Depression Counseling in Elmhurst, IL.

My approach will vary depending on the severity of the depression. The first importance is stability of well being. From there I will work on thoughts, feelings, and behaviors working towards short terms goals. Goals will include small behavior changes that will help to be building blocks and also cognitive work on realistic truths. Often things like sleep, nutrition, and exercise are also evaluated and improved in the process as ways to counter depression.

I've been treating depression and bipolar since 1996 and it is what I do best from chronic lifelong depression to a sad mood that is based on temporary circumstances. I am a constant researcher because I write for several columns a month and keynote speaker at conferences so I am up to date on the implementation of current evidence based therapies that produce results. I am also in an office with a psychiatrist and two psychiatric nurse practitioners if medication management is needed. We all work together providing continuity of care. I am also a top referral source for several local hospitals when a patient is discharged due to depression, bipolar, and anxiety disorders.

In my approach to depression counseling, I provide a compassionate and supportive environment where clients feel truly heard and understood. I tailor my methods to the individual, blending evidence-based therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based practices to help clients manage symptoms and regain hope. Through collaborative goal-setting and gentle exploration of thought patterns, I empower clients to build resilience, develop practical coping strategies, and rediscover a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives.

Depressive symptoms can stem from a variety of sources in an individual’s life usually reflecting a sense of loss. While medications can be helpful, it’s the behavioral symptoms associated with depression that can leave a lingering impact even after the depressive symptoms have stated to improve. Being pulled into depressive experiences over and over reflects both habits that can be difficult to break and/or subconscious issues that have yet to be addressed. Through processes such as hypnotherapy that address the whole person, we are able to capture a wider range of challenges and help the individual to regain the ground lost to he depressive illness.