Therapists in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL

Photo of Chicago Human Potential, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Chicago Human Potential
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, RDDP
Verified Verified
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626
Anxiety and depression respond very well to counseling and we have been successful getting people "un-stuck".
Our person-centered, solution-focused methods provide the encouragement necessary for clients to see tangible results and quantifiable changes in their lives, attitude and self-esteem. We meet clients where they're at and find creative ways to thoughtfully challenge folks when needed. We look forward to connecting via phone or e-mail to better gauge if we'd be a good fit for each other! We will also be accepting all types of PPO insurances. CHP colleagues are available in Illinois, Florida (remote) Michigan (remote)!
Anxiety and depression respond very well to counseling and we have been successful getting people "un-stuck".
Our person-centered, solution-focused methods provide the encouragement necessary for clients to see tangible results and quantifiable changes in their lives, attitude and self-esteem. We meet clients where they're at and find creative ways to thoughtfully challenge folks when needed. We look forward to connecting via phone or e-mail to better gauge if we'd be a good fit for each other! We will also be accepting all types of PPO insurances. CHP colleagues are available in Illinois, Florida (remote) Michigan (remote)!
(773) 923-1249 View (773) 923-1249
Photo of John Charles Zibert, Counselor in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
John Charles Zibert
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I collaborate with adults in individual and relationship counseling. Typical issues we work on together are depression, anxiety, grief, addictions, eating disorders, LGBT concerns, ACOA issues, stress, men's issues, and if it a specific client request - spirituality concerns. I offer Wednesday, Friday and Saturday appointments by telehealth exclusively. Due to the convenience and popularity of telehealth, I hold all sessions via telehealth and no longer offer in-person office sessions.
I collaborate with adults in individual and relationship counseling. Typical issues we work on together are depression, anxiety, grief, addictions, eating disorders, LGBT concerns, ACOA issues, stress, men's issues, and if it a specific client request - spirituality concerns. I offer Wednesday, Friday and Saturday appointments by telehealth exclusively. Due to the convenience and popularity of telehealth, I hold all sessions via telehealth and no longer offer in-person office sessions.
(773) 312-4415 View (773) 312-4415
Photo of Lilah Ravinuthala, Pre-Licensed Professional in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Lilah Ravinuthala
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60660
Prior to joining Positive Regard Therapy, I worked with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
I am a South Asian queer therapist who is focused on creating an authentic space for you to heal and grow.  As a second-generation immigrant, I understand the stigma and trepidation that comes with getting mental healthcare. I strive to create a space where you can be seen and heard without judgment. We will work together to identify challenges related to trauma, cultural background, depression, anxiety, and lack of fulfillment in life.
Prior to joining Positive Regard Therapy, I worked with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
I am a South Asian queer therapist who is focused on creating an authentic space for you to heal and grow.  As a second-generation immigrant, I understand the stigma and trepidation that comes with getting mental healthcare. I strive to create a space where you can be seen and heard without judgment. We will work together to identify challenges related to trauma, cultural background, depression, anxiety, and lack of fulfillment in life.
(773) 867-5975 View (773) 867-5975
Photo of Christina Bueno - Specializing In Therapy For Young Adults, Pre-Licensed Professional in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Christina Bueno - Specializing In Therapy For Young Adults
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60660
As a Bilingual Latina, I became a counselor after years of working as a professor of Latin American History and Latinx/Latin American Studies. I began to notice that more and more students seemed to be experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. After taking my first counseling course, I decided to become a professional in the field. My aim is to help empower clients. I create a supportive environment for individuals and am especially interested in working with students and young adults and professionals.
As a Bilingual Latina, I became a counselor after years of working as a professor of Latin American History and Latinx/Latin American Studies. I began to notice that more and more students seemed to be experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. After taking my first counseling course, I decided to become a professional in the field. My aim is to help empower clients. I create a supportive environment for individuals and am especially interested in working with students and young adults and professionals.
(773) 570-2829 View (773) 570-2829
Photo of Bert Fox | Specializing In Therapy For Men, Counselor in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Bert Fox | Specializing In Therapy For Men
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626
I specialize in working with men, especially those who identify as gay, bi or queer. Common issues I work with clients on include relationship/intimacy struggles, isolation, depression, shame, career issues, anger/rage, anxiety, sexual issues, feelings of numbness and addiction. I can assure you a level of comfort and understanding as well as specialized training when dealing with these issues. In addition, I take a sex positive approach and am attuned to the needs of poly, non-monogamous, kink and BDSM clients.
I specialize in working with men, especially those who identify as gay, bi or queer. Common issues I work with clients on include relationship/intimacy struggles, isolation, depression, shame, career issues, anger/rage, anxiety, sexual issues, feelings of numbness and addiction. I can assure you a level of comfort and understanding as well as specialized training when dealing with these issues. In addition, I take a sex positive approach and am attuned to the needs of poly, non-monogamous, kink and BDSM clients.
(773) 389-2853 View (773) 389-2853
Photo of Anthony Rodriguez, Counselor in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Anthony Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626
Hello, I'm Anthony. Meaning and certainty are hard to practice when you're struggling to get through the week. My experiences as a therapist involved helping people experiencing, anxiety, depression, life transitions, psychosis, and interpersonal difficulties; and if any of those apply to you, I would like to help you or someone you care about find some relief. My process is collaborative and open, meaning you set the pace as we learn how to reshape thoughts, learn new skills, and celebrate your best. I love learning about my clients and figuring out how we can use our therapy time to help you get to where you want to be in life.
Hello, I'm Anthony. Meaning and certainty are hard to practice when you're struggling to get through the week. My experiences as a therapist involved helping people experiencing, anxiety, depression, life transitions, psychosis, and interpersonal difficulties; and if any of those apply to you, I would like to help you or someone you care about find some relief. My process is collaborative and open, meaning you set the pace as we learn how to reshape thoughts, learn new skills, and celebrate your best. I love learning about my clients and figuring out how we can use our therapy time to help you get to where you want to be in life.
(872) 259-4551 View (872) 259-4551
Photo of Jessica York, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Jessica York
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, BFA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626
I can also provide support for depression, purpose, church hurt, & unwanted sexual behavior.
I'm honored to immerse myself in your story & make your healing our priority. Are you feeling shut down, stuck, or isolated? Are you overwhelmed by your emotions and anxious? I will create a space that is warm, non-judging, and compassionate for exploration, risks, & growth. Let's work together to discover more of who you were created to be! I believe you are the expert on your life & already carry inside what you need to heal. I will come alongside you to help draw that out. It is my priority to see you fully so we can journey together towards your healing & freedom. There's more to life than just trying to survive.
I can also provide support for depression, purpose, church hurt, & unwanted sexual behavior.
I'm honored to immerse myself in your story & make your healing our priority. Are you feeling shut down, stuck, or isolated? Are you overwhelmed by your emotions and anxious? I will create a space that is warm, non-judging, and compassionate for exploration, risks, & growth. Let's work together to discover more of who you were created to be! I believe you are the expert on your life & already carry inside what you need to heal. I will come alongside you to help draw that out. It is my priority to see you fully so we can journey together towards your healing & freedom. There's more to life than just trying to survive.
(630) 354-0339 View (630) 354-0339
Photo of Jerome P Wagner, Psychologist in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Jerome P Wagner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. In my 25+ years as a psychotherapist I've come to appreciate the wisdom found in various therapeutic models. So I've developed an integrative approach. I believe it's important to tailor the therapy to the individual. Our past, present, and future all influence our choices and behaviors. So I find it helpful to put on trifocals to see where we're at, how we got here, and where we want to go. As social beings our interpersonal relationships are vital to our well-being and happiness. Sometimes our interpersonal style helps us connect with others; sometimes it gets in the way of our relationships. Checking out our personality style is often beneficial. As individuals we are unfolding in our own unique way and I believe there is an inner wisdom that leads us to who we are and what we really desire. Sometimes we get disconnected from ourselves and need to get back in touch by looking inward.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. In my 25+ years as a psychotherapist I've come to appreciate the wisdom found in various therapeutic models. So I've developed an integrative approach. I believe it's important to tailor the therapy to the individual. Our past, present, and future all influence our choices and behaviors. So I find it helpful to put on trifocals to see where we're at, how we got here, and where we want to go. As social beings our interpersonal relationships are vital to our well-being and happiness. Sometimes our interpersonal style helps us connect with others; sometimes it gets in the way of our relationships. Checking out our personality style is often beneficial. As individuals we are unfolding in our own unique way and I believe there is an inner wisdom that leads us to who we are and what we really desire. Sometimes we get disconnected from ourselves and need to get back in touch by looking inward.
(847) 400-6507 View (847) 400-6507
Photo of Alexis Wojtowicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Alexis Wojtowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626
I believe therapy takes on many forms and is not a cookie-cutter process. That is the sort of approach I take with individuals who took the courageous step toward therapy for their healing journey. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative and therapeutic space for you and your goals. You know yourself and your life more than I do, so I value hearing your story and providing you with support and tools to get you where you want to be. To better tailor to those goals, I focus on an integrative approach of using a systems, strengths-based, or client-centered approach to therapy
I believe therapy takes on many forms and is not a cookie-cutter process. That is the sort of approach I take with individuals who took the courageous step toward therapy for their healing journey. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative and therapeutic space for you and your goals. You know yourself and your life more than I do, so I value hearing your story and providing you with support and tools to get you where you want to be. To better tailor to those goals, I focus on an integrative approach of using a systems, strengths-based, or client-centered approach to therapy
(773) 974-9876 View (773) 974-9876
Photo of Dana Wierzbicki, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Dana Wierzbicki
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626
I provide therapy from the perspective that an understanding, trusting, and genuine relationship between myself and my clients is the necessary foundation for helping them to create change in their lives. I think everyone, myself included, can relate to hiding parts of ourselves out of fear of being judged– whether it’s our feelings, desires, or the qualities that make us unique. Those fears and self-judgments can then add another difficult dimension to our experience.
I provide therapy from the perspective that an understanding, trusting, and genuine relationship between myself and my clients is the necessary foundation for helping them to create change in their lives. I think everyone, myself included, can relate to hiding parts of ourselves out of fear of being judged– whether it’s our feelings, desires, or the qualities that make us unique. Those fears and self-judgments can then add another difficult dimension to our experience.
(773) 729-6960 View (773) 729-6960
Photo of John Samuel Milstone, Pre-Licensed Professional in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
John Samuel Milstone
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60660
Challenges are an undeniable aspect of life's journey. I am confident that you have already discovered ways to make your challenges easier to deal with, and I am here to provide a harm-reductive approach to refine these solutions to your benefit. I firmly believe that, regardless of the time we spend together, you will always be the foremost expert on yourself. Our work will rely on this expertise, serving as a guiding tool to carve your path toward living a more empowered and meaningful life—whatever that may mean to you.
Challenges are an undeniable aspect of life's journey. I am confident that you have already discovered ways to make your challenges easier to deal with, and I am here to provide a harm-reductive approach to refine these solutions to your benefit. I firmly believe that, regardless of the time we spend together, you will always be the foremost expert on yourself. Our work will rely on this expertise, serving as a guiding tool to carve your path toward living a more empowered and meaningful life—whatever that may mean to you.
(773) 902-0484 View (773) 902-0484
Photo of Erin Siegferth , Pre-Licensed Professional in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Erin Siegferth 
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60660
I hold a shame-free space for you and your relationship partner(s) to understand and reshape patterns that cause distress and distance. Part of my role as a therapist is to gently guide you beyond “who-said-what” so we can understand and honor the emotional roots of conflict. I aim to honor your life stories so far, while also empowering you to create the kind of relationship you want for the future. In addition to relationship partners, I also work with individual clients on gender and sexual identity exploration, trauma, and life transitions.
I hold a shame-free space for you and your relationship partner(s) to understand and reshape patterns that cause distress and distance. Part of my role as a therapist is to gently guide you beyond “who-said-what” so we can understand and honor the emotional roots of conflict. I aim to honor your life stories so far, while also empowering you to create the kind of relationship you want for the future. In addition to relationship partners, I also work with individual clients on gender and sexual identity exploration, trauma, and life transitions.
(773) 692-6030 View (773) 692-6030
Photo of Lauren Michelle Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Lauren Michelle Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
To LIVE after Trauma and Grief was the smartest choice I've made Learning to LOVE as a Parent and Single Woman, feels freeing Having LIFE with Relational Purpose is a class all Its own After 35 years of life experience, 7 years of experience in field of mental health, 4 years as a Licensed Therapist, and continuing education as a 5th year doctoral student I have been able to create a program that eases the stigma of seeing a therapist. Through the recognition of new self-awareness, clients will work towards their goals through her directive and active guidance.
To LIVE after Trauma and Grief was the smartest choice I've made Learning to LOVE as a Parent and Single Woman, feels freeing Having LIFE with Relational Purpose is a class all Its own After 35 years of life experience, 7 years of experience in field of mental health, 4 years as a Licensed Therapist, and continuing education as a 5th year doctoral student I have been able to create a program that eases the stigma of seeing a therapist. Through the recognition of new self-awareness, clients will work towards their goals through her directive and active guidance.
(312) 386-5314 View (312) 386-5314
Photo of Nik Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Nik Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
Being human is messy and the relationships we have with ourselves and others can often feel even messier. However, you, through your lived experiences, have a significant amount of important data about what is working for you versus what is not. Together we can use that data and determine what variables have been supportive as well as what elements may need a revised approach. Therapeutic work with me involves a deep respect for consent – you get to choose our direction, our focus, and where we are headed. I may gently steer us down a path, but ultimately you are the captain of our journey.
Being human is messy and the relationships we have with ourselves and others can often feel even messier. However, you, through your lived experiences, have a significant amount of important data about what is working for you versus what is not. Together we can use that data and determine what variables have been supportive as well as what elements may need a revised approach. Therapeutic work with me involves a deep respect for consent – you get to choose our direction, our focus, and where we are headed. I may gently steer us down a path, but ultimately you are the captain of our journey.
(312) 847-8517 View (312) 847-8517
Photo of Raquel Wu, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Raquel Wu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
(773) 692-0273 View (773) 692-0273
Photo of Julie Blythe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Julie Blythe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, MDiv, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626
I am glad you are here. In order to know whether I am a good fit for you, let me tell you about myself and my understanding of what it means to be your therapist. After working as an R.N. and a pastor/chaplain, I realized that counseling was truly my passion. So, I went back to school – again! I received my Master’s in Social Work and have been working as a therapist for the last five years. In my practice, I see adults and children aged 10 and up. I am willing to consider seeing younger children on a case-by-case basis. I also do couple’s therapy. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional - II and specialize in trauma.
I am glad you are here. In order to know whether I am a good fit for you, let me tell you about myself and my understanding of what it means to be your therapist. After working as an R.N. and a pastor/chaplain, I realized that counseling was truly my passion. So, I went back to school – again! I received my Master’s in Social Work and have been working as a therapist for the last five years. In my practice, I see adults and children aged 10 and up. I am willing to consider seeing younger children on a case-by-case basis. I also do couple’s therapy. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional - II and specialize in trauma.
(217) 996-9423 View (217) 996-9423
Photo of Sara Richmond, Pre-Licensed Professional in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Sara Richmond
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60660
Not accepting new clients
Curiosity leads my work. With my clients, I seek to co-create a space to explore their joys and struggles. My clinical interests include sexuality and gender identity development, self-worth expansion, mending relationships with others and with ourselves, understanding anxiety, depression, and personal values. Serving both teens and adults, I come from a person-centered, strength-based and existential framework.  I practice queer, kink, and poly affirming counseling.
Curiosity leads my work. With my clients, I seek to co-create a space to explore their joys and struggles. My clinical interests include sexuality and gender identity development, self-worth expansion, mending relationships with others and with ourselves, understanding anxiety, depression, and personal values. Serving both teens and adults, I come from a person-centered, strength-based and existential framework.  I practice queer, kink, and poly affirming counseling.
(773) 850-3289 View (773) 850-3289

Online Therapists

Photo of Shoshana Kahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Shoshana Kahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
Life can be very challenging. If you are reading this you might be ready to talk. And talking helps. But, it isn't everything. Therapy is a puzzle that we never complete. Therapists sort through thoughts and ideas with you so things don't seem so overwhelming. Here we create a space to breath. I have been honored to work with clients who experience many issues such as anxiety, depression, poor familial relationships, loss, death, grief, divorce, commitment difficulties, loneliness, PTSD, difficulty sleeping, concentrating, focusing, ADD, eating disorders,codependency, isolation. And more.
Life can be very challenging. If you are reading this you might be ready to talk. And talking helps. But, it isn't everything. Therapy is a puzzle that we never complete. Therapists sort through thoughts and ideas with you so things don't seem so overwhelming. Here we create a space to breath. I have been honored to work with clients who experience many issues such as anxiety, depression, poor familial relationships, loss, death, grief, divorce, commitment difficulties, loneliness, PTSD, difficulty sleeping, concentrating, focusing, ADD, eating disorders,codependency, isolation. And more.
(773) 358-1037 View (773) 358-1037
Photo of Elita Wolsk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Elita Wolsk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
If you are an individual or couple who would like to better manage your stress, overcome anxiety, decrease depression, improve relationships and develop positive coping skills, we can work together to establish clear goals.
With over 20 years' experience as a therapist working with diverse issues, I use a holistic approach that builds on your current coping skills and problem solving strategies. We focus on stress management training and the development of greater self awareness that help you achieve a healthier lifestyle and a greater sense of well-being. When appropriate, I use hypnosis as an effective therapeutic technique for certain health, behaviors and emotional issues. Hypnosis blends the best of both nontraditional and mainstream practices.
If you are an individual or couple who would like to better manage your stress, overcome anxiety, decrease depression, improve relationships and develop positive coping skills, we can work together to establish clear goals.
With over 20 years' experience as a therapist working with diverse issues, I use a holistic approach that builds on your current coping skills and problem solving strategies. We focus on stress management training and the development of greater self awareness that help you achieve a healthier lifestyle and a greater sense of well-being. When appropriate, I use hypnosis as an effective therapeutic technique for certain health, behaviors and emotional issues. Hypnosis blends the best of both nontraditional and mainstream practices.
(773) 669-8922 View (773) 669-8922
Photo of Leslie Damaso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Rogers Park, Chicago, IL
Leslie Damaso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
As a Licensed Social Worker, Leslie specializes in treating depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions.
Leslie’s ideal client is someone who is ready to take the first step towards self-improvement and personal growth. Leslie’s therapeutic practice focuses on helping individuals develop healthy ways to process depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions. Leslie engages clients through an empathetic and relational approach to help individuals achieve a balanced and healthy life for themselves.
As a Licensed Social Worker, Leslie specializes in treating depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions.
Leslie’s ideal client is someone who is ready to take the first step towards self-improvement and personal growth. Leslie’s therapeutic practice focuses on helping individuals develop healthy ways to process depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions. Leslie engages clients through an empathetic and relational approach to help individuals achieve a balanced and healthy life for themselves.
(312) 561-9486 View (312) 561-9486

See more therapy options for East Rogers Park, Chicago

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.