Photo of Michele Revsine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Michele Revsine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
My primary goal in working with clients is to provide a compassionate, accepting, mindful space to create an opportunity for clients to work towards the person they would like to be. I support individuals and families who are chronically distressed with a commitment to honesty and compassion. I am experienced with depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, adjustment difficulties, family conflict, and trauma. My training is in psychodynamic and family systems therapy, and I utilize modern approaches as well to individualize treatment to client's needs.
My primary goal in working with clients is to provide a compassionate, accepting, mindful space to create an opportunity for clients to work towards the person they would like to be. I support individuals and families who are chronically distressed with a commitment to honesty and compassion. I am experienced with depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, adjustment difficulties, family conflict, and trauma. My training is in psychodynamic and family systems therapy, and I utilize modern approaches as well to individualize treatment to client's needs.
(708) 249-3760 View (708) 249-3760
Photo of Flores Wellness & Consulting, P.C., Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Flores Wellness & Consulting, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60304
My specialties include health psychology, parent training skills for families, addressing depression and trauma with both brief interventions and object relations approaches, life transition concerns for adolescents and young adults, culturally informed treatment for Latino, Latinx, and LGTBQ identified folks, and clinical supervision.
I view therapy as the process of investing in your growth as a person, a parent, and a partner. I have worked alongside people who have overcome their pain and suffering by focusing on a plan that centers on their strengths and resources. Our work could include a focus on how to build confidence, increase coping skills, process pain from the past, and learn to tolerate uncertainty about the future. Overall, I truly believe that with support and understanding, you have the ability and resilience to achieve your goals of wellness and health.
My specialties include health psychology, parent training skills for families, addressing depression and trauma with both brief interventions and object relations approaches, life transition concerns for adolescents and young adults, culturally informed treatment for Latino, Latinx, and LGTBQ identified folks, and clinical supervision.
I view therapy as the process of investing in your growth as a person, a parent, and a partner. I have worked alongside people who have overcome their pain and suffering by focusing on a plan that centers on their strengths and resources. Our work could include a focus on how to build confidence, increase coping skills, process pain from the past, and learn to tolerate uncertainty about the future. Overall, I truly believe that with support and understanding, you have the ability and resilience to achieve your goals of wellness and health.
(773) 839-4146 View (773) 839-4146
Photo of Crystal Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Crystal Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
Reaching out for help can be difficult. It takes courage, vulnerability and hope to seek support and be open to seeing things from a new perspective. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and family coping. I work with adolescents, adults, families and couples to help them find greater fulfillment from life and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, culturally sensitive, strength based and client centered. As a former medical social worker, I am experienced in helping families cope through the many emotional and practical challenges a medical diagnosis and treatment can bring.
Reaching out for help can be difficult. It takes courage, vulnerability and hope to seek support and be open to seeing things from a new perspective. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and family coping. I work with adolescents, adults, families and couples to help them find greater fulfillment from life and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, culturally sensitive, strength based and client centered. As a former medical social worker, I am experienced in helping families cope through the many emotional and practical challenges a medical diagnosis and treatment can bring.
(708) 434-0084 View (708) 434-0084
Photo of Nicole Boehne, Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Nicole Boehne
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
My clinical specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Female Health, Menopause, LGBTQ, Transgender Youth,Premartial,Marriage,Grief,Parenting/ Parenting Children w/Special Needs.
Trying to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I’m here to make this process easy and help you find relief. I believe in a person’s capacity for change and the ability of each of us to reach our life goals. I’ll work with you to identify and remove the obstacles you have been facing. With humor and creativity, we will create the supportive environment you need to achieve your goals. I am passionate about connecting with people, and helping them to gain new ways of coping with life’s stressors.Ready to feel like yourself again?
My clinical specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Female Health, Menopause, LGBTQ, Transgender Youth,Premartial,Marriage,Grief,Parenting/ Parenting Children w/Special Needs.
Trying to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I’m here to make this process easy and help you find relief. I believe in a person’s capacity for change and the ability of each of us to reach our life goals. I’ll work with you to identify and remove the obstacles you have been facing. With humor and creativity, we will create the supportive environment you need to achieve your goals. I am passionate about connecting with people, and helping them to gain new ways of coping with life’s stressors.Ready to feel like yourself again?
(708) 223-2432 View (708) 223-2432
Roberta Stahnke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
I provide cognitive behavioral psychotherapy for education, support and management of symptoms of all mental disorders including depression, anxiety and Bipolar Disorder. I teach specific stress management, time management and other coping skills. I administer comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological testing batteries, including cognitive, memory, ADHD and projective testing. My areas of expertise include women's issues, geriatrics, veteran's issues and issues related to managing chronic medical illnesses and pain. My focus is on addressing each client's personal needs and problems.
I provide cognitive behavioral psychotherapy for education, support and management of symptoms of all mental disorders including depression, anxiety and Bipolar Disorder. I teach specific stress management, time management and other coping skills. I administer comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological testing batteries, including cognitive, memory, ADHD and projective testing. My areas of expertise include women's issues, geriatrics, veteran's issues and issues related to managing chronic medical illnesses and pain. My focus is on addressing each client's personal needs and problems.
(708) 218-9147 View (708) 218-9147
Photo of Pam Baldinelli, Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Pam Baldinelli
Counselor, MA, LCPC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
Coping with life challenges can be a difficult journey to navigate and each of us does so in our own unique way. Some of these experiences happen in moments yet leave an impact for a lifetime. Whether you are dealing with a traumatic experience, depression, anxiety or difficulty adjusting to changes in your life, it can get in the way of your ability to function in healthy ways. Having a sense of feeling stuck, loneliness or fear are all to common experiences and having a skilled therapist can guide you towards living a more satisfying life. My hope is to guide my clients to a deeper understanding of their thoughts and emotions.
Coping with life challenges can be a difficult journey to navigate and each of us does so in our own unique way. Some of these experiences happen in moments yet leave an impact for a lifetime. Whether you are dealing with a traumatic experience, depression, anxiety or difficulty adjusting to changes in your life, it can get in the way of your ability to function in healthy ways. Having a sense of feeling stuck, loneliness or fear are all to common experiences and having a skilled therapist can guide you towards living a more satisfying life. My hope is to guide my clients to a deeper understanding of their thoughts and emotions.
(708) 628-7397 View (708) 628-7397
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
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 Melissa Rowland, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Melissa Rowland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I also treat depression, trauma, parenting difficulties, and coping with medical illness.
My goal as a therapist is to help people get back on track with what is truly important in their lives and let go of the unnecessary struggle that psychological pain can create. I believe that everyone can learn to take a new perspective on pain in order to prevent it from acting as a barrier to the most important parts of their lives.
I also treat depression, trauma, parenting difficulties, and coping with medical illness.
My goal as a therapist is to help people get back on track with what is truly important in their lives and let go of the unnecessary struggle that psychological pain can create. I believe that everyone can learn to take a new perspective on pain in order to prevent it from acting as a barrier to the most important parts of their lives.
(312) 634-6394 View (312) 634-6394
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
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 tenhers and fathers navigating prenatal/postpartum depression.
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 tenhers and fathers navigating prenatal/postpartum depression.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Karishma Mukherji, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Karishma Mukherji
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I work with older teens, adults, and couples, and specializes in working with trauma, anxiety, depression and chronic illnesses.
With 15 years of experience in holistic and integrative medicine, I bring a deeper understanding and success in providing effective therapy for long-term illnesses, women’s health, perinatal concerns and postpartum depression. I am equally passionate about working with life transitions, including relationship uncertainty, break-up and divorce recovery, and the challenges of dating. Her personal experience of moving to the U.S has led to a greater understanding of issues pertaining to immigration, life transitions, identity concerns, motivation, and self-esteem.
I work with older teens, adults, and couples, and specializes in working with trauma, anxiety, depression and chronic illnesses.
With 15 years of experience in holistic and integrative medicine, I bring a deeper understanding and success in providing effective therapy for long-term illnesses, women’s health, perinatal concerns and postpartum depression. I am equally passionate about working with life transitions, including relationship uncertainty, break-up and divorce recovery, and the challenges of dating. Her personal experience of moving to the U.S has led to a greater understanding of issues pertaining to immigration, life transitions, identity concerns, motivation, and self-esteem.
(708) 726-8490 View (708) 726-8490
Photo of Margot Gay Mahan, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Margot Gay Mahan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I specialize in working with adults & children impacted by trauma, separation/loss, adults struggling with unsatisfying relationships and life transitions as well as children and adults impacted by chronic illness, depression & anxiety.
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
I specialize in working with adults & children impacted by trauma, separation/loss, adults struggling with unsatisfying relationships and life transitions as well as children and adults impacted by chronic illness, depression & anxiety.
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
(773) 417-5418 View (773) 417-5418
Photo of Hope Psychological Services, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Hope Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
We have particular expertise in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, ADHD, parenting issues, stress, sadness, identity concerns, learning difficulties, survivors of trauma and abuse, and grief and bereavement.
Emotional well-being is central to our overall quality of life, and we believe everyone deserves the chance to live in healthy and healed ways. We are a diverse group of practitioners committed to providing effective and helpful treatment to improve emotional and psychological well-being. We will work together with you or your loved one to relieve emotional and psychological distress, increase self-awareness and healthy coping skills, foster insight, and to improve overall well-being within daily life and in relationships with others.
We have particular expertise in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, ADHD, parenting issues, stress, sadness, identity concerns, learning difficulties, survivors of trauma and abuse, and grief and bereavement.
Emotional well-being is central to our overall quality of life, and we believe everyone deserves the chance to live in healthy and healed ways. We are a diverse group of practitioners committed to providing effective and helpful treatment to improve emotional and psychological well-being. We will work together with you or your loved one to relieve emotional and psychological distress, increase self-awareness and healthy coping skills, foster insight, and to improve overall well-being within daily life and in relationships with others.
(708) 290-7345 View (708) 290-7345
Photo of Ashley Graves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Ashley Graves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Life can be challenging, sometimes we don't know what is causing us to be uncomfortable; we just know that we are. Regardless of the reason, therapy can help you process feelings that cause pain or discomfort. I provide a safe space to identify the strengths that have brought you to this point in your life and help you learn how to use those strengths to work through some of the challenges. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, feelings of low self-worth or just trying to help everyday life feel a little easier.
Life can be challenging, sometimes we don't know what is causing us to be uncomfortable; we just know that we are. Regardless of the reason, therapy can help you process feelings that cause pain or discomfort. I provide a safe space to identify the strengths that have brought you to this point in your life and help you learn how to use those strengths to work through some of the challenges. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, feelings of low self-worth or just trying to help everyday life feel a little easier.
(708) 434-2558 View (708) 434-2558
Photo of Oak Park Behavioral Medicine LLC, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Oak Park Behavioral Medicine LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Living with a chronic medical illness can be challenging. Depression, anxiety, fears, loss of identity, and doubt are all common, and physicians are continuing to acknowledge that how we feel mentally affects our physical symptoms. Navigating the medical system, treatments, and socializing are also stressful. We are dedicated to helping children (6-17) and adults navigate managing a chronic medical illness with all of the social and emotional parts that may not be addressed in your medical visits. Our team includes: Dr. Tiffany Taft, Dr. Emily Edlynn, Emily Hahn, LCSW, Alix Kramer, MSW, and Clark Bray, MSW.
Living with a chronic medical illness can be challenging. Depression, anxiety, fears, loss of identity, and doubt are all common, and physicians are continuing to acknowledge that how we feel mentally affects our physical symptoms. Navigating the medical system, treatments, and socializing are also stressful. We are dedicated to helping children (6-17) and adults navigate managing a chronic medical illness with all of the social and emotional parts that may not be addressed in your medical visits. Our team includes: Dr. Tiffany Taft, Dr. Emily Edlynn, Emily Hahn, LCSW, Alix Kramer, MSW, and Clark Bray, MSW.
(312) 651-6862 View (312) 651-6862
Photo of Bertha Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Bertha Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is committed to partnering with clients to identify strategies that can help them work through life’s difficulties. I understand the complex relationship between thinking and emotions, as well as the impact it can have on mood. I treat issues of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and (sexual) trauma, substance use/abuse, grief/ loss and complex family dynamics. I have many years of experience of working with diverse populations and assisting them with developing and reaching their goals. I identify as a social work first focusing on life issues to mitigate mental health issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is committed to partnering with clients to identify strategies that can help them work through life’s difficulties. I understand the complex relationship between thinking and emotions, as well as the impact it can have on mood. I treat issues of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and (sexual) trauma, substance use/abuse, grief/ loss and complex family dynamics. I have many years of experience of working with diverse populations and assisting them with developing and reaching their goals. I identify as a social work first focusing on life issues to mitigate mental health issues.
(708) 742-8571 View (708) 742-8571
Photo of Nia Integrative Healing, Psychologist in Oak Park, IL
Nia Integrative Healing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
We are wired with an affinity toward healing. Therapy is a powerful tool in attaining wellness. But what if we went beyond talk therapy by also integrating meditation and biofeedback to address trauma, depression, inattention and other areas of mental health? We will explore your intrinsic ability to harness the power of mindfulness and breath work to reduce chronic pain and other physical issues impacted by stress. We will tap into nutrition's significant role in mental health, including mood and memory. We are a team of psychological providers and a preventative care physician collaborating with you toward your healing journey.
We are wired with an affinity toward healing. Therapy is a powerful tool in attaining wellness. But what if we went beyond talk therapy by also integrating meditation and biofeedback to address trauma, depression, inattention and other areas of mental health? We will explore your intrinsic ability to harness the power of mindfulness and breath work to reduce chronic pain and other physical issues impacted by stress. We will tap into nutrition's significant role in mental health, including mood and memory. We are a team of psychological providers and a preventative care physician collaborating with you toward your healing journey.
(708) 628-5456 View (708) 628-5456
Photo of Jeffrey M. Miley, Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Jeffrey M. Miley
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Life can be challenging and overwhelming for everyone. As we attempt to navigate in these uncertain times, therapy can be a great benefit in helping us cope with the stressors of everyday life. In me you will find an honest, non-judgmental and experienced therapist dedicated to helping you unlock and reach your potential. Whether you have been experiencing depression, anxiety, traumatic stress or or you just need someone to listen, I will be there to help guide you in meeting your goals.
Life can be challenging and overwhelming for everyone. As we attempt to navigate in these uncertain times, therapy can be a great benefit in helping us cope with the stressors of everyday life. In me you will find an honest, non-judgmental and experienced therapist dedicated to helping you unlock and reach your potential. Whether you have been experiencing depression, anxiety, traumatic stress or or you just need someone to listen, I will be there to help guide you in meeting your goals.
(708) 722-7325 View (708) 722-7325
Photo of Katie Seelinger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Katie Seelinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, Katie Seelinger, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I am experienced in addressing trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, in addition to, many other ares of care.
Throughout life, there are times when we can feel overwhelmed, lost, isolated, and in need of extra support and guidance. Seeking the help of a therapist is a significant act of self-compassion, and connecting with the right therapist is essential. I provide a safe, inclusive space where all persons are welcomed and supported. I recognize and value each client’s unique lived experience. We explore these to uncover strengths and opportunities for growth and healing. I consider myself honored to walk with clients on their mental health journey, and grateful for the opportunity to help them achieve their favorite self!
I am experienced in addressing trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, in addition to, many other ares of care.
Throughout life, there are times when we can feel overwhelmed, lost, isolated, and in need of extra support and guidance. Seeking the help of a therapist is a significant act of self-compassion, and connecting with the right therapist is essential. I provide a safe, inclusive space where all persons are welcomed and supported. I recognize and value each client’s unique lived experience. We explore these to uncover strengths and opportunities for growth and healing. I consider myself honored to walk with clients on their mental health journey, and grateful for the opportunity to help them achieve their favorite self!
(708) 546-3689 View (708) 546-3689
Photo of Melody Linnear, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Park, IL
Melody Linnear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Hello, My name is Melody and I am a senior clinician at InTouch Mind Health. I enjoy helping clients transform their lives, and find peace, joy, and freedom. I am passionate about providing treatment through a faith-centered lens of restoration. My areas of clinical focus are as follows: • Trauma • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder • Depression • Mood regulation • Anxiety Disorder • Anger Management • Attention Deficit Disorder • Life Transitions • Grief & Loss • Substance Use & Addiction • ARC - Attachment, Regulation, Competence Spirituality. View my full profile on our company website at www.InTouchMindHealth.com.
Hello, My name is Melody and I am a senior clinician at InTouch Mind Health. I enjoy helping clients transform their lives, and find peace, joy, and freedom. I am passionate about providing treatment through a faith-centered lens of restoration. My areas of clinical focus are as follows: • Trauma • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder • Depression • Mood regulation • Anxiety Disorder • Anger Management • Attention Deficit Disorder • Life Transitions • Grief & Loss • Substance Use & Addiction • ARC - Attachment, Regulation, Competence Spirituality. View my full profile on our company website at www.InTouchMindHealth.com.
(708) 853-6502 View (708) 853-6502
Photo of Marianne Ogbonnaya, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Oak Park, IL
Marianne Ogbonnaya
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
I specialize in self-esteem issues and will work with you to increase your confidence and sense of well-being. I work with a variety of individuals and provide culturally affirming counselling to BIPOC, with a focus on first-generation and immigrants. Whether you're feeling stuck, depressed, helpless, anxious, worried, unsure, or insecure you deserve to be heard and understood. My passion is creating a safe and supportive environment to navigate life's challenges. Wherever you may be on that journey, I want to help support you!
I specialize in self-esteem issues and will work with you to increase your confidence and sense of well-being. I work with a variety of individuals and provide culturally affirming counselling to BIPOC, with a focus on first-generation and immigrants. Whether you're feeling stuck, depressed, helpless, anxious, worried, unsure, or insecure you deserve to be heard and understood. My passion is creating a safe and supportive environment to navigate life's challenges. Wherever you may be on that journey, I want to help support you!
(708) 634-4942 View (708) 634-4942
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.