Depression Counseling in Mascoutah, IL.

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes you may feel as if life isn't worth living. Using cognitive behavioral approaches, clients can learn to identify negative beliefs and behaviors and replace them with healthy, positive ones. We explore relationships and experiences, and work to develop positive interactions with others. And find better ways to cope and solve problems.

Isolation feeds depression and then also becomes a breeding ground for negative thought patterns. In session, we challenge those thought processes and take baby steps towards leaving isolation, hopelessness, and helplessness. As your therapist, we do not want you to be alone; we will work to develop skills and techniques that benefit you and that challenge the fog that you may feel that you are stuck in. These skills and techniques are practiced in session and often suggested that it be continued to be practiced outside of session. Then, we regroup, process, and re-strategize as needed.

In my psychotherapy practice, I support patients with chronic, mild, and severe depression by creating a compassionate and non-judgmental space. I use an integrative approach, combining cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and other evidence-based techniques to address negative thought patterns and behaviors. My goal is to help patients develop coping strategies, build resilience, and find a renewed sense of purpose and hope, ultimately improving their overall well-being and quality of life.