Depression

What depression is

Depression can reach into every part of your life, from your work to your relationships to how you feel when you wake up. It can make it hard to believe things will get better. But depression is treatable.

In therapy, we look at what you are feeling without judgment, find coping tools that work for you, and put together a plan you can actually follow, so you can start to feel more like yourself again.

Signs of depression

Depression looks different from person to person. Some of the more common signs are:

• A sad or hopeless feeling that does not go away.
• No longer enjoying activities that used to matter to you.
• Trouble focusing, remembering or making decisions.
• Sleep changes, like lying awake at night or sleeping much more than usual.
• Low energy or exhaustion that rest does not fix.
• Thoughts about death or suicide, or a past suicide attempt.

Depression can also show up in the body as ongoing aches and pains, or in feelings like irritability or heavy guilt. Thoughts of self-harm or suicide call for immediate help from a professional.

What can cause depression

• Biology. Shifts in brain chemistry and hormones can affect how your mood is regulated.
• Family history. Depression can run in families, which can make some people more vulnerable.
• Life circumstances. Major stress, trauma or a long-term illness can set it off.

Understanding what is behind your depression helps us choose the approach that will fit you best.

How I help with depression

Therapy gives you a safe place to sort through what you are feeling, notice the patterns that keep you down, and practice healthier ways of thinking and coping. Depending on what you need, I may use:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). We look at the negative thoughts that feed a low mood and work on changing them, along with the habits that go with them.
• Mindfulness. Simple practices to lower stress and stay in the present, so difficult feelings are less overwhelming.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Hands-on skills for handling strong emotions, getting through hard moments and strengthening your relationships.
• Solution-focused therapy. We focus on what is already working for you and build on it with small, practical steps.

Therapy can stand on its own or go hand in hand with other care. Some people also talk with their doctor about medication, or make lifestyle changes alongside our work together.

Most of my sessions are online by secure video, for clients anywhere in California or Idaho. I also see clients in person at my office in San Fernando, and I work in English and Spanish.

Everyday habits that support recovery

• Moving your body regularly, which can help your mood and energy.
• Eating in a way that fuels your body and mind.
• Getting enough sleep to help steady your emotions.
• Staying connected to people you trust, so you feel less alone.

Paired with therapy, small habits like these can make depression easier to manage and help you enjoy more of your daily life.

Reaching out is a good first step

When you are depressed, even asking for help can feel like too much. Depression is treatable, and therapy can help you understand what you are going through, manage it, and find your way back to confidence and joy. If you or someone you love is struggling, you can start with a free consultation.