Cedar Counseling & Wellness

Depression

Annapolis Depression Therapist

 

Depression changes your life.

 

Simple tasks like unloading the dishwasher or getting groceries can seem overwhelming, and socializing can be painful. You may feel apathetic about what used to be your passion, and some days, you don’t even recognize the person looking back at you in the mirror.

 

We help you understand and navigate your depression, so you can get back to fully living your life and feeling like yourself again.

Our depression therapists’ in Annapolis approach

 

It’s our mission to give you hope and help you feel better. Our targeted approach helps you build skills for sustainable change.

 

We know that therapy can be intimidating, so we strive to make the process as easy as possible. Your relationship with your therapist is crucial to your success, so a nonjudgmental atmosphere is essential. It’s our priority to create this space for you.

 

Our experienced therapists utilize an eclectic approach of evidence-based methods to address depression effectively, including:

  1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):  Through CBT, we may work with you to identify and challenge negative thought patterns. Behavioral Activation techniques encourage you to engage in positive activities that bring joy and fulfillment back into your life.

  2. Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Our therapists incorporate mindfulness skills, and may utilize modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). DBT focuses on developing skills in mindfulness, emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance, empowering you to navigate challenging emotions and situations. ACT helps you align your actions with your values, fostering a sense of purpose and meaning in your life.

  3. Self-Compassion Practices: We recognize the impact of negative self-talk on depression and incorporate self-compassion practices into our treatment approach. Cultivating self-compassion involves developing kindness and understanding toward oneself, counteracting self-criticism and fostering a more supportive internal dialogue.

  4. Client-Centered Therapy: Our therapists utilize Client-Centered modalities, focusing on your unique experiences, values, and goals in the therapeutic process. By providing a supportive and empathetic environment, Client-Centered therapy fosters self-discovery, personal growth, and empowerment.  We work collaboratively to explore and address your specific challenges and strengths, enhancing your overall well-being.
  5. Psychoeducational Interventions: We take a holistic approach to depression treatment, highlighting the impact of lifestyle choices on mental health. We provide guidance on adopting healthy habits, including regular physical activity, gentle nutrition, quality sleep, stress management techniques, and building supportive social connections.

 

 

Depression FAQs

 

Depression is often misunderstood. Below, we’ll clear up a few questions you may have.

 

 

Is depression psychological or physical?

 

Although most people consider depression to be only psychological, depression has physical effects as well.

 

When you’re depressed, you may feel excessively tired and sluggish. Maybe you gain or lose weight quickly. You might even experience body aches and pains or digestive problems. We want to help you address both the mental and physical effects of depression. As your therapist, we may encourage you to implement lifestyle changes to improve the physical symptoms of depression. Try to eat well, get an appropriate amount of sleep, take walks, and more. We know it’s hard, but we believe these things will make a difference. 

 

 

Why am I depressed?

 

Some people believe that depression is merely the result of chemical imbalances. The truth is, depression is much more complicated than that. There are many possible causes of depression, including:

 

  • Biology. People with depression appear to have physical changes in their brains.

  • Trauma. Early losses and emotional trauma may leave individuals more vulnerable to depression later in life.

  • Triggering life events. At some point, nearly everyone encounters stressful life events. When genetics, biology, and stressful life situations come together, depression can result.

  • Genetics. Depression is more common in people whose blood relatives also have this condition.

 

And more! The truth is, we may not always be able to identify the cause of your depression, as it may be complex and multi-faceted. As your therapist, we will do our best to understand potential causes, while simultaneously empowering you with the skills to manage the effects depression is having on you today. 

 

 

Can I cure my depression?

 

Some people struggle with depression throughout their lives, while others struggle with more episodic or situational depression.

 

Ultimately, our goal as your therapist is to help you manage and treat your depression. We understand that you are probably seeking help because your depression is holding you back in some way. We want to work with you to overcome the debilitating effects of depression, so you can lead a life full of meaning and purpose. 

 

Are you ready to get started with therapy?

 

Our dedicated team of therapists is ready to help you. Reach out to us today and start your journey towards peace and empowerment. Our intake process is simple to reduce overwhelm.

 

  • Learn more about our therapists, to find the right fit for you. You can view our therapist’s bios here.

  • Schedule an intake session. Not quite ready to book yet? Our therapists also provide a complimentary 15-minute consultation.

  • Attend your intake session. Intake sessions are all about getting to know you—a bit about your background, what’s currently bothering you, and what goals you have for therapy.

  • Start therapy. Together, we’ll explore the underlying factors contributing to your distress. Your therapist will provide compassionate support and expert guidance throughout.