Depression Therapists in Gurnee, IL

Photo of Mercedes Compton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gurnee, IL
Mercedes Compton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
Mercedes is enthusiastic to help individuals dealing with life transition, trauma & crisis, grief & loss, anxiety and depression, and life-purpose and relationship issues so to obtain greater level of joy, freedom, and create the life they long to live. In sessions, Mercedes creates a safe space for clients to look at and wrestle with their self-limiting beliefs and behaviors due to self-doubt, shame, faith and trust issues that lead to taking responsibility for their lives. Mercedes believes in a treatment philosophy that includes a holistic approach tailored to employ practical and results-oriented treatments.
Mercedes is enthusiastic to help individuals dealing with life transition, trauma & crisis, grief & loss, anxiety and depression, and life-purpose and relationship issues so to obtain greater level of joy, freedom, and create the life they long to live. In sessions, Mercedes creates a safe space for clients to look at and wrestle with their self-limiting beliefs and behaviors due to self-doubt, shame, faith and trust issues that lead to taking responsibility for their lives. Mercedes believes in a treatment philosophy that includes a holistic approach tailored to employ practical and results-oriented treatments.
(224) 328-1632 View (224) 328-1632
Photo of Karen Wright, LCPC-The Wright Advocate, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Gurnee, IL
Karen Wright, LCPC-The Wright Advocate
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031  (Online Only)
For over 14 years, I've helped individuals overcome anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, and trauma-related incidents.
Tough times can be hard to get through, but it's possible to overcome them. Maybe you're struggling with a difficult past or current situation that's left you feeling hurt, hopeless, lost, confused, angry, or alone? Please know that you are NOT alone and there is hope! We can work through this together in a supportive, non-judgmental space where issues are slowly confronted with empathy and holistically to inspire healing and growth for your mind, body, and soul. You can OWN your story, heal, and move forward with hope and determination. I have availability in the AM and afternoon via a confidential Telehealth/Video platform.
For over 14 years, I've helped individuals overcome anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, and trauma-related incidents.
Tough times can be hard to get through, but it's possible to overcome them. Maybe you're struggling with a difficult past or current situation that's left you feeling hurt, hopeless, lost, confused, angry, or alone? Please know that you are NOT alone and there is hope! We can work through this together in a supportive, non-judgmental space where issues are slowly confronted with empathy and holistically to inspire healing and growth for your mind, body, and soul. You can OWN your story, heal, and move forward with hope and determination. I have availability in the AM and afternoon via a confidential Telehealth/Video platform.
(847) 416-8229 View (847) 416-8229
Photo of Christine Pope, Counselor in Gurnee, IL
Christine Pope
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I use a strengths based approach and have worked with clients of all ages. My specialties include behavioral disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I have also worked with clients that have experienced trauma ranging from physical and sexual abuse, assault, and experiencing and witnessing violence and negligence. I do not believe there is a one size fits all approach to therapy and believe that every client is the expert on themselves.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I use a strengths based approach and have worked with clients of all ages. My specialties include behavioral disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I have also worked with clients that have experienced trauma ranging from physical and sexual abuse, assault, and experiencing and witnessing violence and negligence. I do not believe there is a one size fits all approach to therapy and believe that every client is the expert on themselves.
(224) 458-2401 x126 View (224) 458-2401 x126
Photo of Lynda Throm, Counselor in Gurnee, IL
Lynda Throm
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
I have a great deal of experience helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other life stressors.
I want to commend you for your bravery in taking the first step towards reaching out for help. Counseling can give you a non-judgmental place to vent as well as a place to learn about new ways to manage overwhelming feelings. As a therapist, my main way of understanding how people work is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It can help us challenge our negative thoughts and utilize healthy coping skills. I primarily take a humanistic approach with my clients and make sure to address psychosocial, biological, developmental, spiritual, and cultural issues as needed since every client is unique.
I have a great deal of experience helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other life stressors.
I want to commend you for your bravery in taking the first step towards reaching out for help. Counseling can give you a non-judgmental place to vent as well as a place to learn about new ways to manage overwhelming feelings. As a therapist, my main way of understanding how people work is through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It can help us challenge our negative thoughts and utilize healthy coping skills. I primarily take a humanistic approach with my clients and make sure to address psychosocial, biological, developmental, spiritual, and cultural issues as needed since every client is unique.
(224) 231-6951 View (224) 231-6951
Photo of Jessie Knoble, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gurnee, IL
Jessie Knoble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
I have worked with children, adolescents and young adults from different backgrounds and with struggles such as behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, and maladaptive coping skills.
To my core, I believe each individual deserves to be heard, respected, and validated, regardless of their history. We each have the capability for and are deserving of peace and healing despite where we are at on our individual journeys. There will be times when we might feel unstoppable and other times when life will be most humbling. We cannot change where we came from. Each person’s story is uniquely personal, painful, and beautiful. But there is strength in picking up our metaphorical pens and learning to rewrite our stories.
I have worked with children, adolescents and young adults from different backgrounds and with struggles such as behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, and maladaptive coping skills.
To my core, I believe each individual deserves to be heard, respected, and validated, regardless of their history. We each have the capability for and are deserving of peace and healing despite where we are at on our individual journeys. There will be times when we might feel unstoppable and other times when life will be most humbling. We cannot change where we came from. Each person’s story is uniquely personal, painful, and beautiful. But there is strength in picking up our metaphorical pens and learning to rewrite our stories.
(224) 676-9800 x32 View (224) 676-9800 x32
Photo of Daniel Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gurnee, IL
Daniel Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
Danny Ross is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2014. He received both his undergraduate and Graduate Degree in Social Work from New Mexico Highland University with a clinical concentration in 2014. Danny has worked with children (8-12), adolescents (12-17), and adults (18+). Most of his experience has been dealing with addictions, anxiety, depression, abuse and/or neglect, domestic violence, behavioral problems, anger, self-esteem, self-worth, stress, communications, family issues, Trauma/PTSD, veteran issues and first responder issues.
Danny Ross is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2014. He received both his undergraduate and Graduate Degree in Social Work from New Mexico Highland University with a clinical concentration in 2014. Danny has worked with children (8-12), adolescents (12-17), and adults (18+). Most of his experience has been dealing with addictions, anxiety, depression, abuse and/or neglect, domestic violence, behavioral problems, anger, self-esteem, self-worth, stress, communications, family issues, Trauma/PTSD, veteran issues and first responder issues.
(847) 641-2634 View (847) 641-2634
Photo of Natalie Velazquez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gurnee, IL
Natalie Velazquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
Natalie Velazquez, LPC, collaborates with clients to establish therapeutic goals that pertain to their treatment and life ambitions. She helps clients understand themselves physically and emotionally, identify triggers, regulate emotions, and understand when to use coping skills and self-care. Natalie treats adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, family conflict, and more. She focuses on building a therapeutic relationship and doing what's best to support clients as they make progress and heal.
Natalie Velazquez, LPC, collaborates with clients to establish therapeutic goals that pertain to their treatment and life ambitions. She helps clients understand themselves physically and emotionally, identify triggers, regulate emotions, and understand when to use coping skills and self-care. Natalie treats adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, family conflict, and more. She focuses on building a therapeutic relationship and doing what's best to support clients as they make progress and heal.
(224) 507-7639 View (224) 507-7639
Photo of Evolve Youth & Family Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gurnee, IL
Evolve Youth & Family Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
My areas of focus include: trauma/post- traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, parenting, self-esteem, life transitions, relational/family problems, and communication.
Hello! My name is Yahaira and I am a bilingual therapist who has been serving clients in Lake County for the past 14 years. I have worked with children, adolescent and their families with varying diagnosis and life issues. I believe it is important as a therapist to recognize that every client is different, and will need an approach specifically adapted to them. My role in the therapeutic process will be to encourage clients to collaborate in regaining hope in their lives, and overcoming difficulties.
My areas of focus include: trauma/post- traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, parenting, self-esteem, life transitions, relational/family problems, and communication.
Hello! My name is Yahaira and I am a bilingual therapist who has been serving clients in Lake County for the past 14 years. I have worked with children, adolescent and their families with varying diagnosis and life issues. I believe it is important as a therapist to recognize that every client is different, and will need an approach specifically adapted to them. My role in the therapeutic process will be to encourage clients to collaborate in regaining hope in their lives, and overcoming difficulties.
(847) 719-6513 View (847) 719-6513
Photo of Damien Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gurnee, IL
Damien Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
I help those struggling with LGBTQ+ issues, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, men's issues, and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who views therapy as a partnership built upon mutual trust. I pride myself on creating a calm, safe, and non-judgmental environment to help clients feel at ease. My goal is to empower each individual towards change.
I help those struggling with LGBTQ+ issues, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, men's issues, and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who views therapy as a partnership built upon mutual trust. I pride myself on creating a calm, safe, and non-judgmental environment to help clients feel at ease. My goal is to empower each individual towards change.
(224) 269-8759 View (224) 269-8759
Photo of Fenix Wellness, PLLC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gurnee, IL
Fenix Wellness, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031  (Online Only)
Welcome to Fenix Wellness. I'm Stephanie (she/her), a dedicated relational psychotherapist with over 7 years of experience. I am trained in EMDR. I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and have undergone specialized training in Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Sexual Assault, and domestic violence. My clinical expertise is rooted in working with adolescents and adults who have encountered chronic, complex trauma, often in the form of interpersonal violence, coupled with substance use, grief, loss, relationship challenges, emotional dysregulation, self esteem concerns, depression and anxiety.
Welcome to Fenix Wellness. I'm Stephanie (she/her), a dedicated relational psychotherapist with over 7 years of experience. I am trained in EMDR. I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and have undergone specialized training in Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Sexual Assault, and domestic violence. My clinical expertise is rooted in working with adolescents and adults who have encountered chronic, complex trauma, often in the form of interpersonal violence, coupled with substance use, grief, loss, relationship challenges, emotional dysregulation, self esteem concerns, depression and anxiety.
(773) 923-0331 View (773) 923-0331
Photo of Carolyn Bulmash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gurnee, IL
Carolyn Bulmash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
Sometimes, we feel stuck in life and don't know what we can do to move forward. I work with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, loss and relationship dissatisfaction. I often work with, and welcome, individuals who struggled to find benefit in previous attempts at therapy. Individuals managing a beloved pets illness or loss are also a welcomed part of my practice. I enjoy working with college students to retirees who seek greater understanding of how their moods and behaviors developed, and why their current coping strategies may no longer feel useful.
Sometimes, we feel stuck in life and don't know what we can do to move forward. I work with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, loss and relationship dissatisfaction. I often work with, and welcome, individuals who struggled to find benefit in previous attempts at therapy. Individuals managing a beloved pets illness or loss are also a welcomed part of my practice. I enjoy working with college students to retirees who seek greater understanding of how their moods and behaviors developed, and why their current coping strategies may no longer feel useful.
(847) 915-4363 View (847) 915-4363
Photo of Verdure Counseling, Counselor in Gurnee, IL
Verdure Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
Verdure Counseling works with a variety of different clients to include Veterans, families, adolescents, and adults. At Verdure counseling, your growth and wellness are our priority. We help those suffering from normal day to day struggles to severe trauma. Our clinicians have experience working with substance abuse, mood disorders, grief, adjustment, depression, identity, etc. Feeling tired, overwhelmed, stuck, or want to just learn more about yourself, Verdure Counseling can help you.
Verdure Counseling works with a variety of different clients to include Veterans, families, adolescents, and adults. At Verdure counseling, your growth and wellness are our priority. We help those suffering from normal day to day struggles to severe trauma. Our clinicians have experience working with substance abuse, mood disorders, grief, adjustment, depression, identity, etc. Feeling tired, overwhelmed, stuck, or want to just learn more about yourself, Verdure Counseling can help you.
(224) 707-8279 View (224) 707-8279
Photo of Lori A. Jensen, Psychologist in Gurnee, IL
Lori A. Jensen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Barrington, Illinois, with more than 20 years of experience working with adults of all ages, adolescents and families. Whether discouraged or overwhelmed, therapy can help improve the quality of your life. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, academic and occupational problems, depression, relationship issues, and the challenges of life transition. With a background in health psychology, I also have expertise in helping clients whose illness or pain interfere with daily living, (e.g., migraine and IBS as well as other chronic illnesses such as cancer, fibromyalgia, diabetes and heart disease.)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Barrington, Illinois, with more than 20 years of experience working with adults of all ages, adolescents and families. Whether discouraged or overwhelmed, therapy can help improve the quality of your life. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, academic and occupational problems, depression, relationship issues, and the challenges of life transition. With a background in health psychology, I also have expertise in helping clients whose illness or pain interfere with daily living, (e.g., migraine and IBS as well as other chronic illnesses such as cancer, fibromyalgia, diabetes and heart disease.)
(847) 453-9513 View (847) 453-9513
Photo of Dr. Glenisha L. C. Foreman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gurnee, IL
Dr. Glenisha L. C. Foreman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC, CTP, CTMH
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
Glenisha is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.
Glenisha Foreman is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Marine Corp Veteran. Serving in the military enabled her to travel to various places around the world. During her travels, Glenisha learned from, interacted, and worked with people of various cultures and ethnicities. She continues to be open and interested in learning about what is unique to you. She has experience working in mental health, as well as substance abuse. She is passionate about working with Veterans, adolescents and adults. Life gets tough sometimes and as much as some people would like to handle it themselves know that its ok to ask for help.
Glenisha is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.
Glenisha Foreman is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Marine Corp Veteran. Serving in the military enabled her to travel to various places around the world. During her travels, Glenisha learned from, interacted, and worked with people of various cultures and ethnicities. She continues to be open and interested in learning about what is unique to you. She has experience working in mental health, as well as substance abuse. She is passionate about working with Veterans, adolescents and adults. Life gets tough sometimes and as much as some people would like to handle it themselves know that its ok to ask for help.
(224) 637-6999 View (224) 637-6999
Photo of Dustin F Makela, Counselor in Gurnee, IL
Dustin F Makela
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
Research and experience tells us that effective therapy is predicated on a truly meaningful relationship between client and therapist. I am confident that I can provide a time and space where you and/or your child will feel understood, accepted, cared for, and appropriately challenged to change. I work primarily with adolescents and young adults who are struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief and loss, divorce, separated and blended families, life transitions, sexual health and sexual identity, conflicted family relationships, attachment issues, and emotion and behavior management.
Research and experience tells us that effective therapy is predicated on a truly meaningful relationship between client and therapist. I am confident that I can provide a time and space where you and/or your child will feel understood, accepted, cared for, and appropriately challenged to change. I work primarily with adolescents and young adults who are struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief and loss, divorce, separated and blended families, life transitions, sexual health and sexual identity, conflicted family relationships, attachment issues, and emotion and behavior management.
(847) 457-0283 View (847) 457-0283
Photo of Carol Paxton Cox, Psychologist in Gurnee, IL
Carol Paxton Cox
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031  (Online Only)
My primary goal is to help clients find the hope and courage to change and heal. I believe that all life circumstances, relationships, and experiences can lead to change and greater self-acceptance. Ultimately therapy helps clients cope with loss and use difficult life transitions to promote growth. In working with individuals, couples, families, and children, I have helped them cultivate resources and develop strengths from very challenging diagnoses and life circumstances. I have helped clients suffering from relationship conflicts, health crises, depression, trauma and loss issues, compulsive behaviors, and anxiety disorders.
My primary goal is to help clients find the hope and courage to change and heal. I believe that all life circumstances, relationships, and experiences can lead to change and greater self-acceptance. Ultimately therapy helps clients cope with loss and use difficult life transitions to promote growth. In working with individuals, couples, families, and children, I have helped them cultivate resources and develop strengths from very challenging diagnoses and life circumstances. I have helped clients suffering from relationship conflicts, health crises, depression, trauma and loss issues, compulsive behaviors, and anxiety disorders.
(847) 868-3945 View (847) 868-3945
Photo of Carla R. Laury, Counselor in Gurnee, IL
Carla R. Laury
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
I have had the opportunity to work with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, parenting challenges, juvenile delinquent behavior, self-harm, and issues of self-worth.
I am a bilingual therapist providing individual, family, group, and couple's counseling in both English and Spanish. I enjoy working with a wide range of ages, and hold a special fondness for the adolescent and young adult population. Years of experience have prepared me for working with adolescent issues, parenting issues, and mood disorders.
I have had the opportunity to work with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, parenting challenges, juvenile delinquent behavior, self-harm, and issues of self-worth.
I am a bilingual therapist providing individual, family, group, and couple's counseling in both English and Spanish. I enjoy working with a wide range of ages, and hold a special fondness for the adolescent and young adult population. Years of experience have prepared me for working with adolescent issues, parenting issues, and mood disorders.
(847) 973-7317 View (847) 973-7317
Photo of James (Jim) Veltman, Counselor in Gurnee, IL
James (Jim) Veltman
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
When we deny our feelings, pushing them away (depressing them), we get depressed. When we shame our needs and criticize ourselves for being weak/needy, we strengthen the fear that causes us to hide who we really are. This increases anxiety. When we deny traumatic memories, we develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Numbing reality and denying real injustices will protect us from pain in the short run. Denying what is real, however, flings us into an inner conflict in which we resist the things that we need the most, and cling to the things that make us most dysfunctional.
When we deny our feelings, pushing them away (depressing them), we get depressed. When we shame our needs and criticize ourselves for being weak/needy, we strengthen the fear that causes us to hide who we really are. This increases anxiety. When we deny traumatic memories, we develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Numbing reality and denying real injustices will protect us from pain in the short run. Denying what is real, however, flings us into an inner conflict in which we resist the things that we need the most, and cling to the things that make us most dysfunctional.
(224) 365-8650 View (224) 365-8650
Photo of Adam Krieger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gurnee, IL
Adam Krieger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
Using empathy and humor, I am well suited to help those who struggle with relationship problems, depression, grief, infidelity, life transitions, sexual compulsion, family conflicts and anxiety.
With over 20 years in the field, I believe that effective therapy begins with clearly defining the problem being addressed and the desired outcome. I am particularly focused on helping you develop stronger relationships through effective communication, personal insight and compassion.
Using empathy and humor, I am well suited to help those who struggle with relationship problems, depression, grief, infidelity, life transitions, sexual compulsion, family conflicts and anxiety.
With over 20 years in the field, I believe that effective therapy begins with clearly defining the problem being addressed and the desired outcome. I am particularly focused on helping you develop stronger relationships through effective communication, personal insight and compassion.
(847) 565-1207 View (847) 565-1207
Photo of Lisa Rouff, Psychologist in Gurnee, IL
Lisa Rouff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
I have extensive experience and training working with adults in both individual and couples therapy on such issues as depression, anxiety, career problems, and relationship difficulties. relationship difficulties. In addition, I also specialize in the areas of infertility and adoption.
I have extensive experience and training working with adults in both individual and couples therapy on such issues as depression, anxiety, career problems, and relationship difficulties. relationship difficulties. In addition, I also specialize in the areas of infertility and adoption.
(847) 302-0411 View (847) 302-0411
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.