Depression therapists in Santa Clarita, California CA

Depression is a cluster of symptoms. We assess the life experiences and thought patterns that are causing the symptoms that lead to depression. We help you identify any grief and loss issues that may be contributing to grief and/or bereavement that may be contributing to long-term sadness.  

Depression is typically defined by some combination of a persistently low mood, lack of interest in activities that used to give you joy, feelings of hopelessness, sleeping too much or too little, and/or eating too much or too little. Sometime feeling depressed may lead you to feeling alone. Even so, it's estimated that 16 million Americans experience depression in any given year. Depression is a scientifically recognized condition. I am trained and certified in several research-based types of therapy for depression, yet I understand that the source of your depression is unique to your circumstance. There's no one-size-fits-all solution. Together, we will explore what's troubling you and our therapy to your needs.  

Our mission here at West Valley Counseling is to provide affordable therapy to individuals and families. All of our therapists are licensed to practice as pre-licensed and licensed therapists in the State of California. Our staff is diverse, multi-cultural and LGBT informed.  

I will work with you in reframing your thoughts, which in turn will positively affect your feelings, and thereby your outward behavior. A medical referral may be required.  

The main tenant of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is that thoughts come before feelings; negative thoughts create negative feelings. There are common cognitive distortions/thinking errors that people who have a problematic relationship with depression engage in. The work here is to look at the thoughts that "pop in'' and how one keeps them alive by giving them credibility. We look for alternative self-defending narratives that don't produce anxiety. When one realizes that they don't need to feed negative thinking, we start down the path of changing their relationship with depression.  

I have worked with clients with depression for over 18 years in various settings from foster care, hospital, non profit and private practice.  

Depression is insidious and limits or prevents the ability to live a fulfilling life. It is made worse by stress, trauma, and relationship difficulties which can lead us to feeling further stuck and overwhelmed. Personalized therapy effectively integrates a safe and compassionate setting with advanced therapy skills and techniques to help you address depression towards living a meaningful life. I specialize in supporting adults and couples in navigating the challenges associated with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and relationship problems.  

Depression can suck the life right out of you. There are things you can do to start feeling better right now. Learn strategies for becoming a happier person.  

I explore the family history, current relationships, and life style to discover how depression evolved. I inquire regarding the evolution of the depression, be it from a specific life event or ongoing developmental issues.  

Helping people find peace in their relationships & meaning in their lives is what my work is about. If you're looking for extra support & guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to take your life to the next level, then I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.