Depression can show up in all kinds of ways. It does not have to look like the person you might picture who cannot get out of bed, or has their lights off and blinds closed. Someone who is depressed could appear fully functional: they go to work, do things they need to for their kids, but they may feel numb, empty, sad, or depleted in their daily lives. Here are some common symptoms of depression:
- Feeling sad or down most days
- Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
- Change in appetite and/or sleep
- Change in concentration
- Feelings of guilt or shame
- Lack of energy or motivation
- Change in concentration
- Having suicidal thoughts
How can therapy help?
We will explore and discuss how depression is affecting you now. Treatment is especially individualized, as everyone is unique and enjoys different things. We will look at ways to foster feelings of accomplishment and joy in your life that feel realistic for you, and with hobbies or tasks that are meaningful to you. We will also address your self-talk, sleeping habits, nutrition and gut health, spiritual health (if applicable), and connection with others. I aim to meet all of my clients where they are at, but this is even more true for my clients struggling with depression. Everything can feel hard and I want you to feel successful. So we will take as many baby steps as you need to meet your goals and get you to feel like yourself again.
Also, movement can be so helpful in improving our mood, but particularly difficult for someone to do when feeling depressed. I am happy to help by doing walk-and-talk therapy! We can go on virtual walks outside together and do phone sessions (after the first meeting at least), or we can talk and walk virtually if you have a walking pad or treadmill. Just let me know if you’re interested.
Therapy will be conducted online or virtually at an agreed-upon cadence that will help you meet your goals (ie. weekly, biweekly, once a month). I may discuss a referral for medication management in addition to therapy with you depending upon the severity of your symptoms and how they are affecting your quality of life and ability to function. Most of the techniques provided to help with depression are from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but I also use elements from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), self-compassion, and other approaches as appropriate.
I am here to help and would be honored to help you feel like you again.