Depression

Depression has been nick-named the “common cold of mental illness.” The statistics can be startling; however, it is useful to pause and become aware of the impact of depression on society in general. Depression affects approximately 20 million Americans, or about 10% of the population in any given one-year period. At some point in their lives, 10%-25% of women and 5%-12% of men will likely become clinically depressed.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Depression services we provide

Each person experiences depression differently, so the most effective treatment involves working with a qualified mental health professional who will develop a customized assessment and treatment plan based on your needs. Remember, treatment for depression is not short-term therapy, so it is best to view treatment as a journey with incremental progress each day. Your therapist can provide the appropriate guidance and monitor your progress throughout the treatment process.

Factors to Consider

Emotional Factors
The emotional effects of depression may include feelings of apathy, ambivalence, or dread, trouble concentrating, feeling lethargic, lack of motivation, irritability, and feeling like no one could ever understand. Those experiencing depression may blame themselves excessively for various things, even when they are not at fault. They may feel guilty about past events or believe they are a burden to others. Depression can bring about a deep sense of hopelessness and a belief that things will never improve. This pessimistic view can lead to a lack of motivation and a feeling of being trapped in a seemingly unchangeable situation.
Cognitive Factors
Depression often involves a persistent negative outlook on oneself, the world, and the future. People with depression may have a tendency to interpret situations in a negative light, focusing on shortcomings, failures, and perceived inadequacies. Depression often involves cognitive distortions, which are irrational and negative thought patterns. Examples of cognitive distortions include black-and-white thinking (seeing things as all good or all bad), overgeneralization (drawing broad negative conclusions from single events), and personalization (attributing excessive blame to oneself).
Who Is At Risk?
Depression can affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. It is a complex condition, and the risk factors for depression can vary from person to person. Have a personal or family history of depression or other mental health disorder can increase the risk. Depression can have a genetic component, meaning that individuals with close family members who have experienced depression may be more susceptible to developing the condition themselves. Other factors contributing to the risk of developing depression are traumatic or stressful events, brain chemistry and biology, hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause put women at even higher risk than men. Chronic medical conditions, substance abuse, and social isolation are also high-risk factors for developing depression.
Sensitive Treatment
Providing accurate information, education, and counseling about depression can be beneficial for individuals, couples, and families. Our therapists are specifically trained in working with depression. Your therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation to understand your symptoms, history, and any underlying factors contributing to your depression. This assessment may include interviews, questionnaires, and possibly collaboration with other healthcare providers.
Specific Training
Our therapists have specialized training to develop the knowledge and skills necessary for effective intervention when working with clients suffering from chronic depression, recent onset depression and dysthymia (low level depression).. Mindfulness-based interventions emphasize present-moment awareness and self-compassion that has been proven to be highly effective in treating and managing the paralyzing symptoms of untreated depression. Some individuals with depression may have experienced trauma. Our therapists are trained in trauma-informed care, enabling them to understand and address trauma-related issues while providing appropriate support and treatment.
Getting Started
As with any therapy, treatment approaches can vary depending on the individual, the nature of the depressive disorder, and the underlying causes. It is important not to delay consulting with one of our therapists specializing in major mood disorders such as depression or dysthimia who will tailor your treatment plan to assist you in achieving stability, well-being, and healthier living.

What To Expect

Evidence-Based Treatment
Our clinical team includes therapists trained in evidence-based modalities of treatment for major mood disorders such as depression or dysthymia (persistent depressive disorder--PDD). The treatment for depression typically involves a combination of approaches, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), family therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.
Mindfulness-based Interventions
Mindfulness-based interventions emphasize present-moment awareness and self-compassion that has been proven to be highly effective in treating and managing the paralyzing symptoms of untreated depression
Support Network
As with any mental health challenge, building a strong support system by connecting with family, friends, or support groups can provide emotional support and help manage depression and its impact on loved ones and associates. Your therapist will incorporate individual and relational therapy to assist in developing the support system you need.
Medication
In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), benzodiazepines, or beta-blockers to help manage depression symptoms. Medication should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional.
Neurofeedback
The EFT Counseling and Education Center offers the specialized treatment of neurofeedback, which specifically retrains the brain to settle into healthier patterns of brain waves, resulting in more consistent and stable emotional states, deeper sleep, and overall ordered thought and emotions.
About Neuro-Feedback

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