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 Kathleen Kenney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Kathleen Kenney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Many people struggle with anxiety and depression as they cope with life's uncertainties. We are all redefining "normal." My training in CBT, EMDR, Strengths Centered, and Person Centered Therapy with men, women, children, elders, and caregivers is well rounded. People are dealing with trauma, abuse, employment issues, grief, mental illness, addiction, co-dependency, physical illness, parenting, divorce, retirement, and loss of identity. Everyone wants to know they have a "purpose." I specialize in helping clients with their journey. Most people want to feel safe, loved, understood, and appreciated. I can help with that.
Many people struggle with anxiety and depression as they cope with life's uncertainties. We are all redefining "normal." My training in CBT, EMDR, Strengths Centered, and Person Centered Therapy with men, women, children, elders, and caregivers is well rounded. People are dealing with trauma, abuse, employment issues, grief, mental illness, addiction, co-dependency, physical illness, parenting, divorce, retirement, and loss of identity. Everyone wants to know they have a "purpose." I specialize in helping clients with their journey. Most people want to feel safe, loved, understood, and appreciated. I can help with that.
(847) 713-1261 View (847) 713-1261
Photo of Jason B Ness, Psychologist in Lake Zurich, IL
Jason B Ness
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
An integrative approach can be used to treat individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, and other emotional struggles that interfere with their potential.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a lifelong passion of working with children, adolescents, and adults improve their levels of social and emotional well-being. I have over 20 years of extensive experience working in private practice and in the public schools as a school psychologist and school administrator. I also provide individual therapy, cognitive and academic assessments, and school consultations. Over the span of my career, I have treated ADHD, substance abuse, bipolar, psychotic and personality disorders.
An integrative approach can be used to treat individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, and other emotional struggles that interfere with their potential.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a lifelong passion of working with children, adolescents, and adults improve their levels of social and emotional well-being. I have over 20 years of extensive experience working in private practice and in the public schools as a school psychologist and school administrator. I also provide individual therapy, cognitive and academic assessments, and school consultations. Over the span of my career, I have treated ADHD, substance abuse, bipolar, psychotic and personality disorders.
(224) 479-0389 View (224) 479-0389
Photo of Hailey Zaldivar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Hailey Zaldivar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I take special interest in working with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, relational issues, and issues related to adjustment.
I believe that an effective therapeutic relationship consists of respect and trust, this is what I seek to establish with each of my clients. Together, we will walk through the issues you are facing and ensure you have the right tools to feel fulfilled in your life and relationships. I hope to establish a safe, private and peaceful setting in which you feel comfortable to work on the therapeutic goals we set together.
I take special interest in working with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, relational issues, and issues related to adjustment.
I believe that an effective therapeutic relationship consists of respect and trust, this is what I seek to establish with each of my clients. Together, we will walk through the issues you are facing and ensure you have the right tools to feel fulfilled in your life and relationships. I hope to establish a safe, private and peaceful setting in which you feel comfortable to work on the therapeutic goals we set together.
(847) 796-6799 View (847) 796-6799
Photo of Mary Blue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Mary Blue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
My experience includes depression, anxiety, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, aging, and phase of life changes.
Accepting Virtual Only Appointments! Hi! My name is Mary Blue. Through the psychodynamic approach and a strong client-therapist relationship, we are able to uncover unconscious thought patterns, childhood repressions, and maladaptive coping strategies. My warm, understanding, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment, gives people the opportunity to discover and grow their strengths and encourage healing.
My experience includes depression, anxiety, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, aging, and phase of life changes.
Accepting Virtual Only Appointments! Hi! My name is Mary Blue. Through the psychodynamic approach and a strong client-therapist relationship, we are able to uncover unconscious thought patterns, childhood repressions, and maladaptive coping strategies. My warm, understanding, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment, gives people the opportunity to discover and grow their strengths and encourage healing.
(773) 673-9742 View (773) 673-9742
Photo of Anna T Razes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Anna T Razes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I provide education and intervention for depression, anxiety and various behavioral disruptions such as relational/marital conflict, emotional upheavals, deterioration in everyday functioning, disordered eating, unwanted impulses, anger, etc.
Gain the ability to communicate needs, relate better, feel better and improve circumstances. I offer a psychological and educational approach to both counseling and psychotherapy. For over 30 years as psychotherapist I help clients understand the psychological dynamics underlying problems and difficulties. Change is easier and more effective when we better understand our emotions and behaviors. Especially the behaviors, thoughts and emotions that arise when relating to others. Whether through in-depth individual analysis or counseling for marriage, divorce or family issues, clients gain awareness and deeper understanding of the source and purpose of their feelings, thoughts and behaviors.
I provide education and intervention for depression, anxiety and various behavioral disruptions such as relational/marital conflict, emotional upheavals, deterioration in everyday functioning, disordered eating, unwanted impulses, anger, etc.
Gain the ability to communicate needs, relate better, feel better and improve circumstances. I offer a psychological and educational approach to both counseling and psychotherapy. For over 30 years as psychotherapist I help clients understand the psychological dynamics underlying problems and difficulties. Change is easier and more effective when we better understand our emotions and behaviors. Especially the behaviors, thoughts and emotions that arise when relating to others. Whether through in-depth individual analysis or counseling for marriage, divorce or family issues, clients gain awareness and deeper understanding of the source and purpose of their feelings, thoughts and behaviors.
(224) 633-3088 View (224) 633-3088
Photo of Brian Garibaldi, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Brian Garibaldi
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I specialize in adolescent and pre-adolescent boys (middle school) for a variety of issues including Asperger's Syndrome, oppositional defiance, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
I work with clients to identify the core issues you struggle with and how you can deal with them to meet your goals. Sometimes, this has to do with dealing with other people and things around us. Other times, it is our own internal thoughts and struggles that get in the way.
I specialize in adolescent and pre-adolescent boys (middle school) for a variety of issues including Asperger's Syndrome, oppositional defiance, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
I work with clients to identify the core issues you struggle with and how you can deal with them to meet your goals. Sometimes, this has to do with dealing with other people and things around us. Other times, it is our own internal thoughts and struggles that get in the way.
(855) 525-9129 View (855) 525-9129
Photo of Pamela Kaplan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Pamela Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I am a warm and compassionate therapist specializing in helping people experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, divorce, and parenting issues. I am committed to working with a broad spectrum of adult and adolescent clients through individual, couple and family counseling. I provide a comfortable environment for clients to explore their life challenges so that they can build on their unique strengths and attain the growth they are looking for. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families.
I am a warm and compassionate therapist specializing in helping people experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, divorce, and parenting issues. I am committed to working with a broad spectrum of adult and adolescent clients through individual, couple and family counseling. I provide a comfortable environment for clients to explore their life challenges so that they can build on their unique strengths and attain the growth they are looking for. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families.
(224) 803-2499 View (224) 803-2499
Photo of Lori Corrigan, Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Lori Corrigan
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Would you like to feel healthier, happier, more fulfilled in your personal or professional life? Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, unhappy, confused, unmotivated or depressed? Do you worry about things you are unsure how to solve or change? While difficult, know if you answered yes to any of these questions there are clinically proven solutions available that can help. As a seasoned clinical counselor with nearly 30 years in the helping profession I understand the challenges life can bring & I am here to help you, your family or your organization to learn, heal & grow.
Would you like to feel healthier, happier, more fulfilled in your personal or professional life? Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, unhappy, confused, unmotivated or depressed? Do you worry about things you are unsure how to solve or change? While difficult, know if you answered yes to any of these questions there are clinically proven solutions available that can help. As a seasoned clinical counselor with nearly 30 years in the helping profession I understand the challenges life can bring & I am here to help you, your family or your organization to learn, heal & grow.
(847) 558-7734 View (847) 558-7734
Photo of Therapy Solutions AH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Therapy Solutions AH
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I specialize in adult/teen depression, anxiety, ADHD and relationship/family issues. Response time 24 business hours to calls or emails. My first priority is to understand you as a person. If you are feeling hesitant about therapy, understand that this is normal: letting another person into your private space can be frightening. A good therapist, however, will accept you as you are, with all the good and the ugly. Courage!
I specialize in adult/teen depression, anxiety, ADHD and relationship/family issues. Response time 24 business hours to calls or emails. My first priority is to understand you as a person. If you are feeling hesitant about therapy, understand that this is normal: letting another person into your private space can be frightening. A good therapist, however, will accept you as you are, with all the good and the ugly. Courage!
(224) 441-2151 View (224) 441-2151
Photo of Christine Gardner (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.), Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake Zurich, IL
Christine Gardner (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I have immediate openings for both in person and online appointments. I believe the relationship you form with your therapist is one of the most important predictors of whether therapy is successful. I offer a caring and supportive environment to explore life’s challenges. I completely recognize the strength and courage it took to make that first step. The struggles of our day to day challenges, anxiety and depression can make our lives seem unmanageable and overwhelming. Life is meant to be enjoyed. My desire is to come alongside you and help you to navigate through these challenges while meeting your personal goals.
I have immediate openings for both in person and online appointments. I believe the relationship you form with your therapist is one of the most important predictors of whether therapy is successful. I offer a caring and supportive environment to explore life’s challenges. I completely recognize the strength and courage it took to make that first step. The struggles of our day to day challenges, anxiety and depression can make our lives seem unmanageable and overwhelming. Life is meant to be enjoyed. My desire is to come alongside you and help you to navigate through these challenges while meeting your personal goals.
(847) 447-2776 View (847) 447-2776
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 Samantha Ruda, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Samantha Ruda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression or anxiety? Maybe you are going through major life changes like pregnancy, birth, new motherhood, relationship struggles, divorce, or just looking to reconnect with yourself. Reaching out for help is a positive first step toward change. I will provide a safe space where you are validated and seen. The therapeutic relationship is the most significant predictor of healing and growth. I strive to build a warm and authentic rapport with every client so you feel safe enough to be vulnerable and connect with your inner self and story and effect positive change in your life.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression or anxiety? Maybe you are going through major life changes like pregnancy, birth, new motherhood, relationship struggles, divorce, or just looking to reconnect with yourself. Reaching out for help is a positive first step toward change. I will provide a safe space where you are validated and seen. The therapeutic relationship is the most significant predictor of healing and growth. I strive to build a warm and authentic rapport with every client so you feel safe enough to be vulnerable and connect with your inner self and story and effect positive change in your life.
(224) 337-4504 View (224) 337-4504
Photo of Colleen Hillman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lake Zurich, IL
Colleen Hillman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047  (Online Only)
Sometimes relationships, work, money, social lives, and really life in general, can leave you feeling overwhelmed and heading towards burn out. Perhaps you’ve recently noticed that you feel less excited about life, depressed or anxious. Additionally, you might be struggling to manage your time, money, responsibilities and relationships. If you are struggling to create balance in your life, the good news is that you don’t have to navigate this alone, therapy can help you feel in charge of your life again.
Sometimes relationships, work, money, social lives, and really life in general, can leave you feeling overwhelmed and heading towards burn out. Perhaps you’ve recently noticed that you feel less excited about life, depressed or anxious. Additionally, you might be struggling to manage your time, money, responsibilities and relationships. If you are struggling to create balance in your life, the good news is that you don’t have to navigate this alone, therapy can help you feel in charge of your life again.
(872) 666-9725 View (872) 666-9725
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 Sally Secker (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.), Counselor in Lake Zurich, IL
Sally Secker (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.)
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I have immediate openings for both in person and online appointments. Whether you are dealing with depression and anxiety, struggling with the effects of past trauma, coping with loss, or just dealing with life changes, I would love to help. I'm the owner of Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd. in Barrington, Illinois, and I am passionate about helping others navigate difficult times in their lives. I love to come alongside people to encourage and empower them to find hope and joy.
I have immediate openings for both in person and online appointments. Whether you are dealing with depression and anxiety, struggling with the effects of past trauma, coping with loss, or just dealing with life changes, I would love to help. I'm the owner of Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd. in Barrington, Illinois, and I am passionate about helping others navigate difficult times in their lives. I love to come alongside people to encourage and empower them to find hope and joy.
(630) 948-4419 View (630) 948-4419
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 Joyce Perez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lake Zurich, IL
Joyce Perez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
I am passionate about providing culturally responsive and language accessible care. I am able to provide services in both English and Spanish. My passion is in providing culturally competent care, empathy, and understanding in order to foster confidence and healing. I have experience working with a continuum of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, interpersonal conflict, and immigrant/generational trauma.
I am passionate about providing culturally responsive and language accessible care. I am able to provide services in both English and Spanish. My passion is in providing culturally competent care, empathy, and understanding in order to foster confidence and healing. I have experience working with a continuum of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, interpersonal conflict, and immigrant/generational trauma.
(224) 479-0245 View (224) 479-0245
Photo of Denise Casey, Psychologist in Lake Zurich, IL
Denise Casey
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC, NBCCHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Casey has traveled with people from all walks of life to deal with interventions, addiction recovery, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, loss & grief, sexual abuse, women's issues and codependency.
HOPE, HELP, HEALING. Dr. Casey would best describe her intentions for her clients in one word "Transformation". As founder of Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, she has created a "home" for people where growth and healing are possible. Her own journey has taught her as much as the diplomas on her wall and the credentials behind her name. She was on staff at Lutheran General Hospital and taught at Northeastern IL University. She is trained as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor, is versed in Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is also an Employee Assistance Provider.
Casey has traveled with people from all walks of life to deal with interventions, addiction recovery, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, loss & grief, sexual abuse, women's issues and codependency.
HOPE, HELP, HEALING. Dr. Casey would best describe her intentions for her clients in one word "Transformation". As founder of Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, she has created a "home" for people where growth and healing are possible. Her own journey has taught her as much as the diplomas on her wall and the credentials behind her name. She was on staff at Lutheran General Hospital and taught at Northeastern IL University. She is trained as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor, is versed in Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is also an Employee Assistance Provider.
(888) 265-6418 View (888) 265-6418

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.