Photo of Ryan T Porter, Counselor in Libertyville, 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 Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, Counselor in Libertyville, 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 Jan Gosselin, Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Jan Gosselin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
I am effective in helping adults young and old who struggle with anxiety, depression and low self-worth, and self-defeating patterns in their lives. Sometimes we feel too overwhelmed, ashamed, or discouraged to deal with these parts of ourselves, and need the help of an attuned listener to understand and work through our problems. The process of talking about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within a trusting therapeutic relationship helps relieve emotional distress and increases your capacity to manage difficult feelings.
I am effective in helping adults young and old who struggle with anxiety, depression and low self-worth, and self-defeating patterns in their lives. Sometimes we feel too overwhelmed, ashamed, or discouraged to deal with these parts of ourselves, and need the help of an attuned listener to understand and work through our problems. The process of talking about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within a trusting therapeutic relationship helps relieve emotional distress and increases your capacity to manage difficult feelings.
(847) 750-4421 View (847) 750-4421
Photo of Sarah Christian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Sarah Christian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
Life brings many stressors and we can all benefit from having a confidential place to sort out our concerns. I have been in practice for over 30 years helping clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues and stress management. I have worked with individuals, adolescents and couples in a relationally based, psychodynamic format. I was also the director of, and involved with, a psycho-educational parenting program for over 12 years. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and with adolescents as they grow through facing the challenges of life.
Life brings many stressors and we can all benefit from having a confidential place to sort out our concerns. I have been in practice for over 30 years helping clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues and stress management. I have worked with individuals, adolescents and couples in a relationally based, psychodynamic format. I was also the director of, and involved with, a psycho-educational parenting program for over 12 years. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and with adolescents as they grow through facing the challenges of life.
(847) 979-4339 View (847) 979-4339
Photo of Robert R Dunevant, Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Robert R Dunevant
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
I work with people who want to overcome personal obstacles that seem to recur again and again. While it is sometimes possible to face such issues alone, you may reach the point where another set of eyes and ears is necessary. Difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trust, and anger issues, can be more complex than they first appear. Together, we will pay close attention to the way you experience yourself and others. Over time, you may begin to see and do things differently and with a greater sense of freedom and authenticity.
I work with people who want to overcome personal obstacles that seem to recur again and again. While it is sometimes possible to face such issues alone, you may reach the point where another set of eyes and ears is necessary. Difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trust, and anger issues, can be more complex than they first appear. Together, we will pay close attention to the way you experience yourself and others. Over time, you may begin to see and do things differently and with a greater sense of freedom and authenticity.
(872) 228-2744 View (872) 228-2744
Photo of Lake County Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Lake County Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
Greetings! I'm Maritza Solis, a bicultural and bilingual clinical therapist who is passionate about holistic methods to heal people's mind, body, and spirit. Through my culture, I learned about the power of community, spirituality, and natural remedies to promote well-being. My philosophy of therapy is based on the belief that everyone has the ability to heal themselves, and my role is to facilitate that process by providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space.
Greetings! I'm Maritza Solis, a bicultural and bilingual clinical therapist who is passionate about holistic methods to heal people's mind, body, and spirit. Through my culture, I learned about the power of community, spirituality, and natural remedies to promote well-being. My philosophy of therapy is based on the belief that everyone has the ability to heal themselves, and my role is to facilitate that process by providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space.
(224) 212-1157 View (224) 212-1157
Photo of Ariele Riboh, Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Ariele Riboh
Counselor, MS, LCPC, R-DMT, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
Ariele is a licensed clinical professional counselor, a nationally certified counselor and a board-certified dance/movement therapist. She is trained as a yoga and prenatal yoga teacher. Through her practice, Ariele guides her clients in trying on new qualities of actions/behaviors and thoughts. She assists her clients in learning how to move metaphorically and physically in new and healthier ways, allowing for an increased sense of control, mastery and self-empowerment.
Ariele is a licensed clinical professional counselor, a nationally certified counselor and a board-certified dance/movement therapist. She is trained as a yoga and prenatal yoga teacher. Through her practice, Ariele guides her clients in trying on new qualities of actions/behaviors and thoughts. She assists her clients in learning how to move metaphorically and physically in new and healthier ways, allowing for an increased sense of control, mastery and self-empowerment.
(224) 250-2897 View (224) 250-2897
Photo of Heidi Wodrich, Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Heidi Wodrich
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048  (Online Only)
As a psychotherapist, a certified clinical trauma professional, and a former teacher, helping people to learn & grow have been the core focus of my entire life's work. I am intimately aware that the act of sharing our challenges and life struggles with a compassionate listener is a powerful one that can be transformational. Life will inevitably present us all with challenges and changes, and reaching out for support can be empowering. My treatment method is solution-focused & emotion-focused with a strengths-based approach to help my clients experience positive growth and gain mastery over their circumstances.
As a psychotherapist, a certified clinical trauma professional, and a former teacher, helping people to learn & grow have been the core focus of my entire life's work. I am intimately aware that the act of sharing our challenges and life struggles with a compassionate listener is a powerful one that can be transformational. Life will inevitably present us all with challenges and changes, and reaching out for support can be empowering. My treatment method is solution-focused & emotion-focused with a strengths-based approach to help my clients experience positive growth and gain mastery over their circumstances.
(815) 671-4684 View (815) 671-4684
Kathleen V. Shea, PhD & Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
"What is the impact of my personality on my self, my significant other, and my family/work relationships?" By answering this questions, clients/patients identify and eventually change self-defeating habits, beliefs, and patterns caused by trauma, substance abuse/addiction, and chronic stress. Signs of negative impact include anger, low mood,multiple marriages, work problems, and eventually job loss.
"What is the impact of my personality on my self, my significant other, and my family/work relationships?" By answering this questions, clients/patients identify and eventually change self-defeating habits, beliefs, and patterns caused by trauma, substance abuse/addiction, and chronic stress. Signs of negative impact include anger, low mood,multiple marriages, work problems, and eventually job loss.
(847) 512-8681 View (847) 512-8681
Photo of Stephanie Ardagh LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Stephanie Ardagh LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Type 73
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
North Star Counseling Group was founded on the idea that all people will find themselves in need of guidance and support at some point in their life. Various concerns can lead a person to counseling services. Stephanie Ardagh, LCSW works with children ages 3-18. She is experienced in addressing issues of: self esteem, self injury, body image, school refusal, adjustment to divorce and loss, social skills, and significant behavior disorders. Stephanie sees parents as a valuable resource and ally when working with children. She works well with other providers, such as school personnel, to get to know her clients and their unique needs.
North Star Counseling Group was founded on the idea that all people will find themselves in need of guidance and support at some point in their life. Various concerns can lead a person to counseling services. Stephanie Ardagh, LCSW works with children ages 3-18. She is experienced in addressing issues of: self esteem, self injury, body image, school refusal, adjustment to divorce and loss, social skills, and significant behavior disorders. Stephanie sees parents as a valuable resource and ally when working with children. She works well with other providers, such as school personnel, to get to know her clients and their unique needs.
(224) 360-5219 View (224) 360-5219

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robin Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, 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
Photo of Carol O. Weinberg LCSW Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Carol O. Weinberg LCSW Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
My treatment specialties include aging, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, difficult decisions and issues of everyday life.
Traditional Psychotherapy. Spiritual Counseling. Buddhist philosophy. Soul growth. I provide a safe, caring, confidential environment where coping skills are learned and feelings of insecurity, emptiness, hopelessness, anxiety or despair are addressed. I establish good relationships with my clients to promote personal growth and development. Our lives are continuously changing. We all have to learn to go through difficult transitions. With a trusted psychotherapist and a client who is ready to work on their issues, the healing process begins.
My treatment specialties include aging, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, difficult decisions and issues of everyday life.
Traditional Psychotherapy. Spiritual Counseling. Buddhist philosophy. Soul growth. I provide a safe, caring, confidential environment where coping skills are learned and feelings of insecurity, emptiness, hopelessness, anxiety or despair are addressed. I establish good relationships with my clients to promote personal growth and development. Our lives are continuously changing. We all have to learn to go through difficult transitions. With a trusted psychotherapist and a client who is ready to work on their issues, the healing process begins.
(847) 242-2277 View (847) 242-2277
Photo of Victor Spatafora Psy. D., Psychologist in Libertyville, IL
Victor Spatafora Psy. D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
My counseling approach emphasizes how all individuals have the capabilities to live life authentically and with reduced stress. My goal is to help you utilize your strengths to achieve positive self-change and growth through the many transitions in life. I provide counseling for adults, couples, and older adults experiencing depression, low self esteem, anxiety, parental difficulties, relationship problems, substance abuse, anger, and stress related symptoms. I have training in teaching relaxation techniques and anger management skills including deep breathing and systematic desensitization.
My counseling approach emphasizes how all individuals have the capabilities to live life authentically and with reduced stress. My goal is to help you utilize your strengths to achieve positive self-change and growth through the many transitions in life. I provide counseling for adults, couples, and older adults experiencing depression, low self esteem, anxiety, parental difficulties, relationship problems, substance abuse, anger, and stress related symptoms. I have training in teaching relaxation techniques and anger management skills including deep breathing and systematic desensitization.
(773) 717-2945 View (773) 717-2945
Photo of Julie Oscherwitz Grant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Julie Oscherwitz Grant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I specialize in the following areas:grief and loss, depression, marital and other relationship difficulties, divorce, young adult transitions and challenges, parenting, and women's medical issues.
We all work hard to take care of ourselves and build positive relationships, but sometimes obstacles get in our way. For more than 20 years, I have worked with people to identify and remove those obstacles, so that they can lead fuller and more joyful lives. You may be derailed by the loss of a job or relationship; feel depressed and not know why, or struggle as a parent. I work with individuals, couples and families to pinpoint your concerns and work toward change. My emphasis is on building honest, open relationships and on using insight to fuel change.
I specialize in the following areas:grief and loss, depression, marital and other relationship difficulties, divorce, young adult transitions and challenges, parenting, and women's medical issues.
We all work hard to take care of ourselves and build positive relationships, but sometimes obstacles get in our way. For more than 20 years, I have worked with people to identify and remove those obstacles, so that they can lead fuller and more joyful lives. You may be derailed by the loss of a job or relationship; feel depressed and not know why, or struggle as a parent. I work with individuals, couples and families to pinpoint your concerns and work toward change. My emphasis is on building honest, open relationships and on using insight to fuel change.
(847) 416-0986 View (847) 416-0986
Photo of Rebecca Welles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Rebecca Welles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
She has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, aging adults, couples and families who are addressing chronic or acute disability, chronic pain, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, depression, trauma and stress related disorders due to life transitions.
Rebecca is a graduate of Adler University Chicago. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, she is also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Rebecca views the therapeutic process as a holistic experience and is constantly inspired by the courage of the clients she works with. Rebecca has extensive experience working as a Personal Trainer with a specialization in disability, illness, disease and health related issues. Therefore, she strongly believes in the mind-body connection and that change is possible in any situation. Rebecca is also working towards her certification in EMDR and Equine Therapy.
She has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, aging adults, couples and families who are addressing chronic or acute disability, chronic pain, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, depression, trauma and stress related disorders due to life transitions.
Rebecca is a graduate of Adler University Chicago. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, she is also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Rebecca views the therapeutic process as a holistic experience and is constantly inspired by the courage of the clients she works with. Rebecca has extensive experience working as a Personal Trainer with a specialization in disability, illness, disease and health related issues. Therefore, she strongly believes in the mind-body connection and that change is possible in any situation. Rebecca is also working towards her certification in EMDR and Equine Therapy.
(708) 578-5127 View (708) 578-5127
Photo of Carla R. Laury, Counselor in Libertyville, IL
Carla R. Laury
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
I have had the opportunity to work with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, parenting challenges, juvenile delinquent behavior, self-harm, and issues of self-worth.
I am a bilingual therapist providing individual, family, group, and couple's counseling in both English and Spanish. I enjoy working with a wide range of ages, and hold a special fondness for the adolescent and young adult population. Years of experience have prepared me for working with adolescent issues, parenting issues, and mood disorders.
I have had the opportunity to work with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, parenting challenges, juvenile delinquent behavior, self-harm, and issues of self-worth.
I am a bilingual therapist providing individual, family, group, and couple's counseling in both English and Spanish. I enjoy working with a wide range of ages, and hold a special fondness for the adolescent and young adult population. Years of experience have prepared me for working with adolescent issues, parenting issues, and mood disorders.
(847) 973-7317 View (847) 973-7317
Photo of Stacey A Gottlieb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Stacey A Gottlieb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, C-ssws
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
Would you like to: grow and heal as an individual? Learn how to understand, make sense of and enhance your current relationships? Let go of past difficulties and patterns that continue to overshadow your life? If so, I can assist you on your journey. I have worked with people who experience a variety of emotional issues, most commonly depression and anxiety. I provide a safe and nurturing environment to allow for exploration, insight, and emotional growth. The pace of treatment is set by you and together we will overcome obstacles that stand in your way.
Would you like to: grow and heal as an individual? Learn how to understand, make sense of and enhance your current relationships? Let go of past difficulties and patterns that continue to overshadow your life? If so, I can assist you on your journey. I have worked with people who experience a variety of emotional issues, most commonly depression and anxiety. I provide a safe and nurturing environment to allow for exploration, insight, and emotional growth. The pace of treatment is set by you and together we will overcome obstacles that stand in your way.
(312) 380-0264 View (312) 380-0264
Photo of Randy L. Kettering, Psychologist in Libertyville, IL
Randy L. Kettering
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089  (Online Only)
I am a very experienced, energetic, interactive psychologist who listens carefully and empathically in order to assist in creating solutions to your life difficulties. For relationship difficulties-marital, pre-marital or employment based- I focus on previous and current relationship experiences to clarify expectations and characteristic modes of interacting that are unproductive and unrewarding. Treating anxiety, depression and low self-esteem and are my forte. I offer evening hours Monday-Thursday to accommodate hectic and demanding schedules.
I am a very experienced, energetic, interactive psychologist who listens carefully and empathically in order to assist in creating solutions to your life difficulties. For relationship difficulties-marital, pre-marital or employment based- I focus on previous and current relationship experiences to clarify expectations and characteristic modes of interacting that are unproductive and unrewarding. Treating anxiety, depression and low self-esteem and are my forte. I offer evening hours Monday-Thursday to accommodate hectic and demanding schedules.
(224) 366-9407 View (224) 366-9407
Photo of Affective Counseling, Counselor in Libertyville, 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 Alison Elizabeth Kuperman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Libertyville, IL
Alison Elizabeth Kuperman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
For over 20 plus years, I have enjoyed working with teens and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship conflict and body image. I recognize it can feel overwhelming to reach out and find a therapist ‘who is a good fit.’ I am happy to provide a complimentary consultation as it is super important to feel enough of a connection to begin the process. I am a very supportive and empathetic therapist. I want to help you learn how to be kind to yourself and validate yourself. I was trained at the University of Michigan and have over ten years on staff at Lurie Children’s outpatient psychiatry.
For over 20 plus years, I have enjoyed working with teens and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship conflict and body image. I recognize it can feel overwhelming to reach out and find a therapist ‘who is a good fit.’ I am happy to provide a complimentary consultation as it is super important to feel enough of a connection to begin the process. I am a very supportive and empathetic therapist. I want to help you learn how to be kind to yourself and validate yourself. I was trained at the University of Michigan and have over ten years on staff at Lurie Children’s outpatient psychiatry.
(847) 649-6815 View (847) 649-6815

See more therapy options for Libertyville

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.