Depression
Therapy
Depression is not just about “feeling down”…
Negative self-talk distorts self-image and affects interactions. It heightens stress and anxiety, fostering a cycle of self-criticism that misrepresents reality. Many don't realize how these thoughts impact behavior and relationships. Recognizing harmful patterns is the first step to change. Challenging negative thoughts can shift our perspective. Mindfulness and self-compassion help create a balanced self-view. Adding positive affirmations can counter negativity. Therapy provides a supportive space to explore these emotions and develop positive narratives, improving mental health and relationships. Engaging with cognitive patterns fosters personal growth and relational improvement.
Depression vs. Anxiety
There is a difference, though. People experiencing depression think about the past with thoughts such as
“Why did this happen to me ?” or
“Why did I…?” or “I must be a really bad…”
People struggling with anxiety notice a “What if…” kind of future such as
What if I fail, what will people think…” or
“I feel too restless, what if …”.
Both depression and anxiety take you out of living in the more productive present moment.
In therapy, the work is to put light on what is missing. This can be something you already know that it is difficult to access. Or it can be reverse engineering your life experience by going back to create a new sense of owning a past that has you, rather than you having it.
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”
—Anne Lamot
The Power to Change
The power of change in addressing depression lies in its ability to disrupt negative patterns, foster resilience, and promote new perspectives. It encourages individuals to take proactive steps toward recovery, ultimately empowering them to reclaim control over their lives.
One of the primary challenges in depression is the feeling of stagnation or hopelessness. Change offers a pathway out of this state by introducing new experiences and perspectives. For many, even small alterations in daily habits, such as exercise or engaging in social activities, can trigger positive emotional shifts. These changes can foster a sense of agency and control over one's life, countering feelings of helplessness often felt in depression.
Moreover, engaging in supportive relationships is crucial. Changes in social environments, whether through strengthening existing connections or forming new ones, can provide emotional support and encouragement. Relationships play a critical role in recovery, as they can lead to increased feelings of belonging and understanding.
In therapy, we will unpack what depression means in your life and help change that inner dialogue to ease the impact. We will explore some of the developmental experiences inherent in your cultural upbringing that influenced those important developmental stages. We will work to build your knowledge to better understand how you progressed through those stages to where we are now. Therefore, the power to change is in the work you do now.
Depression Issues
I specialize working with these type of depression issues:
Guilt
Shame/humiliation
Regret
Isolation
Self-worth
Indecisiveness
Irritability
Rejection
Loss
Betrayal