Depression Counseling in Saratoga, CA.

Depression can be painful for the person suffering from it as well as those closest to them. When we are depressed, previously enjoyable activities can appear meaningless. We lose interest in connecting with others (often exacerbating symptoms). Furthermore, it can feel as though there is "no point" to life. We all have periods of time when we feel less than ideal, but depression is severe and enduring. Counseling provides an atmosphere where it is safe to discuss these feelings.

When one is depressed the range of thoughts and feelings encompass a wide spectrum. Sadness and despair might be pervasive. One can feel as if they have fallen into a deep dark pit where everything is covered in negativity and hopelessness. In this state, one can feel inadequate, discouraged, unable or unwilling to make decisions. In addition, guilt, shame, profound low self-esteem and loss of interest in relationships, sex, career and even life itself are commonly found. A variety of evidence-based tools, specific to the needs of the individual, applied skillfully at the right time, can dramatically lift one out of that deep, dark pit and help avoid relapse.

Free 30 minute zoom call - Depression often really just means "repression". It is usually a sign that the human system is overwhelmed with thoughts & emotions that have become unmanageable. People with depression are often stuck & unmotivated. A shift in circumstances is usually needed for people suffering from depression AND expressing emotions through a variety of outlets is extremely helpful.

In depression treatment with me, you will feel that you are deeply heard, that your symptoms are understood, and that your process is respected. Initially, I will teach you some valuable skills to help you take the edge off of your depression to make way for deeper healing. By experiencing compassion and receiving effective coaching in sessions, you will be able to begin to process your pain more effectively so that you can let it go and move toward more consistent happiness and satisfying relationships. Call me with any questions or to schedule an initial appointment.

Depression can be debilitating and lonely. I understand the complexities of depression and have found that my psychodynamic, psychoanalytically-minded technique is very successful in treating depression. I have found psychotherapy to be very effective in helping individuals find a way to overcome their struggles and reclaim energy and purpose in their lives.

Working with the experience of depression is much more than changing our thoughts to change our behavior. Our brains are wired to notice the negative; it's part of our survival. I support my clients in expanding what they notice, and help them discover what works for them by creating a tool kit through experiential relational interventions in session. When I see children, I utilize play therapy as the modality, including Child Centered Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, and Prescriptive Play Therapy. When working with adolescents and adults, I utilize expressive arts, DBT, CBT and Narrative Therapy.

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!