Depression Counseling in Newton, MA—Therapists and Counselors at Thriveworks
John hasn’t felt like himself in months. He used to love going out with friends, cheering in the crowd at his little brother’s baseball games, and even attending his classes (most of them, at least). But lately, he hasn’t wanted to do any of that. He hasn’t wanted to do much other than lay in bed. As a result, his friends are distant, his family feels out of reach, and his grades have dropped significantly.
After another week of feeling this way, John decides that something isn’t right—and he deserves to get to the bottom of it. So, John goes to his family doctor who refers him to a counselor down the street. Quickly, John is diagnosed with depression and begins treatment. After just a few weeks, he starts to feel like himself again. He’s made an effort with his friends, attended one of his brother’s games, and started going back to class. And while it’s still a struggle to get out of bed some mornings, he knows that he needs to fight back. He tells himself that a good day is awaiting him.
Depression is being colorblind and constantly told how colorful the world is.” –Atticus.
Depression counseling has proven to help those struggling with this illness (like John) immensely. If you’re looking for proof that counseling can help, you need look no further than the innumerable studies that have proven it. According to Barna, 42% of adults in the US have seen a counselor at some point in their lives. And the majority say they have overwhelmingly positive experiences. Through therapy you’ll learn the facts behind your depression, you’ll get tools that will help you manage your symptoms, and you’ll be empowered with long-lasting results. If this sounds like something you’re interested in exploring, look no further. The depression counselors, psychologists, and therapists at Thriveworks Counseling in Newton, MA are able and eager to help you.
What Does Depression Look Like? Do I Have It?
With depression, you might not be able to fall asleep, or you might sleep excessively; you might skip meals, or you might overeat. As with many other illnesses, your symptoms can vary depending on depression type and severity. However, one this is for sure: you feel intense emotional pain. That said, there are common symptoms, which make up the diagnostic criteria for major depression. Jacqueline Beaulieu, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker at our Newton office explains: “Signs and symptoms of depression can include but are not limited to, frequent or daily experiences of depressed mood as identified by yourself or others, loss of interest or enjoyment in activities, intentional weight changes, oversleeping or undersleeping, loss of energy, feeling worthlessness or excessive guilt, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation, plan, or intent.”
The duration of your depression can also vary. Typically, untreated, major depression lasts from about six to eight months—but it can last longer, and it can come back. This makes seeking treatment incredibly important. The sooner you do, the sooner you can learn to manage your symptoms and live a happier, healthier life. If you’re experiencing depression symptoms, reach out to Thriveworks Counseling in Newton, MA.
How Does Depression Counseling Work? What Should I Expect?
Talk therapy is one of the most well-known forms of therapy, and there are actually two categories within this subgenre. The first is cognitive behavioral therapy, which focuses on taking a closer look at your negative thought patterns and teaches you how you can make positive changes. The second is interpersonal therapy, which has a sharper focus on the relationships in your life and teaches you how to change them for the better. Both options can be helpful in treating depression, but counselors at Thriveworks Counseling in Newton, MA will assess your needs to decide what’s best for your specific presentation.
How does this work? During your first appointment you’ll answer a number of questions so we can get to know you. Do you have specific goals for therapy? If so, come to Thriveworks Counseling in Newton, MA ready to outline and discuss them. Examples of goals include improving relationships, gaining the motivation to make a major life change like a job change or a divorce. Your answers to these questions will help your counselor determine which treatment plan is right for you. Remember: you should be totally truthful with your therapist. Our only goal is to help you and the more we know about what your goals are, the better we can accomplish this mission.
Schedule a Counseling Session at Thriveworks in Newton, MA
Contacting Thriveworks in Newton about scheduling a counseling session is a big step, but it’s all that’s required to get started. Give us a call at (617) 992-2827, and a scheduling specialist will help you finish out the process. This involves a short discussion about the problem you’re presenting, as well as your availability. Once they receive this information, they’ll be able to set you up with a counselor or therapist who can best help you and as soon as your schedule allows.
As you progress in your depression therapy, remember that you’ll get from therapy what you put into it. Over time you’ll feel comfortable with your therapist or psychologist and will need to be vulnerable. We’re here to help you change your life, but we need you to commit yourself to this process. Now, with that out of the way, we can’t wait to meet with you soon and begin this important work.
