjustment and relational problems, providing both individual and couples therapy. He also has extensive experience with multicultural populations. He is published in the areas of depression, adjustment difficulties, and performance enhancement.
Dr. Steve Yousha is a Psychologist and Senior Consultant who has been practicing since 1990. In addition to his clinical practice, he is Principal at Strategic Talent Management Consultants LLP. As a Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Steve Yousha specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, adjustment and relational problems, providing both individual and couples therapy. He also has extensive experience with multicultural populations. He is published in the areas of depression, adjustment difficulties, and performance enhancement.
(773) 492-8967 View (773) 492-8967
Photo of Lauren Schifferdecker, Counselor in 60093, IL
Lauren Schifferdecker
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Northfield, IL 60093
We want you to enjoy your life! If you or a loved one are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, relationship struggles, parenting, child's behavior--we have clinical tools to help, BUT, we don’t stop there.
You deserve love, warmth and acceptance in your life. If you're feeling exhausted, anxious, discouraged or alone, we're here with open arms for you. You have found a safe place to rest, and regroup. You’re smart. You know life can be better than this. Whether you’re looking for yourself, or a family member–you are looking in the right spot. With a quick call or email, you can start living your best life! I founded Inspire Counseling Center to help you feel the freedom, joy and connection counseling can bring. We have nearly 20 incredible therapists I work closely with who are available evenings and weekends.
We want you to enjoy your life! If you or a loved one are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, relationship struggles, parenting, child's behavior--we have clinical tools to help, BUT, we don’t stop there.
You deserve love, warmth and acceptance in your life. If you're feeling exhausted, anxious, discouraged or alone, we're here with open arms for you. You have found a safe place to rest, and regroup. You’re smart. You know life can be better than this. Whether you’re looking for yourself, or a family member–you are looking in the right spot. With a quick call or email, you can start living your best life! I founded Inspire Counseling Center to help you feel the freedom, joy and connection counseling can bring. We have nearly 20 incredible therapists I work closely with who are available evenings and weekends.
(847) 607-6510 View (847) 607-6510
Photo of Blair McGuire, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 60093, IL
Blair McGuire
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
Throughout her career, Blair noticed a need to explore beyond her clients’ moods and emotional states, and was compelled to investigate other areas that may contribute to dysregulation and dissatisfaction. Blair decided to pursue an Integrated Nutrition Health Coach Certificate in 2023 and often takes a holistic approach when working with clients. Blair will assess and make recommendations for lifestyle changes in order to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, cultivate a greater sense of vitality and help clients achieve optimal health.
Throughout her career, Blair noticed a need to explore beyond her clients’ moods and emotional states, and was compelled to investigate other areas that may contribute to dysregulation and dissatisfaction. Blair decided to pursue an Integrated Nutrition Health Coach Certificate in 2023 and often takes a holistic approach when working with clients. Blair will assess and make recommendations for lifestyle changes in order to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, cultivate a greater sense of vitality and help clients achieve optimal health.
(847) 242-2545 View (847) 242-2545
Photo of Molly Prout, LCPC, Ltd., Counselor in 60093, IL
Molly Prout, LCPC, Ltd.
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northfield, IL 60093
I specialize in working with adults struggling with challenging life transitions, relationship difficulties, poor stress management, low self-esteem, work/life balance, parenting-related stress/issues, anxiety and depression.
Helping others through difficult times is my passion, and we all go through difficult times. As a therapist, I try to become part of the situation, feeling the tough times with my client and helping them see things from a different perspective. Together we find ways to solve problems, tackle situations and create beneficial solutions. My style is direct without being overwhelming. I believe therapy can often be positive and fun. Knowledge is power and often therapy turns out to be a great learning experience, allowing clients to realize their strengths and achieve their lifelong goals.
I specialize in working with adults struggling with challenging life transitions, relationship difficulties, poor stress management, low self-esteem, work/life balance, parenting-related stress/issues, anxiety and depression.
Helping others through difficult times is my passion, and we all go through difficult times. As a therapist, I try to become part of the situation, feeling the tough times with my client and helping them see things from a different perspective. Together we find ways to solve problems, tackle situations and create beneficial solutions. My style is direct without being overwhelming. I believe therapy can often be positive and fun. Knowledge is power and often therapy turns out to be a great learning experience, allowing clients to realize their strengths and achieve their lifelong goals.
(224) 521-5404 View (224) 521-5404
Photo of Sasha Von Varga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60093, IL
Sasha Von Varga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Northfield, IL 60093
Collaboration with parents and family members to address anxiety, depression, OCD, school and peer challenges, attention issues, stress, social isolation and other impacting forces helps my clients feel supported and understood rather than lost amidst the forces that have a grip on their sense of ability and accomplishment.
Children, teens, and adults each approach their problems from differing levels of life-experience and developmentally varied problem-solving skill sets. They also have differing neurological availability to the resources and strategies that their brains can employ. At Collaborators, Inc., we work with people where they are in time, place, development, neurology, and life space. Hearing people process their experiences in this way, and joining with them in making sense of challenges, relationship issues, conflicts, and family history issues makes for a context where people can find new ways to explore their world with confidence.
Collaboration with parents and family members to address anxiety, depression, OCD, school and peer challenges, attention issues, stress, social isolation and other impacting forces helps my clients feel supported and understood rather than lost amidst the forces that have a grip on their sense of ability and accomplishment.
Children, teens, and adults each approach their problems from differing levels of life-experience and developmentally varied problem-solving skill sets. They also have differing neurological availability to the resources and strategies that their brains can employ. At Collaborators, Inc., we work with people where they are in time, place, development, neurology, and life space. Hearing people process their experiences in this way, and joining with them in making sense of challenges, relationship issues, conflicts, and family history issues makes for a context where people can find new ways to explore their world with confidence.
(847) 380-3214 View (847) 380-3214
Photo of Claudia Minner, Marriage & Family Therapist in 60093, IL
Claudia Minner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Northfield, IL 60093
I specialize in helping clients holistically work through anxiety, depression, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, marital/relationship issues, communication, and family of origin issues. Whether it is managing anxious symptoms, navigating inhibiting conflict, or even just tackling the stressors that come up in the day-to-day, I work with you to uncover your inherent strengths, and help you leverage them with quality strategies to achieve healthy, desired change. Each session, I collaborate with you to lift your biggest constraints, offer quality guidance, and provide the tools to connect with yourself and others more freely.
I specialize in helping clients holistically work through anxiety, depression, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, marital/relationship issues, communication, and family of origin issues. Whether it is managing anxious symptoms, navigating inhibiting conflict, or even just tackling the stressors that come up in the day-to-day, I work with you to uncover your inherent strengths, and help you leverage them with quality strategies to achieve healthy, desired change. Each session, I collaborate with you to lift your biggest constraints, offer quality guidance, and provide the tools to connect with yourself and others more freely.
(773) 830-3693 View (773) 830-3693
Photo of Agathe Ann Gabriel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60093, IL
Agathe Ann Gabriel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northfield, IL 60093  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed by thoughts of the past or worries of the future? Are you struggling to manage relationships with family, friends and coworkers? Is it hard to take care of your needs? I practice a merriment of evidence-based therapy approaches tailored to meet your needs, including exposure therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, women’s issues and body positivity.Together, we will process difficult feelings and identify tools that work for you so you can live your best life.
Do you feel overwhelmed by thoughts of the past or worries of the future? Are you struggling to manage relationships with family, friends and coworkers? Is it hard to take care of your needs? I practice a merriment of evidence-based therapy approaches tailored to meet your needs, including exposure therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, women’s issues and body positivity.Together, we will process difficult feelings and identify tools that work for you so you can live your best life.
(224) 207-4919 View (224) 207-4919
Photo of Thomas Arthur Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60093, IL
Thomas Arthur Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Northfield, IL 60093
Approximately 50% of my clients have an addiction or are friends/family of an addicted individual. I am able to help you assess the addiction, understand how it is affecting you and your family, and help you develop a plan for recovery. If you are already in recovery, your counseling can further help you understand any underlying issues that may contribute to or drive the compulsions. This may include such things as anxiety, depression, life stressors, trauma, to name a few. I have a positive approach that focuses on strengths and success, building on those assets, more than pathology.
Approximately 50% of my clients have an addiction or are friends/family of an addicted individual. I am able to help you assess the addiction, understand how it is affecting you and your family, and help you develop a plan for recovery. If you are already in recovery, your counseling can further help you understand any underlying issues that may contribute to or drive the compulsions. This may include such things as anxiety, depression, life stressors, trauma, to name a few. I have a positive approach that focuses on strengths and success, building on those assets, more than pathology.
(847) 416-0813 View (847) 416-0813
Photo of Center for Relationship Health, The Juniper Center, Psychologist in 60093, IL
Center for Relationship Health, The Juniper Center
Psychologist, PsyD, CSADC, BCETS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northfield, IL 60093
We have many years of experience in helping people heal from depression and anxiety, sexual dysfunction, affairs, and compulsive overeating as well.
Life gets complicated. You have been trying all that you know how to do to make things better for yourself or for someone you love but have run out of energy, ideas or both. You may have a relationship with someone you love but just can't seem to get along. You may be a parent trying to best figure out how to help a child or teen who is having problems. You may feel burdened by sadness, fear or stress.Or, perhaps you have old wounds that seem to keep interfering with you creating the life you want.
We have many years of experience in helping people heal from depression and anxiety, sexual dysfunction, affairs, and compulsive overeating as well.
Life gets complicated. You have been trying all that you know how to do to make things better for yourself or for someone you love but have run out of energy, ideas or both. You may have a relationship with someone you love but just can't seem to get along. You may be a parent trying to best figure out how to help a child or teen who is having problems. You may feel burdened by sadness, fear or stress.Or, perhaps you have old wounds that seem to keep interfering with you creating the life you want.
(847) 920-7884 View (847) 920-7884
Photo of Sharon Fisch-Reichler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60093, IL
Sharon Fisch-Reichler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
At times, we feel anxious, overwhelmed or misunderstood. These feelings are normal as we deal with the challenges of life events. I've worked with clients for over 20 years, including adolescents, adults and couples on a variety of topics including: relationship issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, parenting challenges, self-esteem, stress management, workplace and career issues, and health issues. I provide a safe, professional space where I listen without judgment to help people navigate challenges and work through conflicts in a healthy way. We work together to identify patterns and gain new insights.
At times, we feel anxious, overwhelmed or misunderstood. These feelings are normal as we deal with the challenges of life events. I've worked with clients for over 20 years, including adolescents, adults and couples on a variety of topics including: relationship issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, parenting challenges, self-esteem, stress management, workplace and career issues, and health issues. I provide a safe, professional space where I listen without judgment to help people navigate challenges and work through conflicts in a healthy way. We work together to identify patterns and gain new insights.
(224) 328-3766 View (224) 328-3766
Photo of Tamara Kirby, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 60093, IL
Tamara Kirby
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAC, CRADC
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093  (Online Only)
I have experience in treating people with alcohol and drug problems, behavioral addictions, anxiety, and depression, through the use of several modalities.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused addictions counselor and coach, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary counseling approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I have experience in treating people with alcohol and drug problems, behavioral addictions, anxiety, and depression, through the use of several modalities.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused addictions counselor and coach, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary counseling approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(812) 616-4947 View (812) 616-4947
Photo of Vanessa U Segovia, Marriage & Family Therapist in 60093, IL
Vanessa U Segovia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
I believe in whole person care. This includes not only mental health care but an assessment of the overall wellness of each individual I meet with. While my work focuses primarily on your current life stressors, previous traumas and mental health issues I also offer nutrition counseling, health and wellness recommendations and overall whole person care. My therapeutic framework is based in somatic therapy, CBT, EMDR, systems therapy and as well as other modalities as needed.
I believe in whole person care. This includes not only mental health care but an assessment of the overall wellness of each individual I meet with. While my work focuses primarily on your current life stressors, previous traumas and mental health issues I also offer nutrition counseling, health and wellness recommendations and overall whole person care. My therapeutic framework is based in somatic therapy, CBT, EMDR, systems therapy and as well as other modalities as needed.
(224) 212-1876 View (224) 212-1876
Photo of Allie Booth, Counselor in 60093, IL
Allie Booth
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnetka, IL 60093
Experiencing too many thoughts and feelings? I help you regain control and forge a new path in life. I firmly believe that each of us possesses the capacity to conquer the challenges that confront us. Together, we will understand your thoughts, habits, and behaviors that may be hindering your progress. We can explore various issues, including relationships, self-esteem, past traumas, work or school-related concerns, as well as navigating grief, break-ups, or any other life transitions. We will first address your current most pressing challenges and equip you with new skills for more effective life management. As a mindful solution-
Experiencing too many thoughts and feelings? I help you regain control and forge a new path in life. I firmly believe that each of us possesses the capacity to conquer the challenges that confront us. Together, we will understand your thoughts, habits, and behaviors that may be hindering your progress. We can explore various issues, including relationships, self-esteem, past traumas, work or school-related concerns, as well as navigating grief, break-ups, or any other life transitions. We will first address your current most pressing challenges and equip you with new skills for more effective life management. As a mindful solution-
(224) 808-4412 View (224) 808-4412
Photo of Siegal Eli-Gers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60093, IL
Siegal Eli-Gers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Winnetka, IL 60093
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have focused my career on working with adolescents ,young adults, parents and families. Over the last 10 + years, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in the North Shore. I work with clients to help them find a safe space to express, explore and make positive changes. Over the years I have learned that every individual and family is unique and need treatment to be flexible and supportive of their needs. I work to create opportunities and to teach tangible skills, so long lasting change is possible. I am a gender affirming clinician.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have focused my career on working with adolescents ,young adults, parents and families. Over the last 10 + years, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in the North Shore. I work with clients to help them find a safe space to express, explore and make positive changes. Over the years I have learned that every individual and family is unique and need treatment to be flexible and supportive of their needs. I work to create opportunities and to teach tangible skills, so long lasting change is possible. I am a gender affirming clinician.
(847) 562-5696 View (847) 562-5696
Photo of Heather Schulien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60093, IL
Heather Schulien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Winnetka, IL 60093  (Online Only)
My overall goal is to facilitate personal insight to help you achieve the inner peace and balance you need to be the person you want to be. I have a genuine interest in providing a safe and confidential space free of judgment to assist individuals and families cope with life's stressors. At a pace based on your needs, we will work together to develop strategies and skills built on your strengths, personality, and experience to help you be the person you want to be. The treatment I provide is unique to each client.
My overall goal is to facilitate personal insight to help you achieve the inner peace and balance you need to be the person you want to be. I have a genuine interest in providing a safe and confidential space free of judgment to assist individuals and families cope with life's stressors. At a pace based on your needs, we will work together to develop strategies and skills built on your strengths, personality, and experience to help you be the person you want to be. The treatment I provide is unique to each client.
(708) 433-9948 View (708) 433-9948
Photo of Steven Neren, Psychologist in 60093, IL
Steven Neren
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
Do you feel unfulfilled, in a rut, sad, anxious or just frustrated and unfulfilled that your not living your life to your full potential? Do you feel dissatisfied with your relationships or with your job or career? Do you feel that there is more to life and that you wish you could get more focused and motivated and have more meaning and purpose in you life? I have helped people with these issues and I feel I can be of help to you as well.
Do you feel unfulfilled, in a rut, sad, anxious or just frustrated and unfulfilled that your not living your life to your full potential? Do you feel dissatisfied with your relationships or with your job or career? Do you feel that there is more to life and that you wish you could get more focused and motivated and have more meaning and purpose in you life? I have helped people with these issues and I feel I can be of help to you as well.
(224) 255-4810 View (224) 255-4810
Photo of Debbie McGowan, Counselor in 60093, IL
Debbie McGowan
Counselor, MA, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winnetka, IL 60093
I am passionate about working with individuals, couples and occasionally the entire family. Whether I am currently working with an individual or couple, at whatever stage of life or relationship they may be in, I am always keenly interested in learning about their relationships. Connection to others is the underlying foundation for psychological and emotional health. Psychological health and strong connections enable people to not simply enjoy their own lives, but use their talents to meet the world's needs. This is my true calling, to help individuals, couples and families to lead their very best lives.
I am passionate about working with individuals, couples and occasionally the entire family. Whether I am currently working with an individual or couple, at whatever stage of life or relationship they may be in, I am always keenly interested in learning about their relationships. Connection to others is the underlying foundation for psychological and emotional health. Psychological health and strong connections enable people to not simply enjoy their own lives, but use their talents to meet the world's needs. This is my true calling, to help individuals, couples and families to lead their very best lives.
(224) 836-4347 View (224) 836-4347

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.