Photo of June Coaxum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
June Coaxum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
June Coaxum, LSW, believes in a holistic approach to therapy and healing. She provides tools to help guide anyone that may feel stagnant or need emotional support. June loves working with her clients from a strength-based perspective. This perspective sees people as resilient when faced with adversity. She believes in creating a safe environment for clients to recognize and express those strengths. June works with many populations struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma, schizophrenia, death and dying. She also has experience with Family Therapy and working with the L. G. B. T. Q. I. A. community.
June Coaxum, LSW, believes in a holistic approach to therapy and healing. She provides tools to help guide anyone that may feel stagnant or need emotional support. June loves working with her clients from a strength-based perspective. This perspective sees people as resilient when faced with adversity. She believes in creating a safe environment for clients to recognize and express those strengths. June works with many populations struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma, schizophrenia, death and dying. She also has experience with Family Therapy and working with the L. G. B. T. Q. I. A. community.
(224) 279-6865 View (224) 279-6865
Photo of Beatrice Finkelstein, Psychologist in Evanston, IL
Beatrice Finkelstein
Psychologist, RN, PsyD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
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 Mindful Psychology Associates, Psychologist in Evanston, IL
Mindful Psychology Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
March 2024 update: We have openings for new clients for telehealth and in person! Are you stressed out, depressed and wanting to live your life with more ease? Imagine your life with more calm, peace, and trust in yourself and your ability to handle whatever may come your way. Imagine feeling more fulfilled in your work and your relationships! The guidance and support of an experienced licensed therapist can help you navigate the more trying times. Seeing one of our therapists can help you feel more content and purposeful as you navigate life, whether it is through a life transition or dealing with serious mental health symptoms.
March 2024 update: We have openings for new clients for telehealth and in person! Are you stressed out, depressed and wanting to live your life with more ease? Imagine your life with more calm, peace, and trust in yourself and your ability to handle whatever may come your way. Imagine feeling more fulfilled in your work and your relationships! The guidance and support of an experienced licensed therapist can help you navigate the more trying times. Seeing one of our therapists can help you feel more content and purposeful as you navigate life, whether it is through a life transition or dealing with serious mental health symptoms.
(847) 864-0600 View (847) 864-0600
Photo of Santina Maria Bianco, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Santina Maria Bianco
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Some common concerns I help my clients address include autism, attention deficient hyperactivity disorder, anger management, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
It is my goal to provide a safe and collaborative space where you can fully express your thoughts, feelings, doubts, and desires. I deeply respect all people and their unique identities and experiences. I listen carefully to make sure I fully understand and then work in partnership and support to develop goals and plans. It is my hope that everyone I meet with feels accepted and comfortable throughout our journey together.
Some common concerns I help my clients address include autism, attention deficient hyperactivity disorder, anger management, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
It is my goal to provide a safe and collaborative space where you can fully express your thoughts, feelings, doubts, and desires. I deeply respect all people and their unique identities and experiences. I listen carefully to make sure I fully understand and then work in partnership and support to develop goals and plans. It is my hope that everyone I meet with feels accepted and comfortable throughout our journey together.
(872) 250-5307 View (872) 250-5307
Photo of Ellen Lonnquist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Evanston, IL
Ellen Lonnquist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
Life offers both ordinary and unexpected challenges that may leave you struggling. Using a protective, nurturing and flexible approach, I draw from a range of techniques to support individuals, couples and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and loss. We will work together to explore beliefs, behaviors and situations that hinder the expression of your true self, using your own strengths to support your growth and development. Every healing journey is unique- and all individuals have their own gifts to access. I am committed to exploring these through an anti-oppressive and anti-racist lens.
Life offers both ordinary and unexpected challenges that may leave you struggling. Using a protective, nurturing and flexible approach, I draw from a range of techniques to support individuals, couples and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and loss. We will work together to explore beliefs, behaviors and situations that hinder the expression of your true self, using your own strengths to support your growth and development. Every healing journey is unique- and all individuals have their own gifts to access. I am committed to exploring these through an anti-oppressive and anti-racist lens.
(847) 469-9252 x29 View (847) 469-9252 x29
Photo of Lara Hayes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Lara Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
I have significant experience working with those navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidality, grief/loss, low self-esteem, and ADHD.
As a firm believer in the power of genuine human connection, the dynamic between my clients and I is of my highest priority. A professor and mentor once said, “The question should not be, ‘What’s wrong with you?’ But rather, ‘What has happened to you?’” This quote shapes every conversation I hold with my clients. I am dedicated to breaking down the stigma of traditional talk therapy, particularly for young folks, by empowering my clients to rewrite their own narrative and understand their neurological roots, to become the best version of themself, for themself, their relationships, and their future.
I have significant experience working with those navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidality, grief/loss, low self-esteem, and ADHD.
As a firm believer in the power of genuine human connection, the dynamic between my clients and I is of my highest priority. A professor and mentor once said, “The question should not be, ‘What’s wrong with you?’ But rather, ‘What has happened to you?’” This quote shapes every conversation I hold with my clients. I am dedicated to breaking down the stigma of traditional talk therapy, particularly for young folks, by empowering my clients to rewrite their own narrative and understand their neurological roots, to become the best version of themself, for themself, their relationships, and their future.
(773) 364-1686 View (773) 364-1686
Photo of Meghan Llanes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Meghan Llanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
I specialize in providing therapy to individuals & families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, divorce, ADHD, and other common life challenges.
Being a child, an adolescent, an adult, is not easy. School, working, navigating relationships, parenting, family life, finding time for yourself, coping with loss, stress- We all face times that are challenging. Everyone deserves a safe space to share their story, feelings, & experiences & have their truth be heard & held. I am passionate about helping children & adults as they navigate difficult moments in their lives. I am skilled at listening, providing support, guidance, & compassion as individuals strive to make meaning, heal, connect, problem solve, successfully participate, & find joy in their lives. Change is possible.
I specialize in providing therapy to individuals & families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, divorce, ADHD, and other common life challenges.
Being a child, an adolescent, an adult, is not easy. School, working, navigating relationships, parenting, family life, finding time for yourself, coping with loss, stress- We all face times that are challenging. Everyone deserves a safe space to share their story, feelings, & experiences & have their truth be heard & held. I am passionate about helping children & adults as they navigate difficult moments in their lives. I am skilled at listening, providing support, guidance, & compassion as individuals strive to make meaning, heal, connect, problem solve, successfully participate, & find joy in their lives. Change is possible.
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Photo of Mignon Dupepe, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Mignon Dupepe
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
I provide art therapy and counseling specializing in anxiety, depression, coping skills, sensory processing issues, disabilities, ADHD, life transitions and stressors, and expressive art experiences and collaborations.
Life is filled with sorrow and joy, frustration and wonder, stagnation and growth, obstacles and openings. At times, our skill set and resources are not optimal for helping us adapt to the shifts and movement in our lives. I believe that art therapy and counseling can support understanding of our skills and resources that better equip us to adapt to life's changes. Art therapy allows opportunities to imagine the best, healthiest version of ourselves and permit clarifying moments where we perceive possibility and potential. My goal is to support clients in becoming active agents in developing positive, purposeful ideas towards wellness and good health.
I provide art therapy and counseling specializing in anxiety, depression, coping skills, sensory processing issues, disabilities, ADHD, life transitions and stressors, and expressive art experiences and collaborations.
Life is filled with sorrow and joy, frustration and wonder, stagnation and growth, obstacles and openings. At times, our skill set and resources are not optimal for helping us adapt to the shifts and movement in our lives. I believe that art therapy and counseling can support understanding of our skills and resources that better equip us to adapt to life's changes. Art therapy allows opportunities to imagine the best, healthiest version of ourselves and permit clarifying moments where we perceive possibility and potential. My goal is to support clients in becoming active agents in developing positive, purposeful ideas towards wellness and good health.
(847) 558-7947 View (847) 558-7947
Photo of Casey Merrill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Casey Merrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
My passion is working with youth and young adults, especially those experiencing life transitions, family and relationship conflict, anxiety, and depression.
I understand how overwhelming the process of finding a therapist can be. I understand the discouragement felt when your therapist isn’t the right fit. My approach to therapy is down to earth and humanistic. I recognize that everyone is having their own authentic and imperfect experience which cannot be judged, and the way I treat every client mirrors that. My core belief is that everyone deserves to be heard.
My passion is working with youth and young adults, especially those experiencing life transitions, family and relationship conflict, anxiety, and depression.
I understand how overwhelming the process of finding a therapist can be. I understand the discouragement felt when your therapist isn’t the right fit. My approach to therapy is down to earth and humanistic. I recognize that everyone is having their own authentic and imperfect experience which cannot be judged, and the way I treat every client mirrors that. My core belief is that everyone deserves to be heard.
(312) 728-7337 View (312) 728-7337
Photo of Abbie McBride, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Abbie McBride
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60202
I’m Abbie, a dedicated intern therapist specializing in supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety. With years in the field I have developed a passion for mental health and am eager to provide empathetic and effective support tailored to my clients needs. I aim to help my clients develop their self compassion, resilience, and overall satisfaction with life. By utilizing a strengths-based approach, my clients work toward meeting their goals.
I’m Abbie, a dedicated intern therapist specializing in supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety. With years in the field I have developed a passion for mental health and am eager to provide empathetic and effective support tailored to my clients needs. I aim to help my clients develop their self compassion, resilience, and overall satisfaction with life. By utilizing a strengths-based approach, my clients work toward meeting their goals.
(872) 278-4264 View (872) 278-4264
Photo of Dr. Breanne Taylor, Pre-Licensed Professional in Evanston, IL
Dr. Breanne Taylor
Pre-Licensed Professional, Postdoc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I have experience in multiple settings including substance abuse facilities, community mental health centers, and therapeutic day schools working with concerns such as anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, developmental disorders, impulse control, and relationship struggles.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount in fostering change. It is through an open, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that clients can explore and grow into their most authentic selves and lead more fulfilling lives. My approach emphasizes how our past and present experiences shape how we relate to others and the world around us. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, and utilize an integrative and collaborative approach that incorporates aspects of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Feminist, Relational, and Strengths-Based approaches.
I have experience in multiple settings including substance abuse facilities, community mental health centers, and therapeutic day schools working with concerns such as anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, developmental disorders, impulse control, and relationship struggles.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount in fostering change. It is through an open, nonjudgmental, and safe environment that clients can explore and grow into their most authentic selves and lead more fulfilling lives. My approach emphasizes how our past and present experiences shape how we relate to others and the world around us. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, and utilize an integrative and collaborative approach that incorporates aspects of Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Feminist, Relational, and Strengths-Based approaches.
(773) 839-2846 View (773) 839-2846
Photo of John Koh, Psychologist in Evanston, IL
John Koh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
As a therapist, I work collaboratively with clients to treat and manage their mental health issues. Due to the nature of our practice, I work with a wide range of clients negotiating unique life challenges. I provide individual psychotherapy, family therapy, psychological assessments, and evaluations for schools. Clients that seek treatment are generally managing symptoms from depression, anxiety, trauma, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or stress related issues.
As a therapist, I work collaboratively with clients to treat and manage their mental health issues. Due to the nature of our practice, I work with a wide range of clients negotiating unique life challenges. I provide individual psychotherapy, family therapy, psychological assessments, and evaluations for schools. Clients that seek treatment are generally managing symptoms from depression, anxiety, trauma, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or stress related issues.
(773) 451-9787 View (773) 451-9787
Photo of Sarah A. Schroeder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Sarah A. Schroeder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients in a variety of settings and capacities including those with severe mental illness, trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting, and developmental delays.
It's important that you find a therapist that is a right fit for you. I strive to create a safe holding environment where clients feel understood and encouraged to take their next step. I utilize a developmental framework and family systems approach, while viewing each client as a unique individual. I specialize in working with young children and families, providing individual, family, couples, and group treatment.
I have experience working with clients in a variety of settings and capacities including those with severe mental illness, trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting, and developmental delays.
It's important that you find a therapist that is a right fit for you. I strive to create a safe holding environment where clients feel understood and encouraged to take their next step. I utilize a developmental framework and family systems approach, while viewing each client as a unique individual. I specialize in working with young children and families, providing individual, family, couples, and group treatment.
(872) 244-6873 View (872) 244-6873
Photo of Brandon Branch, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Brandon Branch
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Brandon believes that good therapy shows us how to tap into our own resilience to foster long-term change and personal growth. Brandon specializes in working with individuals with depression, anxiety, anger management issues and life transitions of all varieties. Brandon also works with clients with behavioral disorders, those on the autism spectrum, and with clients addressing intergenerational trauma and challenges associated with communities of color.
Brandon believes that good therapy shows us how to tap into our own resilience to foster long-term change and personal growth. Brandon specializes in working with individuals with depression, anxiety, anger management issues and life transitions of all varieties. Brandon also works with clients with behavioral disorders, those on the autism spectrum, and with clients addressing intergenerational trauma and challenges associated with communities of color.
(224) 714-0396 View (224) 714-0396
Photo of Kaitlin Skog, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Kaitlin Skog
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
With compassion, and humor, I have counseled individuals through a variety of life’s challenges, including but not limited to; grief, relationship struggles, domestic violence/abuse, family trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and severe mental illness.
In my therapy practice, I specialize in creating an empathic and supportive environment. I will work to empower and guide you to develop healthy coping strategies, deeper more satisfying relationships, and the skills and space to process your emotions and move forward.
With compassion, and humor, I have counseled individuals through a variety of life’s challenges, including but not limited to; grief, relationship struggles, domestic violence/abuse, family trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and severe mental illness.
In my therapy practice, I specialize in creating an empathic and supportive environment. I will work to empower and guide you to develop healthy coping strategies, deeper more satisfying relationships, and the skills and space to process your emotions and move forward.
(847) 349-4473 View (847) 349-4473
Photo of Olivia LaPointe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Olivia LaPointe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Are you a college student struggling to adjust and find your place on campus? Are you a parent who’s sick of getting calls from your student’s teacher about behavior issues? Are you feeling trapped in a cycle of depression or anxiety? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, I’m the therapist for you!
Are you a college student struggling to adjust and find your place on campus? Are you a parent who’s sick of getting calls from your student’s teacher about behavior issues? Are you feeling trapped in a cycle of depression or anxiety? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, I’m the therapist for you!
(224) 230-4808 View (224) 230-4808
Photo of Ashley Allis, Counselor in Evanston, IL
Ashley Allis
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed and run down? Looking for a space to help sort through stressors and finally make a change? Unsure of what to do next or how to make a meaningful change? People often enter therapy feeling anxious, depressed, confused, or unsure of how to deal with a change or loss. Therapy can be a place to explore feelings that are too hard to share with others. I believe therapy offers a safe environment to express yourself freely, deepen your understanding of yourself, and make positive long-lasting changes in your life. Clients enjoy having a space that is dedicated just to them to process their emotions.
Feeling overwhelmed and run down? Looking for a space to help sort through stressors and finally make a change? Unsure of what to do next or how to make a meaningful change? People often enter therapy feeling anxious, depressed, confused, or unsure of how to deal with a change or loss. Therapy can be a place to explore feelings that are too hard to share with others. I believe therapy offers a safe environment to express yourself freely, deepen your understanding of yourself, and make positive long-lasting changes in your life. Clients enjoy having a space that is dedicated just to them to process their emotions.
(312) 757-7598 View (312) 757-7598
Photo of Ivy Lynn Ellis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Evanston, IL
Ivy Lynn Ellis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
With 12+ years of experience, I may be a good fit if you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or work/life balance.
Is your anxiety on overdrive- you're overthinking, your mind is racing, you can't sleep? Does every task feel like a struggle, and you’re just exhausted from it all? If it feels impossible to cope with the stress of everyday life, now might be the time to connect with a therapist who can help you manage the ups and downs. Continue reading to learn how you can book a therapy session today, where you can finally express yourself without reservations and fear of judgement.
With 12+ years of experience, I may be a good fit if you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or work/life balance.
Is your anxiety on overdrive- you're overthinking, your mind is racing, you can't sleep? Does every task feel like a struggle, and you’re just exhausted from it all? If it feels impossible to cope with the stress of everyday life, now might be the time to connect with a therapist who can help you manage the ups and downs. Continue reading to learn how you can book a therapy session today, where you can finally express yourself without reservations and fear of judgement.
(847) 316-0110 View (847) 316-0110
Photo of Jennifer Black, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Evanston, IL
Jennifer Black
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LBS1, MSEd
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
Private Psychotherapist & Consultant, licensed as a clinical professional counselor and learning behavior specialist with 16+ years experience, serving people on the gifted, talented, twice-exceptional (2e), professional, public-figure, straight, LGBTQIA+, anxiety, depressive, bipolar, obsessive, ethically non-monogamous, ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent spectrums. If you (or someone you love) feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, misunderstood, fed up, sad, etc.—or you simply desire to work with a person who facilitates more optimal functioning and genuine wellbeing—then please call or email to check for an opening.
(224) 830-9800 View (224) 830-9800
Photo of ARC Professional Group, Psychologist in Evanston, IL
ARC Professional Group
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Dr. Sarah Warren is Founder of ARC Professional Group, a boutique concierge group practice that offers outstanding insight-oriented therapy for struggles such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and autism. We work with people who address their relationship to alcohol, drugs or other compulsive behavior. We work with clients though out the arc of their lives, through transitions such as divorce or launching as young adults. Our clients work in a variety of high stakes careers. We also offer a novel team-based level of care for individuals with complex needs such as dual diagnosis.
Dr. Sarah Warren is Founder of ARC Professional Group, a boutique concierge group practice that offers outstanding insight-oriented therapy for struggles such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and autism. We work with people who address their relationship to alcohol, drugs or other compulsive behavior. We work with clients though out the arc of their lives, through transitions such as divorce or launching as young adults. Our clients work in a variety of high stakes careers. We also offer a novel team-based level of care for individuals with complex needs such as dual diagnosis.
(312) 595-1691 View (312) 595-1691
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.