Anxiety and depression are the most common reasons people seek therapy, and because of how prevalent they are in our society they are often downplayed or normalized. Many of my clients speak to me about not recognizing their depression, trying to “tough it out,” or even not having the language to express the symptoms that they’re feeling. You may have friends who often throw around how “depressed” they are because a situation didn’t go their way, or come across people who think that depression is simply a form of extreme sadness. But if you’re truly struggling with clinical depression, you know this isn’t the case. Your life becomes stunted by lethargy, lack of motivation, and even thoughts of worthlessness or wanting to die. ANd if you struggle with clinical anxiety, you’re plagued by racing thoughts, questions of whether you performed even small tasks the “right” way, muscle tension, insomnia, and panic attacks. You may be tempted to try and ignore these symptoms, or see them as evidence of some sort of weakness or ignorance, but I’m guessing that you’re here because part of you understands that this isn’t the case. You aren’t depressed because you’re weak or worthless or unintelligent. Clinical depression is an illness that can be treated through both psychotherapy and pharmacology successfully. You may not believe it now, but it is possible to feel much, much better.

I see depression and anxiety as interrelated, often two sides of the same coin. One feeds the other in a potentially endless cycle - but this cycle can be broken through psychotherapy. In session, I work with people to understand the thoughts, beliefs, and actions that contribute to many of the symptoms of depression and anxiety. This content is often unconscious or repressed, and can be brought out and examined more fully through cognitive reframes and open discussion in a non-judgmental and trusting therapeutic environment. I also work with clients to understand how defense mechanisms may contribute to depression and anxiety, and help teach them appropriate coping skills, such as relaxation exercises or meditative techniques to help interrupt and reprogram patterns of mood disorder.

If you would like to reach out and see about a free consultation with me to discuss treatment of your depression or anxiety, please contact me here.