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Online Therapists

Photo of Derek R Henkle, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Pecatonica, IL
Derek R Henkle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
You deserve to be happy. If you are like most of my clients, you may have experienced some painful event in the past that keeps you stuck. Others seek help with anxiety and depression that is blocking them from living the joyful life they aspire to. Many of my clients say past traumas prevent them from having the type of deep fulfilling relationships they are worthy of. These clients often describe therapy with me as being relaxed and friendly - like talking with a confidant - achieving gains through our sessions that they have not obtained previously.
You deserve to be happy. If you are like most of my clients, you may have experienced some painful event in the past that keeps you stuck. Others seek help with anxiety and depression that is blocking them from living the joyful life they aspire to. Many of my clients say past traumas prevent them from having the type of deep fulfilling relationships they are worthy of. These clients often describe therapy with me as being relaxed and friendly - like talking with a confidant - achieving gains through our sessions that they have not obtained previously.
(773) 207-3366 View (773) 207-3366
Photo of Kevin Lage, Counselor in Pecatonica, IL
Kevin Lage
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
As a counselor, I specialize in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, self-esteem, and coping with life transitions.
Kevin Lage is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who specializes in addiction, anxiety, mood disorders and employee wellness. Kevin’s style in therapy is open, engaging, and compassionate. His role is to help you navigate through difficult emotions and experiences, and to provide you with the tools and support you need to make meaningful and lasting changes in your life. He will listen actively to what you have to say, and help you to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
As a counselor, I specialize in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, self-esteem, and coping with life transitions.
Kevin Lage is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who specializes in addiction, anxiety, mood disorders and employee wellness. Kevin’s style in therapy is open, engaging, and compassionate. His role is to help you navigate through difficult emotions and experiences, and to provide you with the tools and support you need to make meaningful and lasting changes in your life. He will listen actively to what you have to say, and help you to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(779) 205-4384 View (779) 205-4384
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Pecatonica, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
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 Lynn Frances Cartwright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pecatonica, IL
Lynn Frances Cartwright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Fox Lake, IL 60020  (Online Only)
I have experience with treating clients with a variety of diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Sexuality Issues, Transgender issues, Substance Abuse, Psychosis, Behavioral and Parenting Issues. I've worked in the Behavioral Health Unit of a local hospital for the past several years and have practiced in clinics in urban and rural areas. I have seen clients from a variety of educational backgrounds including higher education such as teachers and professors. At this time, I am seeing patients by telehealth only.
I have experience with treating clients with a variety of diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Sexuality Issues, Transgender issues, Substance Abuse, Psychosis, Behavioral and Parenting Issues. I've worked in the Behavioral Health Unit of a local hospital for the past several years and have practiced in clinics in urban and rural areas. I have seen clients from a variety of educational backgrounds including higher education such as teachers and professors. At this time, I am seeing patients by telehealth only.
(734) 436-3340 View (734) 436-3340
Photo of Robert Wysocki, Psychologist in Pecatonica, IL
Robert Wysocki
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
Men often encounter a wide range of problems related to divorce, loneliness and depression, addiction, social anxiety, work, anger, grief, parenting issues, etc.
Entering into therapy can be a difficult decision. My goal is to help make that transition easier by focusing on my client's strengths and abilities and encouraging a path of self-growth. I use a collaborative style, making the individual an active participant in the process. We will work to define the most serious problems, set realistic expectations, and focus on symptom reduction. My promise to all my clients is that I will respect them as individuals and work my hardest to improve their lives. The hardest part is often taking the first step, call to arrange for a free, no obligation 30 minute in person or phone consultation.
Men often encounter a wide range of problems related to divorce, loneliness and depression, addiction, social anxiety, work, anger, grief, parenting issues, etc.
Entering into therapy can be a difficult decision. My goal is to help make that transition easier by focusing on my client's strengths and abilities and encouraging a path of self-growth. I use a collaborative style, making the individual an active participant in the process. We will work to define the most serious problems, set realistic expectations, and focus on symptom reduction. My promise to all my clients is that I will respect them as individuals and work my hardest to improve their lives. The hardest part is often taking the first step, call to arrange for a free, no obligation 30 minute in person or phone consultation.
(630) 984-4059 View (630) 984-4059
Photo of Shannon A Daidone, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Pecatonica, IL
Shannon A Daidone
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I have experience working in both inpatient, outpatient and community-based services with a variety of clients experiencing challenges including: substance use, severe mental illness, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, self-esteem/identity issues, life transitions, grief/loss, relationship issues, and difficulties finding work life balance.
Life can be difficult and messy, but also beautiful. I believe wholeheartedly in helping others find the beauty and balance the uncertainty in their lives through a collaborative process. As your therapist, I will listen and provide support and guidance on your journey. I believe growth and change are best fostered in an environment where you feel heard, seen, respected, safe, and valued. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where growth is cultivated to find a deeper understanding of self and ultimately evolve as you discover the power within yourself to create lasting change.
I have experience working in both inpatient, outpatient and community-based services with a variety of clients experiencing challenges including: substance use, severe mental illness, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, self-esteem/identity issues, life transitions, grief/loss, relationship issues, and difficulties finding work life balance.
Life can be difficult and messy, but also beautiful. I believe wholeheartedly in helping others find the beauty and balance the uncertainty in their lives through a collaborative process. As your therapist, I will listen and provide support and guidance on your journey. I believe growth and change are best fostered in an environment where you feel heard, seen, respected, safe, and valued. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where growth is cultivated to find a deeper understanding of self and ultimately evolve as you discover the power within yourself to create lasting change.
(872) 204-1514 View (872) 204-1514
Photo of Samantha Wagner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pecatonica, IL
Samantha Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
I'm Sam (she/her). I am a licensed clinical social worker in the Chicago-land area with 7 years of experience. I have provided individual, family, and group counseling as well as having extensive experience with crisis intervention. Throughout my career I have worked with clients during all stages of the lifespan. I am especially passionate about working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma and life transitions. I tend to gravitate towards interventions that integrate mind and body, but I fundamentally believe that each client requires an individualized approach.
I'm Sam (she/her). I am a licensed clinical social worker in the Chicago-land area with 7 years of experience. I have provided individual, family, and group counseling as well as having extensive experience with crisis intervention. Throughout my career I have worked with clients during all stages of the lifespan. I am especially passionate about working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma and life transitions. I tend to gravitate towards interventions that integrate mind and body, but I fundamentally believe that each client requires an individualized approach.
(847) 565-1798 View (847) 565-1798
Photo of Lina Liu, Psychologist in Pecatonica, IL
Lina Liu
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
I am a graduate from the Illinois School Of Professional Psychology. I completed my training at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Center for Pain Management (now known as the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab). I have worked in hospitals, outpatient mental health clinics, and long-term care facilities. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive experience treating adults and geriatrics with a wide variety of psychological issues. I treat a variety of conditions such as, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, relationship issues, and life adjustment difficulties. I am also on staff at the Amita neuroscience institute.
I am a graduate from the Illinois School Of Professional Psychology. I completed my training at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Center for Pain Management (now known as the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab). I have worked in hospitals, outpatient mental health clinics, and long-term care facilities. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive experience treating adults and geriatrics with a wide variety of psychological issues. I treat a variety of conditions such as, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, relationship issues, and life adjustment difficulties. I am also on staff at the Amita neuroscience institute.
(224) 507-5219 View (224) 507-5219
Photo of David J Krzysko, Counselor in Pecatonica, IL
David J Krzysko
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I believe we have the capability to be resilient when faced with great adversity. We may doubt ourselves at times, but with guidance we can persevere through any situation. My objective is to work collaboratively with clients to discover a clear path, to create healthy goals, and to build a strong foundation that is rooted in practical techniques. My specialty areas include working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and alcohol use. I am experienced in working with adolescents, young adults, middle age adults, as well as with veterans.
I believe we have the capability to be resilient when faced with great adversity. We may doubt ourselves at times, but with guidance we can persevere through any situation. My objective is to work collaboratively with clients to discover a clear path, to create healthy goals, and to build a strong foundation that is rooted in practical techniques. My specialty areas include working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and alcohol use. I am experienced in working with adolescents, young adults, middle age adults, as well as with veterans.
(312) 374-6259 x45 View (312) 374-6259 x45
Photo of Errie Counseling and Therapy Inc in Pecatonica, IL
Errie Counseling and Therapy Inc
PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645
Depression and anxiety can grab us when we least expect it.
I am Dr. Sylvia Kobe, and I am a Licensed Clinical psychologist. My associate Dr. Mary-Zitta Muabe and I collaborate to cover a broad counseling spectrum. Together Dr. Muabe and I specialize in marriage, family therapy, and spiritual maturity. We also work with teens, young adults, and individuals battling anxiety, depression, or struggles to cope with every-life issues. We believe in empowering our clients, encouraging them to see that life is all about second chances, and with the right kind of intervention, the best is yet to come.
Depression and anxiety can grab us when we least expect it.
I am Dr. Sylvia Kobe, and I am a Licensed Clinical psychologist. My associate Dr. Mary-Zitta Muabe and I collaborate to cover a broad counseling spectrum. Together Dr. Muabe and I specialize in marriage, family therapy, and spiritual maturity. We also work with teens, young adults, and individuals battling anxiety, depression, or struggles to cope with every-life issues. We believe in empowering our clients, encouraging them to see that life is all about second chances, and with the right kind of intervention, the best is yet to come.
(847) 796-8905 View (847) 796-8905
Photo of Andrew Beatty, Psychologist in Pecatonica, IL
Andrew Beatty
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Beatty provides insight on how psychological factors like anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or other clinical concerns may impact the physical body.
Dr. Andrew Beatty has over a decade of experience assisting adults and adolescents with life, work, and health-related issues. He specializes in the field of health psychology with an emphasis on the management of chronic pain and illness. Dr. Beatty believes that “feeling sick” provides an ideal opportunity for individuals to recognize that there is something more going on. Therapy can help discover underlying behavioral health concerns that may be manifesting through physical symptoms or pain. However, Dr. Beatty encourages individuals to be proactive with their behavioral health before physical manifestations develop.
Beatty provides insight on how psychological factors like anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or other clinical concerns may impact the physical body.
Dr. Andrew Beatty has over a decade of experience assisting adults and adolescents with life, work, and health-related issues. He specializes in the field of health psychology with an emphasis on the management of chronic pain and illness. Dr. Beatty believes that “feeling sick” provides an ideal opportunity for individuals to recognize that there is something more going on. Therapy can help discover underlying behavioral health concerns that may be manifesting through physical symptoms or pain. However, Dr. Beatty encourages individuals to be proactive with their behavioral health before physical manifestations develop.
(331) 701-2723 View (331) 701-2723
Photo of Diane Grimard Wilson, Counselor in Pecatonica, IL
Diane Grimard Wilson
Counselor, LCPC, , BCN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606
Life can be hard, especially in today's world. It's easy to feel isolated, overwhelmed, and disconnected. If you're struggling with depression, focus, anxiety, burnout, sleep, or simply feeling stuck, you're not alone. Many people I see have goals they want to achieve and are not where they want to be. They experience a loss of energy due to barriers that hold them back such as Internet addiction, procrastination, and lack of confidence. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these challenges and find their path to healing and growth.
Life can be hard, especially in today's world. It's easy to feel isolated, overwhelmed, and disconnected. If you're struggling with depression, focus, anxiety, burnout, sleep, or simply feeling stuck, you're not alone. Many people I see have goals they want to achieve and are not where they want to be. They experience a loss of energy due to barriers that hold them back such as Internet addiction, procrastination, and lack of confidence. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these challenges and find their path to healing and growth.
(312) 925-5176 View (312) 925-5176
Photo of Sara Dittoe Barrett, Psychologist in Pecatonica, IL
Sara Dittoe Barrett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I am the owner and director of Cognitive Behavioral Associates of Chicago. We are a group of clinical and health psychologists and therapists who specialize in anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, stress, depression, creating healthy habits/lifestyle, and coping with medical conditions. I personally specialize in climate anxiety and distress. I am currently only taking new clients with climate distress / concern as the primary therapy issue, or those who are on the front lines of the climate crisis (e.g., scientists, activists, teachers. Visit our website to learn more about our practice and view the therapist's profiles.
I am the owner and director of Cognitive Behavioral Associates of Chicago. We are a group of clinical and health psychologists and therapists who specialize in anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, stress, depression, creating healthy habits/lifestyle, and coping with medical conditions. I personally specialize in climate anxiety and distress. I am currently only taking new clients with climate distress / concern as the primary therapy issue, or those who are on the front lines of the climate crisis (e.g., scientists, activists, teachers. Visit our website to learn more about our practice and view the therapist's profiles.
(847) 278-2009 View (847) 278-2009
Photo of Megan Buetikofer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Pecatonica, IL
Megan Buetikofer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
We are accepting new clients from ages 12 to 25, and we work exclusively with teens and young adults. It takes a great deal of bravery and admirable effort to seek therapy, and we commend you for taking the first step. Our objective is to establish a safe and supportive atmosphere where clients can voice their concerns and collaborate with us to surmount life's obstacles. With proficiency in treating co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, sports performance, and life transitions, we are committed to equipping our clients with the tools, knowledge, and perspectives required to achieve their desired lifestyle.
We are accepting new clients from ages 12 to 25, and we work exclusively with teens and young adults. It takes a great deal of bravery and admirable effort to seek therapy, and we commend you for taking the first step. Our objective is to establish a safe and supportive atmosphere where clients can voice their concerns and collaborate with us to surmount life's obstacles. With proficiency in treating co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, sports performance, and life transitions, we are committed to equipping our clients with the tools, knowledge, and perspectives required to achieve their desired lifestyle.
(630) 593-7565 View (630) 593-7565
Bradford Czochara
Psychologist, PsyD, ABN, LPC, CGP
Verified Verified
Homer Glen, IL 60491
Waitlist for new clients
I also have experience with psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety, depression, and health issues.
I take a holistic approach to clients. I work with clients using an integrated approach focusing on symptom management and working towards goals to help clients reach their full potential. I provide neuropsychological assessment and provide neuropsychological services when needed. Please contact me by email for more information regarding my approach to clients and how I can help you.
I also have experience with psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety, depression, and health issues.
I take a holistic approach to clients. I work with clients using an integrated approach focusing on symptom management and working towards goals to help clients reach their full potential. I provide neuropsychological assessment and provide neuropsychological services when needed. Please contact me by email for more information regarding my approach to clients and how I can help you.
(815) 261-4035 View (815) 261-4035
Photo of Jasmine Perkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pecatonica, IL
Jasmine Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flossmoor, IL 60422  (Online Only)
Jasmine is very motivated about helping youth find and exercise their voices, and their most authentic selves; Jasmine works to equip youth and adolescents with the tools and skills to develop social emotional learning, coping skills to manage anxiety, depression, interpersonal struggles, and many other issues which youth face day to day.
A therapist job is to deepen their client’s understanding of their dilemma or trauma, not to “fix” it for the client! The client must do their own work! Dealing with childhood traumas, mother wounds and overall the hardships of life.
Jasmine is very motivated about helping youth find and exercise their voices, and their most authentic selves; Jasmine works to equip youth and adolescents with the tools and skills to develop social emotional learning, coping skills to manage anxiety, depression, interpersonal struggles, and many other issues which youth face day to day.
A therapist job is to deepen their client’s understanding of their dilemma or trauma, not to “fix” it for the client! The client must do their own work! Dealing with childhood traumas, mother wounds and overall the hardships of life.
(779) 237-1884 View (779) 237-1884
Photo of Clark Thompson, Psychologist in Pecatonica, IL
Clark Thompson
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BCN
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Do you, your child, or a loved one suffer from brain related issues such as ADHD, autism, learning disorders, concussion, dementia, stroke, anxiety, depression, or other issues? If so, I can help. As a clinical psychologist and board certified neurofeedback specialist, I have the expertise and skill set required to assess and improve brain functioning. My assessment services include neuropsychological assessment and quantitative EEG (qEEG) brain mapping, and my treatment services include psychotherapy, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation for a wide variety of issues. (I am no longer accepting psychotherapy clients at this time).
Do you, your child, or a loved one suffer from brain related issues such as ADHD, autism, learning disorders, concussion, dementia, stroke, anxiety, depression, or other issues? If so, I can help. As a clinical psychologist and board certified neurofeedback specialist, I have the expertise and skill set required to assess and improve brain functioning. My assessment services include neuropsychological assessment and quantitative EEG (qEEG) brain mapping, and my treatment services include psychotherapy, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation for a wide variety of issues. (I am no longer accepting psychotherapy clients at this time).
(773) 747-3512 View (773) 747-3512
Photo of Zaida Medina, Counselor in Pecatonica, IL
Zaida Medina
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I treat adults with concerns including, anxiety, depression, stress, bipolar, trauma, grief, marital and relationship difficulties, life transitions, divorce.
Do you want to feel less stress and anxiety in life. Do things feel chaotic. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives. My role begins by helping people to identify and verbalize the issues that may be getting in their way. I will listen carefully to your concerns and then together we will create a customized plan to best meet your needs.Our goal is to help you get your life back on track by implementing effective strategies that are geared towards you. I enjoy working with adults, teens, children and couples who are struggling with life’s stressors and are in need of some additional support and understanding.
I treat adults with concerns including, anxiety, depression, stress, bipolar, trauma, grief, marital and relationship difficulties, life transitions, divorce.
Do you want to feel less stress and anxiety in life. Do things feel chaotic. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives. My role begins by helping people to identify and verbalize the issues that may be getting in their way. I will listen carefully to your concerns and then together we will create a customized plan to best meet your needs.Our goal is to help you get your life back on track by implementing effective strategies that are geared towards you. I enjoy working with adults, teens, children and couples who are struggling with life’s stressors and are in need of some additional support and understanding.
(224) 935-9920 View (224) 935-9920
Photo of Anne J Dickinson, Counselor in Pecatonica, IL
Anne J Dickinson
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
I use hypnosis and biofeedback with a variety of issues including pain management, stress reduction, anxiety and depression.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Certified in Hypnosis. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University in 2004 and my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Adler University in 2012. I work with ages 11 and older and have over 29 years experience with adults, adolescents and families.
I use hypnosis and biofeedback with a variety of issues including pain management, stress reduction, anxiety and depression.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Certified in Hypnosis. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University in 2004 and my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Adler University in 2012. I work with ages 11 and older and have over 29 years experience with adults, adolescents and families.
(630) 835-0032 View (630) 835-0032
Photo of Matthew Michael Welsh, Psychologist in Pecatonica, IL
Matthew Michael Welsh
Psychologist, JD, PhD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I can use this experience to help you with any trauma, PTSD, anger, depression, anxiety, or drug and alcohol problems.
I began my professional career as a lawyer. Studying and practicing in the field of law helped me develop critical thinking skills and an understanding of how to navigate the practical challenges of life. However, working as a lawyer made me realize I wanted to help people on a more personal, emotional, and psychological level so they could be effective before they need a lawyer. So, at the age of 29, I quit my job as a family law attorney and went back to school to get a Ph.D. in Psychology. As a lifetime student, I am dedicated to learning. I want to learn more about you and help you get to where you want to be.
I can use this experience to help you with any trauma, PTSD, anger, depression, anxiety, or drug and alcohol problems.
I began my professional career as a lawyer. Studying and practicing in the field of law helped me develop critical thinking skills and an understanding of how to navigate the practical challenges of life. However, working as a lawyer made me realize I wanted to help people on a more personal, emotional, and psychological level so they could be effective before they need a lawyer. So, at the age of 29, I quit my job as a family law attorney and went back to school to get a Ph.D. in Psychology. As a lifetime student, I am dedicated to learning. I want to learn more about you and help you get to where you want to be.
(847) 453-4270 View (847) 453-4270
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.