Depression Counseling in West Hollywood, CA.

Depression is far more common than has been generally thought. Folks find themselves feeling hopeless, unable to concentrate, lacking initiative, having difficulty making decisions, trouble sleeping etc. Depression involves a slowing down of the entire human organism as well as lowered self-esteem. Often our dreams and images can lead us to discover the deeper meaning of the depression. Therefore sometimes depression can be a pathway to self-discovery. As we explore how you feel, I listen in a way that provides the client with clarity, offer guidance without imposing decisions, accept the client as they are, without making judgments, as they move forward in achieving

I work with a depressed nervous system by working with the body. Often we struggle to sleep, eat, or accomplish relatively simple tasks. Our bodies are stuck with the brake on. When our body thinks it is futile, out mind follows quickly thereafter and we begin to tell ourselves how pointless things are and how worthless we are. I work with the whole body to re-regulate the body to enable you to get back to a whole integrated self.

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.

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!

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.

Depression is a condition that can be insidious in that the symptoms are frequently physically and emotionally debilitating. Friends and relatives often suggest as a cure to merely "take a walk" or "think positively" in order to combat those symptoms which usually only increase feelings of shame and encourage patients to further isolate. I don't offer such simple suggestions but construct a treatment plan that includes supportive psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral techniques and integrating an evaluation for medication if indicated and desired by the patient.