Photo of Virginia Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Virginia Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. I am a licensed therapist with over a decade of clinical experience working with adults from a myriad of backgrounds. I offer a collaborative approach to therapy with warmth, authenticity, and empathy. My primary areas of focus include anxiety, ADHD, depression, disordered eating, career concerns, parental stress, women’s issues, life transitions, and relationship issues. I pride myself on consistent education and self reflection in cultural competency to ensure I am able to justly provide services to all communities.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. I am a licensed therapist with over a decade of clinical experience working with adults from a myriad of backgrounds. I offer a collaborative approach to therapy with warmth, authenticity, and empathy. My primary areas of focus include anxiety, ADHD, depression, disordered eating, career concerns, parental stress, women’s issues, life transitions, and relationship issues. I pride myself on consistent education and self reflection in cultural competency to ensure I am able to justly provide services to all communities.
(224) 864-9659 View (224) 864-9659
Photo of Stefanie Schanaberger, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Stefanie Schanaberger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I specialize in counseling adults with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image issues, relationship conflict, life transitions, and other related challenges.
Life is a journey with unexpected challenges and changes, but it is also full of opportunities for growth and self-discovery. While some people struggle with fear and anxiety related to life transitions, others may struggle with feeling stuck in their lives, permanently on "autopilot" and feeling powerless to make a change. I am here to join you on a path of self-reflection and positive change, so that you can discover your inner strengths and build a life more congruent with your true values and goals.
I specialize in counseling adults with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image issues, relationship conflict, life transitions, and other related challenges.
Life is a journey with unexpected challenges and changes, but it is also full of opportunities for growth and self-discovery. While some people struggle with fear and anxiety related to life transitions, others may struggle with feeling stuck in their lives, permanently on "autopilot" and feeling powerless to make a change. I am here to join you on a path of self-reflection and positive change, so that you can discover your inner strengths and build a life more congruent with your true values and goals.
(847) 241-1544 View (847) 241-1544
Photo of Derek Conn, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Derek Conn
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD and Depression related issues for children (8 years and older), teens and adults.
Every goal starts somewhere. I'm looking to collaborate with you to form an individualized, goal-oriented treatment plan to help you get from where you are to where you want to be. I incorporate appropriate, empirically supported treatments to help you understand yourself and situation more fully. I want to provide you with skill sets to achieve your current goals, and also to empower you in future life challenges.
I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD and Depression related issues for children (8 years and older), teens and adults.
Every goal starts somewhere. I'm looking to collaborate with you to form an individualized, goal-oriented treatment plan to help you get from where you are to where you want to be. I incorporate appropriate, empirically supported treatments to help you understand yourself and situation more fully. I want to provide you with skill sets to achieve your current goals, and also to empower you in future life challenges.
(847) 595-5012 View (847) 595-5012
Photo of Affective Counseling, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Affective Counseling
Counselor
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
All therapists at Affective Counseling have an emphasis in treating affective (mood) disorders, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Dysthymia, and Cyclothymia.
Affective Counseling provides tailored counseling for adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff realize that you face unique life challenges and it is our goal to understand how you see the world, yourself and others so that we can better help you navigate life’s journey. Building on personal strengths, recognizing and challenging negative thoughts and developing tangible coping skills are some of the interventions our staff utilizes to assist you in reaching your personal goals.
All therapists at Affective Counseling have an emphasis in treating affective (mood) disorders, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Dysthymia, and Cyclothymia.
Affective Counseling provides tailored counseling for adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff realize that you face unique life challenges and it is our goal to understand how you see the world, yourself and others so that we can better help you navigate life’s journey. Building on personal strengths, recognizing and challenging negative thoughts and developing tangible coping skills are some of the interventions our staff utilizes to assist you in reaching your personal goals.
(224) 228-3656 View (224) 228-3656
Photo of The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology in Lake Zurich, IL
The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
TMS therapy provides long-term results for people suffering from treatment resistant depression.
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
TMS therapy provides long-term results for people suffering from treatment resistant depression.
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
(224) 427-6245 View (224) 427-6245
Photo of Brittany Salvador, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Brittany Salvador
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I bring my expertise in mood disorders such as Bipolar disorder, Depression, and Anxiety to the counseling relationship.
I strive to help clients develop the self-awareness and coping skills to manage problems as they arise. I utilize mindfulness and acceptance strategies as well as cognitive behavioral skills to assist clients in making positive changes. I believe that with skills and support, problems can become manageable.
I bring my expertise in mood disorders such as Bipolar disorder, Depression, and Anxiety to the counseling relationship.
I strive to help clients develop the self-awareness and coping skills to manage problems as they arise. I utilize mindfulness and acceptance strategies as well as cognitive behavioral skills to assist clients in making positive changes. I believe that with skills and support, problems can become manageable.
(224) 385-0208 View (224) 385-0208
Photo of Joanie Albrecht in Lake Zurich, IL
Joanie Albrecht
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I have extensive experience helping people resolve anxiety, PTSD and depression.
Real change for real people. You may need short-term support to learn specific tools, or you may want to dig more deeply to recognize relationship patterns or other behaviors that get in the way of peace and happiness in your life. You may find yourself feeling depressed, anxious and in conflict with the ones you love. I would like to help you manage and resolve these feelings and to help you transform what feels like vulnerability into strength. We will work together to accomplish the goals we co-create.
I have extensive experience helping people resolve anxiety, PTSD and depression.
Real change for real people. You may need short-term support to learn specific tools, or you may want to dig more deeply to recognize relationship patterns or other behaviors that get in the way of peace and happiness in your life. You may find yourself feeling depressed, anxious and in conflict with the ones you love. I would like to help you manage and resolve these feelings and to help you transform what feels like vulnerability into strength. We will work together to accomplish the goals we co-create.
(847) 268-4219 View (847) 268-4219
Photo of Center for Emotional Wellness of the Northwest, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Center for Emotional Wellness of the Northwest
Counselor, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
From navigating relationship dynamics to managing anxiety and depression, our expert team is here to help.
At the Center for Emotional Wellness, we are committed to helping our clients live their best life. Our team of clinicians are devoted to providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other best practices in treating diverse disorders affecting children, adolescents, and adults. We are continually working to bring the most effective and innovative techniques and approaches to our center in order to better serve the individuals and families in our community. With over 10 therapists, we will match each client with the clinician with the most appropriate style and expertise to match individual needs.
From navigating relationship dynamics to managing anxiety and depression, our expert team is here to help.
At the Center for Emotional Wellness, we are committed to helping our clients live their best life. Our team of clinicians are devoted to providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other best practices in treating diverse disorders affecting children, adolescents, and adults. We are continually working to bring the most effective and innovative techniques and approaches to our center in order to better serve the individuals and families in our community. With over 10 therapists, we will match each client with the clinician with the most appropriate style and expertise to match individual needs.
(847) 550-3946 View (847) 550-3946
Photo of Karen Robbins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Karen Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult and overwhelming at times. I am passionate about helping you where you're at within the context of a safe therapeutic environment. Have you had feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, or depression? Or are feeling stuck, wondering about life and where you fit in? Maybe you're struggling in a relationship or marriage? I enjoy working with young adults, adults, couples and families. I have extra training treating couples conflict, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, Self Injury, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) I also enjoy working with couples who are struggling in their marriage or relationship.
Life can be difficult and overwhelming at times. I am passionate about helping you where you're at within the context of a safe therapeutic environment. Have you had feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, or depression? Or are feeling stuck, wondering about life and where you fit in? Maybe you're struggling in a relationship or marriage? I enjoy working with young adults, adults, couples and families. I have extra training treating couples conflict, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, Self Injury, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) I also enjoy working with couples who are struggling in their marriage or relationship.
View
Photo of Julia Berg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Julia Berg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Life can be complex and ever changing bringing us moments that impact our human experience. These human experiences can be anywhere between being joyful, beautiful, challenging, mediocre, and overwhelming. Counseling is a unique process that can help you find meaning within these experiences and give you a space where your story is heard. As a trauma-informed counselor, I work to create a safe and affirming atmosphere where clients feel understood and fully accepted for who they are. I believe that an authentic and empathic therapeutic relationship is one of the most crucial attributes to healing and growth.
Life can be complex and ever changing bringing us moments that impact our human experience. These human experiences can be anywhere between being joyful, beautiful, challenging, mediocre, and overwhelming. Counseling is a unique process that can help you find meaning within these experiences and give you a space where your story is heard. As a trauma-informed counselor, I work to create a safe and affirming atmosphere where clients feel understood and fully accepted for who they are. I believe that an authentic and empathic therapeutic relationship is one of the most crucial attributes to healing and growth.
(224) 218-5134 View (224) 218-5134
Photo of Cherry Hill Counseling in Lake Zurich, IL
Cherry Hill Counseling
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
(847) 386-2109 View (847) 386-2109
Photo of Barrington Center for Marriage & Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Barrington Center for Marriage & Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Barrington Center for Marriage & Family Therapy provides integrated psychotherapy on a wide range of mental health issues with a specialty in the treatment of relationship difficulties and trauma. We are a group of highly trained and experienced psychotherapists that offer individual therapy, marital and pre-marital counseling, family therapy, and child therapy in a safe and confidential setting.
Barrington Center for Marriage & Family Therapy provides integrated psychotherapy on a wide range of mental health issues with a specialty in the treatment of relationship difficulties and trauma. We are a group of highly trained and experienced psychotherapists that offer individual therapy, marital and pre-marital counseling, family therapy, and child therapy in a safe and confidential setting.
(224) 333-1025 View (224) 333-1025

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Travis Musich, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake Zurich, IL
Dr. Travis Musich
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
North Barrington, IL 60010
In addition to treating anxiety, depression, body image, grief, relationship difficulties, I also specialize in working with trauma, dissociation, psychosis, and other difficult experiences.
In therapy, my approach is nondirective, genuine, warm, and empathic. I am nonjudgmental, accepting, and understanding. I follow my clients as they focus on whatever feels most important to them. My goal is to build a safe therapeutic relationship for clients to explore the depths of their most significant and often challenging life experiences. I listen and respond with empathic understanding of these experiences while my clients find meaning that is congruent with their whole self. Clients often feel deeply understood during this process, which is a profoundly healing experience.
In addition to treating anxiety, depression, body image, grief, relationship difficulties, I also specialize in working with trauma, dissociation, psychosis, and other difficult experiences.
In therapy, my approach is nondirective, genuine, warm, and empathic. I am nonjudgmental, accepting, and understanding. I follow my clients as they focus on whatever feels most important to them. My goal is to build a safe therapeutic relationship for clients to explore the depths of their most significant and often challenging life experiences. I listen and respond with empathic understanding of these experiences while my clients find meaning that is congruent with their whole self. Clients often feel deeply understood during this process, which is a profoundly healing experience.
(312) 548-1368 View (312) 548-1368
Photo of Dr. Bill Bautista, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Dr. Bill Bautista
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Physical and emotional symptoms of these may present as high stress levels, various frustrations or anxieties, panic attacks, or episodes of depression or anger among others.
I am Dr. Bill Bautista; a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish/English) licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. My education and experiences are based on formal schooling in Mexico and United States. I have worked in private practice since 2012 specializing in therapeutic work with children, adolescents, adults and multigenerational families. In my practice, I draw from past experience working with diverse clients in hospitals, clinics, non-for-profits, police, schools, college and university settings. I apply various therapeutic models & tailor sessions to the specific needs of clients.
Physical and emotional symptoms of these may present as high stress levels, various frustrations or anxieties, panic attacks, or episodes of depression or anger among others.
I am Dr. Bill Bautista; a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish/English) licensed clinical social worker in the state of Illinois. My education and experiences are based on formal schooling in Mexico and United States. I have worked in private practice since 2012 specializing in therapeutic work with children, adolescents, adults and multigenerational families. In my practice, I draw from past experience working with diverse clients in hospitals, clinics, non-for-profits, police, schools, college and university settings. I apply various therapeutic models & tailor sessions to the specific needs of clients.
(224) 203-5323 View (224) 203-5323
Photo of Libertyville Counseling ltd., Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Libertyville Counseling ltd.
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
Present, connected and committed can be a path forward. It is the way we practice, and the way we serve our clients. At Libertyville Counseling ltd, we help our clients become present and connect to their current problems, pain, struggles, and strengths while committing to creating a life that is important and meaningful to them. Our practice includes a spectrum of counseling professionals who work with clients that are experiencing anxiety or depression that interferes with life, healing from loss, navigating through difficult life transitions or changes, and managing their own behaviors that get in the way of who they want to be.
Present, connected and committed can be a path forward. It is the way we practice, and the way we serve our clients. At Libertyville Counseling ltd, we help our clients become present and connect to their current problems, pain, struggles, and strengths while committing to creating a life that is important and meaningful to them. Our practice includes a spectrum of counseling professionals who work with clients that are experiencing anxiety or depression that interferes with life, healing from loss, navigating through difficult life transitions or changes, and managing their own behaviors that get in the way of who they want to be.
(224) 298-7614 View (224) 298-7614
Photo of Empowered And Authentic Living, LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Empowered And Authentic Living, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, JD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60055
We specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, LGBTQ, trauma (PTSD & Complex PTSD), grief and loss, domestic violence, couple, and family issues, shadow work, and inner child healing.
Thank you for taking the time to read about EAL. We believe you have the right to live your best life; to be your most empowered and authentic self. We believe that everyone eventually seeks meaning and purpose in their life, and finding and living this ultimate goal will bring long lasting joy and true happiness. We are a unique holistic practice that focuses on mind, body, and spirit, integrating Psychology, Spirituality, and Metaphysics to get to the root of your emotional issues that block you from experiencing peace and happiness. We help young children, teens, adults, couples, and families to help open and guide them on a path to living and enjoying life fully. We also hold retreats, seminars, and trainings (CEUs) to support the needs of our clients and our community.
We specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, LGBTQ, trauma (PTSD & Complex PTSD), grief and loss, domestic violence, couple, and family issues, shadow work, and inner child healing.
Thank you for taking the time to read about EAL. We believe you have the right to live your best life; to be your most empowered and authentic self. We believe that everyone eventually seeks meaning and purpose in their life, and finding and living this ultimate goal will bring long lasting joy and true happiness. We are a unique holistic practice that focuses on mind, body, and spirit, integrating Psychology, Spirituality, and Metaphysics to get to the root of your emotional issues that block you from experiencing peace and happiness. We help young children, teens, adults, couples, and families to help open and guide them on a path to living and enjoying life fully. We also hold retreats, seminars, and trainings (CEUs) to support the needs of our clients and our community.
(847) 780-2081 View (847) 780-2081
Photo of Brooke Carson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Brooke Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Grove, IL 60047
For many years, I've been part of a treatment team in an intensive outpatient program for depression and anxiety in a teaching hospital.
I have a long history of helping people make changes that lead to significant improvement in self-regard and the ability to function and thrive. One of my favorite aspects of being a therapist is the genuine, experience-based optimism that my practice history allows me to bring to meeting with clients. I enjoy working with clients of all ages with a variety of presenting issues including self-esteem and life struggles such as relationship conflicts, grief, loss and transitions such as divorce. I also enjoy helping people with depression, anxiety disorders (including panic disorder, phobias, and PTSD), and ADHD.
For many years, I've been part of a treatment team in an intensive outpatient program for depression and anxiety in a teaching hospital.
I have a long history of helping people make changes that lead to significant improvement in self-regard and the ability to function and thrive. One of my favorite aspects of being a therapist is the genuine, experience-based optimism that my practice history allows me to bring to meeting with clients. I enjoy working with clients of all ages with a variety of presenting issues including self-esteem and life struggles such as relationship conflicts, grief, loss and transitions such as divorce. I also enjoy helping people with depression, anxiety disorders (including panic disorder, phobias, and PTSD), and ADHD.
(847) 558-1839 View (847) 558-1839
Photo of Cheri Spiczka, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Cheri Spiczka
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
Some of my specialties include gender and sexuality challenges, self-harm, depression, panic attacks, anxiety and the effects of bullying.
We all have the power to create happiness in our life. Sometimes we just need help figuring out how to overcome the obstacles that keep us from getting there. Nothing brings me greater joy than helping my clients experience personal and social empowerment and finding contentment in their life. Therapy doesn't start and end after our session, it moves beyond the safety of my office, so they can practice the skills they learn and feel successful managing their life independent of the therapy. I am a warm, accepting and passionate therapist, dedicated to helping people live happier, healthier lives.
Some of my specialties include gender and sexuality challenges, self-harm, depression, panic attacks, anxiety and the effects of bullying.
We all have the power to create happiness in our life. Sometimes we just need help figuring out how to overcome the obstacles that keep us from getting there. Nothing brings me greater joy than helping my clients experience personal and social empowerment and finding contentment in their life. Therapy doesn't start and end after our session, it moves beyond the safety of my office, so they can practice the skills they learn and feel successful managing their life independent of the therapy. I am a warm, accepting and passionate therapist, dedicated to helping people live happier, healthier lives.
(847) 513-9542 View (847) 513-9542
Photo of Dina Yurchanka, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Dina Yurchanka
Counselor, LCPC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
I am convinced that anyone can experience signs of anxiety or depression at some point in their life. Nowadays it is very common to get affected physically and emotionally by the stress of our world of expectations and feel stuck. With my extensive experience in the clinical field, many individuals have found the necessary help and have been able to regain their well-being. My patients' symptoms vary from diverse paralyzing physical symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, avoidance behavior to low self-esteem, etc. I offer clinical help to recovery and a safe space for personal growth.
I am convinced that anyone can experience signs of anxiety or depression at some point in their life. Nowadays it is very common to get affected physically and emotionally by the stress of our world of expectations and feel stuck. With my extensive experience in the clinical field, many individuals have found the necessary help and have been able to regain their well-being. My patients' symptoms vary from diverse paralyzing physical symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, avoidance behavior to low self-esteem, etc. I offer clinical help to recovery and a safe space for personal growth.
(224) 347-7105 View (224) 347-7105
Photo of Erika Katzenmayer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Erika Katzenmayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
I specialize in working with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem, and trauma.
Do you have unexplained sadness, excessive worrying, irritability, or feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Everyone has the ability to be their best self but sometimes life's challenges prevent us from living the life we envisioned. Counseling is intended to help you gain understanding and make changes to obtain a better quality of life that you envision for yourself.
I specialize in working with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem, and trauma.
Do you have unexplained sadness, excessive worrying, irritability, or feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Everyone has the ability to be their best self but sometimes life's challenges prevent us from living the life we envisioned. Counseling is intended to help you gain understanding and make changes to obtain a better quality of life that you envision for yourself.
(847) 241-4342 View (847) 241-4342

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.