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 Ana R Florencio, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Ana R Florencio
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Some of the issues people who find benefit working with me are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, struggles with shame, feeling frozen in life, difficulty in relationships in their personal life and/or at work, feeling disconnected from self and from others, physical symptoms that do not have a medical explanation, developmental or complex trauma, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, being frequently and/or easily triggered, issues with spirituality, and other.
Some of the issues people who find benefit working with me are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, struggles with shame, feeling frozen in life, difficulty in relationships in their personal life and/or at work, feeling disconnected from self and from others, physical symptoms that do not have a medical explanation, developmental or complex trauma, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, being frequently and/or easily triggered, issues with spirituality, and other.
(224) 479-0689 View (224) 479-0689
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 Lori Ralston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Lori Ralston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Reaching out for help takes courage. It means you’re able to admit that you don’t have all the answers and have the strength to acknowledge you’re struggling. It’s ok if you don’t know where to begin. We can start with where you are and together work toward where you want to be. I view therapy as an integrative and collaborative process that is grounded in the human capacity for change. The goal of our therapeutic alliance is to develop insight and transformative growth to allow for healing, resulting in a more enriched and abundant life. I believe it is during our most vulnerable moments that we are most open to insight and change
Reaching out for help takes courage. It means you’re able to admit that you don’t have all the answers and have the strength to acknowledge you’re struggling. It’s ok if you don’t know where to begin. We can start with where you are and together work toward where you want to be. I view therapy as an integrative and collaborative process that is grounded in the human capacity for change. The goal of our therapeutic alliance is to develop insight and transformative growth to allow for healing, resulting in a more enriched and abundant life. I believe it is during our most vulnerable moments that we are most open to insight and change
(847) 719-6168 View (847) 719-6168
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 Juli Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Juli Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDVP
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Hello! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of clinical experience helping survivors of abuse and trauma learn to heal and thrive. I also help people who are currently in an abusive or unhealthy relationship, or who recently got out of one, and are having difficulty coping with anxiety, self-doubt, and sadness. Therapy can help you process your experience, learn healthier ways to engage in relationships, and begin living a life that is worthwhile and joyful. I provide a safe, empathetic, supportive environment for you to reconnect with your strength and resilience. You are not alone, and healing is possible.
Hello! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of clinical experience helping survivors of abuse and trauma learn to heal and thrive. I also help people who are currently in an abusive or unhealthy relationship, or who recently got out of one, and are having difficulty coping with anxiety, self-doubt, and sadness. Therapy can help you process your experience, learn healthier ways to engage in relationships, and begin living a life that is worthwhile and joyful. I provide a safe, empathetic, supportive environment for you to reconnect with your strength and resilience. You are not alone, and healing is possible.
(224) 291-8639 View (224) 291-8639
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 Xanthi Zafiris, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Xanthi Zafiris
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, PhDc, MS, CCHt
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
“Holistic" dates back to the time of Hippocrates, over 2,500 years ago, viewing a person as a whole being made up of many parts that work in harmony with each other. Guided by this approach and driven by my passion in helping people reach deep healing, I have integrated into my counselling sessions, heart-centered hypnotherapy, yoga, meditation, reiki, spirituality, and guided imagery. Through these therapeutic tools, I can help you gain awareness of the connections between your emotions, thoughts and physical sensations and find your value as a unique individual.
“Holistic" dates back to the time of Hippocrates, over 2,500 years ago, viewing a person as a whole being made up of many parts that work in harmony with each other. Guided by this approach and driven by my passion in helping people reach deep healing, I have integrated into my counselling sessions, heart-centered hypnotherapy, yoga, meditation, reiki, spirituality, and guided imagery. Through these therapeutic tools, I can help you gain awareness of the connections between your emotions, thoughts and physical sensations and find your value as a unique individual.
(847) 443-9382 View (847) 443-9382
Photo of Trisha Abbey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Trisha Abbey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
My ideal client is struggling with life and doesn't quite know what they need or how to get there. I love to work with teens, young adults, middle age adults, and older adults. I work well with clients who are looking to build a relationship with their therapist that encompasses all emotions from laughter to tears.
My ideal client is struggling with life and doesn't quite know what they need or how to get there. I love to work with teens, young adults, middle age adults, and older adults. I work well with clients who are looking to build a relationship with their therapist that encompasses all emotions from laughter to tears.
(224) 523-8222 View (224) 523-8222
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 Keith V Bjorge, Psychologist in Lake Zurich, IL
Keith V Bjorge
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Not accepting new clients
I love what I do. I deeply respect and value working with you to change your life, to resolve your problems or achieve your goals. Whether your problem is a broken relationship, anxiety, depression and/or other problems, I have the passion and competence to help. I work to rebuild broken relationships in a manner that mends and strengthens bonds. I work to help the anxious and depressed manage emotional struggles, to live an emotionally surviving and thriving life. So, I would like to help you reconcile a broken relationship, recover from infidelity, or overcome the pain of anxiety and/or depression. Thank you for looking me up!
I love what I do. I deeply respect and value working with you to change your life, to resolve your problems or achieve your goals. Whether your problem is a broken relationship, anxiety, depression and/or other problems, I have the passion and competence to help. I work to rebuild broken relationships in a manner that mends and strengthens bonds. I work to help the anxious and depressed manage emotional struggles, to live an emotionally surviving and thriving life. So, I would like to help you reconcile a broken relationship, recover from infidelity, or overcome the pain of anxiety and/or depression. Thank you for looking me up!
(847) 416-2872 x13 View (847) 416-2872 x13

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lauren Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Lauren Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mundelein, IL 60060
Seeking treatment is a sign of strength. When clients contact me they are looking to get a handle on areas of their life that may be feeling overwhelming. It is not uncommon for those entering therapy to report feelings of anxiety, depression, loss, anger, sadness, fear and disappointment. During times of stress people report experiencing increased fighting with or avoidance of the important people in their lives. Relationships that may be complicated at this time include family, peer, employer, school and significant others. Managing to hold it all together, plan for the future and maintain stability can feel overwhelming.
Seeking treatment is a sign of strength. When clients contact me they are looking to get a handle on areas of their life that may be feeling overwhelming. It is not uncommon for those entering therapy to report feelings of anxiety, depression, loss, anger, sadness, fear and disappointment. During times of stress people report experiencing increased fighting with or avoidance of the important people in their lives. Relationships that may be complicated at this time include family, peer, employer, school and significant others. Managing to hold it all together, plan for the future and maintain stability can feel overwhelming.
(224) 360-5438 View (224) 360-5438
Photo of Taylor Hammes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Taylor Hammes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and adults with a range of mental health challenges. Whether it's mood disorders like depression or persistent mood swings, anxiety that's hindering your life, complex eating disorders, self-esteem issues, self-harm, relationship conflicts, or LGBTQIA+ concerns. I love to foster healing, empowerment, self-discovery, and improved relationships, while providing a safe space for exploration and growth. My preferred approach equips clients with practical tools to manage their challenges effectively. balance and wellness.
I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and adults with a range of mental health challenges. Whether it's mood disorders like depression or persistent mood swings, anxiety that's hindering your life, complex eating disorders, self-esteem issues, self-harm, relationship conflicts, or LGBTQIA+ concerns. I love to foster healing, empowerment, self-discovery, and improved relationships, while providing a safe space for exploration and growth. My preferred approach equips clients with practical tools to manage their challenges effectively. balance and wellness.
(224) 569-1412 View (224) 569-1412
Photo of Dr. Patti Kimbel, Psychologist in Lake Zurich, IL
Dr. Patti Kimbel
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
The majority of clients I treat have depression or anxiety.
Life can be challenging and sometimes painful. Most clients come to me due to distress or general life dissatisfaction. My goal is to foster a safe place for individuals to share their feelings and their pain. I want clients to feel heard and understood. I feel it is a privilege to help people find ways to cope and empower them through challenging crisis or relationship struggles. My approach is collaborative and I try to build upon a person's strengths. For some clients, I provide tools and suggestions and for others I help them to identify their role in the conflict.
The majority of clients I treat have depression or anxiety.
Life can be challenging and sometimes painful. Most clients come to me due to distress or general life dissatisfaction. My goal is to foster a safe place for individuals to share their feelings and their pain. I want clients to feel heard and understood. I feel it is a privilege to help people find ways to cope and empower them through challenging crisis or relationship struggles. My approach is collaborative and I try to build upon a person's strengths. For some clients, I provide tools and suggestions and for others I help them to identify their role in the conflict.
(773) 906-5026 View (773) 906-5026
Photo of Ryan T Porter, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Ryan T Porter
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
I am an LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) therapist who has been serving clients in Lake County for over 20 years. I have worked with families, children, DCFS and foster care, adolescents, couples and adults with varying diagnoses and issues (i.e. major depression, bipolar disorder, self-mutilation, ADHD, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, personality disorders, and chemical abuse and dependency).
I am an LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) therapist who has been serving clients in Lake County for over 20 years. I have worked with families, children, DCFS and foster care, adolescents, couples and adults with varying diagnoses and issues (i.e. major depression, bipolar disorder, self-mutilation, ADHD, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, personality disorders, and chemical abuse and dependency).
(847) 892-1398 View (847) 892-1398
Photo of Hal Filian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Hal Filian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Areas I treat include Depression and Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Disorders and Alcohol and Substance Abuse.
I have been a professional psychotherapist for the past 30 years. Early in my career, most of my focus was on the treatment of children, adolescents and families, often referred some of the most difficult cases from local schools, courts and police departments. As my practice evolved, so did my experience working with adult individuals and couples. Practical experience and continued professional training has enhanced my abilities to work with a variety of personal struggles that include depression and mood disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol and substance abuse and relationship struggles with couples and families.
Areas I treat include Depression and Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Disorders and Alcohol and Substance Abuse.
I have been a professional psychotherapist for the past 30 years. Early in my career, most of my focus was on the treatment of children, adolescents and families, often referred some of the most difficult cases from local schools, courts and police departments. As my practice evolved, so did my experience working with adult individuals and couples. Practical experience and continued professional training has enhanced my abilities to work with a variety of personal struggles that include depression and mood disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol and substance abuse and relationship struggles with couples and families.
(847) 558-1171 View (847) 558-1171
Photo of Remi Zentikaite, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Remi Zentikaite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I believe you can alchemize your most significant challenges into your greatest strengths. I aim to provide person-centered therapy and a nonjudgmental environment for clients to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. I prioritize building a trusting therapeutic relationship where clients feel supported and understood as they navigate challenges, develop self-awareness, and work toward personal growth and fulfillment. Whether addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, or life transitions, I tailor my interventions to meet each client's unique needs, promoting healing, resilience, and meaningful change.
I believe you can alchemize your most significant challenges into your greatest strengths. I aim to provide person-centered therapy and a nonjudgmental environment for clients to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. I prioritize building a trusting therapeutic relationship where clients feel supported and understood as they navigate challenges, develop self-awareness, and work toward personal growth and fulfillment. Whether addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, or life transitions, I tailor my interventions to meet each client's unique needs, promoting healing, resilience, and meaningful change.
(847) 393-0934 View (847) 393-0934
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Devon M Block, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Devon M Block
Counselor, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grayslake, IL 60030
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, self-injury, school avoidance, behavior issues, parenting, relationship issues, women's issues, & life transitions.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I believe each individual deserves a safe place to process life transitions, frustrations, worries, fears, or sadness. As an empathetic and nonjudgmental clinician I know it can be challenging or frightening to enter into counseling and open up. I place emphasis on creating a safe place where children, adolescents, adults, and families can comfortably explore the nature of their issues.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, self-injury, school avoidance, behavior issues, parenting, relationship issues, women's issues, & life transitions.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I believe each individual deserves a safe place to process life transitions, frustrations, worries, fears, or sadness. As an empathetic and nonjudgmental clinician I know it can be challenging or frightening to enter into counseling and open up. I place emphasis on creating a safe place where children, adolescents, adults, and families can comfortably explore the nature of their issues.
(847) 457-1553 x9 View (847) 457-1553 x9
Photo of Robin Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Robin Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mundelein, IL 60060
Therapy is a brave step towards improving overall wellness. Individuals, couples, and families that are interested in working to increase their well being should read on. If your life has become overwhelming, your relationships difficult to manage, or if you are experiencing less satisfaction at work or home, then therapy may be a positive step to alleviate your current difficulties. Those who want to reduce the pain and frustration associated with depression, anxiety, adjustment to change, self doubt, and anger are appropriate candidates for psychotherapy. Therapy has the potential to improve your quality of life personally and within important relationships.
Therapy is a brave step towards improving overall wellness. Individuals, couples, and families that are interested in working to increase their well being should read on. If your life has become overwhelming, your relationships difficult to manage, or if you are experiencing less satisfaction at work or home, then therapy may be a positive step to alleviate your current difficulties. Those who want to reduce the pain and frustration associated with depression, anxiety, adjustment to change, self doubt, and anger are appropriate candidates for psychotherapy. Therapy has the potential to improve your quality of life personally and within important relationships.
(773) 432-7095 x200 View (773) 432-7095 x200

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.