Photo of Terri A. Ammirati, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Terri A. Ammirati
Counselor, MA, MFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
My focus with adolescents and adults involves issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, loss, PTSD and trauma work.
I believe you are the expert of your life. Within you are the answers to many of the problems you face. My role is to come along side you to help clear the obstacles that are preventing real growth and change. We establish a collaborative relationship built on mutual respect and trust. I provide an environment where you will feel safe, supported, heard and understood. Clients describe me as empathetic, genuine, and direct.
My focus with adolescents and adults involves issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, loss, PTSD and trauma work.
I believe you are the expert of your life. Within you are the answers to many of the problems you face. My role is to come along side you to help clear the obstacles that are preventing real growth and change. We establish a collaborative relationship built on mutual respect and trust. I provide an environment where you will feel safe, supported, heard and understood. Clients describe me as empathetic, genuine, and direct.
(847) 607-1374 View (847) 607-1374
Photo of Loren Mercola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Deerfield, IL
Loren Mercola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Type 73
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
** Manifest Your Destiny Using the Law of Attraction ** Generate Motivation from Within; Define Priorities, Set Goals, Create Action Plans ** Manage Mood Disorders(Depression, Anxiety, Bi-Polar) ** Cultivate Relationships ** Master Communication & Assertveness Skills ** Build Self-Esteem, Enhance Insight, Alter Thought Processes ** Break Codependent Patterns ** Improve Anger Management/Impulse Control/Ability to Forgive.
IS THE LIFE YOU ARE LIVING NOW THE LIFE THAT WANTS TO LIVE IN YOU? If not, I can help! Create the reality you want. Dare to dream. Find your passion. Change directions. Discover your untapped potential. Celebrate relationships. Enrich your spirit. Live your best life by being your BEST self! With a collaborative counseling/coaching style, I offer guidance, support, education and strategies to empower you to achieve your goals and live a healthy, balanced life. Working together will provide you with opportunities to grow and learn to: Accept Accountability for your Choices, Actions & Reactions
** Manifest Your Destiny Using the Law of Attraction ** Generate Motivation from Within; Define Priorities, Set Goals, Create Action Plans ** Manage Mood Disorders(Depression, Anxiety, Bi-Polar) ** Cultivate Relationships ** Master Communication & Assertveness Skills ** Build Self-Esteem, Enhance Insight, Alter Thought Processes ** Break Codependent Patterns ** Improve Anger Management/Impulse Control/Ability to Forgive.
IS THE LIFE YOU ARE LIVING NOW THE LIFE THAT WANTS TO LIVE IN YOU? If not, I can help! Create the reality you want. Dare to dream. Find your passion. Change directions. Discover your untapped potential. Celebrate relationships. Enrich your spirit. Live your best life by being your BEST self! With a collaborative counseling/coaching style, I offer guidance, support, education and strategies to empower you to achieve your goals and live a healthy, balanced life. Working together will provide you with opportunities to grow and learn to: Accept Accountability for your Choices, Actions & Reactions
(312) 806-8880 View (312) 806-8880

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Missy Tuber Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Deerfield, IL
Missy Tuber Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I am a Clinical Social Worker and have worked in a variety of different settings in the mental health field. I am experienced working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with a wide range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief and loss, parenting challenges, family conflict, anger and stress management, trauma and adjustment issues. I work collaboratively with clients to help them develop essential tools and coping skills that empower them while facing life's challenges. We work together to confront difficult issues and find ways to achieve positive change.
I am a Clinical Social Worker and have worked in a variety of different settings in the mental health field. I am experienced working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with a wide range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief and loss, parenting challenges, family conflict, anger and stress management, trauma and adjustment issues. I work collaboratively with clients to help them develop essential tools and coping skills that empower them while facing life's challenges. We work together to confront difficult issues and find ways to achieve positive change.
(224) 487-7775 View (224) 487-7775
Photo of Gillian Messinger, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Gillian Messinger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
I am a clinical psychologist who uses an orientation to treatment called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My area of expertise is such that I am equipped to work with clients struggling with a multitude of issues, such as depression, anxiety, anger. These emotional issues might be precipitated by stressors in the client's life, such as loss of a job, marital conflict, financial strain. Sometimes people feel unhappy or anxious, with no identifiable reason. By using an approach to treatment that actively helps to lessen negative feelings I aide people in living a more productive life.
I am a clinical psychologist who uses an orientation to treatment called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My area of expertise is such that I am equipped to work with clients struggling with a multitude of issues, such as depression, anxiety, anger. These emotional issues might be precipitated by stressors in the client's life, such as loss of a job, marital conflict, financial strain. Sometimes people feel unhappy or anxious, with no identifiable reason. By using an approach to treatment that actively helps to lessen negative feelings I aide people in living a more productive life.
(847) 989-3965 View (847) 989-3965
Photo of Catherine A Corbett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Deerfield, IL
Catherine A Corbett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I have extensive experience with depression, parenting, and relationship issues.
When you feel that something in your life needs to change, getting started can seem overwhelming. I help people identify their strengths and explore solutions in a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere. My style is interactive and conversational: it's important that clients feel accepted and free to speak openly. Over the years, I have learned that the human spirit is an amazing and resilient force. We all have the capacity to make creative changes that are unique to each of us. I enjoy seeing clients regain confidence in their ability to make good decisions during challenging periods in their lives.
I have extensive experience with depression, parenting, and relationship issues.
When you feel that something in your life needs to change, getting started can seem overwhelming. I help people identify their strengths and explore solutions in a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere. My style is interactive and conversational: it's important that clients feel accepted and free to speak openly. Over the years, I have learned that the human spirit is an amazing and resilient force. We all have the capacity to make creative changes that are unique to each of us. I enjoy seeing clients regain confidence in their ability to make good decisions during challenging periods in their lives.
(847) 416-1124 View (847) 416-1124
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Lynda Behrendt, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Lynda Behrendt
Psychologist, PsyD, RN, MFT
Verified Verified
Glenview, IL 60026
People struggling with depression, anxiety, medical problems, situational stressors and/or relationship issues can expect a treatment approach that is adapted to their individual personality.
As a Clinical Psychologist, Registered Nurse and Marriage and Family Therapist, I have 30 + years experience helping adults deal with life struggles by positively using their individual cognitive, emotional, social, physical, spiritual and behavioral abilities.The focus is goal oriented but with sensitivity and understanding.
People struggling with depression, anxiety, medical problems, situational stressors and/or relationship issues can expect a treatment approach that is adapted to their individual personality.
As a Clinical Psychologist, Registered Nurse and Marriage and Family Therapist, I have 30 + years experience helping adults deal with life struggles by positively using their individual cognitive, emotional, social, physical, spiritual and behavioral abilities.The focus is goal oriented but with sensitivity and understanding.
(847) 254-1000 View (847) 254-1000
Photo of James Buchholz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Deerfield, IL
James Buchholz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mount Prospect, IL 60056
Many of us, from time to time, find that depression, anxiety or stress can cause us to get "stuck", where negative thoughts and unhelpful behavior patterns keep us from meeting the goals we wish to achieve, or enjoying our relationships to the fullest degree possible. I can help you move beyond those "stuck points", and to identify the obstacles and challenges in your way. I will help empower you to achieve your personal goals for a healthy, successful life. Together we will work to create a unique and specific plan, where you will develop new, positive patterns of thinking and behavior.
Many of us, from time to time, find that depression, anxiety or stress can cause us to get "stuck", where negative thoughts and unhelpful behavior patterns keep us from meeting the goals we wish to achieve, or enjoying our relationships to the fullest degree possible. I can help you move beyond those "stuck points", and to identify the obstacles and challenges in your way. I will help empower you to achieve your personal goals for a healthy, successful life. Together we will work to create a unique and specific plan, where you will develop new, positive patterns of thinking and behavior.
(847) 305-3119 View (847) 305-3119
Christine Saindon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a variety of people with a common set of experiences-the after effects of trauma, both childhood and throughout the lifespan. Untreated trauma is often accompanied by anxiety, depression, physical problems and addictions.
I work with a variety of people with a common set of experiences-the after effects of trauma, both childhood and throughout the lifespan. Untreated trauma is often accompanied by anxiety, depression, physical problems and addictions.
(773) 572-9437 View (773) 572-9437
Photo of Laura Kezdi-Hamzeloo, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Laura Kezdi-Hamzeloo
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Would you like to feel more self-assured and empowered? Would you like to better advocate for your self in your personal and professional relationships? Would you like to feel more in control over the direction of your life? My specialty is working with those who struggle with depression/anxiety, self-esteem and relationship issues. I am passionate about helping people build on their strengths, achieve balance in their lives, and attain the personal growth and change they desire. My goal is to help my clients develop greater self-understanding, greater self-compassion and more meaningful supportive relationships.
Would you like to feel more self-assured and empowered? Would you like to better advocate for your self in your personal and professional relationships? Would you like to feel more in control over the direction of your life? My specialty is working with those who struggle with depression/anxiety, self-esteem and relationship issues. I am passionate about helping people build on their strengths, achieve balance in their lives, and attain the personal growth and change they desire. My goal is to help my clients develop greater self-understanding, greater self-compassion and more meaningful supportive relationships.
(847) 512-4563 View (847) 512-4563
Photo of Niki Wood, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Niki Wood
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mount Prospect, IL 60056
, Depression, Anxiety), Asperger's Disorder/Autism, and compelx medical disorders.
I want to help children, adolescents, adults, and their families learn to understand and cope with the problems that they are currently experiencing. I view people as individuals and am interested in a multifaceted treatment approach, including consultation with psychiatrists/physicians, schools, and other specialities. I utilize an ecletic therapy approach, including CBT and EFT. My predoctoral training was at a specialty hospital working with all ages suffering from brain injury and/or complex medical disorders. I also have experience working with adolescents and their families in crisis.
, Depression, Anxiety), Asperger's Disorder/Autism, and compelx medical disorders.
I want to help children, adolescents, adults, and their families learn to understand and cope with the problems that they are currently experiencing. I view people as individuals and am interested in a multifaceted treatment approach, including consultation with psychiatrists/physicians, schools, and other specialities. I utilize an ecletic therapy approach, including CBT and EFT. My predoctoral training was at a specialty hospital working with all ages suffering from brain injury and/or complex medical disorders. I also have experience working with adolescents and their families in crisis.
(847) 268-3530 View (847) 268-3530
Photo of Tom Alcock, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Tom Alcock
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Personally, I know how difficult it was for me to get out of bed when suffering from depression and anxiety and to go about the everyday when concerned about having another panic attack. I know how valuable it was for me to have someone to talk to that wouldn't judge me or make me feel guilty about being exactly where I was at the time. The idea of "you should be fine", or "you have no reason to be anxious or depressed" is hurtful and doesn't help.
Personally, I know how difficult it was for me to get out of bed when suffering from depression and anxiety and to go about the everyday when concerned about having another panic attack. I know how valuable it was for me to have someone to talk to that wouldn't judge me or make me feel guilty about being exactly where I was at the time. The idea of "you should be fine", or "you have no reason to be anxious or depressed" is hurtful and doesn't help.
(872) 206-9613 View (872) 206-9613
Photo of Lynn Moosman, MA, LCPC, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Lynn Moosman, MA, LCPC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Within each of us is the ability to heal from painful emotional symptoms and to live a well balanced, fulfilling life. Coming to counseling takes courage but can lead the reduction of anxiety and depression, as well as improving relationships and finding solutions to recurring problems in our lives. With over 24 years in professional counseling psychology, I am well versed in traditional theory and treatment, but use evidenced-based alternative treatments based on client's needs.
Within each of us is the ability to heal from painful emotional symptoms and to live a well balanced, fulfilling life. Coming to counseling takes courage but can lead the reduction of anxiety and depression, as well as improving relationships and finding solutions to recurring problems in our lives. With over 24 years in professional counseling psychology, I am well versed in traditional theory and treatment, but use evidenced-based alternative treatments based on client's needs.
(847) 941-0548 View (847) 941-0548
Photo of Kelly Poapst (Addiction Treatment), Licensed Professional Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Kelly Poapst (Addiction Treatment)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
The program at this Symetria clinic goes beyond traditional therapy to treat everything hiding behind the drugs or alcohol - all while still living at home! Treatment here helps you rebalance your brain, create healthy thought patterns and heal underlying issues (like trauma, anxiety, depression or family conflict).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
The program at this Symetria clinic goes beyond traditional therapy to treat everything hiding behind the drugs or alcohol - all while still living at home! Treatment here helps you rebalance your brain, create healthy thought patterns and heal underlying issues (like trauma, anxiety, depression or family conflict).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol therapist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(847) 654-9904 View (847) 654-9904
Photo of Cecily A. Kanter, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Cecily A. Kanter
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
I work with individuals and families diagnosed with: autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, learning disabilities, anxiety, mood disorders, and postpartum depression.
"Your Comfort and Your Health" is always a priority with me. My goal as a psychologist is to provide meaningful, compassionate, and successful therapy. Successful clients have reported that I have provided them with a safe, comfortable, and nurturing environment for treatment, which allowed them to grow and develop new strengths. I utilize a number of strategies to engage individuals and families in treatment, including but not limited to cognitive behavioral (CBT), client centered and family therapies. I believe in and facilitate a strength-based approach to treatment, allowing the individual to develop and recognize their personal strengths.
I work with individuals and families diagnosed with: autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, learning disabilities, anxiety, mood disorders, and postpartum depression.
"Your Comfort and Your Health" is always a priority with me. My goal as a psychologist is to provide meaningful, compassionate, and successful therapy. Successful clients have reported that I have provided them with a safe, comfortable, and nurturing environment for treatment, which allowed them to grow and develop new strengths. I utilize a number of strategies to engage individuals and families in treatment, including but not limited to cognitive behavioral (CBT), client centered and family therapies. I believe in and facilitate a strength-based approach to treatment, allowing the individual to develop and recognize their personal strengths.
(847) 453-3526 View (847) 453-3526
Photo of Debra Kowalczyk, M.A., LCPC, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Debra Kowalczyk, M.A., LCPC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
I have provided mental health counseling in private practice for the past 17 years to people struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, stress management, relationship issues, parenting concerns, separation and divorce, pregnancy or adoption issues, substance abuse and grief and loss issues. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups. I use cognitive behavioral therapy to help develop coping strategies and tools which provide symptom relief and change from problem behaviors. I also help clients develop new insights into their behaviors and choices so that they may learn from past experiences and make healthier choices in the future,
I have provided mental health counseling in private practice for the past 17 years to people struggling with depression, anxiety, panic, stress management, relationship issues, parenting concerns, separation and divorce, pregnancy or adoption issues, substance abuse and grief and loss issues. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups. I use cognitive behavioral therapy to help develop coping strategies and tools which provide symptom relief and change from problem behaviors. I also help clients develop new insights into their behaviors and choices so that they may learn from past experiences and make healthier choices in the future,
(708) 669-0488 View (708) 669-0488
Suzanne Carey
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I also work with adults and adolescents around adjustment, depression, and life transition issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. My goal is to create an atmosphere that is open and nurturing to everyone. I believe that by looking honestly at where we are, everyone has the potential for positive change, regardless of where we find ourselves. I use an eclectic approach in therapy and personalize interaction with each client.
I also work with adults and adolescents around adjustment, depression, and life transition issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. My goal is to create an atmosphere that is open and nurturing to everyone. I believe that by looking honestly at where we are, everyone has the potential for positive change, regardless of where we find ourselves. I use an eclectic approach in therapy and personalize interaction with each client.
(708) 945-6359 View (708) 945-6359
Photo of Whitney Freeman Tschan, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Whitney Freeman Tschan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mount Prospect, IL 60056
I have experience and training in working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioral difficulties, ADHD, pain management, eating disorders, body image concerns and emotional regulation difficulties.
I am passionate about helping individuals, couples and families both understand their challenges and create a pathway to healing. I believe the first step in this process is to find the right therapist and establish a trusting, honest, and mutually respectful relationship. I meet clients where they are and help them gain skills in such areas as emoitonal regulation, stress management, communication, parenting, problem solving and relaxation techniques.
I have experience and training in working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioral difficulties, ADHD, pain management, eating disorders, body image concerns and emotional regulation difficulties.
I am passionate about helping individuals, couples and families both understand their challenges and create a pathway to healing. I believe the first step in this process is to find the right therapist and establish a trusting, honest, and mutually respectful relationship. I meet clients where they are and help them gain skills in such areas as emoitonal regulation, stress management, communication, parenting, problem solving and relaxation techniques.
(847) 906-2414 View (847) 906-2414
Photo of Dave Marks, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Dave Marks
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
I have broad experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma and related issues.
Live the life you want! In 20+ years of working with clients, I have developed a clinical style based on how I would like to be treated if I were the client; a respectful, relaxed atmosphere providing excellent care - sometimes even fun. I work collaboratively to clarify my client's problems and resources, to address their concerns and help them get to where they want to be in life. I don't label my clients and often see myself as a type of teacher or coach. Additionally I worked for 7 years in a major corporation and understand the real world.
I have broad experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma and related issues.
Live the life you want! In 20+ years of working with clients, I have developed a clinical style based on how I would like to be treated if I were the client; a respectful, relaxed atmosphere providing excellent care - sometimes even fun. I work collaboratively to clarify my client's problems and resources, to address their concerns and help them get to where they want to be in life. I don't label my clients and often see myself as a type of teacher or coach. Additionally I worked for 7 years in a major corporation and understand the real world.
(224) 676-3868 View (224) 676-3868
Photo of Catherine Hauser, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Catherine Hauser
Counselor, PhD, RN, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
For over 20 years I have been helping people deal with the stress in their lives that contributes to depression, anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive behaviors, anger management, relationship and addiction problems. acute and chronic illness, such as cancer In overcoming stress, I use an interpersonal approach, combining both cognitive behavioral strategies, along with mind-body stress-reduction techniques, such as hypnosis and meditation training. When individuals improve their quality of life by reducing stress and dealing with underlying psychological problems, they are able to regain control over their lives,and have more meaningful relationships. I provide the following programs:Stress-Reduction for Emotional Distress,and for Acute and Chronic Illness,Group Therapy for Cancer Survivors, and Parent Coaching.
For over 20 years I have been helping people deal with the stress in their lives that contributes to depression, anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive behaviors, anger management, relationship and addiction problems. acute and chronic illness, such as cancer In overcoming stress, I use an interpersonal approach, combining both cognitive behavioral strategies, along with mind-body stress-reduction techniques, such as hypnosis and meditation training. When individuals improve their quality of life by reducing stress and dealing with underlying psychological problems, they are able to regain control over their lives,and have more meaningful relationships. I provide the following programs:Stress-Reduction for Emotional Distress,and for Acute and Chronic Illness,Group Therapy for Cancer Survivors, and Parent Coaching.
(847) 416-0247 View (847) 416-0247
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.