Depression Treatment
Our therapists specialize in treating adults who struggle with mild to moderate depression or who are experiencing depressive symptoms. We use a holistic, mind-body approach to ensure that both physical and cognitive symptoms are being addressed and that we’re identifying any other potential factors that may be contributing to them.
While depression manifests a bit differently in each person and in each circumstance, these are a few of the most common symptoms our clients experience:
Physical Symptoms of Depression:
- Fatigue/low energy
- Increase or decrease in appetite
- Under-sleeping or over-sleeping
- Decreased sex drive
- Lethargy
Cognitive Symptoms of Depression:
- Low motivation
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Lack of enthusiasm/excitement
- Low self-esteem
- Mental fogginess
- Thoughts of suicide
For clients who are experiencing severe depression and/or who are having active, ongoing suicidal thoughts, we have a list of referrals and resources for more intensive treatment options.
Q: Do I need medication to treat my depression?
A: Not necessarily, but if prolonged symptoms occur after a few months of therapy and if symptoms are primarily physical, we may recommend a medication consultation with a psychiatrist. We also recommend getting annual blood tests through your primary care physician to rule out any health issues that could be mimicking depressive symptoms. Hormonal or chemical imbalances can result in depressive symptoms that may not be able to be treated solely through talk therapy, so we will work together to make sure you’re getting all of the tools you need to treat your depressive symptoms holistically.
Q: How long does depression treatment take?
A: This is different for each unique client, with clients who experience more mild or cyclical depression seeing results within the first few months of treatment and those who experience more moderate or chronic depression requiring longer, more sustained support. We are constantly checking in with our clients about what is or isn’t useful so we can shift gears and continue tailoring our approach or recommending additional resources to help them feel the relief they want.
Q: What is seasonal depression?
A: Seasonal depression is cyclical, occurring in colder climates where there’s less sunlight during certain periods of the year and is very common and treatable with the right set of tools & resources. People with seasonal depression tend to experience fatigue, depression, hopelessness and more social isolation primarily during colder, darker months.
Q: Can I be depressed if I’m still managing all my responsibilities just fine?
A: Yes. While we tend to see depression portrayed in it’s most severe forms, depression can be mild, moderate, seasonal and even cyclical. You can even be functioning just fine while simultaneously experiencing depressive symptoms and it is equally important to address these symptoms before they do become more severe.
Curious about online therapy for depression? Contact us for a free consultation to learn more.
Not quite ready for therapy? Check out these blog posts:
7 Tips for Combating Seasonal Depression During a Pandemic
8 Self-Care Tips to Strengthen Your Mental & Emotional Health
It’s Not the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year” For All of Us