Depression Counseling in Santa Barbara, CA.

Grey Matters International, Inc. and the work of Kevin J. Fleming, Ph.D. handles depression and other emotional disorders in a very unique way. Most of therapy or counseling processes utilize validation, unconditional positive regard, and reframing as common techniques to get someone to heal from their depression. Though this can be helpful, it rarely fixes the core problem behind it and for tough cases we then refer them usually to a psychiatrist for medication which can have tons of side effects. Instead, why not try a natural and arguably more effective way to not just change your mind, but change the brain--where the depression is rooted. Contact us at kevin@kevinflemingphd.com.

Depression is a common mental health disorder, affecting all age groups, that causes intense & persistent feelings of hopelessness, sadness and personal emptiness. Depression affects how you feel, think, behave and could lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems, left untreated. If you are struggling with depression you don't have to be alone, seeking help is the first step to improving your symptoms. Psychotherapy has shown to improve the symptoms of depression. Together will develop a comprehensive treatment plan specific to your concerns, needs and symptoms to improve the quality of your life.

I use several methods for helping you overcome depression. I support you in maintaining safety. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I help you to identify unhelpful thoughts and learn how to restructure your thoughts. I help you identify root causes of your depression and find ways to reduce their impact by replacing them with activities and relationships that support you in increased positive mood and personal responsibility. Depression can be comorbid with other issues you may be struggling with and I take a holistic approach to help you address what is needed in order to become a more fulfilled, and satisfied individual.

Most people will be faced with an episode of depression at least once in their lives. When you first come in we explore whether the depressive feelings are based in the past or the result of current events. Sometimes people who present with depression seem to have unresolved child hood issues. Together we find ways of bringing closure to these unexplored and unexpressed 'childhood wounds'. Clients often report a new sense of joy and more vitality after feelings of sadness, grief or anger have been expressed. Also relationships with parents and or other loved ones usually greatly improve. If the depression is based in current affairs we often use behavioral therapy to increase your coping.

When you’re depressed, it can feel like you’ll never get out from under its shadow. However, depression is a treatable problem. If your depression is keeping you from living the life you want to, don’t hesitate to contact me. Learning about your depression treatment options will help you decide what approach is right for you. From therapy to medication to healthy lifestyle changes, there are many effective treatments that can help you overcome depression and reclaim your life. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has shown in studies to have the best results for depression because it is a practical, hands-on method for challenging automatic negative thoughts.

First, it's important to me to understand what my clients mean by "depression" because how one client experiences depression can be very different than another client. This is necessary so I can customize the strategies I use for each specific client based on their unique experience of depression. Ultimately, my clients can expect to discover real-world steps they can take to feel not just "less depressed" but better about their life - and more positive and hopeful.

When struggling with depressed moods, everything feels heavy and you lack a sense of meaning and purpose. Even the most simple tasks can feel impossible. If you find yourself turning to alcohol, substances, or other addictive behaviours to cope with depressed moods, there is a way out. I help clients with addictions overcome the depressed moods causing them to turn to substances or addictive behaviours to cope. Everyone is different, so I work with you to develop a plan that fits your unique situation. If you are unsure where to start, send me a message. If I'm not the right fit, I can connect you to resources that will allow you to start getting help today, without having to wait.

Are you feeling sad? Hopeless? Worthless? Are you struggling to find motivation? How about the energy needed to connect with friends? Or are you feeling isolated? All of these (and more) are very common symptoms of depression. As your therapist, I will use CBT therapy to improve your quality of life. I love using CBT for depression because it makes common sense. We learn to notice those negative thoughts. Then we learn together which thoughts are hurting you and causing you to feel emotional pain. Lastly, we work together to change and replace those thoughts with something better. It's not a magical cure, but this is a long-standing and proven technique for depression and I find it helpful!

Are you feeling overwhelmed by life? Has the joy been taken out of things you used to enjoy? Common symptoms of depression in adults and children are feelings of sadness, lack of energy, changes in eating or sleeping, and being self-critical. Gently, we can approach these feelings and begin to understand them. Through connecting and understanding them, they can begin to transform them. Some techinques that I have found helpful are mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, somatic awareness, and expressive therapies like drawing, sand tray, or collage. Depression can feel heavy and isolating, and you don't need to handle it alone.