Depression Counselling in Chatham, ON.

Having experienced and moved through clinical depression early in my own life, I know how, at times, depression can make life seem too hard face. For many people, depression is the result of early life events that have never been truly resolved. And while many people benefit from the use of medications and/or alternative approaches - it has been shown time and time again that adding therapy greatly increases the chances for an even better outcome.

Sometimes, we think of depression in social terms as the sadness and aloneness we feel that doesn't significantly interfere with our daily abilities to function. At other times, depression may dramatically limit the energy or interest we have to do anything. This may require the help of your physician to rule out the biological causes of medical problems that present as depression. In both examples, therapy is necessary to increase the possibility of a good outcome. When I've met folks suffering from all forms of depression, I've relied on my education, training and experience to provide counselling and therapy. Depression is difficult, but you don't need to be alone to manage it.

Depression is an insidious companion, and can creep its way in without us realizing for some time. Shifting a depressed mindset can be extremely difficult but neuroimaging studies have shown that by practicing mindfulness we can begin to alter those well-trodden neural pathways and shift our neurochemistry by promoting the production of neurotransmitters linked to feelings of happiness. Psychotherapy can help you identify mindfulness activities and other tools that can help to promote the production of these neurotransmitters and deliver results rooted in neuroscience. I can offer an alternative perspective and act as the catalyst you need to begin making the shift out of depression.

Depression is common and pervasive in our society. I will help you explore the reasons for your depression and what keeps it going as well as provide support practical, powerful and effective tools to help you manage and move through this challenging issue. Some depressions may be based in trauma and I use a trauma-informed approach to therapy in general. You don't have to continue to suffer with depression and you don't necessarily need to rely on medication either. Effective help is here!

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.

I’ve been helping people lead more intentional lives for over 20 years. Depression can cause you to feel lonely, helpless, and confused. I’m trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, developmental models,and anxiety and depression management. I will support you in creating a set of tools to help you manage your depression. Most importantly, you're a distinctive person, with distinctive needs. My goal is to work with you as a unique individual, and focus on YOUR goals.

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.

There are times in our lives where we may feel depressed. However, there are times when we may feel stuck and at a point when it is necessary to seek support. Working with a compassionate professional who understands depression and cares about your healing and well-being may help you to feel hope and to find your spark again. Together we will work at the clients pace as a team using a variety of client-centered modalities. Some people find that Expressive Art allows them to express emotions that there are no words for. As well, EMDR is helpful in working through prior events that keep us stuck by desensitizing the client from past trauma.