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 Sonya Kontorovich, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Sonya Kontorovich
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, infertility/prenatal/postpartum, interpersonal problem, trauma, LGBTQ issues, codependency, communication, and parenting/family dynamics.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, frustrated and uncertain are common human experiences that can leave you disconnected from your best self. I help my clients bridge the gap between where they ARE and where they WANT TO BE by understanding their priorities through a collaborative identification of barriers, fears and hopes. We then design a treatment plan to develop insight about how internal thoughts and belief systems have evolved from unique life experiences and how they influence current interactions and behaviors. Effective strategies to cope with limitations are built upon a foundation of self-awareness.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, infertility/prenatal/postpartum, interpersonal problem, trauma, LGBTQ issues, codependency, communication, and parenting/family dynamics.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, frustrated and uncertain are common human experiences that can leave you disconnected from your best self. I help my clients bridge the gap between where they ARE and where they WANT TO BE by understanding their priorities through a collaborative identification of barriers, fears and hopes. We then design a treatment plan to develop insight about how internal thoughts and belief systems have evolved from unique life experiences and how they influence current interactions and behaviors. Effective strategies to cope with limitations are built upon a foundation of self-awareness.
(847) 973-7321 View (847) 973-7321
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 Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness , Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness
Counselor, LCPC, CRADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
Our team is trained to work with a variety of issues: depression, anxiety, alcohol use or misuse, addiction, gambling, trauma grief & loss, relationship issues, divorce as well as spiritual direction.
Reaching out is never entirely easy, but post pandemic, options have opened. This is why we are providing services online to areas in IL. These past few years we are facing more life stressors, multiple transitions and extra relational challenges. Coping in healthy ways is paramount to functioning well. We believe in resilience and hope to help you find yours. Join us online to return to your best self.
Our team is trained to work with a variety of issues: depression, anxiety, alcohol use or misuse, addiction, gambling, trauma grief & loss, relationship issues, divorce as well as spiritual direction.
Reaching out is never entirely easy, but post pandemic, options have opened. This is why we are providing services online to areas in IL. These past few years we are facing more life stressors, multiple transitions and extra relational challenges. Coping in healthy ways is paramount to functioning well. We believe in resilience and hope to help you find yours. Join us online to return to your best self.
(618) 248-4150 x417 View (618) 248-4150 x417
Photo of Leslie Velgach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Leslie Velgach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
Using a combination of behavioral modalities including DBT, CBT and ACT, I work with teens and adults who are struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, life-transitions, cross-cultural issues, relationship struggles; and mothers, fathers, and guardians experiencing the hardship of raising a family.
There are times we might feel like we have failed, are stuck, or feel like there is no hope for change. Asking for help can be very difficult, and it takes a lot of strength and courage to reach out to another. I believe therapy is not just for those experiencing a life crisis or current difficulty - therapy is an opportunity to gain new insight into self, learn new skills, and position oneself to increase health and wellness. I am a Licenced Clinical Social Worker who approaches therapy from a relational, collaborative, and strength-based. I believe everyone deserves a safe space to speak freely.
Using a combination of behavioral modalities including DBT, CBT and ACT, I work with teens and adults who are struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, life-transitions, cross-cultural issues, relationship struggles; and mothers, fathers, and guardians experiencing the hardship of raising a family.
There are times we might feel like we have failed, are stuck, or feel like there is no hope for change. Asking for help can be very difficult, and it takes a lot of strength and courage to reach out to another. I believe therapy is not just for those experiencing a life crisis or current difficulty - therapy is an opportunity to gain new insight into self, learn new skills, and position oneself to increase health and wellness. I am a Licenced Clinical Social Worker who approaches therapy from a relational, collaborative, and strength-based. I believe everyone deserves a safe space to speak freely.
(872) 274-3039 View (872) 274-3039
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.
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Photo of Katarzyna (Kasia) Zak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Katarzyna (Kasia) Zak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
There are many ways we learn to cope with hurt, stress, and loss and, given our past experiences and upbringing, these ways can often involve avoidance – wanting to escape or numb the pain. This may look like excessive screen use, emotional eating, self-medicating, isolating, self-harm, etc. If you’re noticing that what helped you get by until now no longer works, if it’s impacting your ability to show up in your life and engage with the things you care about most, then I want to be your ally and support you through the process of change.
There are many ways we learn to cope with hurt, stress, and loss and, given our past experiences and upbringing, these ways can often involve avoidance – wanting to escape or numb the pain. This may look like excessive screen use, emotional eating, self-medicating, isolating, self-harm, etc. If you’re noticing that what helped you get by until now no longer works, if it’s impacting your ability to show up in your life and engage with the things you care about most, then I want to be your ally and support you through the process of change.
(312) 535-9874 View (312) 535-9874
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 Grace Orofino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Grace Orofino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I view therapy as a rare opportunity to nurture your inner world and be truly "seen" by another person. When you confront your pain, and hear your own voice in a space free from ridicule and shame, you can begin speaking to and treating yourself with compassion and curiosity. I draw upon Psychodynamic, Existential, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to support you in attuning to your needs, boundaries, and strengths. My approach with family members impacted by addiction is based in Community Reinforcement and Family Therapy (CRAFT).
I view therapy as a rare opportunity to nurture your inner world and be truly "seen" by another person. When you confront your pain, and hear your own voice in a space free from ridicule and shame, you can begin speaking to and treating yourself with compassion and curiosity. I draw upon Psychodynamic, Existential, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to support you in attuning to your needs, boundaries, and strengths. My approach with family members impacted by addiction is based in Community Reinforcement and Family Therapy (CRAFT).
(224) 864-8807 View (224) 864-8807
Photo of Tree of Life Counseling LLC, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Tree of Life Counseling LLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
The ideal patient is one who is one in pursuit of growth and desire to become more fully themselves. A willingness to discover and develop awareness of yourself is fundamental to our therapeutic work. As we honestly, kindly, and compassionately explore and learn about those inner processes, we will bring healing and conscious changes to the present dynamics and behaviors which have led to seek out supports. As we move closer to closure with a positive outcome, we will incorporate changes in how we relate to Self and to others, and set forth to live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
The ideal patient is one who is one in pursuit of growth and desire to become more fully themselves. A willingness to discover and develop awareness of yourself is fundamental to our therapeutic work. As we honestly, kindly, and compassionately explore and learn about those inner processes, we will bring healing and conscious changes to the present dynamics and behaviors which have led to seek out supports. As we move closer to closure with a positive outcome, we will incorporate changes in how we relate to Self and to others, and set forth to live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(309) 322-7649 View (309) 322-7649
Photo of Brandon Lipin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake Zurich, IL
Brandon Lipin
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MSCP, CADC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy. D.), a Masters of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology, and 7 years of experience working as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I have conducted treatment for individuals, couples, families, and groups. I have extensive expertise in clinical psychopharmacology, which enables me to comprehend the biological foundations of diseases. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults to address a wide range of illnesses. I take a holistic approach to counseling, which means that in addition to ACT, DPT, CBT, and mindfulness, I use a combination of other techniques.
I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy. D.), a Masters of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology, and 7 years of experience working as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I have conducted treatment for individuals, couples, families, and groups. I have extensive expertise in clinical psychopharmacology, which enables me to comprehend the biological foundations of diseases. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults to address a wide range of illnesses. I take a holistic approach to counseling, which means that in addition to ACT, DPT, CBT, and mindfulness, I use a combination of other techniques.
(224) 487-8972 View (224) 487-8972
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 Eric Cline, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Eric Cline
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
The ideal patient is one who is one in pursuit of growth and desire to become more fully themselves. A willingness to discover and develop awareness of yourself is fundamental to our therapeutic work. As we honestly, kindly, and compassionately explore and learn about those inner processes, we will bring healing and conscious changes to the present dynamics and behaviors which have led to seek out supports. As we move closer to closure with a positive outcome, we will incorporate changes in how we relate to Self and to others, and set forth to live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
The ideal patient is one who is one in pursuit of growth and desire to become more fully themselves. A willingness to discover and develop awareness of yourself is fundamental to our therapeutic work. As we honestly, kindly, and compassionately explore and learn about those inner processes, we will bring healing and conscious changes to the present dynamics and behaviors which have led to seek out supports. As we move closer to closure with a positive outcome, we will incorporate changes in how we relate to Self and to others, and set forth to live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(224) 266-9170 View (224) 266-9170
Photo of Andrea Perez, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Andrea Perez
Counselor, MA, ATR, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Raise your hand if you lie in bed at night, replaying scenarios in your head, and wishing you had handled them differently. Maybe you’re going through something that no one else understands. Maybe it feels like the walls are closing in on you. At your pace, I will help you process emotions and find clarity and meaning through self-expression. It would be awesome to increase happiness, manage emotions, reduce stress, and heal emotional pain. Create your inner peace by learning techniques that will help you be more present in your daily life.
Raise your hand if you lie in bed at night, replaying scenarios in your head, and wishing you had handled them differently. Maybe you’re going through something that no one else understands. Maybe it feels like the walls are closing in on you. At your pace, I will help you process emotions and find clarity and meaning through self-expression. It would be awesome to increase happiness, manage emotions, reduce stress, and heal emotional pain. Create your inner peace by learning techniques that will help you be more present in your daily life.
(847) 320-9139 View (847) 320-9139
Photo of Sana Wellness Center, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Sana Wellness Center
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Sana means heal and we strive to create a nurturing environment for you to explore your healing. Sana Wellness Center is dedicated to providing holistic and effective mental health services to anyone who seeks to collaboratively address and heal adverse life experiences and current concerns in a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. Through unconditional acceptance, we will walk with you as you develop insights while respecting your individuality to achieve your goals. In tandem with mental health services, Sana offers Reiki, sound healing, and trauma yoga to help integrate supportive services into your journey.
Sana means heal and we strive to create a nurturing environment for you to explore your healing. Sana Wellness Center is dedicated to providing holistic and effective mental health services to anyone who seeks to collaboratively address and heal adverse life experiences and current concerns in a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. Through unconditional acceptance, we will walk with you as you develop insights while respecting your individuality to achieve your goals. In tandem with mental health services, Sana offers Reiki, sound healing, and trauma yoga to help integrate supportive services into your journey.
(224) 427-3485 View (224) 427-3485
Photo of Barbara Spaulding, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Barbara Spaulding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Anxiety, Coach
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Are you living with anxiety and panic attacks? Is anxiety ruining your life? Does your stress seem to be more than usual? Anxiety is our bodys way of telling us that things are off balance. Avoiding activities and friends wont make it go away. It just makes it get stronger. Are you sick and tired of feeling on edge or scared? It is time to get free of the hold anxiety or panic has on you. You deserve a happiness.
Are you living with anxiety and panic attacks? Is anxiety ruining your life? Does your stress seem to be more than usual? Anxiety is our bodys way of telling us that things are off balance. Avoiding activities and friends wont make it go away. It just makes it get stronger. Are you sick and tired of feeling on edge or scared? It is time to get free of the hold anxiety or panic has on you. You deserve a happiness.
(224) 385-0692 View (224) 385-0692

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of April Moua, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
April Moua
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACP, LPC
Verified Verified
Deer Park, IL 60010  (Online Only)
In order to see success in therapy, my client will need to show up, share, and put in some work. We will learn together to discover what your therapeutic needs are and strategize ways to improve your mental and emotional health.
In order to see success in therapy, my client will need to show up, share, and put in some work. We will learn together to discover what your therapeutic needs are and strategize ways to improve your mental and emotional health.
(224) 385-0805 View (224) 385-0805

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.