Therapy for Depression

Depression can be a debilitating mental health condition; for some, it feels like climbing out of a deep pit with every action, step taken, just getting out of bed is a huge task. For others, it's more like a little, one foot pit -- everything is just a little harder, a little less enjoyable, even those "fun" activities that you used to enjoy feel like digging out of a swamp. If you are struggling with depression, it is important to know that you are not alone and that help is available. Counseling can be an effective treatment for depression, and we at Progress Counseling are here to offer services as trained, professional, trauma-informed counselors.

As a counseling group, Progress Counseling is committed to treating depression based on a combination of evidence-based techniques and a person-centered approach. This means that we tailor our approach to meet the unique needs of each individual client, taking into account their specific symptoms, experiences, and goals.

The first step in counseling for depression is typically an initial consultation or assessment. During this session, we will discuss your symptoms, any past treatment you may have received, and your goals for counseling. This information will help us to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Often times, when we take a history, we will start to notice patterns within one's family system, challenges related to physical and emotional pain, un-processed trauma, or other clues to help you and your counselor determine a path towards healing.

In addition to some cognitive approaches, our clinicians may also use other evidence-based techniques, such as mindfulness-based therapy, solution-focused therapy, IFS (Internal Family Systems) or parts work, and interpersonal therapy. These techniques can help you to develop coping skills, improve communication, and build resilience in the face of depression. Depression is different for everyone. For some it appears rational, logical, and coherent, while for others, depression is a frustrating, nonsensical part. Maybe neither of those resonate with you, and you may have some "all of the above / none of the above" experience of depression. "When my dark cloud shows up, it is the same but different than others." Our clinicians are trained to take on your experience, understand your values and needs, and help you develop a pathway towards your desired way of being int he world.

Counseling for depression is typically conducted in a one-on-one setting, although we may recommend group therapy or family therapy in certain cases. We have seasoned family therapists who can help get the larger system un-stuck and working together towards a communal image of healing. The frequency and duration of sessions will depend on your specific needs and goals, but typically range from weekly to biweekly sessions over the course of several months. Healing takes time; it's difficult, but it's well worth it.

In addition to counseling, there are other strategies you can use to manage depression. These may include exercise, healthy eating, getting enough sleep, and connecting with friends and loved ones. You and your counselor will work to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your life and supports your mental health and well-being. There's the behavioral level of change (e.g. sleeping, exercising, etc) and then there's the process, practice-based change -- this is usually where the professional clinician's steady hands are the most needed. One of the challenges with depression, and depression-adjacent symptoms is that they can touch on our very identities, or become part of who we are. Healing at the level of identity, and adjusting at the level of "who" can happen when safety, connection are in place. This is what we do, before the theories and modalities, our clinicians are specifically trained to create the safety that creates healing at the deepest level.

We say, "Healing is the safety. Safety is the healing."

If you are struggling with depression, please know that you do not have to face it alone. Progress Counseling is here to offer a safe, supportive, and confidential space for you to explore your feelings, develop coping skills, and work towards a happier, healthier life. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation and take the first step towards healing.