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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessica McGuire, Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Jessica McGuire
Counselor, LCPC, LPHA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Barrington, IL 60010
I have worked with clients who experience depression, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic violence, low self-esteem, relationship issues, anger, and legal issues.
Currently providing in-person and/or virtual sessions for all Medicaid and private plans. Have areas of your life become stressful, overwhelming or seemingly unmanageable? Together, we will work together to identify your strengths, barriers, and areas of concern in your life and establish a plan to help you achieve your goals and objectives. Whether you struggle with negative thoughts, stress, mental health symptoms, addiction, feelings of inadequacy or finding balance in your life, I am able to help. Through a specifically tailored approach you will become empowered with the tools and skills needed to progress in life.
I have worked with clients who experience depression, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic violence, low self-esteem, relationship issues, anger, and legal issues.
Currently providing in-person and/or virtual sessions for all Medicaid and private plans. Have areas of your life become stressful, overwhelming or seemingly unmanageable? Together, we will work together to identify your strengths, barriers, and areas of concern in your life and establish a plan to help you achieve your goals and objectives. Whether you struggle with negative thoughts, stress, mental health symptoms, addiction, feelings of inadequacy or finding balance in your life, I am able to help. Through a specifically tailored approach you will become empowered with the tools and skills needed to progress in life.
(224) 571-9642 View (224) 571-9642
Photo of Danika Varady, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Danika Varady
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I believe that creative expression has the ability to reach the deepest part of us, where words may not exist. It can be difficult for clients to talk about the issues that bother them, but I find that making art can open up those conversations easily. I embrace having empathy and understanding for my client's stories in order to accentuate their own strengths and values.
I believe that creative expression has the ability to reach the deepest part of us, where words may not exist. It can be difficult for clients to talk about the issues that bother them, but I find that making art can open up those conversations easily. I embrace having empathy and understanding for my client's stories in order to accentuate their own strengths and values.
(847) 908-9982 View (847) 908-9982
Photo of Maggie Slavich, Psychologist in Lake In The Hills, IL
Maggie Slavich
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Inverness, IL 60010
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages including geriatrics. The majority of my experience has been with children and adolescents with emotional disorders, behavioral disorders, autism, and PANS/ PANDAS. I have experience working with individuals with traumatic stress. I am effective at helping individuals cope with major and minor life stresses. I perform diagnostic evaluations for individuals of all ages including cognitive, emotional, and personality assessment that can be used to inform therapeutic intervention and gain resources outside of therapy. I am passionate about helping individuals of diverse backgrounds.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages including geriatrics. The majority of my experience has been with children and adolescents with emotional disorders, behavioral disorders, autism, and PANS/ PANDAS. I have experience working with individuals with traumatic stress. I am effective at helping individuals cope with major and minor life stresses. I perform diagnostic evaluations for individuals of all ages including cognitive, emotional, and personality assessment that can be used to inform therapeutic intervention and gain resources outside of therapy. I am passionate about helping individuals of diverse backgrounds.
(331) 244-0342 View (331) 244-0342

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa D Tarr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Lisa D Tarr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, addiction issues (substance abuse), troubled teens, school failure, LGBTQ+, and trauma and identity issues. As a lifelong allied and friend to the LGBTQ+ community, I work very hard to remain current to concerns that are specific to marginalized communities. I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. I will work with you to think outside of the box and build strength through our therapeutic relationship.
I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, addiction issues (substance abuse), troubled teens, school failure, LGBTQ+, and trauma and identity issues. As a lifelong allied and friend to the LGBTQ+ community, I work very hard to remain current to concerns that are specific to marginalized communities. I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. I will work with you to think outside of the box and build strength through our therapeutic relationship.
(312) 646-3886 View (312) 646-3886
Photo of Carli Cinquegrani, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Carli Cinquegrani
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60612
I enjoy working with individuals who have walked diverse paths. I have a strong affinity for those with trauma histories, recognizing the importance of healing and resilience. Clients dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and/or neurodivergence will discover practical tools and healing modalities to manage their mental health. Personally, as a breast cancer survivor, I'm attuned to the complexities of illness and its impact on one's emotional well-being. I also work closely with couples who are struggling, providing them with the guidance and tools they need to navigate their relationship challenges.
I enjoy working with individuals who have walked diverse paths. I have a strong affinity for those with trauma histories, recognizing the importance of healing and resilience. Clients dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and/or neurodivergence will discover practical tools and healing modalities to manage their mental health. Personally, as a breast cancer survivor, I'm attuned to the complexities of illness and its impact on one's emotional well-being. I also work closely with couples who are struggling, providing them with the guidance and tools they need to navigate their relationship challenges.
(773) 923-3868 View (773) 923-3868
Photo of Elevation Individual and Family Therapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake In The Hills, IL
Elevation Individual and Family Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Homewood, IL 60422
Even "superwoman" or "the strong one" of the family needs someone to lean on or talk to. At Elevation Individual and Family Therapy (EIFT), we are here to support you and help you reach your goals as you navigate through life's journey. We have a team of therapists are experts in addressing a variety of issues, such as family communication, emotional challenges, women-related issues, depression, anxiety, and youth counseling. No matter what difficulties or challenges you or your child might be facing, there are solutions and we are here to help! Visit our website www.elevationtherapy.org to see each of our therapists' specialties.
Even "superwoman" or "the strong one" of the family needs someone to lean on or talk to. At Elevation Individual and Family Therapy (EIFT), we are here to support you and help you reach your goals as you navigate through life's journey. We have a team of therapists are experts in addressing a variety of issues, such as family communication, emotional challenges, women-related issues, depression, anxiety, and youth counseling. No matter what difficulties or challenges you or your child might be facing, there are solutions and we are here to help! Visit our website www.elevationtherapy.org to see each of our therapists' specialties.
(708) 249-3571 x001 View (708) 249-3571 x001
Photo of Julleon Garrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake In The Hills, IL
Julleon Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
(312) 262-2473 View (312) 262-2473
Photo of Edlicia Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lake In The Hills, IL
Edlicia Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
Relationships are challenging and trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, worry, shame and guilt are just some of the things that can hinder you from not only achieving a healthy relationship but also being the best version of yourself. As a Couples and Family therapist I help individuals, couples and families achieve relationship satisfaction, gain a deeper understanding of self and each other and heal from wounds that are negatively impacting the ability to heal. I believe that each individual in a relationship has their own individual thoughts and beliefs that are impacted by childhood and the families we are born into.
Relationships are challenging and trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, worry, shame and guilt are just some of the things that can hinder you from not only achieving a healthy relationship but also being the best version of yourself. As a Couples and Family therapist I help individuals, couples and families achieve relationship satisfaction, gain a deeper understanding of self and each other and heal from wounds that are negatively impacting the ability to heal. I believe that each individual in a relationship has their own individual thoughts and beliefs that are impacted by childhood and the families we are born into.
(312) 598-1578 x1 View (312) 598-1578 x1
Photo of Integrative Counseling and Psychology, Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Integrative Counseling and Psychology
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
I use an integrative approach to work with depression/anxiety mood disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, drug abuse, chronic illness, dissociative disorders, change of life and existential issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor(CADC) and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology(MCP). Much of my training has been centered in client-centered theory and I also have specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). In addition to being traditionally trained, I also incorporate​ a holistic, integrated approach toward psychotherapy which includes aspects of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy, providing individual, family and couples therapy as well as intervention work.
(331) 241-7436 View (331) 241-7436
Photo of Maryann DeMatthews Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake In The Hills, IL
Maryann DeMatthews Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Geneva, IL 60134
Enjoy therapy. I provide in-depth, client specific psychotherapy. I help individuals face and overcome challenges, cultivate hope, and move forward. With comprehensive experience and deep theoretical understanding, I support my clients to move forward safely and securely. I treat clients who have challenges including Personality Disorders, Depression, Grief/Bereavement, Anxiety, Panic, Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. End-to-end encrypted telehealth therapy with secure email, video streaming, and intake system.
Enjoy therapy. I provide in-depth, client specific psychotherapy. I help individuals face and overcome challenges, cultivate hope, and move forward. With comprehensive experience and deep theoretical understanding, I support my clients to move forward safely and securely. I treat clients who have challenges including Personality Disorders, Depression, Grief/Bereavement, Anxiety, Panic, Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. End-to-end encrypted telehealth therapy with secure email, video streaming, and intake system.
(331) 223-0330 View (331) 223-0330
Photo of Carlton Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Carlton Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockford. I have a Ph.D., in Counseling Psychology from Andrews University, an APA accredited program. I approach mental health and emotional wellness from an insight oriented perspective. I believe that an understanding of one’s early childhood environment is essential to an understanding of one’s functioning in adulthood. It allows clients to gain insight into their anxieties, depression, mood dysregulation, emotional problems, and inner conflicts.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Rockford. I have a Ph.D., in Counseling Psychology from Andrews University, an APA accredited program. I approach mental health and emotional wellness from an insight oriented perspective. I believe that an understanding of one’s early childhood environment is essential to an understanding of one’s functioning in adulthood. It allows clients to gain insight into their anxieties, depression, mood dysregulation, emotional problems, and inner conflicts.
(815) 281-5162 View (815) 281-5162
Photo of Kristen Christensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake In The Hills, IL
Kristen Christensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
Traumatic events are painful and often result in wounds that can't be seen. I believe that understanding trauma and how trauma has affected you is the first step in healing from trauma. You don’t have to do this alone. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults – those who have experienced trauma and those who may be struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression. In addition, I also work with families experiencing separation or divorce. My goal is to help families effectively communicate while you try to figure out the emotional, physical, and custodial stressors that often accompany a divorce.
Traumatic events are painful and often result in wounds that can't be seen. I believe that understanding trauma and how trauma has affected you is the first step in healing from trauma. You don’t have to do this alone. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults – those who have experienced trauma and those who may be struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression. In addition, I also work with families experiencing separation or divorce. My goal is to help families effectively communicate while you try to figure out the emotional, physical, and custodial stressors that often accompany a divorce.
(224) 218-5148 View (224) 218-5148
Photo of Dr. Jonah Waseberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Dr. Jonah Waseberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Currently sessions are conducted virtually- Dr. Waseberg is a psychotherapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals and couples struggling with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, alcohol/drugs, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, bipolar/borderline and other psychological issues. He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy. He has rich experience providing counseling in private practice settings as well as Inpatient Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization-PHP, and Intensive Outpatient-IOP settings.
Currently sessions are conducted virtually- Dr. Waseberg is a psychotherapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals and couples struggling with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, alcohol/drugs, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, bipolar/borderline and other psychological issues. He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy. He has rich experience providing counseling in private practice settings as well as Inpatient Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization-PHP, and Intensive Outpatient-IOP settings.
(773) 974-6274 View (773) 974-6274
Photo of Patrick Noonan, Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Patrick Noonan
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
I work with all ages and I have experience with the following concerns: anxiety, depression, bullying, life adjustment concerns, intellectual and developmental needs.
**MEDICAID PLANS ACCEPTED** It's a brave step to reach out for support, especially when parts of life have become unmanageable. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space for us to begin the process of healing and working through the different obstacles that you may face. Together we will take the time to increase your level of self-awareness, and discuss how you can make the changes you want to see. Email is my preferred method of communication but feel free to call as well. I accept a number of insurance plans including Blue Cross Community Health, Meridian, and Molina.
I work with all ages and I have experience with the following concerns: anxiety, depression, bullying, life adjustment concerns, intellectual and developmental needs.
**MEDICAID PLANS ACCEPTED** It's a brave step to reach out for support, especially when parts of life have become unmanageable. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space for us to begin the process of healing and working through the different obstacles that you may face. Together we will take the time to increase your level of self-awareness, and discuss how you can make the changes you want to see. Email is my preferred method of communication but feel free to call as well. I accept a number of insurance plans including Blue Cross Community Health, Meridian, and Molina.
(779) 223-1066 View (779) 223-1066
Photo of Bridgeview Clinical Services, Ltd., Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Bridgeview Clinical Services, Ltd.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I have been working as a therapist for fifteen years. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, managed treatment programs and provided supervision to other clinicians in the field. I have worked with individuals facing a variety of issues including substance dependency, depression, anxiety, chronic mental illness, family and marriage issues. My area of specialty includes working with women and men who suffer from depression, anxiety, PSTD as a result of a medical conditions such as cancer; children/ adolescents with depression and anxiety, emotional regulation and behavioral/conduct challenges, and ADHD.
I have been working as a therapist for fifteen years. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, managed treatment programs and provided supervision to other clinicians in the field. I have worked with individuals facing a variety of issues including substance dependency, depression, anxiety, chronic mental illness, family and marriage issues. My area of specialty includes working with women and men who suffer from depression, anxiety, PSTD as a result of a medical conditions such as cancer; children/ adolescents with depression and anxiety, emotional regulation and behavioral/conduct challenges, and ADHD.
(847) 737-7760 View (847) 737-7760
Photo of Jameelah Brown-Williams, Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Jameelah Brown-Williams
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60652
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and grief counseling, by tailoring my therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs.
Life's journey can present challenges that feel overwhelming, and at times, we may find ourselves seeking support and understanding. Navigating emotions can be complex. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can express yourself freely. Together, we'll explore your feelings, helping you gain insights and a deeper understanding of your emotional landscape. With 15 years of experience in the field, I bring a compassionate and client-centered approach to therapy.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and grief counseling, by tailoring my therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs.
Life's journey can present challenges that feel overwhelming, and at times, we may find ourselves seeking support and understanding. Navigating emotions can be complex. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can express yourself freely. Together, we'll explore your feelings, helping you gain insights and a deeper understanding of your emotional landscape. With 15 years of experience in the field, I bring a compassionate and client-centered approach to therapy.
(708) 719-2890 View (708) 719-2890
Photo of Tara Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Tara Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
My professional background includes working with a wide variety of clients from children to older adults. I have provided mental health and substance abuse outpatient counseling including individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, thinking disorders, codependency, domestic violence, self-esteem, women’s issues, spirituality, chronic illness, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, and addictions.
My professional background includes working with a wide variety of clients from children to older adults. I have provided mental health and substance abuse outpatient counseling including individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, thinking disorders, codependency, domestic violence, self-esteem, women’s issues, spirituality, chronic illness, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, and addictions.
(618) 248-4604 View (618) 248-4604
Photo of Euginia Ivanova, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake In The Hills, IL
Euginia Ivanova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Norridge, IL 60706
My career as a therapist has afforded me opportunities to work with individuals from all walks of life. I immigrated to the United States from Kiev, Ukraine and feel intimately familiar with the challenges faced by all of the groups I mentioned. I am able to work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families and treat a wide variety of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief / loss, relationship problems, family conflict, and addiction. I am proud member of Chicagoland’s Ukraine Community and am fluent in the Russian and Ukrainian languages.
My career as a therapist has afforded me opportunities to work with individuals from all walks of life. I immigrated to the United States from Kiev, Ukraine and feel intimately familiar with the challenges faced by all of the groups I mentioned. I am able to work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families and treat a wide variety of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief / loss, relationship problems, family conflict, and addiction. I am proud member of Chicagoland’s Ukraine Community and am fluent in the Russian and Ukrainian languages.
(224) 529-3188 View (224) 529-3188
Photo of William Lacy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lake In The Hills, IL
William Lacy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAMFT, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Kankakee, IL 60901
Being raised in a family with thirteen siblings, I learned early how to see things from multiple viewpoints. Also, I've learned that it was okay to have different viewpoints and not be wrong, because it was that person's opinion or belief. I became interested in couples and families, because I've learned that there's a difference between being in a relationship and "just" being together with a person or persons. Although it's a human need to want to be in a relationship, it's also a personal responsibility to learn how to be relationship material.
Being raised in a family with thirteen siblings, I learned early how to see things from multiple viewpoints. Also, I've learned that it was okay to have different viewpoints and not be wrong, because it was that person's opinion or belief. I became interested in couples and families, because I've learned that there's a difference between being in a relationship and "just" being together with a person or persons. Although it's a human need to want to be in a relationship, it's also a personal responsibility to learn how to be relationship material.
(815) 916-5109 View (815) 916-5109
Photo of Rena Kassel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake In The Hills, IL
Rena Kassel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, AAPT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
As an MA, LPC, I help individuals explore their thoughts, feelings and behavior to reach a more clear self-understanding and change long-standing patterns of behavior that may be disrupting relationships, work and study. The nonjudgemental and accepting nature of clinical mental health counseling makes it possible to face painful experiences. My client utilizes their capacity to change, seeking mental clarity, presence and balance. As a professional counselor I will work within clearly contracted, ethical boundaries, with respect for my clients, their values, their beliefs, their culture, to explore and resolve life difficulties.
As an MA, LPC, I help individuals explore their thoughts, feelings and behavior to reach a more clear self-understanding and change long-standing patterns of behavior that may be disrupting relationships, work and study. The nonjudgemental and accepting nature of clinical mental health counseling makes it possible to face painful experiences. My client utilizes their capacity to change, seeking mental clarity, presence and balance. As a professional counselor I will work within clearly contracted, ethical boundaries, with respect for my clients, their values, their beliefs, their culture, to explore and resolve life difficulties.
(708) 556-2954 View (708) 556-2954

See more therapy options for Lake In The Hills

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.