Photo of Kelsey Romanoff (Naperville Wellness And Counseling), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Kelsey Romanoff (Naperville Wellness And Counseling)
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I specialize in working with clients with anxiety, and depression, as well as support for new moms. You deserve a safe and comfortable space to process your thoughts and emotions. I use various skills and techniques, as we work together, to navigate the areas in your life that you are ready to explore. Genuine empathy and interpersonal connection are our baseline. It’s my goal that you feel heard, valued, and accepted. I look forward to working with you! Improved overall quality of life is possible and you are capable of doing hard things! www.napervillewellnesssancounseling.com
I specialize in working with clients with anxiety, and depression, as well as support for new moms. You deserve a safe and comfortable space to process your thoughts and emotions. I use various skills and techniques, as we work together, to navigate the areas in your life that you are ready to explore. Genuine empathy and interpersonal connection are our baseline. It’s my goal that you feel heard, valued, and accepted. I look forward to working with you! Improved overall quality of life is possible and you are capable of doing hard things! www.napervillewellnesssancounseling.com
(331) 225-4171 x1 View (331) 225-4171 x1
Photo of Michelle Sierzega, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Michelle Sierzega
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Dr. Michelle Sierzega is a licensed clinical psychologist who sees clients in the Darien office. Her educational background and professional experience resulted in her strong belief that we are profoundly impacted by not only our inner emotional experience, but factors to which we are exposed in past or present environments as well. Alone or in concert, these experiences can contribute to the development of problematic psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, involvement in toxic relationships, low self-esteem, addictive behaviors, and inhibited progress toward life goals.
Dr. Michelle Sierzega is a licensed clinical psychologist who sees clients in the Darien office. Her educational background and professional experience resulted in her strong belief that we are profoundly impacted by not only our inner emotional experience, but factors to which we are exposed in past or present environments as well. Alone or in concert, these experiences can contribute to the development of problematic psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, involvement in toxic relationships, low self-esteem, addictive behaviors, and inhibited progress toward life goals.
(630) 547-3488 View (630) 547-3488
Photo of Kathryn L Fox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Kathryn L Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I use a cognitive behavioral, skills-based, mindfulness-informed approach, and can help you address problems associated with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, grief, and substance use.
Using a non-judgmental approach, I approach each client empathically, helping identify and build on your core values and life goals. Teaching skills that are informed by evidence-based practice, I work with anyone dealing with difficult emotions, challenging life situations, or the impact of trauma. My training includes awareness of the special needs of older adults who are experiencing the impact of aging, loss, and grief.
I use a cognitive behavioral, skills-based, mindfulness-informed approach, and can help you address problems associated with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, grief, and substance use.
Using a non-judgmental approach, I approach each client empathically, helping identify and build on your core values and life goals. Teaching skills that are informed by evidence-based practice, I work with anyone dealing with difficult emotions, challenging life situations, or the impact of trauma. My training includes awareness of the special needs of older adults who are experiencing the impact of aging, loss, and grief.
(630) 360-8715 x240 View (630) 360-8715 x240
Photo of Heather Treat, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Heather Treat
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Her specialties include working with both adolescents and adults struggling with all different types of anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and relationship issues.
Mindfulness is a way of life for Heather and it helped her develop her identity as a therapist. Heather now identifies as a contextual behavioral therapist using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) interventions/skills and an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach to intervene with her guests. She has one criteria for her guests: Willingness. Guests experience her as someone who teaches skills and helps them set attainable goals. Heather believes all people inherently have everything they need to move forward in their lives. She likes to help them find what they need and use it.
Her specialties include working with both adolescents and adults struggling with all different types of anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and relationship issues.
Mindfulness is a way of life for Heather and it helped her develop her identity as a therapist. Heather now identifies as a contextual behavioral therapist using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) interventions/skills and an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach to intervene with her guests. She has one criteria for her guests: Willingness. Guests experience her as someone who teaches skills and helps them set attainable goals. Heather believes all people inherently have everything they need to move forward in their lives. She likes to help them find what they need and use it.
(872) 201-3897 View (872) 201-3897
Photo of Daniel Michaels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Daniel Michaels
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Hello! I’m Daniel Michaels, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). My practice is rooted in a passion for offering targeted, effective strategies for managing ADHD, while also providing comprehensive mental health services. My background in including inpatient care, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), and intensive outpatient programs (IOP). This diverse experience has not only deepened my understanding of ADHD but also enhanced my ability to address a wide spectrum of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more.
Hello! I’m Daniel Michaels, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). My practice is rooted in a passion for offering targeted, effective strategies for managing ADHD, while also providing comprehensive mental health services. My background in including inpatient care, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), and intensive outpatient programs (IOP). This diverse experience has not only deepened my understanding of ADHD but also enhanced my ability to address a wide spectrum of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more.
(630) 864-6224 View (630) 864-6224
Photo of Adiana Lebron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Adiana Lebron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60564
Adiana is a Licensed Social Worker with years of experience working with adults, teens, children, families and couples. She has a strong understanding of the way mental health issues can affect individuals. Adiana has experience helping individuals and families with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, school concerns, divorce, autism and Asperger's, self-injury and suicidal ideations, anger management and self-esteem. She works with couples to address conflict, parenting, infidelity, communication and other issues causing difficulty in the relationship.
Adiana is a Licensed Social Worker with years of experience working with adults, teens, children, families and couples. She has a strong understanding of the way mental health issues can affect individuals. Adiana has experience helping individuals and families with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, school concerns, divorce, autism and Asperger's, self-injury and suicidal ideations, anger management and self-esteem. She works with couples to address conflict, parenting, infidelity, communication and other issues causing difficulty in the relationship.
(630) 528-0066 View (630) 528-0066
Photo of Heather Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Heather Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I graduated from Benedictine University in 2018 with a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology. Specializing in children and adolescent therapy, I have experience working with individuals experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, stress, grief, and trauma. I have recently developed an interest in working with couples and find that to be very meaningful. Whether it is topics of identity or communication, I am here to help!
I graduated from Benedictine University in 2018 with a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology. Specializing in children and adolescent therapy, I have experience working with individuals experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, stress, grief, and trauma. I have recently developed an interest in working with couples and find that to be very meaningful. Whether it is topics of identity or communication, I am here to help!
(331) 244-6068 View (331) 244-6068
Photo of Lipika Jain, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Lipika Jain
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60564
Jain is passionate about working with adolescents, she also has experience working through various challenges with children, young adults, and adults, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other life transitions.
I've thought about therapy before, but how do I know if I'm ready? How will working with a professional help more than how my family and friends have tried to help? I've heard about psychological testing before, but it seems like a lengthy process and I'm not sure if it will help moving forward.  These are just a handful of questions and concerns that are raised by clients seeking support, and I'm happy to help you find some answers. Dr. Lipika W. Jain is a licensed clinical psychologist with experience in individual therapy and psychological testing.
Jain is passionate about working with adolescents, she also has experience working through various challenges with children, young adults, and adults, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other life transitions.
I've thought about therapy before, but how do I know if I'm ready? How will working with a professional help more than how my family and friends have tried to help? I've heard about psychological testing before, but it seems like a lengthy process and I'm not sure if it will help moving forward.  These are just a handful of questions and concerns that are raised by clients seeking support, and I'm happy to help you find some answers. Dr. Lipika W. Jain is a licensed clinical psychologist with experience in individual therapy and psychological testing.
(630) 216-7910 View (630) 216-7910
Photo of Michael Hobart, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Michael Hobart
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Mike Hobart, LCPC, emphasizes a humanistic orientation when working with clients based on a respect for their uniqueness and potential. He uses a warm, empathetic approach to help people through whatever life challenges they might be facing and tailors his approach to match the specific individual. Throughout his career, Mike counseled clients of varying ages with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse and trauma.
Mike Hobart, LCPC, emphasizes a humanistic orientation when working with clients based on a respect for their uniqueness and potential. He uses a warm, empathetic approach to help people through whatever life challenges they might be facing and tailors his approach to match the specific individual. Throughout his career, Mike counseled clients of varying ages with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse and trauma.
(331) 226-1492 View (331) 226-1492
Photo of Marc L. Solodky, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Marc L. Solodky
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
Marc specializes in working with adolescents, young adults, & adults on a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, stress management, LGBTQI, & education related inquiries. His approach is solution-focused & viewed through a cognitive-behavioral lens, with the goal of creating a partnership based on rapport & connection to best develop strategies that meet each individual's unique needs. Marc currently provides individual therapy, parental consultation, & educational advocacy via telehealth and in-person sessions. He is passionate about helping individuals meet their own goals!
Marc specializes in working with adolescents, young adults, & adults on a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, stress management, LGBTQI, & education related inquiries. His approach is solution-focused & viewed through a cognitive-behavioral lens, with the goal of creating a partnership based on rapport & connection to best develop strategies that meet each individual's unique needs. Marc currently provides individual therapy, parental consultation, & educational advocacy via telehealth and in-person sessions. He is passionate about helping individuals meet their own goals!
(630) 446-2972 View (630) 446-2972
Photo of Megan Dyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Megan Dyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Megan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), with a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University. She loves working with children and adolescents, but is experienced with clients ages 6 through 50. She works with individuals, couples and families, while treating Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQ+ Issues, Race, Social Justice & Equity, Self-Esteem/Self-Worth and Women’s Issues. You are in good hands with Megan. In using an integrative approach to therapy, she pulls from several modalities to come up with the best treatment plan for her clients.
Megan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), with a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University. She loves working with children and adolescents, but is experienced with clients ages 6 through 50. She works with individuals, couples and families, while treating Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQ+ Issues, Race, Social Justice & Equity, Self-Esteem/Self-Worth and Women’s Issues. You are in good hands with Megan. In using an integrative approach to therapy, she pulls from several modalities to come up with the best treatment plan for her clients.
(331) 260-9992 View (331) 260-9992
Photo of Judith Cervantes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Judith Cervantes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
At first therapy can seem intimidating as processing through our struggles can be; however it is important to recognize that we all need some support sometimes, and professionals like myself are here to help! As a Licensed Professional Counselor I have worked with various populations including adolescents, couples, adults, groups, and families. Typically some of the issues that I address in therapy but are not limited to include depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, ADHD, addiction, and relationship difficulties. In my office, I strive to provide a safe and encouraging environment to help walk you through this process.
At first therapy can seem intimidating as processing through our struggles can be; however it is important to recognize that we all need some support sometimes, and professionals like myself are here to help! As a Licensed Professional Counselor I have worked with various populations including adolescents, couples, adults, groups, and families. Typically some of the issues that I address in therapy but are not limited to include depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, ADHD, addiction, and relationship difficulties. In my office, I strive to provide a safe and encouraging environment to help walk you through this process.
(331) 207-9149 View (331) 207-9149
Photo of Angela Johnson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Angela Johnson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
(224) 970-2777 View (224) 970-2777
Photo of Linda Gonzales, Licensed Social Worker in Naperville, IL
Linda Gonzales
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60564
As a therapist, I look forward to establishing strong working rapport with my clients. I have clinical experience working with children and teens from my years as a school social worker, supporting students and their families in various areas including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ, and relationship conflicts. I have worked with clients from early elementary school age throughout the lifespan and have personal understanding about the sometimes complex struggles of changing family needs.
As a therapist, I look forward to establishing strong working rapport with my clients. I have clinical experience working with children and teens from my years as a school social worker, supporting students and their families in various areas including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ, and relationship conflicts. I have worked with clients from early elementary school age throughout the lifespan and have personal understanding about the sometimes complex struggles of changing family needs.
(630) 491-4178 View (630) 491-4178
Photo of Brooke Wine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Brooke Wine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LASOP
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I work with an eclectic array of mental health topics, including; sexual health and wellness, sexual deviance, kink, intimacy, traditional & non-traditional relationships, anxiety, depression, mood regulation, and life transitions.
Hi there! I am a forensic psychotherapist in practice with Naperville Counseling Center. I aim to provide support and encouragement as individuals work on their mental health. Building a strong rapport with clients is essential, and I love developing a healthy connection with each client. I enjoy integrating humor into therapy to break up some of the heaviness emotional processing can be. Coming from a forensic background, I have experience working with intense areas of need, support, and planning. I also have a passion for assisting clients in building and/or re-building their relationships with sexual health and sexual identity.
I work with an eclectic array of mental health topics, including; sexual health and wellness, sexual deviance, kink, intimacy, traditional & non-traditional relationships, anxiety, depression, mood regulation, and life transitions.
Hi there! I am a forensic psychotherapist in practice with Naperville Counseling Center. I aim to provide support and encouragement as individuals work on their mental health. Building a strong rapport with clients is essential, and I love developing a healthy connection with each client. I enjoy integrating humor into therapy to break up some of the heaviness emotional processing can be. Coming from a forensic background, I have experience working with intense areas of need, support, and planning. I also have a passion for assisting clients in building and/or re-building their relationships with sexual health and sexual identity.
(630) 333-4105 x104 View (630) 333-4105 x104
Photo of Mike Hobart, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Mike Hobart
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Mike Hobart, LPC, emphasizes a humanistic orientation in working with clients based on a respect for their uniqueness and potential. He uses a warm, empathetic approach to help people through whatever life challenges they might be facing. Mike received a BA from University of Illinois and an MS from Benedictine University. Throughout his career, Mike counseled clients of varying ages with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse and trauma.
Mike Hobart, LPC, emphasizes a humanistic orientation in working with clients based on a respect for their uniqueness and potential. He uses a warm, empathetic approach to help people through whatever life challenges they might be facing. Mike received a BA from University of Illinois and an MS from Benedictine University. Throughout his career, Mike counseled clients of varying ages with a wide variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse and trauma.
(331) 422-4157 View (331) 422-4157
Photo of Christina Graffagna, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Christina Graffagna
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
With experience in anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, suicidality, and identity development, I'm all about working together with clients to reach their goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Unfulfilled in your relationships? Struggling to manage anxiety? Daily life can bring endless challenges. In therapy, we will broaden the perspective beyond daily encounters, delving into patterns, underlying causes, and systemic influences. We all perceive the world through our individual lenses, and I understand that treatment for similar symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. I'm dedicated to creating a welcoming space that embraces LGBTQ+ people and trauma-informed care. Expect lots of empathy, open chats, and a sprinkle of humor to spark meaningful conversations.
With experience in anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, suicidality, and identity development, I'm all about working together with clients to reach their goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Unfulfilled in your relationships? Struggling to manage anxiety? Daily life can bring endless challenges. In therapy, we will broaden the perspective beyond daily encounters, delving into patterns, underlying causes, and systemic influences. We all perceive the world through our individual lenses, and I understand that treatment for similar symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. I'm dedicated to creating a welcoming space that embraces LGBTQ+ people and trauma-informed care. Expect lots of empathy, open chats, and a sprinkle of humor to spark meaningful conversations.
(331) 246-0376 View (331) 246-0376
Photo of Jaclyn Harwey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Jaclyn Harwey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(630) 523-9348 View (630) 523-9348
Photo of Liza Devaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Liza Devaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
(630) 884-4319 x2 View (630) 884-4319 x2
Photo of Robert L. Randall, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Robert L. Randall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
They come with a variety of problems, like anxiety, depression, conflicts, addictions, job difficulties, and loss of loved ones.
These are difficult times for all of us, each in our own way. At times we feel anxious, overwhelmed—and alone. We’re upset about our thoughts and how we act. Yet it seems hard to reach out for help. Connecting with a caring and wise therapist, however, can be of great benefit. At this point in your life, I extend my hand of assistance with all the experience and skills I have developed over the years. Seeking help is a smart thing to do. If you don't call me for a session, call someone. You are worth it. Most importantly, you CAN feel better. Cordially, Dr. Randall
They come with a variety of problems, like anxiety, depression, conflicts, addictions, job difficulties, and loss of loved ones.
These are difficult times for all of us, each in our own way. At times we feel anxious, overwhelmed—and alone. We’re upset about our thoughts and how we act. Yet it seems hard to reach out for help. Connecting with a caring and wise therapist, however, can be of great benefit. At this point in your life, I extend my hand of assistance with all the experience and skills I have developed over the years. Seeking help is a smart thing to do. If you don't call me for a session, call someone. You are worth it. Most importantly, you CAN feel better. Cordially, Dr. Randall
(630) 733-1496 View (630) 733-1496
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.