Depression Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Lynn Rittenberg Kauffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lynn Rittenberg Kauffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CEAP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
I work well with adult children of alcoholics, transitions (relationship, career, lifestage), occupational issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, fertility, postpartum, and family/relationship issues.
I offer practical, solution-focused goal-oriented psychotherapy aimed at timely symptom relief and problem resolution. My clients, being adults, determine their own therapy goals and agenda. My style is respectful, but interactive. I do not tell my clients what to do but I will always tell you honestly how I feel about the things that you present. I believe therapy should be time-limited and results-oriented, NOT a life-long continuous process. I believe that people can change, or else I would not be in this business. I delight in helping people master the tools which facilitate desired change.
I work well with adult children of alcoholics, transitions (relationship, career, lifestage), occupational issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, fertility, postpartum, and family/relationship issues.
I offer practical, solution-focused goal-oriented psychotherapy aimed at timely symptom relief and problem resolution. My clients, being adults, determine their own therapy goals and agenda. My style is respectful, but interactive. I do not tell my clients what to do but I will always tell you honestly how I feel about the things that you present. I believe therapy should be time-limited and results-oriented, NOT a life-long continuous process. I believe that people can change, or else I would not be in this business. I delight in helping people master the tools which facilitate desired change.
(773) 506-4567 View (773) 506-4567
Photo of Araba Kuofie, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Araba Kuofie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I enjoy working with clients presenting with a range of concerns such as life transitions, migration-related stress, depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma-related concerns, women’s health issues, and comorbid physical and psychological conditions.
Hello there! My name is Dr. Araba Kuofie, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist primarily based in Illinois. I also see clients in Indiana and Florida via telehealth. My approach to care is integrative, client-centered, and grounded in an understanding of how each client’s biopsychosocial context influences their distress and ability to engage in and benefit from therapy. In therapy, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space, which allows clients to cultivate authenticity, introspection, and skill building as they navigate various stressors and challenges in their lives.
I enjoy working with clients presenting with a range of concerns such as life transitions, migration-related stress, depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma-related concerns, women’s health issues, and comorbid physical and psychological conditions.
Hello there! My name is Dr. Araba Kuofie, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist primarily based in Illinois. I also see clients in Indiana and Florida via telehealth. My approach to care is integrative, client-centered, and grounded in an understanding of how each client’s biopsychosocial context influences their distress and ability to engage in and benefit from therapy. In therapy, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space, which allows clients to cultivate authenticity, introspection, and skill building as they navigate various stressors and challenges in their lives.
(872) 814-7442 View (872) 814-7442
Photo of Lilah Ravinuthala, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Lilah Ravinuthala
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
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 Kaitlyn Vranek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kaitlyn Vranek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Kaitlyn specializes in working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, mood, behavioral and personality disorders, OCD, eating disorders, trauma, and addiction. Kaitlyn considers a client’s social and cultural background to enhance her understanding of each client. Each person has a different path to healing, and she enjoys discovering that path together. She uses a combination of modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, supportive therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed interventions, and psychodynamic influences.
Kaitlyn specializes in working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, mood, behavioral and personality disorders, OCD, eating disorders, trauma, and addiction. Kaitlyn considers a client’s social and cultural background to enhance her understanding of each client. Each person has a different path to healing, and she enjoys discovering that path together. She uses a combination of modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, supportive therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed interventions, and psychodynamic influences.
(872) 250-5411 View (872) 250-5411
Photo of Anissa Nannette Garcia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Anissa Nannette Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
I offer my clients a safe and trusting environment in which to gain insight into the underlying causes of anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, bereavement, and how to address them.
My philosophy as a therapist is to treat each person as a unique individual worthy of unconditional acceptance, regardless of their circumstances or struggles. I desire to come alongside, challenge, and encourage my clients to find healing emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Counseling explores these roadblocks and helps the person remove obstacles to happiness so he or she can go on to lead a happy and more fulfilling life. Learning healthy patterns of behavior is necessary to achieve a more enriched and fulfilling life.
I offer my clients a safe and trusting environment in which to gain insight into the underlying causes of anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, bereavement, and how to address them.
My philosophy as a therapist is to treat each person as a unique individual worthy of unconditional acceptance, regardless of their circumstances or struggles. I desire to come alongside, challenge, and encourage my clients to find healing emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Counseling explores these roadblocks and helps the person remove obstacles to happiness so he or she can go on to lead a happy and more fulfilling life. Learning healthy patterns of behavior is necessary to achieve a more enriched and fulfilling life.
(872) 713-5396 x806 View (872) 713-5396 x806
Photo of Carrie Ryberg, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Carrie Ryberg
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60609
Hello, my name is Carrie L. Ryberg, MA, LCPC, NCC, and I have been practicing counseling for 13 years. Typically, I work with clients that have anxiety, depression, or previous trauma. Then, I will work with using an approach that would best help you with your needs. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Techniques, and Solution Focus. I believe that sometimes we need some support during difficult times to help us cope and find the silver lining.
Hello, my name is Carrie L. Ryberg, MA, LCPC, NCC, and I have been practicing counseling for 13 years. Typically, I work with clients that have anxiety, depression, or previous trauma. Then, I will work with using an approach that would best help you with your needs. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Techniques, and Solution Focus. I believe that sometimes we need some support during difficult times to help us cope and find the silver lining.
(630) 642-2356 View (630) 642-2356
Photo of Nicole Dodero, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Nicole Dodero
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I am open to working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples with a wide array of concerns such as communication, ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more.
My passion for counseling began early in my life, and I always had a curiosity to better understand the intricacies of human behavior and emotions. While I began my journey as an elementary school teacher, I soon realized I wanted to assist in helping people heal and find happiness. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve their goals and live their best lives, and believe that counseling can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation.
I am open to working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples with a wide array of concerns such as communication, ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more.
My passion for counseling began early in my life, and I always had a curiosity to better understand the intricacies of human behavior and emotions. While I began my journey as an elementary school teacher, I soon realized I wanted to assist in helping people heal and find happiness. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve their goals and live their best lives, and believe that counseling can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation.
(773) 249-2921 View (773) 249-2921
Photo of MyLCSW, Ltd., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
MyLCSW, Ltd.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Our clients are diverse people, some struggle with depression or anxiety, others seek clarity in communication and adapting to change. What you request assistance with is our goal, and we will empathize and assist you in navigating the therapeutic journey. You, the client, are in charge of your life and your change. Your therapist is here to help you look at your choices, provide new skills, and be a support. All the MyLCSW clinicians believe that therapy starts where the client is.
Our clients are diverse people, some struggle with depression or anxiety, others seek clarity in communication and adapting to change. What you request assistance with is our goal, and we will empathize and assist you in navigating the therapeutic journey. You, the client, are in charge of your life and your change. Your therapist is here to help you look at your choices, provide new skills, and be a support. All the MyLCSW clinicians believe that therapy starts where the client is.
(773) 389-2691 View (773) 389-2691
Photo of Jade Hull, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Jade Hull
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I have solid experience working with adults who live with trauma, depression, bipolar, anxiety, disordered eating, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, stress, relationship issues, academic struggles, immigration difficulties, and grief.
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your life. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond diagnoses, and examine attachment and relationships.
I have solid experience working with adults who live with trauma, depression, bipolar, anxiety, disordered eating, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, stress, relationship issues, academic struggles, immigration difficulties, and grief.
Shopping around online for a human to trust and talk to can be a strange experience, and I understand that the beginning of this journey can feel overwhelming. I utilize humor, creativity, self-reflection, body-based interventions, and education to promote your growth. Your therapy will be individualized to who you are and your lived experiences. We’ll work as a team to explore, understand, and update the obstacles in your life. I believe knowledge is a transformative tool that can help us update how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world. Together, we'll look beyond diagnoses, and examine attachment and relationships.
(773) 207-2098 View (773) 207-2098
Photo of Julie Josler, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Julie Josler
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
I have experience working with many issues, such as anxiety, depression, loss and trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, anger management, ADHD, behavioral management, and many more.
Everyone needs support at some point & therapy should be a safe, comforting space, to explore your feelings & thoughts, both past & present. You have all the potential to identify & access the tools & strength you need to move forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with more than 25 years of experience. I have been lucky to work in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, private practice, schools, as well in-home counseling. A volunteer job at a suicide prevention hotline when I was nineteen inspired a career helping people through their most difficult times.
I have experience working with many issues, such as anxiety, depression, loss and trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, anger management, ADHD, behavioral management, and many more.
Everyone needs support at some point & therapy should be a safe, comforting space, to explore your feelings & thoughts, both past & present. You have all the potential to identify & access the tools & strength you need to move forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with more than 25 years of experience. I have been lucky to work in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, private practice, schools, as well in-home counseling. A volunteer job at a suicide prevention hotline when I was nineteen inspired a career helping people through their most difficult times.
(773) 389-2703 View (773) 389-2703
Photo of Rachana Doshi, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Rachana Doshi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
I work with a range of presenting concerns including life transitions, self-esteem, shame, racial/ethnic identity development, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, and group therapy.
I believe that people are experts in their own lives. We all have strengths that sometimes are not apparent to us, but we can learn to identify them. As we connect to our internal experiences, we discover that our thoughts and beliefs about the way things are might be more workable than we had previously believed. My approach when working with people is to be collaborative and relational. I meet clients wherever they are in their journey and we work together to identify goals that help them lead meaningful lives. As your therapist, I look to create a safe space, be fully present, and listen deeply with non-judgment.
I work with a range of presenting concerns including life transitions, self-esteem, shame, racial/ethnic identity development, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, and group therapy.
I believe that people are experts in their own lives. We all have strengths that sometimes are not apparent to us, but we can learn to identify them. As we connect to our internal experiences, we discover that our thoughts and beliefs about the way things are might be more workable than we had previously believed. My approach when working with people is to be collaborative and relational. I meet clients wherever they are in their journey and we work together to identify goals that help them lead meaningful lives. As your therapist, I look to create a safe space, be fully present, and listen deeply with non-judgment.
(312) 663-8124 View (312) 663-8124
Photo of Kevin Seske, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kevin Seske
Counselor, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
I am also skilled in treating mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, grief, emotional abuse, and life transitions.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, empowering, nonjudgmental, trauma informed, and goal-focused. I see therapy as a method to find the individual's strengths to help overcome any hardships they may be struggling with in their life. I integrate treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Narrative Therapy, Existential Therapy, and mindfulness techniques. In addition, I incorporate Sports Psychology in sessions where appropriate as I believe physical activity can empower us and teach us life skills that boost self-esteem, promote team building, and aid in relaxation.
I am also skilled in treating mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, grief, emotional abuse, and life transitions.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, empowering, nonjudgmental, trauma informed, and goal-focused. I see therapy as a method to find the individual's strengths to help overcome any hardships they may be struggling with in their life. I integrate treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Narrative Therapy, Existential Therapy, and mindfulness techniques. In addition, I incorporate Sports Psychology in sessions where appropriate as I believe physical activity can empower us and teach us life skills that boost self-esteem, promote team building, and aid in relaxation.
(872) 205-3351 View (872) 205-3351
Photo of Sarah Rachel Donohue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sarah Rachel Donohue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
Whether you are continuing your therapeutic journey or just starting, going to therapy is a courageous step towards growth, self-discovery, and healing. Whatever your reason is, we will explore it together. You are the expert in your life, my role is to provide a safe, empathetic, and nonjudgemental space for us to freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My area of specialty and training include Anxiety, Depression, and Attachment Trauma. I take a psychodynamic, relational approach in my work. I believe that all of the healing and progress happens in the process of our therapeutic relationship.
Whether you are continuing your therapeutic journey or just starting, going to therapy is a courageous step towards growth, self-discovery, and healing. Whatever your reason is, we will explore it together. You are the expert in your life, my role is to provide a safe, empathetic, and nonjudgemental space for us to freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My area of specialty and training include Anxiety, Depression, and Attachment Trauma. I take a psychodynamic, relational approach in my work. I believe that all of the healing and progress happens in the process of our therapeutic relationship.
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Photo of Lyn Martin Caroli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lyn Martin Caroli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I have worked with people who are experiencing depression and/or anxiety, those experiencing loss and grief, life transitions for young and old, as well issues with relationship and connection.
At some point in our lives, we all go through challenging experiences that seem beyond our ability to manage on our own. Whether it's a life transition, something from our past, or a relationship struggle, these experiences can be overwhelming and may affect our sense of well-being.
I have worked with people who are experiencing depression and/or anxiety, those experiencing loss and grief, life transitions for young and old, as well issues with relationship and connection.
At some point in our lives, we all go through challenging experiences that seem beyond our ability to manage on our own. Whether it's a life transition, something from our past, or a relationship struggle, these experiences can be overwhelming and may affect our sense of well-being.
(312) 516-2486 View (312) 516-2486
Photo of David Fletcher - Janzen, Counselor in Chicago, IL
David Fletcher - Janzen
Counselor, LCPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
David Fletcher-Janzen is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LCPC, LPCC) in Illinois and Ohio. After 30 years of working as a CEO in psychiatric and chemical dependency hospitals, David provides individual therapy to adults and seniors. He specializes in treating concerns related to life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. David earned his Bachelor of Science in Education at the University of Texas at Austin and his Master of Education in Counseling at Texas State University.
David Fletcher-Janzen is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LCPC, LPCC) in Illinois and Ohio. After 30 years of working as a CEO in psychiatric and chemical dependency hospitals, David provides individual therapy to adults and seniors. He specializes in treating concerns related to life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. David earned his Bachelor of Science in Education at the University of Texas at Austin and his Master of Education in Counseling at Texas State University.
(872) 274-3126 View (872) 274-3126
Photo of Mark Petroelje, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Mark Petroelje
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I provide psychotherapy to people from diverse cultural backgrounds and with a wide variety of concerns, such as depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, compulsive behaviors, relationship functioning, family dynamics, body image, sexual and gender identity, and medical issues.
I offer insight-oriented psychotherapy that is highly attuned to the effects of trauma, stigma, and shame. I focus on creating an environment of acceptance and affirmation, promoting authentic self expression and facilitating emotional healing. I believe in helping clients understand how past experiences impact their current behaviors and relationships, and I utilize the therapeutic relationship to foster self-awareness and interpersonal skills.
I provide psychotherapy to people from diverse cultural backgrounds and with a wide variety of concerns, such as depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, compulsive behaviors, relationship functioning, family dynamics, body image, sexual and gender identity, and medical issues.
I offer insight-oriented psychotherapy that is highly attuned to the effects of trauma, stigma, and shame. I focus on creating an environment of acceptance and affirmation, promoting authentic self expression and facilitating emotional healing. I believe in helping clients understand how past experiences impact their current behaviors and relationships, and I utilize the therapeutic relationship to foster self-awareness and interpersonal skills.
(773) 717-5615 View (773) 717-5615
Photo of Brittany Heard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Brittany Heard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflict, addictions, codependency, and low self-esteem.
NOW accepting new clients! Are you struggling to get a grip on life? Anxiety. Relationship conflict. Work challenges. Grief. Codependency. Financial worries. Unshakable sadness. Addiction. It feels as though the world is tumbling down on you. I will help you to work through the difficulties, put the broken pieces back together, and regain control of your life.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflict, addictions, codependency, and low self-esteem.
NOW accepting new clients! Are you struggling to get a grip on life? Anxiety. Relationship conflict. Work challenges. Grief. Codependency. Financial worries. Unshakable sadness. Addiction. It feels as though the world is tumbling down on you. I will help you to work through the difficulties, put the broken pieces back together, and regain control of your life.
(312) 584-2910 View (312) 584-2910
Photo of David Kovach, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
David Kovach
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor from Chicago with five years of clinical experience. I am a member of the LGBTQIA community and specialize in obsessive compulsive disorders, anxiety, depression, and men's issues. I employ a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, and Person-Centered therapies, and utilize Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, Exposure Therapy for Anxiety, and Behavioral Activation for Depression. As a career-changer from the medical field to working as a therapist, I get that life throws you curveballs sometimes, but we can work together to get through those curveballs.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor from Chicago with five years of clinical experience. I am a member of the LGBTQIA community and specialize in obsessive compulsive disorders, anxiety, depression, and men's issues. I employ a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, and Person-Centered therapies, and utilize Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, Exposure Therapy for Anxiety, and Behavioral Activation for Depression. As a career-changer from the medical field to working as a therapist, I get that life throws you curveballs sometimes, but we can work together to get through those curveballs.
(630) 884-4486 View (630) 884-4486
Photo of Delorth Stallworth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Delorth Stallworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Delorth's expertise extends to areas such as stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, family/relationship issues, and personal growth.
Delorth Stallworth, LSW is a licensed Social Worker with a master's degree in social work from Chicago State University. With a focus on direct practice, Delorth has extensive experience working with children and families in various settings. Delorth began her career supporting children and families within the foster care system. She then transitioned to working counseling center, specializing in evaluating and assessing risk factors. This work involved empowering individuals through personal growth and providing individual counseling.
Delorth's expertise extends to areas such as stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, family/relationship issues, and personal growth.
Delorth Stallworth, LSW is a licensed Social Worker with a master's degree in social work from Chicago State University. With a focus on direct practice, Delorth has extensive experience working with children and families in various settings. Delorth began her career supporting children and families within the foster care system. She then transitioned to working counseling center, specializing in evaluating and assessing risk factors. This work involved empowering individuals through personal growth and providing individual counseling.
(312) 635-5310 View (312) 635-5310
Photo of Jonathan Spitz, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Jonathan Spitz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
My approach combines my education, training, and own life experience to work with individuals collaboratively, with a focus on how to meaningfully and healthfully navigate life events. I start by developing a unique and genuine therapeutic relationship with my clients which facilitates healing and understanding. While trained as a generalist to provide treatment for a variety of mental health concerns across the lifespan, my clinical specialties include working with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship/family distress, life transitions, grief/loss, stress mgmt, college students, young adults, and autism spectrum/Asperger's.
My approach combines my education, training, and own life experience to work with individuals collaboratively, with a focus on how to meaningfully and healthfully navigate life events. I start by developing a unique and genuine therapeutic relationship with my clients which facilitates healing and understanding. While trained as a generalist to provide treatment for a variety of mental health concerns across the lifespan, my clinical specialties include working with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship/family distress, life transitions, grief/loss, stress mgmt, college students, young adults, and autism spectrum/Asperger's.
(312) 248-9842 View (312) 248-9842
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.