Therapists in Wilmette, IL

Photo of Blair McGuire, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Wilmette, IL
Blair McGuire
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
Throughout her career, Blair noticed a need to explore beyond her clients’ moods and emotional states, and was compelled to investigate other areas that may contribute to dysregulation and dissatisfaction. Blair decided to pursue an Integrated Nutrition Health Coach Certificate in 2023 and often takes a holistic approach when working with clients. Blair will assess and make recommendations for lifestyle changes in order to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, cultivate a greater sense of vitality and help clients achieve optimal health.
Throughout her career, Blair noticed a need to explore beyond her clients’ moods and emotional states, and was compelled to investigate other areas that may contribute to dysregulation and dissatisfaction. Blair decided to pursue an Integrated Nutrition Health Coach Certificate in 2023 and often takes a holistic approach when working with clients. Blair will assess and make recommendations for lifestyle changes in order to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, cultivate a greater sense of vitality and help clients achieve optimal health.
(847) 242-2545 View (847) 242-2545
Photo of Maddie Isaacs, Pre-Licensed Professional in Wilmette, IL
Maddie Isaacs
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, MSW, PEL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
I believe everyone has the potential for growth and development, but it is not easy! People face trauma, anxiety, depression, family issues, and other issues that are difficult to handle on their own. It can also be difficult to reach out to others and/or professionals to seek support. This is why I am here for you! I am an approachable, genuine, and warm clinician to make the transition to therapy and the therapy process as easy as possible. I provide children, teens, young adults, and adults a positive, safe and comfortable environment. I provide as much care, support and healing to reach and maintain my clients’ needs.
I believe everyone has the potential for growth and development, but it is not easy! People face trauma, anxiety, depression, family issues, and other issues that are difficult to handle on their own. It can also be difficult to reach out to others and/or professionals to seek support. This is why I am here for you! I am an approachable, genuine, and warm clinician to make the transition to therapy and the therapy process as easy as possible. I provide children, teens, young adults, and adults a positive, safe and comfortable environment. I provide as much care, support and healing to reach and maintain my clients’ needs.
(224) 298-8102 View (224) 298-8102
Photo of Charles Nicholas Pistorio, Psychologist in Wilmette, IL
Charles Nicholas Pistorio
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
My areas of expertise and interests include ADHD, anxiety, depression and stress.
I have helped my clients deal with major life issues in university, school, business, community, and hospital settings. I have been fortunate to have had full-time commitments on the counseling staff at Northwestern University, serving as the director during my final eight of fifteen years, and retiring after 28 years as a professor in the graduate program of Counselor Education at Northeastern Illinois University, educating and training master's level counselors in clinical and school settings. During those years, I continued working with outside consulting and private practice, but now focus on clinical practice.
My areas of expertise and interests include ADHD, anxiety, depression and stress.
I have helped my clients deal with major life issues in university, school, business, community, and hospital settings. I have been fortunate to have had full-time commitments on the counseling staff at Northwestern University, serving as the director during my final eight of fifteen years, and retiring after 28 years as a professor in the graduate program of Counselor Education at Northeastern Illinois University, educating and training master's level counselors in clinical and school settings. During those years, I continued working with outside consulting and private practice, but now focus on clinical practice.
(847) 558-7710 View (847) 558-7710
Photo of Cheryl Neuman Meltzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmette, IL
Cheryl Neuman Meltzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
In addition, I also have a wealth of experience and enjoy working with adolescents and young adults dealing with depression, anxiety, separation and transitional life issues.
In my practice I see adolescents and adults. I view therapy as a place where you can more fully understand yourself and your relationships and therefore be empowered to make better choices in your life. My style is informed by dynamically oriented and relational therapy. Regardless of theory, the most important part of the process is building a relationship built on trust and safety. Through this safe and supportive environment we will help you build on your strengths and problem solving skills as well as deepen your self awareness and self understanding.
In addition, I also have a wealth of experience and enjoy working with adolescents and young adults dealing with depression, anxiety, separation and transitional life issues.
In my practice I see adolescents and adults. I view therapy as a place where you can more fully understand yourself and your relationships and therefore be empowered to make better choices in your life. My style is informed by dynamically oriented and relational therapy. Regardless of theory, the most important part of the process is building a relationship built on trust and safety. Through this safe and supportive environment we will help you build on your strengths and problem solving skills as well as deepen your self awareness and self understanding.
(773) 672-3725 View (773) 672-3725
Photo of Martin McCarthy Jr., Psychologist in Wilmette, IL
Martin McCarthy Jr.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
(847) 562-5895 View (847) 562-5895
Photo of Carol R Cann, Counselor in Wilmette, IL
Carol R Cann
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Over the past 25 years, I've successfully worked with people coping with depression or anxiety; people looking to solve problems related to jobs, families or relationships; people (and their families) dealing with addictions and those who struggle with severe chronic mental illnesses.
You've been feeling distressed. Maybe it's because you're concerned that an important relationship grows more conflicted or distant no matter what you've tried. Maybe it's because you're wrestling with thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that interfere with your everyday life. Finding a good match for therapy is essential to your success; you want someone who will be a knowledgeable, caring guide. Working with your personal strengths, I will join with you to find the solutions you need. Asking for feedback, listening empathically, and answering your questions are ways I collaborate with you from the beginning.
Over the past 25 years, I've successfully worked with people coping with depression or anxiety; people looking to solve problems related to jobs, families or relationships; people (and their families) dealing with addictions and those who struggle with severe chronic mental illnesses.
You've been feeling distressed. Maybe it's because you're concerned that an important relationship grows more conflicted or distant no matter what you've tried. Maybe it's because you're wrestling with thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that interfere with your everyday life. Finding a good match for therapy is essential to your success; you want someone who will be a knowledgeable, caring guide. Working with your personal strengths, I will join with you to find the solutions you need. Asking for feedback, listening empathically, and answering your questions are ways I collaborate with you from the beginning.
(847) 752-9040 View (847) 752-9040
Photo of Tari N Mack, Psychologist in Wilmette, IL
Tari N Mack
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
I specialize in psychotherapy with adults with a wide range of issues including: relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, women's issues, lesbian/gay/bisexual and transgender issues, men's issues, life transitions, family dysfunction, and helping clients identify and modify problematic life patterns.
My style is relational and humanistic and my goal is to help each client tap into and achieve his/her true potential. I work interactively with clients to help foster clarity about what is truly desired and help to identify and modify problematic patterns and themes that stand in the way of increased self, life and relationship satisfaction. Growth, change and helping clients move toward their own vision of peace, fulfillment and happiness is always the goal. I take a holistic approach to psychological wellness and honor the client's work life, family traditions, sexual orientation, cultural & spiritual beliefs.
I specialize in psychotherapy with adults with a wide range of issues including: relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, women's issues, lesbian/gay/bisexual and transgender issues, men's issues, life transitions, family dysfunction, and helping clients identify and modify problematic life patterns.
My style is relational and humanistic and my goal is to help each client tap into and achieve his/her true potential. I work interactively with clients to help foster clarity about what is truly desired and help to identify and modify problematic patterns and themes that stand in the way of increased self, life and relationship satisfaction. Growth, change and helping clients move toward their own vision of peace, fulfillment and happiness is always the goal. I take a holistic approach to psychological wellness and honor the client's work life, family traditions, sexual orientation, cultural & spiritual beliefs.
(224) 269-8701 View (224) 269-8701
Photo of Julie Blackman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmette, IL
Julie Blackman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
For example, you feel depressed and withdraw from friends when actually deeper relationships are important to you.
It takes courage to go to therapy, especially when you feel stuck and vulnerable. That is why I appreciate the importance of a safe, nurturing and non-judgemental environment. There you can explore who you are, what is important to you and to repair what is keeping you from moving forward, whether it is depression/anxiety, relationship issues or an eating disorder. Once you have self-awareness, strategies and support, you will be able to make better choices and be the person you want to be.
For example, you feel depressed and withdraw from friends when actually deeper relationships are important to you.
It takes courage to go to therapy, especially when you feel stuck and vulnerable. That is why I appreciate the importance of a safe, nurturing and non-judgemental environment. There you can explore who you are, what is important to you and to repair what is keeping you from moving forward, whether it is depression/anxiety, relationship issues or an eating disorder. Once you have self-awareness, strategies and support, you will be able to make better choices and be the person you want to be.
(773) 717-2953 View (773) 717-2953
Photo of Michele O Studl, Psychologist in Wilmette, IL
Michele O Studl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I am a licensed psychologist and have been in private practice for over 25 years, with an emphasis on treating depression, anxiety, stress and relationship issues. After helping you, the client, identify the underlying causes or contributors to your distress, we together establish treatment goals. I assist you in implementing actions and behaviors to reach these goals, ease your symptoms, and help you feel a greater sense of control and emotional well-being.
I am a licensed psychologist and have been in private practice for over 25 years, with an emphasis on treating depression, anxiety, stress and relationship issues. After helping you, the client, identify the underlying causes or contributors to your distress, we together establish treatment goals. I assist you in implementing actions and behaviors to reach these goals, ease your symptoms, and help you feel a greater sense of control and emotional well-being.
(847) 920-7323 View (847) 920-7323
Photo of Rene Berlind, Counselor in Wilmette, IL
Rene Berlind
Counselor, MA, LCPC, MBA
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
Whether you're dealing with a new crisis, or have been struggling for a very long time, therapy provides insight and self awareness which can help lead to a healthier and more satisfying life. I provide therapy for adults and adolescents wanting to explore a variety of concerns and issues including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, trauma, panic disorder, and grief and loss. I am passionate about my work and consider it a privilege to be of help.
Whether you're dealing with a new crisis, or have been struggling for a very long time, therapy provides insight and self awareness which can help lead to a healthier and more satisfying life. I provide therapy for adults and adolescents wanting to explore a variety of concerns and issues including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, trauma, panic disorder, and grief and loss. I am passionate about my work and consider it a privilege to be of help.
(847) 400-6923 View (847) 400-6923
Photo of David A Sisk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmette, IL
David A Sisk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I primarily work with young children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing difficulties in school/work, social and family relationships, with self-esteem, focus, regulation, grief, divorce, trauma, depression, anxiety and challenging life circumstances. My approach is insight-oriented, psychodynamic, and relationship-based. I provide play and talk therapy for children and traditional talk-therapy for adults. Additionally, I provide reflective supervision and consultation for practitioners and trainees.
I primarily work with young children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing difficulties in school/work, social and family relationships, with self-esteem, focus, regulation, grief, divorce, trauma, depression, anxiety and challenging life circumstances. My approach is insight-oriented, psychodynamic, and relationship-based. I provide play and talk therapy for children and traditional talk-therapy for adults. Additionally, I provide reflective supervision and consultation for practitioners and trainees.
(773) 569-3559 View (773) 569-3559
Photo of Joe Flint, Counselor in Wilmette, IL
Joe Flint
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, prolonged or acute grief, chronic pain or illness, caregiving, sexual orientation, and relationship issues. I do not subscribe to one particular modality but rather tailor my approach to each client's needs. I believe working in the here and now are great ways to address current stressors, and I'm always happy to work with clients to address deeper issues as appropriate.
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, prolonged or acute grief, chronic pain or illness, caregiving, sexual orientation, and relationship issues. I do not subscribe to one particular modality but rather tailor my approach to each client's needs. I believe working in the here and now are great ways to address current stressors, and I'm always happy to work with clients to address deeper issues as appropriate.
(224) 268-0074 View (224) 268-0074
Photo of Elizabeth Bierbaum Clarke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmette, IL
Elizabeth Bierbaum Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I work with individuals through psychotherapy, coaching, clinical supervision, and consultation to address a wide variety of mental health, life, and professional challenges related to: depression and anxiety, grief, parenting, perinatal and postpartum care, ADD/ADHD, concerns unique to the LGBTQ community, and practice development.
I am a general practitioner whose personal style is warm and interactive. I utilize a psychodynamic approach informed by acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) principles. Psychotherapy at Third Wave Wellness provides a unique opportunity to transform one’s suffering. Learning to be more present, create space for discomfort, and mine for greater meaning allows us to take new actions to find joy, calm and purpose. Therapy and coaching are highly collaborative, we work together toward your goals.
I work with individuals through psychotherapy, coaching, clinical supervision, and consultation to address a wide variety of mental health, life, and professional challenges related to: depression and anxiety, grief, parenting, perinatal and postpartum care, ADD/ADHD, concerns unique to the LGBTQ community, and practice development.
I am a general practitioner whose personal style is warm and interactive. I utilize a psychodynamic approach informed by acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) principles. Psychotherapy at Third Wave Wellness provides a unique opportunity to transform one’s suffering. Learning to be more present, create space for discomfort, and mine for greater meaning allows us to take new actions to find joy, calm and purpose. Therapy and coaching are highly collaborative, we work together toward your goals.
(773) 234-8912 View (773) 234-8912
Photo of Stephan Romm, Psychologist in Wilmette, IL
Stephan Romm
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
I use mindfulness techniques and cognitive-behavioral approaches in working with patients. That being said, every person is unique and treatment should not be "one size fits all". I believe that it's vitally important that treatment techniques are tailored to the individual patient and the problems he or she wants to work on. I have extensive experience treating patients with a variety of anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, adult ADD, adjustment disorders and stress related problems. The core of my approach is to help people unleash their own inner motivation for change. I work with adults and teens.
I use mindfulness techniques and cognitive-behavioral approaches in working with patients. That being said, every person is unique and treatment should not be "one size fits all". I believe that it's vitally important that treatment techniques are tailored to the individual patient and the problems he or she wants to work on. I have extensive experience treating patients with a variety of anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, adult ADD, adjustment disorders and stress related problems. The core of my approach is to help people unleash their own inner motivation for change. I work with adults and teens.
(847) 565-3171 View (847) 565-3171
Photo of Jessica I Strang, Psychologist in Wilmette, IL
Jessica I Strang
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
I specialize in stress management, relationships issues, anxiety, depression, adolescent issues, domestic violence and trauma.
Are you having difficulties in your relationships? Are you experiencing stress from work or school that you cannot manage? Are you just feeling that you are stuck in life? I can help you find the answers to these problems in therapy. When I work with my clients, I focus on increasing their personal strengths and work toward discovering solutions to their life issues. My goals are simple- to help my clients make meaningful life changes and gain mastery and stability in their lives.
I specialize in stress management, relationships issues, anxiety, depression, adolescent issues, domestic violence and trauma.
Are you having difficulties in your relationships? Are you experiencing stress from work or school that you cannot manage? Are you just feeling that you are stuck in life? I can help you find the answers to these problems in therapy. When I work with my clients, I focus on increasing their personal strengths and work toward discovering solutions to their life issues. My goals are simple- to help my clients make meaningful life changes and gain mastery and stability in their lives.
(773) 295-7849 View (773) 295-7849
Photo of Beatrice Finkelstein, Psychologist in Wilmette, IL
Beatrice Finkelstein
Psychologist, RN, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
My areas of particular interest and experience include working with adults and adolescents dealing with worry, anxiety, panic or fears; unhappiness, dissatisfaction, depression; relationship problems; shyness, self-consciousness, fear of social situations; eating disorders including binge eating; difficulty managing anger; bipolar disorder; Asperger's syndrome in adults (and their families).
Each person entering therapy has unique needs that demand an individual approach. Providing a warm, accepting and empathic environment, I draw from a variety of psychotherapeutic models tailored to the needs of each client. With many years of experience as a mental health professional, including over 20 years as a licensed clinical psychologist and a previous career as a psychiatric nurse, I have worked with many individuals and couples with a variety of issues. My clients can expect to emerge from therapy better equipped to address the challenges they face now and those they will confront in the future.
My areas of particular interest and experience include working with adults and adolescents dealing with worry, anxiety, panic or fears; unhappiness, dissatisfaction, depression; relationship problems; shyness, self-consciousness, fear of social situations; eating disorders including binge eating; difficulty managing anger; bipolar disorder; Asperger's syndrome in adults (and their families).
Each person entering therapy has unique needs that demand an individual approach. Providing a warm, accepting and empathic environment, I draw from a variety of psychotherapeutic models tailored to the needs of each client. With many years of experience as a mental health professional, including over 20 years as a licensed clinical psychologist and a previous career as a psychiatric nurse, I have worked with many individuals and couples with a variety of issues. My clients can expect to emerge from therapy better equipped to address the challenges they face now and those they will confront in the future.
(847) 920-7523 View (847) 920-7523
Photo of Rebecca J Strauss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmette, IL
Rebecca J Strauss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I work with adolescents and adults on issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, difficult relationships, or those who seem to feel emotionally stuck.
Many of my clients present really well, seem completely put together, and their problems are not immediately apparent to others. Regardless, they have a sense that something is missing or something needs to change. I don't practice from a distance; I bring my whole self into the room in a warm, honest, and supportive way. Whether our engagement is brief and focused, or long-term and in-depth, together we'll identify what gets in the way of your happiness and work collaboratively to achieve your goals.
I work with adolescents and adults on issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, difficult relationships, or those who seem to feel emotionally stuck.
Many of my clients present really well, seem completely put together, and their problems are not immediately apparent to others. Regardless, they have a sense that something is missing or something needs to change. I don't practice from a distance; I bring my whole self into the room in a warm, honest, and supportive way. Whether our engagement is brief and focused, or long-term and in-depth, together we'll identify what gets in the way of your happiness and work collaboratively to achieve your goals.
(224) 993-2316 View (224) 993-2316
Photo of Julie Oscherwitz Grant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmette, IL
Julie Oscherwitz Grant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I specialize in the following areas:grief and loss, depression, marital and other relationship difficulties, divorce, young adult transitions and challenges, parenting, and women's medical issues.
We all work hard to take care of ourselves and build positive relationships, but sometimes obstacles get in our way. For more than 20 years, I have worked with people to identify and remove those obstacles, so that they can lead fuller and more joyful lives. You may be derailed by the loss of a job or relationship; feel depressed and not know why, or struggle as a parent. I work with individuals, couples and families to pinpoint your concerns and work toward change. My emphasis is on building honest, open relationships and on using insight to fuel change.
I specialize in the following areas:grief and loss, depression, marital and other relationship difficulties, divorce, young adult transitions and challenges, parenting, and women's medical issues.
We all work hard to take care of ourselves and build positive relationships, but sometimes obstacles get in our way. For more than 20 years, I have worked with people to identify and remove those obstacles, so that they can lead fuller and more joyful lives. You may be derailed by the loss of a job or relationship; feel depressed and not know why, or struggle as a parent. I work with individuals, couples and families to pinpoint your concerns and work toward change. My emphasis is on building honest, open relationships and on using insight to fuel change.
(847) 416-0986 View (847) 416-0986
Photo of M. Cecilia Bocanegra, LCPC, PMH-C, Counselor in Wilmette, IL
M. Cecilia Bocanegra, LCPC, PMH-C
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
I work with women (18 and up) who don’t feel good enough and are experiencing anxiety, depression, and/or confusion about who they are/want to be.
You're used to being the person who makes sure those around you feel happy even when that's meant putting your own needs last (if they stay on the list at all). It hasn't always been easy but you feel it’s been worth it and you’ve been really good at it. But lately it isn’t working any more. Out of nowhere, you're irritable. And anxious. It's harder holding onto that motivation to keep being The Fixer. You're sad and maybe angry with yourself. And feeling guilty for letting down your parents, partner, kids, friends. You have no idea what is going with you and you don't feel like you're being a good person.
I work with women (18 and up) who don’t feel good enough and are experiencing anxiety, depression, and/or confusion about who they are/want to be.
You're used to being the person who makes sure those around you feel happy even when that's meant putting your own needs last (if they stay on the list at all). It hasn't always been easy but you feel it’s been worth it and you’ve been really good at it. But lately it isn’t working any more. Out of nowhere, you're irritable. And anxious. It's harder holding onto that motivation to keep being The Fixer. You're sad and maybe angry with yourself. And feeling guilty for letting down your parents, partner, kids, friends. You have no idea what is going with you and you don't feel like you're being a good person.
View
Photo of Patience Dennison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmette, IL
Patience Dennison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
Beyond issues related to depression, anxiety, and life transitions, I also have special interest and expertise in grief work.
None of us has to have it all figured out all of the time. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength. Maybe you’re living a smaller life than you would like, stopping yourself short of taking risks because of fears or certain beliefs about yourself. Maybe you’re finding yourself in the same unhealthy patterns despite trying over and over again to carve a new path. Maybe you’re grappling with a change in your life and having a hard time finding your footing. I provide a warm, safe space where these painful patterns and struggles can be explored with fresh eyes, to both better understand them and work toward a sense of traction.
Beyond issues related to depression, anxiety, and life transitions, I also have special interest and expertise in grief work.
None of us has to have it all figured out all of the time. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength. Maybe you’re living a smaller life than you would like, stopping yourself short of taking risks because of fears or certain beliefs about yourself. Maybe you’re finding yourself in the same unhealthy patterns despite trying over and over again to carve a new path. Maybe you’re grappling with a change in your life and having a hard time finding your footing. I provide a warm, safe space where these painful patterns and struggles can be explored with fresh eyes, to both better understand them and work toward a sense of traction.
(224) 714-0248 View (224) 714-0248
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.