Compassionate, Evidence-Based Depression Treatment | Serving Chicago’s North Side for Nearly 20 Years
Feeling stuck in darkness doesn’t mean you’re broken. Depression is treatable, and thousands of Chicagoans have found relief through therapy at 2nd Story Counseling.
For more than two decades, our experienced Chicago therapists have specialized in helping people overcome depression—from the seasonal challenges of brutal Chicago winters to chronic depression that’s lasted years. As a longtime LGBTQ+ affirming practice in the heart of Lakeview, we understand how discrimination, minority stress, and identity struggles contribute to depression in queer and trans communities.
Whether you’re in Lakeview, Boystown, Lincoln Park, or anywhere on the North Side, we provide personalized, evidence-based care that honors your whole identity and helps you reclaim your life.
Schedule Your Free Phone Consultation
Or call us at (773) 528-1777
Understanding Depression: More Than Just Feeling Down
Depression isn’t weakness, laziness, or something you can simply “snap out of.” It’s a serious mental health condition that affects your brain chemistry, thoughts, emotions, physical health, and ability to function in daily life. In Chicago alone, thousands of people struggle with depression—yet with proper treatment, most experience significant improvement.
Many Chicagoans don’t realize they’re experiencing clinical depression until symptoms significantly impact their work, relationships, or quality of life. You might have been told “everyone feels this way” or “you just need to try harder,” but depression is a real medical condition that responds to professional treatment.
For LGBTQ+ individuals, depression can be compounded by minority stress, discrimination, family rejection, and the emotional toll of hiding or defending your identity. At 2nd Story Counseling, we’ve been providing affirming, knowledgeable depression therapy to Chicago’s queer and trans communities for over 20 years. We understand the unique challenges you face, and we create a safe space where you can be fully yourself while healing from depression.
Common Signs & Symptoms of Depression
Depression affects everyone differently, but common symptoms include:
Emotional Symptoms
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Physical Symptoms
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Cognitive Symptoms
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Behavioral & Social Symptoms
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⚠️ If You’re Having Thoughts of Suicide
Please reach out immediately:
- Call 988 – Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7)
- Text “HELLO” to 741741 – Crisis Text Line
- The Trevor Project – LGBTQ+ crisis support: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678
- Trans Lifeline – For trans and questioning individuals: 877-565-8860
- Go to your nearest emergency room
- Call 911 if you’re in immediate danger
Depression is treatable. You deserve support, and help is available right now.
Types of Depression We Treat in Chicago
Depression isn’t one-size-fits-all. At 2nd Story Counseling, our Chicago therapists have extensive experience treating various forms of depression, each requiring a somewhat different treatment approach:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
The most common form of clinical depression, MDD involves experiencing depressive symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. It significantly interferes with your ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy life. Many people experience multiple episodes of major depression throughout their lifetime.
What it looks like: Waking up dreading the day ahead, losing interest in everything, feeling physically heavy, struggling to get out of bed, crying frequently, difficulty concentrating at work, feeling like you’re just “going through the motions.”
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
A chronic form of depression lasting two years or longer. While symptoms may be less severe than major depression, they’re persistent and can feel like a constant “gray cloud” that never fully lifts. Many people with PDD don’t remember what it’s like to feel truly happy or energized.
What it looks like: Functioning day-to-day but never feeling good, low-grade sadness as your “normal,” difficulty remembering feeling truly happy, thinking “this is just how I am,” relationships suffering because you’re always irritable or withdrawn.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) 🌨️
Especially common in Chicago! SAD causes depression symptoms during fall and winter months when daylight is limited. Chicago’s brutal winters—with short, gray days from November through March—trigger depression in many residents. Symptoms typically improve in spring and summer.
What it looks like: Feeling fine in summer but dreading September, energy plummeting as days get shorter, oversleeping, craving carbs, weight gain, feeling trapped indoors during Chicago winters, counting down days until spring, avoiding social activities because it’s too cold.
Our Chicago-specific approach: Our therapists understand the unique challenges of Chicago winters and incorporate strategies specifically for seasonal depression, including light therapy consultation, behavioral activation tailored for winter months, building resilience against seasonal patterns, and helping you develop a sustainable relationship with Chicago’s climate. We’ve helped hundreds of Chicagoans transform their experience of winter.
Postpartum Depression
Affects new mothers (and sometimes fathers/partners) after childbirth, going far beyond typical “baby blues.” Postpartum depression involves severe anxiety, exhaustion, difficulty bonding with the baby, intrusive thoughts about harming the baby or yourself, and overwhelming feelings of inadequacy as a parent.
What it looks like: Not feeling the “joy” everyone promised, resenting the baby, terrifying intrusive thoughts, rage at your partner, feeling like a terrible parent, difficulty bonding, thoughts of running away, anxiety about the baby’s health.
We provide specialized support for postpartum depression, working with new parents to process the enormous life transition, address relationship changes, develop coping skills, and reconnect with themselves and their baby. LGBTQ+ parents face unique challenges—navigating adoption processes, surrogacy, non-biological parent bonding, discrimination in healthcare settings—and we provide affirming care that addresses these specific stressors.
Situational Depression (Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood)
Triggered by specific life events—job loss, relationship breakup, death of a loved one, major illness, divorce, or significant life transitions. While the cause is identifiable, the emotional pain is real and can significantly impair functioning. Without treatment, situational depression can develop into major depression.
What it looks like: Feeling devastated after being laid off, unable to move forward after a breakup, deep grief that’s interfering with daily life, anxiety and sadness after a major life change like moving to Chicago, retirement, becoming an empty nester, coming out, or ending a long-term relationship.
Depression with Anxiety
Many people experience both depression and anxiety simultaneously. You might feel hopeless AND constantly worried, exhausted AND restless, unmotivated AND panicked. This combination can feel especially overwhelming and requires integrated treatment addressing both conditions. We have extensive experience treating co-occurring depression and anxiety.
Depression Related to Other Conditions
Depression often co-occurs with:
- PTSD or trauma – Past traumatic experiences contributing to depressive symptoms
- Chronic illness – Living with ongoing health conditions that cause depression
- Substance use – Alcohol or drug use both causing and resulting from depression
- Identity-related stress – Depression stemming from discrimination, coming out, gender transition, being gay or navigating identity in unsupportive environments
Our integrated approach addresses all aspects of your mental health and well-being.
🏳️🌈 Depression Therapy for Chicago’s LGBTQ+ Community
For over 20 years, 2nd Story Counseling has been a trusted, affirming mental health resource in the heart of Chicago’s Lakeview/Boystown neighborhood. We understand that depression in LGBTQ+ communities is shaped by unique experiences that straight, cisgender therapists may not fully grasp.
Why LGBTQ+ Individuals Experience Higher Rates of Depression
Research consistently shows that LGBTQ+ people experience depression at significantly higher rates than the general population—not because of sexual orientation or gender identity itself, but because of the chronic stress of living in a society that often discriminates, marginalizes, and invalidates queer and trans identities. This is called minority stress.
Unique Factors Contributing to Depression in LGBTQ+ Communities:
- Discrimination and prejudice – Experiencing homophobia, transphobia, or biphobia in daily life, workplaces, healthcare settings, and public spaces
- Family rejection or non-acceptance – Strained relationships with family members who don’t accept your identity, being disowned or cut off
- Internalized homophobia or transphobia – Internalizing negative societal messages about LGBTQ+ identities, leading to shame and self-hatred
- Coming out stress and identity concealment – The emotional toll of hiding your identity, repeatedly coming out, or navigating different levels of “outness” in different contexts
- Relationship challenges – Difficulty finding partners, navigating non-traditional relationship structures, dealing with breakups without social support
- Gender dysphoria – For trans and nonbinary individuals, the distress of a mismatch between identity and assigned sex at birth
- Social isolation – Feeling disconnected from both straight/cis communities and sometimes from LGBTQ+ communities
- Trauma history – Higher rates of childhood abuse, bullying, harassment, hate crimes, and sexual assault
- Microaggressions – Constant small invalidations (“So who’s the man in the relationship?”, misgendering, erasure of bisexuality)
- Lack of legal protections – Ongoing political attacks on LGBTQ+ rights creating chronic uncertainty and fear
- Healthcare discrimination – Negative experiences with providers, being denied care, or receiving substandard treatment
Our LGBTQ+-Affirming Approach to Depression Treatment
At 2nd Story Counseling, affirming care isn’t a checkbox—it’s who we’ve been for over two decades. Located in Lakeview, we’ve been serving Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community since the early 2000s. Our therapists don’t just “accept” LGBTQ+ clients; we actively celebrate queer and trans identities and understand the specific mental health challenges you face.
✅ You Never Have to Explain Basics
We know what “coming out” means, we understand pronoun importance, we’re familiar with queer relationship dynamics. You can focus on healing, not educating your therapist.
✅ We Address Minority Stress
We understand that your depression may be a rational response to discrimination and marginalization, not a personal failing. We help you process trauma, build resilience, and find community.
✅ Expertise Across Identities
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, queer, trans, nonbinary, gender-questioning, asexual, polyamorous—we work with the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ identities and relationship structures.
✅ Intersectional Approach
We understand that LGBTQ+ identities intersect with race, ethnicity, religion, disability, class, and other identities. We provide culturally responsive care that honors all of who you are.
✅ Gender Transition Support
We support clients through gender exploration, social transition, medical transition, and navigating dysphoria. Depression often improves as people transition and live authentically.
✅ No Conversion Therapy—Ever
Your sexual orientation and gender identity are not problems to fix. We help you thrive as your authentic self, not change who you are to fit societal expectations.
Common Issues We Address with LGBTQ+ Clients:
- Coming out to family, friends, or coworkers—or deciding whether to come out
- Navigating family rejection or conditional acceptance
- Internalized homophobia, biphobia, or transphobia
- Dating, relationships, and breakups in queer communities
- Gender exploration, questioning, or transition
- Dealing with discrimination, microaggressions, or hate crimes
- Loneliness, isolation, or difficulty finding community
- Body image issues, especially in gay male and trans communities
- Substance use in LGBTQ+ communities
- Aging as an LGBTQ+ person
- HIV/AIDS-related depression and trauma (including survivor’s guilt)
- Polyamory, open relationships, and non-traditional relationship structures
Why Choose 2nd Story for LGBTQ+ Depression Therapy?
We’re not newcomers to LGBTQ+ mental health. We’ve been part of Chicago’s queer community for over 20 years, located right in Lakeview/Boystown—the historic heart of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ neighborhood. We’ve marched in Pride, we know the community organizations, we understand the local culture.
Many of our clients are LGBTQ+ Chicagoans who found us through word-of-mouth in the community. That trust is earned through years of providing competent, affirming, genuinely supportive therapy—not through marketing claims.
You deserve a therapist who truly gets it. Not someone who went to one training on “LGBTQ+ sensitivity,” but therapists who have deep expertise, genuine commitment to your community, and a track record spanning two decades.
Evidence-Based Depression Treatment Approaches
At 2nd Story Counseling, we don’t believe in cookie-cutter therapy. Our experienced Chicago therapists use proven, evidence-based approaches tailored specifically to your type of depression, personal history, and treatment goals. Here are the primary approaches we use:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Depression
CBT is one of the most extensively researched and effective treatments for depression, with decades of evidence supporting its use. Your therapist helps you identify negative thought patterns that fuel and maintain depression, then develop healthier, more realistic ways of thinking and behaving.
What CBT for Depression Involves:
- Identifying automatic negative thoughts – Becoming aware of the constant stream of self-critical, hopeless, or catastrophic thoughts that maintain depression
- Examining evidence – Looking at facts rather than feelings, challenging distorted thinking patterns
- Developing balanced perspectives – Replacing all-or-nothing thinking with more nuanced, realistic views
- Behavioral activation – Gradually reengaging with meaningful activities, even when you don’t “feel like it” (this is key!)
- Problem-solving skills – Breaking down overwhelming problems into manageable steps
- Activity scheduling – Planning pleasurable and productive activities to counteract withdrawal and inactivity
- Relapse prevention – Identifying early warning signs and developing strategies to prevent future episodes
CBT is particularly effective for: Major depression, persistent depression, depression with anxiety, negative thinking patterns, lack of motivation, social withdrawal
Typical timeline: Many people experience significant improvement within 12-20 sessions, though this varies based on severity and individual factors.
Psychodynamic Therapy for Depression
Sometimes depression has roots in unresolved past experiences, relationship patterns, unconscious conflicts, or early childhood experiences. Psychodynamic therapy helps you explore these deeper issues, understand how your history shapes your present emotional life, and develop insight that leads to lasting change.
What Psychodynamic Therapy Explores:
- Relationship patterns – How early attachments and family dynamics influence current relationships and mood
- Unconscious processes – Bringing awareness to defenses, conflicts, and patterns you may not realize drive your depression
- Loss and grief – Processing unresolved losses, disappointments, or unmet needs from your past
- Identity and self-concept – Understanding how you see yourself and developing a more compassionate self-view
- Meaning-making – Finding purpose and understanding in your experiences and suffering
Psychodynamic therapy is particularly helpful for: Chronic or recurring depression, depression with roots in childhood or past relationships, feeling “stuck” in patterns, wanting deeper self-understanding beyond symptom relief
Typical timeline: This approach often works best as longer-term therapy (6 months to several years), though shorter-term psychodynamic therapy is also effective for specific issues.
EMDR Therapy for Depression with Trauma
When depression stems from traumatic experiences—childhood adversity, abuse, assault, accidents, loss, or other painful events—EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can be remarkably effective. Our EMDR-trained therapists help you process traumatic memories that fuel depression, reducing their emotional intensity and allowing natural healing to occur.
How EMDR Addresses Depression:
- Identifies traumatic memories and negative beliefs contributing to depression
- Uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements or tapping) to help your brain reprocess traumatic material
- Reduces emotional charge of painful memories without requiring detailed discussion
- Installs positive beliefs to replace negative core beliefs (“I’m worthless” becomes “I am valuable”)
- Addresses both past trauma and current triggers maintaining depression
EMDR is particularly effective for: Depression with trauma history, childhood trauma contributing to adult depression, PTSD with depression, complex trauma, intrusive memories or flashbacks
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Depression often involves relationship difficulties, grief, role transitions (job changes, becoming a parent, retirement), or interpersonal conflicts. IPT focuses on improving your relationships and social functioning, which in turn alleviates depressive symptoms. This time-limited approach (typically 12-16 sessions) has strong research support for treating depression.
IPT Addresses:
- Grief and loss – Processing bereavement and moving forward
- Role transitions – Adjusting to major life changes (new job, parenthood, divorce, moving to Chicago)
- Interpersonal conflicts – Resolving relationship problems contributing to depression
- Interpersonal deficits – Building social skills and support networks
Mindfulness-Based Approaches
Learning to observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment can break the cycle of rumination that maintains depression. We integrate mindfulness techniques—including elements of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)—to help you develop present-moment awareness, self-compassion, and acceptance.
Mindfulness Skills for Depression:
- Recognizing when you’re caught in rumination or negative thought spirals
- Practicing present-moment awareness rather than dwelling on past or future
- Developing self-compassion instead of self-criticism
- Accepting difficult emotions rather than fighting or avoiding them
- Creating space between thoughts/feelings and actions
Particularly helpful for: Chronic or recurrent depression, rumination, self-criticism, difficulty accepting emotions, depression with anxiety
Integrative & Personalized Treatment
Most often, we use an integrative approach that draws from multiple evidence-based methods tailored to your unique situation. Your therapist might combine CBT techniques for changing thought patterns with psychodynamic exploration of relationship patterns, or integrate mindfulness practices with behavioral activation strategies.
We customize treatment based on:
- Type and severity of your depression
- Your personal history and what’s contributed to depression
- Your goals and preferences for therapy
- What’s worked (or hasn’t worked) for you in the past
- Co-occurring conditions like anxiety, trauma, or substance use
- Your learning style and what resonates with you
Collaboration with Medication Management
While we don’t prescribe medication, we work closely with psychiatrists and primary care physicians when medication is part of your treatment plan. Research shows that therapy combined with medication is often more effective than either treatment alone for moderate to severe depression.
If you’re already taking antidepressants, therapy helps you develop coping skills, address underlying issues, and work toward long-term recovery. If you’re not on medication but might benefit, we can discuss this and provide referrals to trusted prescribers.
What to Expect in Depression Therapy at 2nd Story Counseling
Starting therapy can feel daunting, especially when depression has sapped your energy and motivation. Here’s what the process looks like when working with us:
Step 1: Free Phone Consultation (15 minutes)
Before scheduling your first session, we offer a brief phone consultation where you can:
- Tell us briefly what brings you to therapy
- Learn about our approach and ask questions
- Discuss logistics—insurance, scheduling, location
- Determine if we’re the right fit for your needs
This no-pressure conversation helps ensure we can provide what you’re looking for.
Step 2: Your First Session (Initial Assessment)
Your first 50-minute session focuses on understanding your unique experience:
- Your current symptoms – What you’re experiencing and how it’s affecting your life
- When depression started – Timeline, triggers, patterns over time
- Your history – Family background, past mental health experiences, significant life events
- What you’ve tried – Past therapy, medication, self-help strategies
- Your goals – What would make therapy successful for you?
- Your strengths & resources – Support systems, coping skills, resilience factors
This is also your opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and ensure you feel comfortable with your therapist. We know opening up is hard—we create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can share at your own pace.
Step 3: Treatment Planning (Session 1-2)
Based on our assessment, we’ll collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that outlines:
- Primary treatment approach(es) we’ll use
- Specific goals and how we’ll measure progress
- Expected timeline (though this remains flexible)
- Frequency of sessions (typically weekly initially)
- Any additional resources or referrals needed
You’re an active partner in this process—therapy works best when treatment aligns with your values and goals.
Step 4: Early Sessions – Building Momentum (Weeks 1-8)
Depression often saps motivation, making it hard to engage fully with therapy at first. We understand this and meet you where you are. Early sessions typically focus on:
- Symptom relief – Immediate strategies to feel even slightly better
- Building the therapeutic relationship – Creating trust and safety
- Psychoeducation – Understanding your depression and how treatment works
- Small behavioral changes – Identifying one or two activities to reintroduce
- Stabilization – If you’re in crisis, ensuring your safety and basic functioning
Many people notice small improvements within the first few weeks—perhaps sleeping slightly better, having one or two better days, or finding it easier to get out of bed.
Step 5: Middle Phase – Deeper Work (Weeks 8-20)
As symptoms begin to improve and you build momentum, therapy shifts to:
- Addressing deeper patterns maintaining depression
- Processing past experiences contributing to current struggles
- Developing robust coping skills and resilience
- Improving relationships and communication
- Building meaning, purpose, and engagement in life
- Addressing co-occurring issues (anxiety, trauma, relationship problems)
Progress isn’t always linear—there will be better weeks and harder weeks. Your therapist helps you recognize overall trends and adjust treatment as needed.
Step 6: Later Phase – Consolidating Gains & Relapse Prevention
As you approach your therapy goals, we focus on:
- Solidifying the skills and insights you’ve gained
- Identifying early warning signs of depression returning
- Developing a relapse prevention plan
- Building confidence in managing challenges independently
- Spacing out sessions (biweekly, then monthly) as appropriate
Many people continue occasional “maintenance” sessions even after completing active treatment—checking in quarterly or as needed during stressful times.
Common Questions About Depression Therapy:
How long does depression therapy take?
This varies significantly based on depression severity, type, personal history, and your goals. Some people experience significant relief within 12-16 weeks of focused CBT. Others benefit from 6-12 months or longer of psychodynamic or integrative therapy to address underlying patterns. We’ll discuss timelines during your initial consultation and adjust as we see how you respond to treatment.
How often will we meet?
Most people start with weekly 50-minute sessions. As you improve, we might space sessions to every other week or monthly. During particularly difficult times, we might meet twice weekly. Consistency is important for depression treatment, especially in the beginning.
What if I’m too depressed to come to therapy?
We understand—depression makes everything harder, including getting to appointments. We offer telehealth options for days when leaving home feels impossible. We also know that sometimes just showing up is an act of courage, and we honor that. On really hard days, we adjust our approach and pace.
Will I have to talk about my past?
It depends on your goals and the treatment approach. CBT focuses more on current thoughts and behaviors, while psychodynamic therapy explores past influences. We’ll discuss what feels right for you—therapy should never feel forced or invasive.
What if therapy isn’t working?
We regularly check in about your progress and adjust our approach if needed. Sometimes changing therapists, adding medication, or trying a different treatment modality is the right move. We’re committed to finding what works for you, even if that means referring you elsewhere.
Depression & Chicago Life: Understanding Local Challenges
Living in Chicago brings unique stressors and challenges that can contribute to or worsen depression. Our therapists understand these local factors because we’ve been part of this community for over 20 years:
🌨️ The Chicago Winter Effect
Our long, dark, brutally cold winters from November through March significantly impact mental health. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is extremely common among Chicagoans, with many people experiencing:
- Energy plummeting as days shorten in fall
- Feeling trapped indoors for months
- Social isolation when it’s too cold to go out
- Weight gain from inactivity and comfort eating
- Dread and anxiety as winter approaches each September
Our approach: We help Chicago clients develop winter-specific strategies including light therapy consultation, indoor activity planning, maintaining social connection despite weather, reframing relationship with winter, and building resilience against seasonal patterns. We’ve helped hundreds of Chicagoans transform their experience of winter.
🏙️ Urban Stress & Pressure
Chicago’s fast pace, competitive job market, and high cost of living create constant pressure:
- Career pressure and burnout in Chicago’s competitive industries
- Financial stress—rent, bills, student loans in an expensive city
- Long commutes on CTA during cold weather draining energy
- Isolation despite living in a city of millions
- Comparison with others’ seemingly perfect city lives on social media
🚇 North Side Neighborhoods We Serve
Located in Lakeview, we’re easily accessible from throughout Chicago’s North Side:
- Lakeview & Boystown – Right in our neighborhood
- Lincoln Park – Just south of us
- Uptown & Edgewater – Quick trip on the Red Line
- Andersonville – Easy commute
- Roscoe Village & North Center – Nearby
- Wrigleyville – Walking distance
- Lincoln Square – Short trip
Plus we offer telehealth for clients throughout Illinois.
Why Choose 2nd Story Counseling for Depression Therapy?
✅ Over 20 Years Serving Chicago’s North Side
Since our founding, we’ve been a trusted pillar of the Lakeview community, helping thousands of Chicagoans overcome depression and reclaim their lives. Our deep roots in the neighborhood mean we truly understand Chicago life—brutal winters, urban pressures, diverse communities, and the unique challenges and strengths of living in this city.
✅ Experienced, Licensed Therapists
Our team includes licensed clinical psychologists (PhD, PsyD), licensed clinical social workers (LCSW), and licensed professional counselors (LPC)—all with specialized training in evidence-based depression treatment. We’re not entry-level therapists; we bring decades of combined experience treating depression in all its forms.
✅ LGBTQ+ Affirming & Culturally Sensitive Care
We’ve long been a welcoming, affirming space for Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community and people from all backgrounds. Our therapists understand how marginalization, discrimination, minority stress, and systemic oppression contribute to depression. We provide affirming care that honors your whole identity—your sexuality, gender, race, culture, religion, and all aspects of who you are.
✅ Multiple Evidence-Based Approaches
We’re trained in multiple proven treatments for depression—CBT, psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, interpersonal therapy, mindfulness-based approaches—allowing us to personalize treatment to your unique needs rather than applying the same approach to everyone.
✅ Flexible, Accessible Options
We offer both in-person therapy at our convenient Lakeview location (near public transportation) and secure telehealth sessions throughout Illinois. Evening and weekend appointments are available to accommodate work schedules.
✅ Blue Cross PPO Accepted
We accept most Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO plans and and are up front about our pricing for those paying out of pocket. Mental health care should be accessible, and we work to remove financial barriers when possible.
✅ Specialized Expertise
Beyond general depression treatment, we have specialized expertise in: LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma and PTSD contributing to depression, relationship issues and depression, anxiety and depression co-occurrence, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), life transitions and adjustment disorders, and chronic/treatment-resistant depression.
✅ Warm, Compassionate, Non-Judgmental Space
Depression often comes with shame, self-criticism, and fear of judgment. Our therapists create a safe, accepting environment where you can be honest about your struggles without fear of being judged, dismissed, or told to “just think positive.” We meet you with compassion, understanding, and genuine care.
The 2nd Story Difference
Unlike larger therapy chains or newer practices, we offer:
- Continuity of care – See the same experienced therapist each week, not whoever’s available
- Deep community roots – Over 20 years in Lakeview vs. newer practices
- Specialized training – Advanced credentials and ongoing professional development
- Personalized treatment – Tailored to you, not one-size-fits-all protocols
- Human connection – Real therapeutic relationships, not corporate therapy
Ready to Start Your Journey Out of Depression?
Taking the first step is often the hardest part. But you’ve already started by reading this page. Let’s keep that momentum going.
1. Schedule a Free Phone Consultation
Talk briefly with us about what you’re experiencing and learn if we’re the right fit. No pressure, no commitment.
2. Book Your First Session
We’ll schedule a time that works for you—in-person in Lakeview or via secure telehealth.
3. Begin Your Path to Recovery
Work with your therapist to understand your depression, develop coping skills, and reclaim your life.
Contact 2nd Story Counseling Today
Schedule Your Free Consultation Online
Monday-Thursday: 9am-8pm | Friday: 9am-5pm | Saturday: 9am-5pm
655 W. Irving Park Rd #204, Chicago, IL 60613 (Lakeview)
We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO and are up front about our costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Depression Therapy
How do I know if I have depression or if I’m just sad?
Everyone feels sad sometimes—that’s normal. Depression is different. It involves persistent symptoms lasting at least two weeks that interfere with your daily functioning. If you’re wondering whether what you’re experiencing is “bad enough” for therapy, that question itself often indicates it’s worth talking to a professional. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy.
Will depression therapy really help?
Yes—research consistently shows that therapy is highly effective for depression. Studies show that 60-80% of people with depression improve significantly with therapy. CBT, in particular, has strong evidence for treating depression, with effects lasting long after therapy ends. The key is finding the right therapist and approach for you, staying committed to the process, and being honest about what is and isn’t working.
Do I need medication for depression?
Not necessarily. Many people successfully treat depression with therapy alone, especially for mild to moderate depression. For moderate to severe depression, combining therapy and medication is often most effective. We can discuss whether medication might be helpful for you and provide referrals to prescribers if needed. The decision is always yours.
How much does depression therapy cost?
We accept most major insurance plans. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your specific insurance coverage—some plans cover therapy fully after a copay, others require meeting a deductible first. We’re happy to verify your benefits before your first session. For clients paying out-of-pocket, we offer a sliding scale based on income to ensure therapy is accessible.
What if I’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t work?
This is common and doesn’t mean therapy can’t help you—it often means the previous approach, therapist, or timing wasn’t the right fit. There are many different types of therapy and therapeutic styles. Sometimes it takes trying a few different therapists or approaches to find what works. We’re experienced in working with people who’ve had unsuccessful therapy experiences before and helping them find a different path forward.
Can therapy help if my depression is caused by my life circumstances?
Absolutely. Even when depression is triggered by real problems—financial stress, job loss, relationship issues, illness—therapy helps. We can’t change your external circumstances, but we can help you develop coping skills, process emotions, problem-solve more effectively, build resilience, and find ways to improve your situation. Often situational depression responds very well to therapy.
Is telehealth therapy as effective as in-person?
Research shows that telehealth therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for depression. Many people actually prefer telehealth—no commute, more scheduling flexibility, comfort of home. Others prefer in-person for the structure and separation from home. We offer both options and you can switch between them as needed. See our virtual therapy page.
What if I can barely get out of bed? How can I make it to therapy?
We understand—depression makes everything harder, including getting to appointments. This is exactly why telehealth can be so valuable. On days when leaving home feels impossible, you can still attend sessions from your couch or bed. Even just showing up, however you’re able, is progress. We’ll meet you where you are.
Related Mental Health Services
Depression often co-occurs with other mental health challenges. We also specialize in:
- Anxiety Therapy in Chicago – For depression with worry, panic, or generalized anxiety
- Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy – When past experiences contribute to depression
- Relational Therapy – Addressing how you relate and bond with others in addition to depression therapy.
- LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy – Culturally competent care for queer and trans communities
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Our specialized CBT approach
Testimonials
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“A huge help for our relationship.” — Emily R., Lakeview
My partner and I came to premarital counseling feeling overwhelmed by wedding stress and family expectations. Our therapist helped us slow down, communicate better, and actually enjoy the process again. I’m so grateful we invested in this before getting married. Highly recommend to any couple in Lakeview looking for real, practical guidance.
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“Practical, real, and supportive.” — Jason M., Ravenswood
I wasn’t sure what to expect from premarital counseling, but it turned out to be one of the best choices we’ve made. The sessions helped us navigate finances, future planning, and our communication differences without judgment. Everything felt grounded and actionable. If you’re in Ravenswood or nearby, this is absolutely worth it.
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“Affirming and incredibly helpful for LGBTQ+ Chicagoans.” — Alex & Mateo, Andersonville
As a gay couple, we wanted a therapist who truly understood our dynamic and the unique stresses LGBTQ partners can face. We felt affirmed from the very first session. Premarital counseling helped us strengthen trust and align our expectations for the future. Andersonville has a lot of great resources, but this has been one of the most meaningful.
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“Strengthened our communication before the wedding.” — Sarah T., Lincoln Square
We didn’t think we “needed” counseling, but the sessions opened up conversations we hadn’t even realized we were avoiding. It made us feel more connected and better prepared for married life. If you’re in Lincoln Square and want to build a strong foundation before saying ‘I do,’ this is the place.
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“Exactly what we needed before taking the next step.” — Daniel K., Boystown
My partner and I wanted premarital counseling that felt modern, supportive, and aligned with the realities of couples today. Our therapist created a space where we could talk openly about communication, expectations, and the habits we each bring into the relationship. As a Boystown couple, we felt completely understood and supported. It gave us a stronger foundation—and honestly brought us closer than ever.