Therapy for Anxiety
It is natural to worry or become nervous and even fearful at times – it happens to all of us. However, when these experiences occur too frequently, start to get in the way of our everyday lives, or feel too extreme or beyond our control, these emotions become less natural and more problematic. I specialize in the most proven solutions for anxiety, which often can help reduce these negative occurrences and thereby improve your quality of life.
Anxiety is very different from what is commonly portrayed in the media as mental illness. It is a normal process that is built into human nature to protect us from real dangers in our environment and to motivate us to put effort into our work, our family, and our daily responsibilities. Unfortunately, anxiety sometimes becomes overwhelming for a variety of reasons, including: increased pressure at work or home, a traumatic experience, or from placing unnecessary pressure on one’s self to be perfect, often in an attempt to avoid even the smallest and most unlikely of negative events. When anxiety becomes problematic, it can lead to sleep problems, withdrawal from friends and social situations, difficulties performing one’s responsibilities, and decreased quality of life. Common terms for anxiety include generalized anxiety, test or speaking anxiety, phobias, panic attack, agoraphobia, OCD, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Many people do not seek treatment for their anxiety because they are concerned that they will be labeled as “mentally ill” or “crazy”, or that their anxiety is a sign that they are somehow not capable. This could not be further from the truth. Anxiety is quite common and considered a very treatable concern. If you’re experiencing anxiety, I would like to work together to develop a strategy and help you through it.
Therapy for Depression
Similar to worry and fear, everyone occasionally feels blue or sad. However, these feelings are usually short-lived and pass within a couple of days. When you have depression, the sadness often interferes with daily life and causes pain for both you and those who care about you. Depression is a common but serious illness.
Symptoms of Depression:
People with depressive illnesses do not all experience the same symptoms. The severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms vary depending on the individual and his/her particular illness.
Signs and symptoms of depression include:
- Persistent sad, anxious and/or “empty” emotions
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
- Irritability and/or restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
- Change in sleeping patterns: Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness or excessive sleeping
- Altered eating habits: Overeating or appetite loss
- Aches or pains, headaches, cramps and/or digestive problems that do not ease with treatment
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
Many people with a depressive illness never seek treatment; but the majority, even those with the most severe depression, can get better with treatment. Medications, psychotherapies, and other methods can effectively treat people with depression. If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms and are struggling with a depressive illness, I am here and would like to work together to develop a strategy to help you through it.