Depression Specialist

What is depression?

Everyone feels depressed at some point during life, however for people with depression, these feelings are much more intense and do not simply go away or get better. It is a serious illness which is caused by changes in brain chemistry. These changes decrease the brain’s ability to send and receive neurotransmitters and chemicals. Which can cause problems with circulating the chemicals in the brain tied to positive emotions. Several factors can influence whether or not a person develops depression including:

• Heredity
• Medical conditions
• Difficult circumstances
• Changes in hormone levels
• Stress
• Grief

Many people often go without the help they need. I am here to provide the best type of treatment for each person’s unique struggles with depression.

What are the symptoms of depression?

When a person has depression it affects every aspect of life; emotions, thought patterns, and behaviors. The symptoms are typically experienced in groups and can be very difficult to deal with. Symptoms include:

• Hopelessness
• Fatigue and/or lack of energy
• Angry outbursts
• Reduced appetite
• Sexual issues
• Sadness
• Substance abuse
• Memory issues
• Weight gain or loss
• Difficulty concentrating
• Absent from work and/or social activities
• Changes in sleeping habits
• Lack of interest in people and events
• Unexplained aches and pains
• Trouble coming to a decision
• Thoughts of harming self or attempts to harm self

How do I treat individuals with depression?

A variety of options will be used to treat depression. The exact method used will be based on the person’s unique circumstances and how they respond to different methods. I will frequently use a combination of treatments including psychotherapy techniques and lifestyle changes. In therapy sessions, the emotions and thoughts which the person is dealing with will be discussed to help find the cause behind them. I also use an integrative approach. This means many different therapy methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic techniques, may be used. That way, my client receives the right type of treatment for their personal needs. Lifestyle changes can also be beneficial and include increased physical activity, changing eating habits, getting quality sleep, and minimizing stress.