Depression
For many of us, we can't get away from the idea that depression is just a part of our lives.
Maybe we can consider it to be a part of human nature. However, there are times when it gets to be “too much.” We feel overwhelmed, sad, pointless, worthless and have low levels of self-esteem. Suicidal thoughts may come and go. We feel we need help, but making the first call is too embarrassing, fearful and anxiety provoking. Taking the first step of making the phone call to a therapist may be the biggest hurdle to overcome.
During therapy, we will define the depression, explore its depths and examine treatment modalities. If your style of learning is simply talking, we’ll engage in a trial of reflecting, listening or, perhaps, silence. We may work from a notebooks, textbooks, journals, videos and/or movies.
We’ll think and talk about: regret, loss, fear, self-esteem, “what I’ve done,” “what I’ve haven’t done.” We’ll see if you have thoughts that: others are better educated, more interesting, more clever, socially adept or self-confident. We’ll look at your views on your ability to change, the future, past life experiences and checking in on the “here and now.” After reviewing your past, we may confront the deep sources of despair and discouragement. After reviewing your present, we may confront your realistic understanding of your situation. After reviewing your future, we may confront the realistic expectations or potentials of your true self. We will examine the role of acceptance in your life.
My style of therapy will be fitted to your personality. Theories of treatment conceptualization include: client centered therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and existential therapy. A deeper understanding, insight and exploration of the unconscious is accomplished with a longer-termed (several day week) psychoanalytic approach.
Antidepressive medication may considered as a possible treatment modality. Psychopharmacological medication is likely to be considered in a limited number of resilient and pervasive situations. It would be discussed after a medical evaluation. I also provide the service of evaluation and prescription of anti-depressive medication.
