What can counseling do for those who suffer with depression?
Depression counseling can help those with major depression, minor depression, postpartum depression, persistent depressive disorder, and more. The providers at Thriveworks in Berkeley, CA will develop a unique treatment plan based on your specific experience, needs, and goals.
Is it worth going to therapy for depression?
It is absolutely worth going to therapy for depression — depression counseling helps people better manage their symptoms and get back to living happier lives again.
How does depression counseling work?
Depression counseling works by helping people pinpoint life problems, distorted thought patterns, and other causes of their depression, then process and work through them in order to mitigate the negative effects those factors have on their lives.
Signs of depression
Common signs of depression include:
- Consistent low mood
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Oversleeping or difficulty sleeping
- Changes in diet (eating much more or less)
- Withdrawal and isolation
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Loss of interest in previous hobbies or activities
- Excessive substance use
Is depression counseling conducted in person or online?
Thriveworks depression counseling in Berkeley, CA is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.
How often should you attend depression therapy sessions?
Depression counseling can last for a few weeks, months, or longer, dependent on the severity of one’s depression as well as their needs and preferences.
How much does depression counseling cost?
At Thriveworks, we take most major forms of insurance, which means that many of our clients only pay a $0-$50 co-pay per session. However, there are also self-pay options that sit around $200 per session, depending on the service and location, for those who are out-of-network.
Need more help deciding?
Depression counseling at Thriveworks in Berkeley, CA is characterized by fully licensed, highly experienced, compassionate therapists delivering expert care to the people who need it the most. Work with a therapist at Thrivweorks Berkeley, someone who can put you back on the path to achieving your goals.
Give our office a call today at (510) 544-8907 or schedule online to get started.
What Is Depression?
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) lists the following eight criteria for depression:
- A depressed mood lasting longer than two weeks
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you usually enjoy, aka anhedonia
- Changes in appetite
- Psychomotor retardation (slowed-down movements and thoughts)
- Fatigue and/or exhaustion
- Overwhelming feelings of sadness, guilt, or worthlessness
- Problems with concentration and/or memory
- Suicidality (If you’re ever considering harming yourself, call a crisis hotline immediately.)
But depression isn’t always by the book. Though the criteria above are important, the licensed depression counselors at Thriveworks in Berkeley, CA will also be on the lookout for the following symptoms:
- Irritability, which can manifest in depressed men more than women
- Substance abuse or addiction, which can be a sign that someone is having difficulty coping with distressed feelings
- Psychomotor agitation (sped-up thoughts and actions)
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Changes in libido (sex drive)
- Social isolation
What Are the Best Therapies for Depression?
Some of the best therapies for depression include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) aims to modify maladaptive thought patterns and beliefs to improve mental health
- Dialectical behavior therapy, which is a type of CBT that helps regulate emotions
- Supportive therapy, which enables a person to use their own resources to improve general functioning
- Psychodynamic therapy, which uses self-reflection and self-examination in talk therapy to bring awareness to the origins of distress
- Holistic remedies like meditation, muscle relaxation, and mindfulness
- Family therapy or couples therapy, which helps support and include loved ones in depression recovery
- Behavioral activation, which focuses on a person’s behavior and environment
- Psychiatric medications
What Is the Relationship Between Depression and Substance Abuse?
People who are depressed are at risk of turning to drugs, alcohol, and other substances to self-medicate. This means that they find a short-term coping strategy for their distress that will probably create more problems in the long run. People who are depressed may also become addicted to sex or gambling to escape from their feelings of sadness. Depression counselors at Thriveworks in Berkeley, CA can address a client’s substance abuse issues alongside depression.
Find Exceptional Treatment for Depression at Thriveworks in Berkeley, CA
At Thriveworks in Berkeley, CA, our therapists are ready to help you overcome your depression and get back to your life. Call Thriveworks and meet an exceptional counselor who can help at (510) 544-8907.
