Depression Therapists in East Dubuque, IL

Photo of Dieunn S Musser, Counselor in East Dubuque, IL
Dieunn S Musser
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
East Dubuque, IL 61025
There are many reasons you may be looking for a counselor. There doesn't need to be a specific reason, you may simply be looking for a perspective, a good listener or to gain insight. Common reasons people seek counseling: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma or Abuse, Grieving and Life Stressors. I can walk alongside you as you navigate a painful or difficult time in your life.
There are many reasons you may be looking for a counselor. There doesn't need to be a specific reason, you may simply be looking for a perspective, a good listener or to gain insight. Common reasons people seek counseling: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma or Abuse, Grieving and Life Stressors. I can walk alongside you as you navigate a painful or difficult time in your life.
(815) 209-0403 View (815) 209-0403
Photo of Richard Corfman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Dubuque, IL
Richard Corfman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
East Dubuque, IL 61025
Not accepting new clients
Clients have come to me for various reasons- marital conflict, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, bipolar illness, grief, ADHD and other related mental health diagnoses. I have felt honored to help people to move from feeling distressed to better managing their thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they can enjoy greater success and control over their lives.
Clients have come to me for various reasons- marital conflict, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, bipolar illness, grief, ADHD and other related mental health diagnoses. I have felt honored to help people to move from feeling distressed to better managing their thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they can enjoy greater success and control over their lives.
(563) 649-4449 View (563) 649-4449

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Thom Dennis, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in East Dubuque, IL
Thom Dennis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, D Min, LCPC, LMHC, FT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Galena, IL 61036
I will also help you with the anxiety, depression, and distorted thoughts and emotions that accompany all of the above.
​​​It’s not just you, we’re all doing our best to deal with the stresses of modern life and it seems many of us are becoming increasingly overwhelmed. I companion adults who feel they are being stretched to the breaking point by one or more of those "bigger issues" in life that threaten our over-all wellbeing, if not our very existence:​ Identity, Isolation, Death, Meaning, Freedom, and Happiness. With a background in healthcare and advanced training in pastoral care and counseling, I’m going to respect and honor you as a person no matter what issues or troubles you bring with you into our conversations.
I will also help you with the anxiety, depression, and distorted thoughts and emotions that accompany all of the above.
​​​It’s not just you, we’re all doing our best to deal with the stresses of modern life and it seems many of us are becoming increasingly overwhelmed. I companion adults who feel they are being stretched to the breaking point by one or more of those "bigger issues" in life that threaten our over-all wellbeing, if not our very existence:​ Identity, Isolation, Death, Meaning, Freedom, and Happiness. With a background in healthcare and advanced training in pastoral care and counseling, I’m going to respect and honor you as a person no matter what issues or troubles you bring with you into our conversations.
(773) 454-9176 View (773) 454-9176
Photo of Gail L. Gabbert, Marriage & Family Therapist in East Dubuque, IL
Gail L. Gabbert
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT, CRADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Galena, IL 61036
Is your relationship struggling? Do you think it is too good to leave but too bad to stay? Or, are you struggling with an excessive use of alcohol or drugs? When this happens, it's easy for well meaning friends to give opinions that may not be right for you. Sometimes an unbiased party can help. If you've tried your best but it's not getting better, let me help. I have specific techniques to improve your situation. I may provide education, assign homework or suggest behavioral tasks to help you reach your goals. Let's work it out together.r,
Is your relationship struggling? Do you think it is too good to leave but too bad to stay? Or, are you struggling with an excessive use of alcohol or drugs? When this happens, it's easy for well meaning friends to give opinions that may not be right for you. Sometimes an unbiased party can help. If you've tried your best but it's not getting better, let me help. I have specific techniques to improve your situation. I may provide education, assign homework or suggest behavioral tasks to help you reach your goals. Let's work it out together.r,
(815) 661-2889 View (815) 661-2889

Online Therapists

Photo of Clock Inc: Lgbt+ Community Center, Counselor in East Dubuque, IL
Clock Inc: Lgbt+ Community Center
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rock Island, IL 61201
I have worked with people, in individual and group counseling settings, who experience depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, self-harming, suicidal ideation, family conflict, relationship issues, life transitions, and self-esteem issues.
"No one is you, and that is your superpower." Reaching out for help can be challenging, but I am here to help you travel on your journey. I am willing, and will hopefully be lucky enough, to offer the support you may not have received. I listen, I observe, and I remain non-judgmental and accepting. Also, while I recognize and understand that everyone's experience are different, I am able to empathize, as I too belong to the LGBT+ community.
I have worked with people, in individual and group counseling settings, who experience depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, self-harming, suicidal ideation, family conflict, relationship issues, life transitions, and self-esteem issues.
"No one is you, and that is your superpower." Reaching out for help can be challenging, but I am here to help you travel on your journey. I am willing, and will hopefully be lucky enough, to offer the support you may not have received. I listen, I observe, and I remain non-judgmental and accepting. Also, while I recognize and understand that everyone's experience are different, I am able to empathize, as I too belong to the LGBT+ community.
(309) 316-0957 View (309) 316-0957
Photo of Leon B Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Dubuque, IL
Leon B Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCBT
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression/PTSD/Anger Management/ Anxiety.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with an extensive work history over 30 years within the Rockford Area/surrounding community; providing Counseling, Therapy, Case Management, Problem Solving/Solution Focused Treatments. I have provided Clinical Social Work Services in a number of settings; local Community Mental Health Center, Hospitals, School Districts, Winnebago County Jail, Department of Veterans Affairs, Employee Assistance Programs and Group Practice. I have special interest in Student Athletes with Depression/Anxiety, Veterans with PTSD/negative military experiences, African Americans and Mental Health.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression/PTSD/Anger Management/ Anxiety.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with an extensive work history over 30 years within the Rockford Area/surrounding community; providing Counseling, Therapy, Case Management, Problem Solving/Solution Focused Treatments. I have provided Clinical Social Work Services in a number of settings; local Community Mental Health Center, Hospitals, School Districts, Winnebago County Jail, Department of Veterans Affairs, Employee Assistance Programs and Group Practice. I have special interest in Student Athletes with Depression/Anxiety, Veterans with PTSD/negative military experiences, African Americans and Mental Health.
(815) 324-1356 View (815) 324-1356
Photo of Jennifer Streets, Counselor in East Dubuque, IL
Jennifer Streets
Counselor, LMHC, LPHA, LCPC, CFM
Verified Verified
Sterling, IL 61081
I specialize in family issues, autism, ADD/ADHD in adults and children, adjustment issues, depression, anxiety and many other topics.
I have worked in the mental health field for more 20 years following a career as a junior and senior high teacher. I have experience with everyone from very young children to elderly individuals. I believe firmly in the individual's ability to change if they so desire, regardless of education level, socioeconomic status, or past challenges. I approach all people with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude. Acceptance and kindness are important traits and ones I strive to show each and every person I meet, whether that is within my office or at the grocery store.
I specialize in family issues, autism, ADD/ADHD in adults and children, adjustment issues, depression, anxiety and many other topics.
I have worked in the mental health field for more 20 years following a career as a junior and senior high teacher. I have experience with everyone from very young children to elderly individuals. I believe firmly in the individual's ability to change if they so desire, regardless of education level, socioeconomic status, or past challenges. I approach all people with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude. Acceptance and kindness are important traits and ones I strive to show each and every person I meet, whether that is within my office or at the grocery store.
(779) 237-8267 View (779) 237-8267
Photo of Linsay Donaldson, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dubuque, IL
Linsay Donaldson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Loves Park, IL 61111
As a therapist, I believe in meeting clients where they are and assisting them in shaping the direction of their future.  By examining their past experiences and interactions we can assess together what patterns may be in place and work to disrupt the negative ones while building upon the positive patterns in order to influence the future.  My experience includes working with clients struggling with many present-day issues including Depression, Anxiety, stress, trauma, family challenges and hard life transitions. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages including older children (8+), teens, and adults.
As a therapist, I believe in meeting clients where they are and assisting them in shaping the direction of their future.  By examining their past experiences and interactions we can assess together what patterns may be in place and work to disrupt the negative ones while building upon the positive patterns in order to influence the future.  My experience includes working with clients struggling with many present-day issues including Depression, Anxiety, stress, trauma, family challenges and hard life transitions. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages including older children (8+), teens, and adults.
(779) 345-2852 View (779) 345-2852
Photo of Renee Reggans, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in East Dubuque, IL
Renee Reggans
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, have relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Hello, my name is Renee and I am a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist who focuses on anxiety, depression, communication, and self-confidence issues. Seeking therapy can feel scary but I would like to reassure you you're making the right decision. You deserve a space where you feel safe to heal and grow.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, have relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Hello, my name is Renee and I am a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist who focuses on anxiety, depression, communication, and self-confidence issues. Seeking therapy can feel scary but I would like to reassure you you're making the right decision. You deserve a space where you feel safe to heal and grow.
(224) 888-3247 View (224) 888-3247
Photo of Kelly Burke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Dubuque, IL
Kelly Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m so glad you have found your way here. Often we get swept up in the competing demands around us and forgo what we need. We can lose ourselves without even realizing it or maybe we never even had the chance in the first place. Before we know it, we are stuck thinking, "Why can’t I seem to do what’s most important to me? What is most important to me anyway?" My hope is that together we can find the way through to heal and create a life you want to live. I think of my role as a guide offering a new perspective. A light in the dark. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and grief.
Welcome! I’m so glad you have found your way here. Often we get swept up in the competing demands around us and forgo what we need. We can lose ourselves without even realizing it or maybe we never even had the chance in the first place. Before we know it, we are stuck thinking, "Why can’t I seem to do what’s most important to me? What is most important to me anyway?" My hope is that together we can find the way through to heal and create a life you want to live. I think of my role as a guide offering a new perspective. A light in the dark. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and grief.
(224) 243-4989 View (224) 243-4989
Photo of Julieann Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Dubuque, IL
Julieann Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
I have been working with families and individual clients of all ages for 10 plus years. I am motivated by helping others work through their unique life experiences. When we struggle, sometimes we need help navigating through life's challenges. Finding healthy ways to express ourselves, and communicate our needs is crucial to our well-being. I am particularly skilled in counseling people with behavioral issues, impulse control, depression, self esteem, anxiety, identity, relationships, and conflict resolution.
I have been working with families and individual clients of all ages for 10 plus years. I am motivated by helping others work through their unique life experiences. When we struggle, sometimes we need help navigating through life's challenges. Finding healthy ways to express ourselves, and communicate our needs is crucial to our well-being. I am particularly skilled in counseling people with behavioral issues, impulse control, depression, self esteem, anxiety, identity, relationships, and conflict resolution.
(815) 908-5264 View (815) 908-5264
Photo of Farah E Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in East Dubuque, IL
Farah E Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, NCSC
Verified Verified
East Moline, IL 61244
My experience has focused on anxiety, depression, adjustment issues and trauma.
Counseling allows individuals to better understand themselves and others, set personal goals, and work toward desired change. Counseling is a collaborative process that involves a confidential and professional relationship between client and therapist. We work objectively to clarify issues, gain insight into thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and to deal effectively with these obstacles in a healthy way.
My experience has focused on anxiety, depression, adjustment issues and trauma.
Counseling allows individuals to better understand themselves and others, set personal goals, and work toward desired change. Counseling is a collaborative process that involves a confidential and professional relationship between client and therapist. We work objectively to clarify issues, gain insight into thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and to deal effectively with these obstacles in a healthy way.
(309) 247-8110 View (309) 247-8110
Photo of Jodi Fourt, Counselor in East Dubuque, IL
Jodi Fourt
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rockton, IL 61072
I work with a variety of individuals, couples, and families to address depression/anxiety, women's psychology, autism, skills training, couples communication, and meditation/relaxation.
The journey inside the self can be profound self discovery and change. It can help to heal psychological turmoil and emotional pain by putting the past into perspective and walking forward into a different future. It is not easy. Sometimes you are faced with something in your life or within your family that changes everything. "This is not what I had planned". Finding your balance can be difficult.The very thought of beginning such a pilgrimage may cause anxiety and uncertainty. You know you need to get past it and yet it's not that simple and you feel unequipped.
I work with a variety of individuals, couples, and families to address depression/anxiety, women's psychology, autism, skills training, couples communication, and meditation/relaxation.
The journey inside the self can be profound self discovery and change. It can help to heal psychological turmoil and emotional pain by putting the past into perspective and walking forward into a different future. It is not easy. Sometimes you are faced with something in your life or within your family that changes everything. "This is not what I had planned". Finding your balance can be difficult.The very thought of beginning such a pilgrimage may cause anxiety and uncertainty. You know you need to get past it and yet it's not that simple and you feel unequipped.
(224) 385-0817 View (224) 385-0817
Photo of Todd Burd, Counselor in East Dubuque, IL
Todd Burd
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61114
He is well seasoned to work with a variety of issues – Depression, Anger, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief/Loss, etc.
Todd uses therapeutic techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which help his clients connect the emotional dots and live life with fewer regrets. Most of our feelings and actions are based upon our thinking patterns and experience filters. Identifying distortions in these thoughts and replacing them with healthier alternatives has been the cornerstone of his clients' success. He specializes in discovering client insight enabling men, women, and adolescent boys navigate through life's many situations and relationships.
He is well seasoned to work with a variety of issues – Depression, Anger, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief/Loss, etc.
Todd uses therapeutic techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which help his clients connect the emotional dots and live life with fewer regrets. Most of our feelings and actions are based upon our thinking patterns and experience filters. Identifying distortions in these thoughts and replacing them with healthier alternatives has been the cornerstone of his clients' success. He specializes in discovering client insight enabling men, women, and adolescent boys navigate through life's many situations and relationships.
(779) 707-0091 View (779) 707-0091
Photo of Georgia Eger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Dubuque, IL
Georgia Eger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Freeport, IL 61032  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Georgia, I specialize working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and other behavioral and mood disorders.
I believe every person has the ability to heal, grow and change in the capacity that they desire. Whether you want to improve your communication skills, alleviate mental health symptoms, manage your emotions, or work on other areas of your life— therapy isn’t one size fits all. While my interpersonal approach is rooted in evidence based practices, it is tailored to fit your individual goals. Together, we can collaborate on the fundamental aspects of therapeutic work such as root causes of emotional struggles, providing necessary tools for understanding one’s innate traits + nervous system, and building healthier relationships.
Hi, I am Georgia, I specialize working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and other behavioral and mood disorders.
I believe every person has the ability to heal, grow and change in the capacity that they desire. Whether you want to improve your communication skills, alleviate mental health symptoms, manage your emotions, or work on other areas of your life— therapy isn’t one size fits all. While my interpersonal approach is rooted in evidence based practices, it is tailored to fit your individual goals. Together, we can collaborate on the fundamental aspects of therapeutic work such as root causes of emotional struggles, providing necessary tools for understanding one’s innate traits + nervous system, and building healthier relationships.
(708) 426-1636 View (708) 426-1636
Photo of Bridget McKnight Rockford Il, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Dubuque, IL
Bridget McKnight Rockford Il
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
Are you struggling with life's challenges? Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, lacking motivation, anxious, depressed, or grieving? Everyone deserves a fulfilling, happy life, and sometimes, support helps as you navigate life's journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker experienced working with families and children in various settings, including child welfare, hospice, and school-based social work programs. I use a strength-based perspective and believe everyone has the potential to make positive changes and enhance their life.
Are you struggling with life's challenges? Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, lacking motivation, anxious, depressed, or grieving? Everyone deserves a fulfilling, happy life, and sometimes, support helps as you navigate life's journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker experienced working with families and children in various settings, including child welfare, hospice, and school-based social work programs. I use a strength-based perspective and believe everyone has the potential to make positive changes and enhance their life.
(815) 649-5495 View (815) 649-5495
Photo of Colin Gillette, Marriage & Family Therapist in East Dubuque, IL
Colin Gillette
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
Sometimes, we reach a place where the methods used to manage our day-to-day lives are no longer effective. This experience often leads to feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and hopelessness before we realize we need help. We find ourselves in a place of frustration, repeatedly stuck in our habits as a way to overcome the hurdles obstructing our sense of peace and well-being. I’d like to invite you to consider the question, “What if this is an opportunity in disguise?”
Sometimes, we reach a place where the methods used to manage our day-to-day lives are no longer effective. This experience often leads to feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and hopelessness before we realize we need help. We find ourselves in a place of frustration, repeatedly stuck in our habits as a way to overcome the hurdles obstructing our sense of peace and well-being. I’d like to invite you to consider the question, “What if this is an opportunity in disguise?”
(815) 496-4593 View (815) 496-4593
Photo of Amanda Martinez (Talkspace), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Dubuque, IL
Amanda Martinez (Talkspace)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MBA, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
East Moline, IL 61244
My specialties include substance abuse, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, ADHD, and PTSD/Complex Trauma.
Counselor at the Veterans Affairs, Quad Cities Veteran Center. Providing Veterans, and their family members with non-judgmental, caring, and compassionate treatment is my passion. Providing empowerment, validation, client-centered therapy and assisting clients with self-advocacy. My mission is to help clients become the best version of themselves, whatever that may be. U.S. Army Combat Veteran, Retired, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Trauma Professional, and fully trained in EMDR. 1st generation immigrant (Canada) and naturalized citizen.
My specialties include substance abuse, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, ADHD, and PTSD/Complex Trauma.
Counselor at the Veterans Affairs, Quad Cities Veteran Center. Providing Veterans, and their family members with non-judgmental, caring, and compassionate treatment is my passion. Providing empowerment, validation, client-centered therapy and assisting clients with self-advocacy. My mission is to help clients become the best version of themselves, whatever that may be. U.S. Army Combat Veteran, Retired, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Trauma Professional, and fully trained in EMDR. 1st generation immigrant (Canada) and naturalized citizen.
Photo of Ashley Baylor, Pre-Licensed Professional in East Dubuque, IL
Ashley Baylor
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
I strongly believe that everyone can grow and change. My goal is to help you become your best self. I will assist you on this life journey to handle all complex challenges. I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy as my main approaches. I am passionate about working with kids, adolescents, adults, and seniors. My passion for mental health begins with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together we can take on life challenges to make sure we overcome them.
I strongly believe that everyone can grow and change. My goal is to help you become your best self. I will assist you on this life journey to handle all complex challenges. I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy as my main approaches. I am passionate about working with kids, adolescents, adults, and seniors. My passion for mental health begins with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together we can take on life challenges to make sure we overcome them.
(815) 854-8976 View (815) 854-8976
Photo of Michelle Maddalozzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Dubuque, IL
Michelle Maddalozzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
She has successfully worked with many diverse clients, who presented such issues as depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, grief, relationship difficulties and mood disorders.
Michelle Maddalozzo is an LCSW in private practice in Illinois, North Carolina and Virginia. She holds a Masters in Social Work from the University of Chicago and will complete her Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Tennessee in June 2022. Michelle has been working with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma for over the past ten years while specializing in military mental health. She incorporates different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, CPT, PE, solution focused) into her work, with an emphasis on body-oriented techniques. Michelle sees adults and adolescents for individual therapy.
She has successfully worked with many diverse clients, who presented such issues as depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, grief, relationship difficulties and mood disorders.
Michelle Maddalozzo is an LCSW in private practice in Illinois, North Carolina and Virginia. She holds a Masters in Social Work from the University of Chicago and will complete her Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Tennessee in June 2022. Michelle has been working with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma for over the past ten years while specializing in military mental health. She incorporates different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, CPT, PE, solution focused) into her work, with an emphasis on body-oriented techniques. Michelle sees adults and adolescents for individual therapy.
(312) 548-8985 View (312) 548-8985

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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.