Depression Counselling in Castlegar, BC.

I use a Bio-psycho-Social approach to depression, meaning the whole person is taken into account. Together we look at the client’s physical health (diet, sleep, exercise, meds) to assess how the basic functions and systems might be contributing to or protecting from depression. We also explore together their cognitive processes, such as underlying beliefs about themselves. And we look at the emotional and social supports in their lives— is there at least one person they can count on when in distress? I tend to move back and forth organically between two levels: the underlying and historical root causes of depression, and present-day coping skills.

I know all about the deep darkness of depression and how to climb out of it. Depression can be brutal and isolating. First we need to be witnessed and understood in our pain in a safe comfortable non-judgemental space. Then we can learn tools and strategies to face the things that seem impossible to face. I will support you to take the steps necessary to improve your depression.

Depression is often associated with negative beliefs about oneself and the world, and EMDR can help to desensitize and reprocess these negative beliefs, leading to a more adaptive and positive worldview. Through the use of bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, EMDR can help to process the distressing memories and beliefs, reducing the intensity of the emotional response and increasing emotional resilience. By addressing the underlying negative beliefs, EMDR can help to alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mood and well-being.

When one is depressed the range of thoughts and feelings encompass a wide spectrum. Sadness and despair might be pervasive. One can feel as if they have fallen into a deep dark pit where everything is covered in negativity and hopelessness. In this state, one can feel inadequate, discouraged, unable or unwilling to make decisions. In addition, guilt, shame, profound low self-esteem and loss of interest in relationships, sex, career and even life itself are commonly found. A variety of evidence-based tools, specific to the needs of the individual, applied skillfully at the right time, can dramatically lift one out of that deep, dark pit and help avoid relapse.

If you're up against depression, we'd collaborate and become a team of sorts. Through thoughtful questioning and listening, we'd begin to identify alternative narratives that challenge your depressive story. By attending to your strengths, resilience and prior successes, you can begin to foster a sense of hope and feel empowered to envision a future where you can live beyond the limitations of depression.

Depression can feel like an empty pit and a hopeless one at that. If you are struggling with depression, counselling can help you to recover from numbness, gain clarity and realign yourself with your values. I will work with you to process your feelings and experiences in order to help you get to a more compassionate, hope-filled place. I will hold the space for you to feel all your feelings and get in touch with your body.