Depression Therapists in Deerfield, IL

Photo of Leslie Abrams, PhD, Psychologist
Leslie Abrams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I have experience with the full range of adult problems and work with individuals experiencing intimacy and relationship issues, divorce, depression, anxiety, feelings of loneliness and/or emptiness, loss and/or grief, pervasive unhappiness, disordered eating, life transitions, self-esteem issues as well as a general dissatisfaction with life.
I view myself as both a guide and partner in the growth process which I believe involves exploration and reflection on current and historical issues that keep you feeling depressed, anxious, stagnant or unfulfilled in your life. Understanding current coping strategies and the ways in which they may have been useful in the past, but are no longer serving you well is my focus. While I believe reflection on early experience is important, I also remain grounded in the present and provide more direct interventions when needed. My style is warm, engaged, non-judgmental, empathic and active.
I have experience with the full range of adult problems and work with individuals experiencing intimacy and relationship issues, divorce, depression, anxiety, feelings of loneliness and/or emptiness, loss and/or grief, pervasive unhappiness, disordered eating, life transitions, self-esteem issues as well as a general dissatisfaction with life.
I view myself as both a guide and partner in the growth process which I believe involves exploration and reflection on current and historical issues that keep you feeling depressed, anxious, stagnant or unfulfilled in your life. Understanding current coping strategies and the ways in which they may have been useful in the past, but are no longer serving you well is my focus. While I believe reflection on early experience is important, I also remain grounded in the present and provide more direct interventions when needed. My style is warm, engaged, non-judgmental, empathic and active.
(847) 693-4966 View (847) 693-4966
Photo of Amy Silver - Amy Silver, L.C.S.W., MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Silver, L.C.S.W.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I offer a relaxing, nonjudgmental environment where we can begin to develop rapport and build the therapeutic relationship. I am aware that clients have a choice of clinician and without rapport, clients may have a difficult time finding the comfort level needed for personal growth. I provide therapeutic services to adolescents, adults and families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional and behavioral management, relationships, and other related social/emotional issues. In addition, I have extensive experience working with adolescents struggling with issues related to ADHD, Executive Functioning, learning disabilities and related school issues.
I offer a relaxing, nonjudgmental environment where we can begin to develop rapport and build the therapeutic relationship. I am aware that clients have a choice of clinician and without rapport, clients may have a difficult time finding the comfort level needed for personal growth. I provide therapeutic services to adolescents, adults and families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional and behavioral management, relationships, and other related social/emotional issues. In addition, I have extensive experience working with adolescents struggling with issues related to ADHD, Executive Functioning, learning disabilities and related school issues.
(847) 380-5657 View (847) 380-5657
Photo of Kayla Cohn - North Star Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
North Star Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
My clients are more than the challenges they are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, etc. My clients are people first who are looking for guidance in creating the coping skills necessary for relief and a fulfilling life. It is important to my clients that their therapist truly hear their concerns, needs, and goals, as well as be the person they can be fully transparent. A safe and nurturing setting is created with my clients in order for mutual trust, openness, and respect to emerge. My clients want to see the evolvement of positive changes occur in their lives, as do I.
My clients are more than the challenges they are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, etc. My clients are people first who are looking for guidance in creating the coping skills necessary for relief and a fulfilling life. It is important to my clients that their therapist truly hear their concerns, needs, and goals, as well as be the person they can be fully transparent. A safe and nurturing setting is created with my clients in order for mutual trust, openness, and respect to emerge. My clients want to see the evolvement of positive changes occur in their lives, as do I.
(847) 558-1952 View (847) 558-1952
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
(224) 243-8095 View (224) 243-8095
Photo of Rachel van Zevenbergen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel van Zevenbergen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
Utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches, the main areas of focus in my treatment include anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions and adjustment issues, grief and bereavement, behavioral concerns, interpersonal relationships, developmental disabilities and family dynamics.
Hi there! My name is Rachel. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe that mental health deserves the same amount of attention and care as any other health concern. I understand that it can be intimidating to take that first step in getting help, but I strive to create a warm, engaging, and non-judgmental environment for my clients and take the time to build trust and rapport so that everybody feels comfortable. I believe that therapy is a partnership and I am confident that I can provide the proper support and guidance to help you develop the tools you need to reach your treatment goals, and ultimately, improve your life.
Utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches, the main areas of focus in my treatment include anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions and adjustment issues, grief and bereavement, behavioral concerns, interpersonal relationships, developmental disabilities and family dynamics.
Hi there! My name is Rachel. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe that mental health deserves the same amount of attention and care as any other health concern. I understand that it can be intimidating to take that first step in getting help, but I strive to create a warm, engaging, and non-judgmental environment for my clients and take the time to build trust and rapport so that everybody feels comfortable. I believe that therapy is a partnership and I am confident that I can provide the proper support and guidance to help you develop the tools you need to reach your treatment goals, and ultimately, improve your life.
(773) 869-7002 View (773) 869-7002
Photo of Amy Kingan, PsyD, Psychologist
Amy Kingan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I work with clients who are experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD as well as relationship issues and life transitions.
I want to help people learn about themselves, develop skills to have better relationships, and practice coping skills to help overcome obstacles in life. My goal is to make the therapeutic relationship a safe place for you to share your feelings, explore your relationships, and develop skills to help live a happier, more fulfilling life. I believe open communication and trust within that safe space is the first step to developing healthier relationships in life.
I work with clients who are experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, and ADHD as well as relationship issues and life transitions.
I want to help people learn about themselves, develop skills to have better relationships, and practice coping skills to help overcome obstacles in life. My goal is to make the therapeutic relationship a safe place for you to share your feelings, explore your relationships, and develop skills to help live a happier, more fulfilling life. I believe open communication and trust within that safe space is the first step to developing healthier relationships in life.
(847) 307-7362 View (847) 307-7362
Photo of Ashley C Smith, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Ashley C Smith
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I specialize in a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, perinatal/postpartum issues, and life adjustments.
Empowerment and self awareness are key in overcoming life's challenges. As a counselor with over 15 years of experience, my focus is in helping you discover the strengths within yourself to navigate and manage personal difficulties. I believe in a holistic and person centered approach, focused on mindfulness, emotional understanding and self motivation. I am dedicated to providing a nonjudgmental and compassionate listening ear and feel passionately about building a strong therapeutic relationship with each client.
I specialize in a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, perinatal/postpartum issues, and life adjustments.
Empowerment and self awareness are key in overcoming life's challenges. As a counselor with over 15 years of experience, my focus is in helping you discover the strengths within yourself to navigate and manage personal difficulties. I believe in a holistic and person centered approach, focused on mindfulness, emotional understanding and self motivation. I am dedicated to providing a nonjudgmental and compassionate listening ear and feel passionately about building a strong therapeutic relationship with each client.
(872) 204-2990 View (872) 204-2990
Photo of Caryn Goldberg, LCPC, Counselor
Caryn Goldberg
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
If you (or a loved one) is struggling because life has become more challenging and it is getting harder to show up and be the person you want to be, I am here to help! Our focus will be on helping you to gain the confidence, clarity and strength to feel and be your best. My experience working in a variety of therapeutic settings allows me to support those just like you, who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, social anxiety, family stressors, school/work issues, life changes, grief/loss and adjustment difficulties. Since you are here, you are probably overwhelmed and could use someone to talk to.
If you (or a loved one) is struggling because life has become more challenging and it is getting harder to show up and be the person you want to be, I am here to help! Our focus will be on helping you to gain the confidence, clarity and strength to feel and be your best. My experience working in a variety of therapeutic settings allows me to support those just like you, who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, social anxiety, family stressors, school/work issues, life changes, grief/loss and adjustment difficulties. Since you are here, you are probably overwhelmed and could use someone to talk to.
(847) 320-9209 View (847) 320-9209
Photo of Cindy Templer, PsyD, Psychologist
Cindy Templer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
These experiences have contributed to my clinical expertise in the areas of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and life transitions.
Life can be very stressful. Sometimes it feels like juggling a variety of issues at one time. You might feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been providing psychological services to children, adolescents, and adults for more than 20 years. As a seasoned therapist, I believe the therapeutic relationship is essential for a successful treatment outcome. While using a collaborative approach, I provide a comfortable space to set treatment goals along with strategies to meet them.
These experiences have contributed to my clinical expertise in the areas of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and life transitions.
Life can be very stressful. Sometimes it feels like juggling a variety of issues at one time. You might feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been providing psychological services to children, adolescents, and adults for more than 20 years. As a seasoned therapist, I believe the therapeutic relationship is essential for a successful treatment outcome. While using a collaborative approach, I provide a comfortable space to set treatment goals along with strategies to meet them.
(847) 416-8049 View (847) 416-8049
Photo of Jacqueline Ritz, LCPC, Counselor
Jacqueline Ritz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist who specializes in helping clients with complex trauma, anxiety/ depression, mood instability, addictions and relationship issues. My therapeutic lens is existential, and I implement an integrative approach to assist in uncovering self-defeating thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interfering with present-day living. Specializing in DBT, cognitive behavioral and trauma based modalities, my greatest hope is to bring out the best in you, help heal past wounds and shift negative perceptions into positive outcomes, and build mindful awareness of living life in the present moment.
I am a psychotherapist who specializes in helping clients with complex trauma, anxiety/ depression, mood instability, addictions and relationship issues. My therapeutic lens is existential, and I implement an integrative approach to assist in uncovering self-defeating thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interfering with present-day living. Specializing in DBT, cognitive behavioral and trauma based modalities, my greatest hope is to bring out the best in you, help heal past wounds and shift negative perceptions into positive outcomes, and build mindful awareness of living life in the present moment.
(847) 654-9841 View (847) 654-9841
Photo of Eliana Wool, PsyD, Psychologist
Eliana Wool
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
Waitlist for new clients
While I work with a diverse range of clients, I specialize in providing psychotherapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults who struggle with concerns related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, and self-esteem.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I understand that in the face of adversity a person’s view of self and view of the world can shift. Oftentimes that shift can lead a person to feel displaced and uncertain of how to cope. Through a supportive therapeutic partnership, I aim to empower my clients to utilize internal strengths in order to regain a sense of self and discover a source of resilience. I use a relational and warm therapeutic approach that is informed by cognitive behavioral principles.
While I work with a diverse range of clients, I specialize in providing psychotherapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults who struggle with concerns related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, and self-esteem.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I understand that in the face of adversity a person’s view of self and view of the world can shift. Oftentimes that shift can lead a person to feel displaced and uncertain of how to cope. Through a supportive therapeutic partnership, I aim to empower my clients to utilize internal strengths in order to regain a sense of self and discover a source of resilience. I use a relational and warm therapeutic approach that is informed by cognitive behavioral principles.
(847) 512-8554 View (847) 512-8554
Photo of Margaret Moore, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
My diverse experience in psychoanalytic study, crisis, medical settings, divorce mediation, grief work, addictions, depression, anxiety contribute to my being a seasoned therapist, skilled in the subtleties of understanding ourselves, consciously and unconsciously.
It is my honor and delight to assist people in using their own wisdom to balance their lives. Clients say I am easy to be with and talk to, and I do not judge. We explore the cognitive, physical, spiritual and emotional realms of life experience. And we find patterns, identify core values and can focus on specific challenges. My professional goal is to provide a comfortable, non-judgmental and protected place in which we can explore your life and your concerns freely.
My diverse experience in psychoanalytic study, crisis, medical settings, divorce mediation, grief work, addictions, depression, anxiety contribute to my being a seasoned therapist, skilled in the subtleties of understanding ourselves, consciously and unconsciously.
It is my honor and delight to assist people in using their own wisdom to balance their lives. Clients say I am easy to be with and talk to, and I do not judge. We explore the cognitive, physical, spiritual and emotional realms of life experience. And we find patterns, identify core values and can focus on specific challenges. My professional goal is to provide a comfortable, non-judgmental and protected place in which we can explore your life and your concerns freely.
(847) 908-3371 View (847) 908-3371
Photo of Julie Oscherwitz Grant, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Oscherwitz Grant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I specialize in the following areas:grief and loss, depression, marital and other relationship difficulties, divorce, young adult transitions and challenges, parenting, and women's medical issues.
We all work hard to take care of ourselves and build positive relationships, but sometimes obstacles get in our way. For more than 20 years, I have worked with people to identify and remove those obstacles, so that they can lead fuller and more joyful lives. You may be derailed by the loss of a job or relationship; feel depressed and not know why, or struggle as a parent. I work with individuals, couples and families to pinpoint your concerns and work toward change. My emphasis is on building honest, open relationships and on using insight to fuel change.
I specialize in the following areas:grief and loss, depression, marital and other relationship difficulties, divorce, young adult transitions and challenges, parenting, and women's medical issues.
We all work hard to take care of ourselves and build positive relationships, but sometimes obstacles get in our way. For more than 20 years, I have worked with people to identify and remove those obstacles, so that they can lead fuller and more joyful lives. You may be derailed by the loss of a job or relationship; feel depressed and not know why, or struggle as a parent. I work with individuals, couples and families to pinpoint your concerns and work toward change. My emphasis is on building honest, open relationships and on using insight to fuel change.
(847) 416-0986 View (847) 416-0986
Photo of Erin Lipin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Lipin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
Depression and anxiety can manifest themselves in a myriad of ways.
Life, with all its challenges can be overwhelming. Finding a trusted professional to process and explore these experiences can be helpful and meaningful. Therapy should be a non-judgmental experience so you can feel comfortable learning more about yourself. I view therapy as a partnership, you are the expert in your life. We can work together in discovering more effective ways to confront life's challenges.
Depression and anxiety can manifest themselves in a myriad of ways.
Life, with all its challenges can be overwhelming. Finding a trusted professional to process and explore these experiences can be helpful and meaningful. Therapy should be a non-judgmental experience so you can feel comfortable learning more about yourself. I view therapy as a partnership, you are the expert in your life. We can work together in discovering more effective ways to confront life's challenges.
(847) 440-1428 View (847) 440-1428
Photo of Joel K Brotman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joel K Brotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been trained extensively in several therapy models including; Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. My clients range in age from young adults to older adults. I treat a variety of psychological problems, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, bipolar disorder, marital difficulties, OCD, addictive behaviors, emotional regulation, chronic pain.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been trained extensively in several therapy models including; Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. My clients range in age from young adults to older adults. I treat a variety of psychological problems, including: anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, bipolar disorder, marital difficulties, OCD, addictive behaviors, emotional regulation, chronic pain.
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Photo of Nicole Gerber, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Gerber
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I work with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, social, emotional, school, work related difficulties, life stressors, transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been in private practice since 1998. I am the co-founder of Lakeshore Psychology Group (click on the website link to learn more). I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families struggling with a range of issues. I provide a safe environment to help people feel at ease discussing their thoughts and feelings. My style of therapy is interactive, engaging and direct. I have been described as genuine, accessible, caring, empathic, and an advocate for my clients. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them find the necessary tools to grow, develop, and achieve their goals.
I work with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, social, emotional, school, work related difficulties, life stressors, transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been in private practice since 1998. I am the co-founder of Lakeshore Psychology Group (click on the website link to learn more). I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families struggling with a range of issues. I provide a safe environment to help people feel at ease discussing their thoughts and feelings. My style of therapy is interactive, engaging and direct. I have been described as genuine, accessible, caring, empathic, and an advocate for my clients. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them find the necessary tools to grow, develop, and achieve their goals.
(847) 266-2717 View (847) 266-2717
Photo of Aaron Petersen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aaron Petersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I have experience working with teens suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, school and identity issues.
I have worked in the human services field for over 20 years and in many different capacities. My work has generally focused on teens and children during transitional points in their lives. I practice with the respect and validation that many children do not get, but need. Working and collaborating with schools and caretakers is a foundation of the work I do along with an expectation of continued contact with both schools and families throughout the work.
I have experience working with teens suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, school and identity issues.
I have worked in the human services field for over 20 years and in many different capacities. My work has generally focused on teens and children during transitional points in their lives. I practice with the respect and validation that many children do not get, but need. Working and collaborating with schools and caretakers is a foundation of the work I do along with an expectation of continued contact with both schools and families throughout the work.
(312) 663-8631 View (312) 663-8631
Photo of Paul Nevin, PsyD, Psychologist
Paul Nevin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
Although I am a generalist, with experience treating a wide variety of clinical issues, I do specialize in the treatment of stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, couples therapy, child and adolescent therapy, and wellness coaching.
At Heart Light, we believe that personal growth is a natural psychological process that fundamentally belongs to you, not to us. Some mental health professionals seem to imagine themselves as mental and emotional surgeons, whose goal is to identify problems and then fix them for you. We envision ourselves as more akin to doctors that deliver babies. We are ready to intervene as and when needed, but our primary role is to facilitate a natural process that belongs, first and foremost, to you. Our goal is to guide and encourage your growth by helping you to empower yourself.
Although I am a generalist, with experience treating a wide variety of clinical issues, I do specialize in the treatment of stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, couples therapy, child and adolescent therapy, and wellness coaching.
At Heart Light, we believe that personal growth is a natural psychological process that fundamentally belongs to you, not to us. Some mental health professionals seem to imagine themselves as mental and emotional surgeons, whose goal is to identify problems and then fix them for you. We envision ourselves as more akin to doctors that deliver babies. We are ready to intervene as and when needed, but our primary role is to facilitate a natural process that belongs, first and foremost, to you. Our goal is to guide and encourage your growth by helping you to empower yourself.
(847) 886-9462 View (847) 886-9462
Photo of Jan Gosselin, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jan Gosselin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I am effective in helping adults young and old who struggle with anxiety, depression and low self-worth, and self-defeating patterns in their lives. Sometimes we feel too overwhelmed, ashamed, or discouraged to deal with these parts of ourselves, and need the help of an attuned listener to understand and work through our problems. The process of talking about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within a trusting therapeutic relationship helps relieve emotional distress and increases your capacity to manage difficult feelings.
I am effective in helping adults young and old who struggle with anxiety, depression and low self-worth, and self-defeating patterns in their lives. Sometimes we feel too overwhelmed, ashamed, or discouraged to deal with these parts of ourselves, and need the help of an attuned listener to understand and work through our problems. The process of talking about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within a trusting therapeutic relationship helps relieve emotional distress and increases your capacity to manage difficult feelings.
(847) 750-4421 View (847) 750-4421
Photo of Jennie Ozan, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennie Ozan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
I treat a range of presenting problems including: relationship challenges, life transitions, school and work-related issues, low self-esteem, identity development, postpartum depression/anxiety, eating disorders, and parenting challenges.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years of experience in mental health and wellness. My passion stems from wanting to help others learn new ways of coping with their environment and garnering new skills to help manage current life stressors and hurdles. My belief is that from early childhood we learn healthy, and sometimes unhealthy, strategies to manage challenges. Coping styles, especially maladaptive ones, work for a period of time, but may become ineffective. When this occurs, people often seek therapy. My job as a therapist is to help you learn, and implement, healthier coping strategies.
I treat a range of presenting problems including: relationship challenges, life transitions, school and work-related issues, low self-esteem, identity development, postpartum depression/anxiety, eating disorders, and parenting challenges.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years of experience in mental health and wellness. My passion stems from wanting to help others learn new ways of coping with their environment and garnering new skills to help manage current life stressors and hurdles. My belief is that from early childhood we learn healthy, and sometimes unhealthy, strategies to manage challenges. Coping styles, especially maladaptive ones, work for a period of time, but may become ineffective. When this occurs, people often seek therapy. My job as a therapist is to help you learn, and implement, healthier coping strategies.
(847) 744-8046 View (847) 744-8046
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Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.