Photo of Dr. Brian McFarland, Psychologist in Champaign, IL
Dr. Brian McFarland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
Over the past 15+ years, my practice has been focused primarily on helping clients recover from traumatic experiences and find increased satisfaction and inner peace. I have experience working with clients dealing with PTSD and other posttraumatic reactions, depression, anxiety, panic, sleep disturbance, impulse control problems, attention difficulties, mood dysregulation, and problematic substance use. I also have experience helping clients improve their interpersonal relationships, communication, assertiveness, and organizational skills.
Over the past 15+ years, my practice has been focused primarily on helping clients recover from traumatic experiences and find increased satisfaction and inner peace. I have experience working with clients dealing with PTSD and other posttraumatic reactions, depression, anxiety, panic, sleep disturbance, impulse control problems, attention difficulties, mood dysregulation, and problematic substance use. I also have experience helping clients improve their interpersonal relationships, communication, assertiveness, and organizational skills.
(217) 634-6529 View (217) 634-6529
Photo of Lolita Drummond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Lolita Drummond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
Hello! I am delighted to introduce myself to you. My name is Li Drummond. I have worked with many different presenting issues including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, suicide risk, stress, loss, trauma, struggles with drugs and alcohol, family problems, child welfare, family problems, offenders, and relationship difficulties. I feel comfortable working with clients ranging in age from children to adults and feel especially well-equipped to work with clients facing discrimination and marginalization including members of various immigrant communities, LGBTQIA+ clientele, black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).
Hello! I am delighted to introduce myself to you. My name is Li Drummond. I have worked with many different presenting issues including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, suicide risk, stress, loss, trauma, struggles with drugs and alcohol, family problems, child welfare, family problems, offenders, and relationship difficulties. I feel comfortable working with clients ranging in age from children to adults and feel especially well-equipped to work with clients facing discrimination and marginalization including members of various immigrant communities, LGBTQIA+ clientele, black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).
(773) 985-6279 View (773) 985-6279
Photo of Shanelle Marie Koroma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Shanelle Marie Koroma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPHA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
*Specializes in teletherapy* Shanelle is a mental health therapist, trainer, author, and life coach. Having experienced a multitude of obstacles, Shanelle decided at a young age to spend her life's purpose learning to heal and helping others to heal. Shanelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing mental health counseling since 2016. Shanelle enjoys family, painting, gardening, and self-development. Shanelle's ideal client is a person in the Action phase of change, and a person who is willing to try new skills inside and outside of sessions.
*Specializes in teletherapy* Shanelle is a mental health therapist, trainer, author, and life coach. Having experienced a multitude of obstacles, Shanelle decided at a young age to spend her life's purpose learning to heal and helping others to heal. Shanelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing mental health counseling since 2016. Shanelle enjoys family, painting, gardening, and self-development. Shanelle's ideal client is a person in the Action phase of change, and a person who is willing to try new skills inside and outside of sessions.
(217) 394-1346 View (217) 394-1346
Photo of Daniel Applegate, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Champaign, IL
Daniel Applegate
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821  (Online Only)
As a Therapist, I collaborate closely with clients to foster mental health, self-acceptance, and personal growth. If life's demands, whether from family, friends, or work, are leaving you overwhelmed and seeking a healthier balance, we can work together to chart a new direction. Our journey will involve uncovering your unique skill set to navigate the emotional challenges of modern life. Together, we'll create space for your needs and wants, overcoming any obstacles hindering your path. Furthermore, my expertise extends to assisting medical professionals in managing the mental toll associated with licensure board investigations.
As a Therapist, I collaborate closely with clients to foster mental health, self-acceptance, and personal growth. If life's demands, whether from family, friends, or work, are leaving you overwhelmed and seeking a healthier balance, we can work together to chart a new direction. Our journey will involve uncovering your unique skill set to navigate the emotional challenges of modern life. Together, we'll create space for your needs and wants, overcoming any obstacles hindering your path. Furthermore, my expertise extends to assisting medical professionals in managing the mental toll associated with licensure board investigations.
(217) 279-4491 View (217) 279-4491
Photo of Dr. Robyn L Gobin, Psychologist in Champaign, IL
Dr. Robyn L Gobin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
On the outside you have it all together, but deep down you carry a secret experience that knocks the wind out of you every time you remember it. The sexual trauma you experienced has robbed you of joy, freedom, and vitality. You have people in your life who you care about, but the relationships feel distant and detached. You can’t remember the last time you had a good night’s sleep because the memories seem to loom continuously. You remember some of the goals you used to have, but fear, anxiety, and insecurity stop you from pursuing them. It’s time to get your life back, and I want to help you get there.
On the outside you have it all together, but deep down you carry a secret experience that knocks the wind out of you every time you remember it. The sexual trauma you experienced has robbed you of joy, freedom, and vitality. You have people in your life who you care about, but the relationships feel distant and detached. You can’t remember the last time you had a good night’s sleep because the memories seem to loom continuously. You remember some of the goals you used to have, but fear, anxiety, and insecurity stop you from pursuing them. It’s time to get your life back, and I want to help you get there.
(217) 776-8098 View (217) 776-8098
Photo of Molly M. McLay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Molly M. McLay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
I know that taking the step to begin therapy can be really hard, because... feelings. We have them, whether we want to or not. Understanding our thoughts and behaviors can also be hard. And making changes to improve our lives may be the hardest of all. My job is to acknowledge that this is hard, and to validate your feelings, whatever they are. I will sit in those feelings with you. I will also get to know you and your story, the people and things that are important to you, and help you set goals around what you want to focus on (such as learning skills, moving through difficult experiences, or utilizing therapeutic techniques).
I know that taking the step to begin therapy can be really hard, because... feelings. We have them, whether we want to or not. Understanding our thoughts and behaviors can also be hard. And making changes to improve our lives may be the hardest of all. My job is to acknowledge that this is hard, and to validate your feelings, whatever they are. I will sit in those feelings with you. I will also get to know you and your story, the people and things that are important to you, and help you set goals around what you want to focus on (such as learning skills, moving through difficult experiences, or utilizing therapeutic techniques).
(217) 795-9588 View (217) 795-9588

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leah Swanson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Leah Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Urbana, IL 61802
Sometimes life throws you a curveball or two. Some people have been dealt a difficult card from the start. I believe we all possess the tools needed to get through times of adversity, but at times, may need a little guidance. Having an objective ally to cheer you on can really make the difference in reaching your goals and feeling confident along the way. I strive to create a stimulating, comfortable, and safe place for people to be vulnerable. I tend to have a relaxed conversational style, while using evidenced based materials and approaches. I am committed to jumping in the muck with you so we can find solutions together.
Sometimes life throws you a curveball or two. Some people have been dealt a difficult card from the start. I believe we all possess the tools needed to get through times of adversity, but at times, may need a little guidance. Having an objective ally to cheer you on can really make the difference in reaching your goals and feeling confident along the way. I strive to create a stimulating, comfortable, and safe place for people to be vulnerable. I tend to have a relaxed conversational style, while using evidenced based materials and approaches. I am committed to jumping in the muck with you so we can find solutions together.
(309) 220-3916 View (309) 220-3916
Photo of Anna Minor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Anna Minor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbana, IL 61801  (Online Only)
You are exhausted. Physically and emotionally. Even though you are working so hard to do all the right things, you still end up feeling miserable and unfulfilled. Your days are spent going through a never-ending lists of tasks in your head and your nights are spent trying to escape and find some kind of relief. You long for moments of happiness, but when they come, you can't enjoy them because you know they won't last. You can't shake this nagging feeling that something bad will soon follow. You want to feel comfortable with yourself and your decisions. You want to believe that all this effort will lead to something good.
You are exhausted. Physically and emotionally. Even though you are working so hard to do all the right things, you still end up feeling miserable and unfulfilled. Your days are spent going through a never-ending lists of tasks in your head and your nights are spent trying to escape and find some kind of relief. You long for moments of happiness, but when they come, you can't enjoy them because you know they won't last. You can't shake this nagging feeling that something bad will soon follow. You want to feel comfortable with yourself and your decisions. You want to believe that all this effort will lead to something good.
(217) 402-7817 View (217) 402-7817

Online Therapists

Photo of Teresa D'Aversa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Teresa D'Aversa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Lenox, IL 60451  (Online Only)
She specializes in Grief/Loss, Anxiety, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Depression, IVF/Miscarriage, Managing Chronic Illness, LGBTQ+ Related Issues, Alternative Lifestyles, as well as assisting children, teens, and their families in navigating common growing pains experienced throughout the life span.
Teresa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who gradated summa cum laude from Aurora University with her Master of Social Work specializing in Healthcare. She utilizes various evidence-based treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, and MBCT within a biopsychosocial model. This means that she looks at the entire person, their life, and their experiences in order to make the best decisions for care. She wholeheartedly believes that everyone can benefit from counseling regardless of their history.
She specializes in Grief/Loss, Anxiety, Phobias, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Depression, IVF/Miscarriage, Managing Chronic Illness, LGBTQ+ Related Issues, Alternative Lifestyles, as well as assisting children, teens, and their families in navigating common growing pains experienced throughout the life span.
Teresa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who gradated summa cum laude from Aurora University with her Master of Social Work specializing in Healthcare. She utilizes various evidence-based treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, and MBCT within a biopsychosocial model. This means that she looks at the entire person, their life, and their experiences in order to make the best decisions for care. She wholeheartedly believes that everyone can benefit from counseling regardless of their history.
(815) 934-9178 View (815) 934-9178
Photo of Dr. Jackie Kamradt, Psychologist in Champaign, IL
Dr. Jackie Kamradt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IL 60423
I offer counseling/psychotherapy for a range of mental health problems including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, relational concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, & have expertise helping people in the perinatal period, NICU families, veterans, & individuals with ADHD & concentration/attentional concerns.
As a clinical psychologist & certified yoga instructor, I am passionate about taking a holistic & tailored approach when working with clients. I am committed to helping you get out of your “analysis paralysis” & into your life. I want to help you to discover your freedom in how you relate to your mind (& body!) & share the secret your brain has been keeping from you your whole life: Your thoughts are not your boss. I aim to help not only reduce the symptoms interfering with your life, but also to help optimize your mental health/well-being to live a life aligned with how you want to be in the world.
I offer counseling/psychotherapy for a range of mental health problems including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, relational concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, & have expertise helping people in the perinatal period, NICU families, veterans, & individuals with ADHD & concentration/attentional concerns.
As a clinical psychologist & certified yoga instructor, I am passionate about taking a holistic & tailored approach when working with clients. I am committed to helping you get out of your “analysis paralysis” & into your life. I want to help you to discover your freedom in how you relate to your mind (& body!) & share the secret your brain has been keeping from you your whole life: Your thoughts are not your boss. I aim to help not only reduce the symptoms interfering with your life, but also to help optimize your mental health/well-being to live a life aligned with how you want to be in the world.
(779) 201-6824 View (779) 201-6824
Photo of Dr Sara Bahn Behavioral Health Center Of Illinois, Psychologist in Champaign, IL
Dr Sara Bahn Behavioral Health Center Of Illinois
Psychologist, PsyD, MAAT
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703  (Online Only)
My specialty areas and past professional experiences in the behavioral sciences have included treating depression, anxiety, grief/loss, SAP Evaluations, PTSD, addictions, medical life concerns (fibromyalgia, chronic pain) autistic spectrum disorders, aspergers, ADHD,cultural identity, adjustment issues, interpersonal problems at work or with intimate partner.
I 've worked over 30 years working and consulting with children, adolescents, parents, couples, families, adults, corporations and military personnel. My focus encompasses a holistic, integrative, and strength based perspective and worldview. Through a combination of various healing modalities and psychotherapeutic approaches I focus on research based setting with each individual's specific needs and goals. I help individuals with personal growth, health and wellness, and the journey of self examination as well as symptom relief. View community education by Dr. Bahn on Channel 17, Channel 20 local news, and Mind, Body, Radio.
My specialty areas and past professional experiences in the behavioral sciences have included treating depression, anxiety, grief/loss, SAP Evaluations, PTSD, addictions, medical life concerns (fibromyalgia, chronic pain) autistic spectrum disorders, aspergers, ADHD,cultural identity, adjustment issues, interpersonal problems at work or with intimate partner.
I 've worked over 30 years working and consulting with children, adolescents, parents, couples, families, adults, corporations and military personnel. My focus encompasses a holistic, integrative, and strength based perspective and worldview. Through a combination of various healing modalities and psychotherapeutic approaches I focus on research based setting with each individual's specific needs and goals. I help individuals with personal growth, health and wellness, and the journey of self examination as well as symptom relief. View community education by Dr. Bahn on Channel 17, Channel 20 local news, and Mind, Body, Radio.
(217) 909-9097 View (217) 909-9097
Photo of Josh Kaplan - Specialized OCD and Anxiety Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Josh Kaplan - Specialized OCD and Anxiety Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60432
Do you feel caught in a never-ending loop of worries or uncertainty? Maybe you’re troubled by recurrent intrusive thoughts and images? Do certain situations and triggers cause you to freeze up and panic? These, along with depression, are the common concerns my clients present with. Despite their best efforts they can’t seem to find lasting relief. However, there's hope. In my practice, I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), two of the most effective therapies science has given us for overcoming the challenges of Anxiety, OCD, and Depression. I'll help guide you toward peace of mind.
Do you feel caught in a never-ending loop of worries or uncertainty? Maybe you’re troubled by recurrent intrusive thoughts and images? Do certain situations and triggers cause you to freeze up and panic? These, along with depression, are the common concerns my clients present with. Despite their best efforts they can’t seem to find lasting relief. However, there's hope. In my practice, I employ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), two of the most effective therapies science has given us for overcoming the challenges of Anxiety, OCD, and Depression. I'll help guide you toward peace of mind.
(331) 259-8463 View (331) 259-8463
Photo of Alicia Stalker LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Champaign, IL
Alicia Stalker LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Morris, IL 60450
I work with you to help you rediscover joy in your relationships, overcome depression and grief, find relief from anxiety, or help you with your parenting challenges.
I work with you to help you rediscover joy in your relationships, overcome depression and grief, find relief from anxiety, or help you with your parenting challenges.
(815) 668-8618 View (815) 668-8618
Photo of Sandy L Colbs, Psychologist in Champaign, IL
Sandy L Colbs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
I also work with people struggling with depression and anxiety.
Life is a complicated journey, and I am fortunate to have the opportunity to walk with my clients as they navigate relationships, self esteem, life transitions, losses and change. My practice focuses on helping adults resolve difficult life experiences, whether from childhood or from the challenges of daily life or the inevitable transitions and changes of life as we grow older. I believe that therapy can help people break out of the set patterns of thinking and feeling that restrict us from living our life to our highest potential.
I also work with people struggling with depression and anxiety.
Life is a complicated journey, and I am fortunate to have the opportunity to walk with my clients as they navigate relationships, self esteem, life transitions, losses and change. My practice focuses on helping adults resolve difficult life experiences, whether from childhood or from the challenges of daily life or the inevitable transitions and changes of life as we grow older. I believe that therapy can help people break out of the set patterns of thinking and feeling that restrict us from living our life to our highest potential.
(309) 228-4684 View (309) 228-4684
Photo of Christopher Holly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Christopher Holly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61602
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, marital and couples counseling, drug and alcohol abuse, pain disorder, loss and grief, transgender issues, LGBQT issues, as well as those in the fetish/BDSM community.
I am dedicated to working with you to help you find your ability to deal with life and it's challenges by calling on your natural resources and capabilities and seeking a solution that is yours. I believe in the right to self-determination and that all people should have the capability to obtain what they want for their life through the power of therapy. I have worked with veterans of foreign wars, mature adults, teenagers and all kinds of people in between. I find the ability to explore life, understand ourselves and our situation better creates lasting happiness.
I work with people suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, marital and couples counseling, drug and alcohol abuse, pain disorder, loss and grief, transgender issues, LGBQT issues, as well as those in the fetish/BDSM community.
I am dedicated to working with you to help you find your ability to deal with life and it's challenges by calling on your natural resources and capabilities and seeking a solution that is yours. I believe in the right to self-determination and that all people should have the capability to obtain what they want for their life through the power of therapy. I have worked with veterans of foreign wars, mature adults, teenagers and all kinds of people in between. I find the ability to explore life, understand ourselves and our situation better creates lasting happiness.
Photo of Wendy Alleen Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Wendy Alleen Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704  (Online Only)
"I am a firm believer in finding balance between feelings, thoughts, beliefs, and actions. Sometimes what we are dealing with is simply present day stress, needing a safe environment to process and get feedback. Other times events from our past dictate our reactions to today's experiences. This leads to giving our power away and continuing to suffer. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as other approaches when indicated, always focusing on the client's goals. I am focused on respectful approaches to teaching tools that allow each client's efforts to result in positive impacts throughout their lives."
"I am a firm believer in finding balance between feelings, thoughts, beliefs, and actions. Sometimes what we are dealing with is simply present day stress, needing a safe environment to process and get feedback. Other times events from our past dictate our reactions to today's experiences. This leads to giving our power away and continuing to suffer. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as other approaches when indicated, always focusing on the client's goals. I am focused on respectful approaches to teaching tools that allow each client's efforts to result in positive impacts throughout their lives."
(309) 244-4152 View (309) 244-4152
Photo of Uniquely You Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Uniquely You Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
New Lenox, IL 60451
Impulse control, forgetfulness and sensory issues can often impact the ability to fully engage in school, the workplace or our relationships. Do these issues affect your sense of self and self-acceptance? Perhaps you have a child, sibling, or partner who is neurodivergent. Often it can be a struggle to understand their unique needs resulting in increased stress and often an inability to connect with loved ones. Ever ask yourself, “How do I do this?” If any of this resonates with you, you are not alone. Navigating neurological differences (ADHD, Autism, OCD, LD, among others) can be a difficult, lonely, frustrating, and confusing
Impulse control, forgetfulness and sensory issues can often impact the ability to fully engage in school, the workplace or our relationships. Do these issues affect your sense of self and self-acceptance? Perhaps you have a child, sibling, or partner who is neurodivergent. Often it can be a struggle to understand their unique needs resulting in increased stress and often an inability to connect with loved ones. Ever ask yourself, “How do I do this?” If any of this resonates with you, you are not alone. Navigating neurological differences (ADHD, Autism, OCD, LD, among others) can be a difficult, lonely, frustrating, and confusing
(779) 209-1502 View (779) 209-1502
Photo of Rebecca Marshall, Counselor in Champaign, IL
Rebecca Marshall
Counselor, LCPC, MA, EMDR
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703  (Online Only)
Telehealth Remote only therapist- I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client is very important. It’s very important to me that I create strong relationships with my clients based on trust and acceptance. I take a holistic approach, as our mental health is as important as our physical health, and they are often related to one another. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and a person-centered approach. I can assist people who have mood disorders, anxiety, grief, trauma, substance abuse, parenting and family conflicts and LGBTQ support. I specialize working with adolescents, adults, & couples
Telehealth Remote only therapist- I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client is very important. It’s very important to me that I create strong relationships with my clients based on trust and acceptance. I take a holistic approach, as our mental health is as important as our physical health, and they are often related to one another. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and a person-centered approach. I can assist people who have mood disorders, anxiety, grief, trauma, substance abuse, parenting and family conflicts and LGBTQ support. I specialize working with adolescents, adults, & couples
(217) 635-3684 View (217) 635-3684
Photo of Kendrick J. Bailey, Counselor in Champaign, IL
Kendrick J. Bailey
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61602
Kendrick is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling locally at Bradley University. He has over 18 years of clinical experience providing care to clients with a wide range of needs. He serves all ages of clients from pre-adolescent to the life experienced senior citizen. His clinical experience includes outpatient settings, substance abuse clinics, emergency and disaster response teams, at risk adolescent group homes, family services agencies, universities, correctional facilities as well as private practice experience.
Kendrick is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling locally at Bradley University. He has over 18 years of clinical experience providing care to clients with a wide range of needs. He serves all ages of clients from pre-adolescent to the life experienced senior citizen. His clinical experience includes outpatient settings, substance abuse clinics, emergency and disaster response teams, at risk adolescent group homes, family services agencies, universities, correctional facilities as well as private practice experience.
(309) 396-6252 View (309) 396-6252
Photo of Stephanie Czarnecki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Champaign, IL
Stephanie Czarnecki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT Ca, MVF-CSW, C-CATOD, CGC
Verified Verified
Dunlap, IL 61525  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed therapist, CSAT candidate focused on individuals dealing with trauma (PTSD, betrayal trauma, etc.), sex and porn addiction, substance use/addiction, and personality disorders. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling to cope with life's challenges, you're not alone. Many people go through difficult periods in their lives where they need extra support and guidance. Therapy can be a transformative experience that helps individuals improve their mental health, build resilience, and live a more fulfilling life.
I am a licensed therapist, CSAT candidate focused on individuals dealing with trauma (PTSD, betrayal trauma, etc.), sex and porn addiction, substance use/addiction, and personality disorders. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling to cope with life's challenges, you're not alone. Many people go through difficult periods in their lives where they need extra support and guidance. Therapy can be a transformative experience that helps individuals improve their mental health, build resilience, and live a more fulfilling life.
(309) 305-9670 View (309) 305-9670
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.