Depression can feel like acute sadness, but it can also include feelings of hopelessness, worthless, lack of energy for even the most simple daily tasks. Depression is often described as "anger turned inward". That's true, but it's more; it's a blanket covering all your feelings, positive and negative. I help clients dare to look under the blanket ... and receive renewed vitality from what they find.
I have an existential focus in my practice that presumes that all individuals seek meaning, purpose, and self-actualization. I believe that depressive symptoms derive from a lack of meaning and purpose.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Ph.D., LICSW, LMHC, LCSW
Depression like anxiety presents in many ways across a spectrum from severe to mild but in any form, it is a burden and a concern that is important to address. It can blunt or obscure much or all of the joy of being alive. It is not only a primary cause of suicide in the extreme but even in mild form can cast a pall over the perceived worth and relevance of one's life. In short, the psychic and emotional suffering of depression is vital to address whenever possible and we are prepared, skilled and eager to help you to do so.
Seeking therapy for depression provides clients with a safe space to express their emotions, learn their specific triggers and patterns, and create coping strategies to help you build resilience, self-esteem, and confidence. We will work collaboratively to empower you to make positive changes in your life so you can experience greater emotional well-being and fulfillment.
Many of the individuals I work with have experienced episodes of or live with chronic depression. It can be hard to share these thoughts and I look to help people process how it affects their lives. Like anxiety, I am not looking to have someone ignore their depression, but to learn to cope with them and think about how they can reframe their thinking in a way that is more realistic.
Seeking therapy for depression provides clients with a safe space to express their emotions, learn their specific triggers and patterns, and create coping strategies to help you build resilience, self-esteem, and confidence. We will work collaboratively to empower you to make positive changes in your life so you can experience greater emotional well-being and fulfillment.
In treating depression with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I begin by assessing the client's symptoms and understanding how depression impacts their daily functioning. Education is key, as I explain the connection between thoughts, emotions, and mood. Together, we identify negative thought patterns and work on replacing them with more realistic and positive perspectives. Behavioral activation involves setting goals for enjoyable or necessary activities, even when motivation is low. Relaxation techniques and mindfulness exercises help manage stress and promote emotional well-being. Homework assignments reinforce new skills, like monitoring mood or practicing relaxation. Regular review ensures we adapt our approach based on progress and client feedback, aiming to empower clients in overcoming depression and improving their overall mental health.