Depression Counseling in Darien, IL.

People may medicate their depression with TV, alcohol, food, isolation, or excessive sleep. One definition of depression is "anger turned inward." Talking with a psychologist is one of the best methods to understand your down moods, unusual thoughts, and self-defeating beliefs. Friends may say, "Get over it" about your jealousy toward your sister or your sadness over your girlfriend who texted "it's over" 3 months ago. If you are on medication for already-diagnosed depression, therapy is important to bring new ideas into your brain. If you are considering medication, start with talk therapy. Don't keep waiting for "it" to go away. What's at the bottom of your depression?

Being mired in depression is one of the worst feelings in life. When someone feels like they have been turned upside down and the life has been poured out of them - it may seem like an impossible dream to feel better. But depression is often treatable. I approach depression work from a cognitive, behavioral and emotional approach. Once the mood starts to life we then can delve deeper into why you are depressed in the first place to help keep you from going down that hole again.

Depression can leave you feeling drained, disconnected, and hopeless. But healing is possible. In our work together, you’ll gain tools to shift negative thinking, reconnect with joy, and rediscover your strengths. I provide a safe and supportive space where you won’t be judged or rushed—just gently guided toward renewed motivation, healthier coping strategies, and emotional relief.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been identified as the treatment of choice for depression. Whether you are on medication or not, CBT strategies can offer relief from the heavy weight of depressive symptoms. Kari's clients gain an understanding of what makes someone vulnerable to depression, how to increase motivation, energy, and positive mood. They will learn how to react to difficult situations with control and composure and better combat depressive tendencies in the future. Because teens display depression differently than adults, parents are often unsure about their son/daughter. Kari will provide an assessment and if necessary, a plan for effective treatment.

When working with depression, I take a steady, supportive approach that combines understanding with practical tools. We’ll look at how your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions are connected, and work together to reduce feelings of hopelessness, increase motivation, and rebuild a sense of purpose. You won’t be rushed or judged—just met where you are, with a focus on small, manageable steps toward feeling better.

Making sure that if the depression is chemical in nature is very important to get a medical/psychiatric evaluation. Many of symptoms of depression stem from unresolved self esteem issues and early childhood issues. Changing the way we self talk and how we view self and who we operate in the world can change our mood state. Being more aware of the cognitive nature of ones perceptions allow the individual make significant changes in how they feel.