Depression Counseling in Pacific Grove, CA.

Through the use of the automatic thought record, customized homework assignments and basic behavior modification strategies I help individuals overcome depression. Since not all depression is biochemical, I encourage clients to try and alleviate their symptoms through nutrition, exercise and activity scheduling before heading to the doctor for a prescription.

I use several methods for helping you overcome depression. I support you in maintaining safety. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I help you to identify unhelpful thoughts and learn how to restructure your thoughts. I help you identify root causes of your depression and find ways to reduce their impact by replacing them with activities and relationships that support you in increased positive mood and personal responsibility. Depression can be comorbid with other issues you may be struggling with and I take a holistic approach to help you address what is needed in order to become a more fulfilled, and satisfied individual.

First, it's important to me to understand what my clients mean by "depression" because how one client experiences depression can be very different than another client. This is necessary so I can customize the strategies I use for each specific client based on their unique experience of depression. Ultimately, my clients can expect to discover real-world steps they can take to feel not just "less depressed" but better about their life - and more positive and hopeful.

Free 30 minute zoom call - Depression often really just means "repression". It is usually a sign that the human system is overwhelmed with thoughts & emotions that have become unmanageable. People with depression are often stuck & unmotivated. A shift in circumstances is usually needed for people suffering from depression AND expressing emotions through a variety of outlets is extremely helpful.

Depression can be a very difficult emotion to feel, to understand, to cope with and to heal from. As we work together, we begin to explore your experiences and relationships from the past to understand what might be happening in the present that may still need healing. As well as, understand your feelings in the moment to provide relief, comfort and support.

Working with the experience of depression is much more than changing our thoughts to change our behavior. Our brains are wired to notice the negative; it's part of our survival. I support my clients in expanding what they notice, and help them discover what works for them by creating a tool kit through experiential relational interventions in session. When I see children, I utilize play therapy as the modality, including Child Centered Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, and Prescriptive Play Therapy. When working with adolescents and adults, I utilize expressive arts, DBT, CBT and Narrative Therapy.

Depression can feel debilitating at times and wipe you clean of your motivation and overall luster for life. I use a CBT approach which is found to be an effective treatment for depression, as it addresses thinking barriers and stuck points that increase negative thoughts-commonly found in those who suffer with depression. Together we can identify triggers, barriers, process challenges and provide tools you can apply to increase the likelihood of feeling more in control over your feelings and thoughts.