Depression Therapists in 60521

Photo of Margaret McKeon, LCPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret McKeon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Margaret's commitment extends to managing stress, anxiety, and depression, employing a personalized approach tailored to each individual's unique needs.
Margaret McKeon, a seasoned Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois, has dedicated her practice since 2007 to empowering individuals towards optimal living through clinical guidance, unwavering support, and empathetic validation. Her therapeutic expertise spans a spectrum, including addressing substance use disorders, anger management issues, and navigating the complexities of survivors and perpetrators of domestic violence. Margaret specializes in co-dependency issues, assisting individuals with men and women's issues, conflictual relationship dynamics, and communication challenges.
Margaret's commitment extends to managing stress, anxiety, and depression, employing a personalized approach tailored to each individual's unique needs.
Margaret McKeon, a seasoned Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois, has dedicated her practice since 2007 to empowering individuals towards optimal living through clinical guidance, unwavering support, and empathetic validation. Her therapeutic expertise spans a spectrum, including addressing substance use disorders, anger management issues, and navigating the complexities of survivors and perpetrators of domestic violence. Margaret specializes in co-dependency issues, assisting individuals with men and women's issues, conflictual relationship dynamics, and communication challenges.
(630) 446-6577 View (630) 446-6577
Photo of Lasma Maher, LCPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lasma Maher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Her impactful work extends to children and adolescents grappling with anxiety, depression, school-related challenges, and trauma.
Lasma Maher, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Illinois, brings a unique blend of artistic expertise and therapeutic acumen to her practice. With a career spanning from 2018, Lasma holds a Master of Arts in Fine Art and Design from Latvian Art Academy, coupled with a Master of Arts in Art Therapy/Counseling from Adler University. Her professional journey revolves around empowering individuals to tap into their creative potential, thereby facilitating the acquisition and application of effective coping skills in their daily lives.
Her impactful work extends to children and adolescents grappling with anxiety, depression, school-related challenges, and trauma.
Lasma Maher, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Illinois, brings a unique blend of artistic expertise and therapeutic acumen to her practice. With a career spanning from 2018, Lasma holds a Master of Arts in Fine Art and Design from Latvian Art Academy, coupled with a Master of Arts in Art Therapy/Counseling from Adler University. Her professional journey revolves around empowering individuals to tap into their creative potential, thereby facilitating the acquisition and application of effective coping skills in their daily lives.
(630) 528-2291 View (630) 528-2291
Photo of Cleopatra Songa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cleopatra Songa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521  (Online Only)
Cleopatra Songa, LCSW, uses her experience, training, and supervision to provide the best evidenced-based therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Cleopatra earned an undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and an MSW from Grand Valley State University. With over 20 years of experience in social work, Cleopatra helps adults with depression, anxiety, life transitions, addictions, and more. In therapy, Cleopatra uses CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing to assist clients in working towards and accomplishing their personal goals.
Cleopatra Songa, LCSW, uses her experience, training, and supervision to provide the best evidenced-based therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Cleopatra earned an undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and an MSW from Grand Valley State University. With over 20 years of experience in social work, Cleopatra helps adults with depression, anxiety, life transitions, addictions, and more. In therapy, Cleopatra uses CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing to assist clients in working towards and accomplishing their personal goals.
(630) 360-8331 View (630) 360-8331
Photo of Julie A Peterson, PsyD, Psychologist
Julie A Peterson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Waitlist for new clients
Peterson's other areas of clinical interest include: Adult Children and Parent Relationship Issues, Autism/Asperger's, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Couples Conflict, Depression/Mood Disorders, Life Stage Transitions, Premarital Issues and Counseling, School Issues, Sibling Issues, Transition to Parenthood, Women's Issues, Work/Life Balance Issues.
Dr. Peterson is a licensed clinical psychologist. In her therapy and testing work with clients, she places a large emphasis on support in addition to symptom reduction. She thoughtfully integrates perspectives from Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Adlerian theory to assist clients through discouragements in their lives that may cause them to feel stuck in life transitions. Her therapeutic interventions encourage the client's assets and creativity to empower his or her ability to enhance every aspect of his or her life. Dr. Peterson also provides psychological testing services as needed.
Peterson's other areas of clinical interest include: Adult Children and Parent Relationship Issues, Autism/Asperger's, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Couples Conflict, Depression/Mood Disorders, Life Stage Transitions, Premarital Issues and Counseling, School Issues, Sibling Issues, Transition to Parenthood, Women's Issues, Work/Life Balance Issues.
Dr. Peterson is a licensed clinical psychologist. In her therapy and testing work with clients, she places a large emphasis on support in addition to symptom reduction. She thoughtfully integrates perspectives from Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Adlerian theory to assist clients through discouragements in their lives that may cause them to feel stuck in life transitions. Her therapeutic interventions encourage the client's assets and creativity to empower his or her ability to enhance every aspect of his or her life. Dr. Peterson also provides psychological testing services as needed.
(847) 802-4058 View (847) 802-4058
Photo of Asma Halim, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Asma Halim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Our emotional health and well-being play a large role in the choices we make. If you find that issues such as anxiety and depression are consuming your life, psychotherapy can help you to take control over your feelings, and ultimately allow you to have more positive experiences.
Our emotional health and well-being play a large role in the choices we make. If you find that issues such as anxiety and depression are consuming your life, psychotherapy can help you to take control over your feelings, and ultimately allow you to have more positive experiences.
(312) 470-6933 View (312) 470-6933
Photo of Hadia Zarzour, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Hadia Zarzour
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children who struggle with depression, relationships, family issues, stress and anxiety management, addiction, phobias and panic attacks, cross-cultural issues, and career and life transitions.
As a compassionate, supportive, and direct therapist, I believe that people can be more fulfilled when they are grounded in self-knowledge. I value exploring the uniqueness of each individual and supporting them through their personal challenges. I have worked in the mental health field for ten years in a variety of treatment settings, including community mental health centers and hospitals, and specialize in therapy with individuals who have experienced trauma. Most recently, I've worked with refugee populations, and have seen firsthand the resilience and inner strength of individuals who have faced trauma in their lives.
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children who struggle with depression, relationships, family issues, stress and anxiety management, addiction, phobias and panic attacks, cross-cultural issues, and career and life transitions.
As a compassionate, supportive, and direct therapist, I believe that people can be more fulfilled when they are grounded in self-knowledge. I value exploring the uniqueness of each individual and supporting them through their personal challenges. I have worked in the mental health field for ten years in a variety of treatment settings, including community mental health centers and hospitals, and specialize in therapy with individuals who have experienced trauma. Most recently, I've worked with refugee populations, and have seen firsthand the resilience and inner strength of individuals who have faced trauma in their lives.
(630) 716-3973 View (630) 716-3973
Photo of Margaret Engel, LPC, ATR-P, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Engel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
With a background in community mental health, I have experience working with teens and adults to develop the tools to manage anxiety and depression.
Starting a healing journey takes courage and trust. Everyday life doesn't always provide the safety and support to discover our truest selves. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or major life changes, I am here to utilize your strengths and create a therapeutic environment that will best help you develop the skills to have a fuller life. As an art therapist, I integrate the creative process through art making when it aligns with the client's needs.
With a background in community mental health, I have experience working with teens and adults to develop the tools to manage anxiety and depression.
Starting a healing journey takes courage and trust. Everyday life doesn't always provide the safety and support to discover our truest selves. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or major life changes, I am here to utilize your strengths and create a therapeutic environment that will best help you develop the skills to have a fuller life. As an art therapist, I integrate the creative process through art making when it aligns with the client's needs.
(630) 642-6636 View (630) 642-6636
Photo of Teri L Murphy, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Teri L Murphy
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Are you feeling down, depressed, anxious or confused? Are every day challenges starting to overwhelm you? Would you like greater satisfaction and meaning in relationships, work and in your life? Longing for greater self esteem? Are you in the midst of a tough life transition? My clients find answers, solutions, life change and positive results in our work together. They experience a deep sense of being cared for, understood and respected....Thank you for visiting my profile on Psychology Today. You may also want to visit me on FB at Facebook.com/TeriMurphyTherapy.
Are you feeling down, depressed, anxious or confused? Are every day challenges starting to overwhelm you? Would you like greater satisfaction and meaning in relationships, work and in your life? Longing for greater self esteem? Are you in the midst of a tough life transition? My clients find answers, solutions, life change and positive results in our work together. They experience a deep sense of being cared for, understood and respected....Thank you for visiting my profile on Psychology Today. You may also want to visit me on FB at Facebook.com/TeriMurphyTherapy.
(630) 812-7380 View (630) 812-7380
Photo of Amanda Scanlon, LCPC, Counselor
Amanda Scanlon
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I'm most impactful working with people experiencing heightened anxiety or depressed mood, relationship conflicts, parenting concerns, phase of life adjustments, life transitions including but not limited to perimenopause & menopause. I'm the right fit for a client seeking solutions & change. As a seasoned therapist, I have substaintial experience working with children, adolescents, couples, families and individual adults. Clients appreciate my solutions-focused, goal-oriented approach. I work to help clients achieve targeted goals and return to therapy as needed for wellness boosts and additional support.
I'm most impactful working with people experiencing heightened anxiety or depressed mood, relationship conflicts, parenting concerns, phase of life adjustments, life transitions including but not limited to perimenopause & menopause. I'm the right fit for a client seeking solutions & change. As a seasoned therapist, I have substaintial experience working with children, adolescents, couples, families and individual adults. Clients appreciate my solutions-focused, goal-oriented approach. I work to help clients achieve targeted goals and return to therapy as needed for wellness boosts and additional support.
(630) 557-6827 View (630) 557-6827
Photo of Ann Hostetter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Hostetter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Reaching out for help is a very important, yet difficult step to make. This is why it is important to meet my clients where they are and help them tap into their own strengths in a safe and compassionate space. I provide individual therapy to adolescents, adults, and families with a focus on those experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, interpersonal issues, and change of life issues (postpartum, coping with loss, transition into adulthood, and aging). I also specialize in postpartum anxiety and depression and I am certified in Maternal Mental Health through PSI (Postpartum Support International).
Reaching out for help is a very important, yet difficult step to make. This is why it is important to meet my clients where they are and help them tap into their own strengths in a safe and compassionate space. I provide individual therapy to adolescents, adults, and families with a focus on those experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, interpersonal issues, and change of life issues (postpartum, coping with loss, transition into adulthood, and aging). I also specialize in postpartum anxiety and depression and I am certified in Maternal Mental Health through PSI (Postpartum Support International).
(708) 578-7296 View (708) 578-7296
Photo of Ellen Jorstad-Stein, PhD, Psychologist
Ellen Jorstad-Stein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Waitlist for new clients
Assessment and individual therapy is also offered to cancer patients and their family members experiencing anxiety and depression related to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship that impact quality of life.
The human experience of anxiety is normal and adaptive. We would not be adequately prepared for important challenges in life if we did not experience some anxiety and fear. Anxiety is not longer adaptive when it overpowers the person and creates obstacles and challenges that interfere with daily life. At this point, a diagnosable condition may have developed. I provide specialized treatment for adults with the various anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder (social phobia), generalized anxiety disorder, panic, specific phobias, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I also treat conditions that commonly occur with anxiety disorders like depression or sleep disturbance.
Assessment and individual therapy is also offered to cancer patients and their family members experiencing anxiety and depression related to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship that impact quality of life.
The human experience of anxiety is normal and adaptive. We would not be adequately prepared for important challenges in life if we did not experience some anxiety and fear. Anxiety is not longer adaptive when it overpowers the person and creates obstacles and challenges that interfere with daily life. At this point, a diagnosable condition may have developed. I provide specialized treatment for adults with the various anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder (social phobia), generalized anxiety disorder, panic, specific phobias, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I also treat conditions that commonly occur with anxiety disorders like depression or sleep disturbance.
(630) 812-7183 View (630) 812-7183
Photo of Nancy Lawrenz, Psychologist
Nancy Lawrenz
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Completing challenging graduate degrees and clinically practicing in Social Work, Psychology and Psychoanalysis has provided me with a broad range of experiences with many types of people, enabling me to offer the option of psychotherapy or psychoanalysis as needed. These combined trainings and professional work have provided the necessary tools, perspectives and resources to address people's ongoing unhappiness, unexpected pain and crises and the sometimes stunning blows of grief. Areas of expertise include: anxieties/phobias; low self-esteem/ depression/post-partum depression; complicated bereavement--loss of babies/children/parents/spouses; relationship conflicts--between adults or parents/child; and underachievement.
Completing challenging graduate degrees and clinically practicing in Social Work, Psychology and Psychoanalysis has provided me with a broad range of experiences with many types of people, enabling me to offer the option of psychotherapy or psychoanalysis as needed. These combined trainings and professional work have provided the necessary tools, perspectives and resources to address people's ongoing unhappiness, unexpected pain and crises and the sometimes stunning blows of grief. Areas of expertise include: anxieties/phobias; low self-esteem/ depression/post-partum depression; complicated bereavement--loss of babies/children/parents/spouses; relationship conflicts--between adults or parents/child; and underachievement.
(630) 914-9782 View (630) 914-9782
Photo of Nicole M. Chmela, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Nicole M. Chmela
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I often use a mindfulness-based approach with clients to help manage depression,anxiety and stress.
Recognizing the need to make changes in your life and seeking support takes courage. Therapy can provide not only the understanding that supports change, but the tools to prepare you to live with more confidence, balance and intentionality. I help clients make meaning of their struggles, articulate their desires, and collaborate to reach their goals. I am mindful of the interdependence between body, mind, and spirit and support and encourage my clients in doing the same.
I often use a mindfulness-based approach with clients to help manage depression,anxiety and stress.
Recognizing the need to make changes in your life and seeking support takes courage. Therapy can provide not only the understanding that supports change, but the tools to prepare you to live with more confidence, balance and intentionality. I help clients make meaning of their struggles, articulate their desires, and collaborate to reach their goals. I am mindful of the interdependence between body, mind, and spirit and support and encourage my clients in doing the same.
(773) 657-4291 View (773) 657-4291
Photo of William McNichols, LCPC
William McNichols
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
My therapy style is distinguished by an underlying; Adlerian Individual Psychology, Rational Emotive Behavior, and Reality Therapeutic diagnostic approach toward the clients/patient's struggles addressed in session utilizing current best practice treatments associated with anxiety and depression found in DBT and Motivational Interviewing. I attempt to identify the patient's/client's mental disorder utilizing the DSM 5 and current best practice psychotherapy recommended by the ASA and psychotherapeutic model best suited to help the patient/client reach their goals as articulated by them in treatment.
My therapy style is distinguished by an underlying; Adlerian Individual Psychology, Rational Emotive Behavior, and Reality Therapeutic diagnostic approach toward the clients/patient's struggles addressed in session utilizing current best practice treatments associated with anxiety and depression found in DBT and Motivational Interviewing. I attempt to identify the patient's/client's mental disorder utilizing the DSM 5 and current best practice psychotherapy recommended by the ASA and psychotherapeutic model best suited to help the patient/client reach their goals as articulated by them in treatment.
(630) 412-7679 View (630) 412-7679
Photo of Aleksandra Papież Zubek, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Aleksandra Papież Zubek
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
studies, I bring a depth of knowledge and experience to our sessions, helping you navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, uncertainty, and a sense of being overwhelmed.
This profile is regularly updated, call or text us at 312-373-0035 to schedule an inquiry call. Having experienced my own share of life transitions and dedicated to helping others navigate similar journeys, I deeply empathize with what you're going through. I specialize in working with individuals amidst significant life changes who seek stability, structure, and security. My clients often face transitions such as career shifts, relationship changes, or personal growth journeys. Their challenges may manifest as anxiety, depression, uncertainty, and a sense of being overwhelmed by the unknown, coupled with a need to regain control.
studies, I bring a depth of knowledge and experience to our sessions, helping you navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, uncertainty, and a sense of being overwhelmed.
This profile is regularly updated, call or text us at 312-373-0035 to schedule an inquiry call. Having experienced my own share of life transitions and dedicated to helping others navigate similar journeys, I deeply empathize with what you're going through. I specialize in working with individuals amidst significant life changes who seek stability, structure, and security. My clients often face transitions such as career shifts, relationship changes, or personal growth journeys. Their challenges may manifest as anxiety, depression, uncertainty, and a sense of being overwhelmed by the unknown, coupled with a need to regain control.
(630) 599-7302 View (630) 599-7302
Photo of Cesar Rocha, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cesar Rocha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, Media and Theatre and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My formal training in the counseling field ranges from working with children with trauma, adults with depression and anxiety, couples therapy, substance abuse counseling, and wellness groups. I have worked with clients who want to change and with mandated clients. I have helped clients set and accomplish their goals. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor. I use different therapeutic approaches depending on the need of the client.
I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, Media and Theatre and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My formal training in the counseling field ranges from working with children with trauma, adults with depression and anxiety, couples therapy, substance abuse counseling, and wellness groups. I have worked with clients who want to change and with mandated clients. I have helped clients set and accomplish their goals. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor. I use different therapeutic approaches depending on the need of the client.
(630) 454-9036 View (630) 454-9036
Photo of Nap Pozulp, PhD, Psychologist
Nap Pozulp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I have been in practice for over 30 years and feel that I'm best at dealing with individuals with anxiety, depression and relationship issues. The goal of all my work is to help individuals live up to their full potential. I have an expertise with numerous techniques to accomplish this goal. Traditional insight-oriented, cognitive/behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and specialty techniques such as hypnotherapy, biofeedback and relaxation training are just a few of the interventions I use.
I have been in practice for over 30 years and feel that I'm best at dealing with individuals with anxiety, depression and relationship issues. The goal of all my work is to help individuals live up to their full potential. I have an expertise with numerous techniques to accomplish this goal. Traditional insight-oriented, cognitive/behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and specialty techniques such as hypnotherapy, biofeedback and relaxation training are just a few of the interventions I use.
(773) 669-6930 View (773) 669-6930
Photo of Julia Wenzlaff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Wenzlaff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Julia is a trauma-informed relational therapist who has a strong background working with youth and families facing a variety of challenges. She enjoys helping people struggling with depression, anxiety, the impact of trauma, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. Julia is certified in Collaborative Problem Solving, and utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques in her practice. Julia values a therapeutic partnership that supports people in deepening their self-understanding, strengthening resilience and well-being, and empowers them to create positive change.
Julia is a trauma-informed relational therapist who has a strong background working with youth and families facing a variety of challenges. She enjoys helping people struggling with depression, anxiety, the impact of trauma, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. Julia is certified in Collaborative Problem Solving, and utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques in her practice. Julia values a therapeutic partnership that supports people in deepening their self-understanding, strengthening resilience and well-being, and empowers them to create positive change.
(630) 949-3554 View (630) 949-3554
Photo of Jennifer C Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
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 and Integrative approach and have 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 and Integrative approach and have 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 Nicole Howard (Walsh), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Howard (Walsh)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Nicole earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from The University of Illinois at Chicago. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Nicole has worked in a variety of diverse settings serving children and youth in the Chicagoland area and at a Therapeutic day school.
Nicole earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and her Master’s Degree in Social Work from The University of Illinois at Chicago. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Nicole has worked in a variety of diverse settings serving children and youth in the Chicagoland area and at a Therapeutic day school.
(630) 465-5956 View (630) 465-5956
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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.