Therapy for Depression in Bergen County

You’re Not Alone.

Struggling to get out of bed? Experiencing difficulty finding enjoyment in life? Feeling exhausted all the time? You may be experiencing depression. Know that you’re not alone in these feelings. About 22% of American adults have reported depressive symptoms. But more importantly, know that you’re not alone in dealing with these feelings. I’m here to help you get your life back.

What Is Depression?

Many people describe depression as living under a dark cloud. They feel sad, can’t feel pleasure, lack motivation, and are basically lethargic. While we all feel a bit low at times, depression is much more than that. People with depression, not only feel sad, but worthless, hopeless, and numb – and they persistently feel this way, it’s not something that passes in a day or two.

Types of Depression

Not all forms of depression are the same. There are varying types:

Major Depressive Disorder

This is the most prevalent type of depression. You experience five or more symptoms of depression for more than two weeks.

Persistent Depressive Disorder

Your symptoms are less severe than those of major depressive disorder, but they last longer.

Postpartum Depression

This type of depression, which happens to 15% of women after giving birth, signals emotional highs and lows, frequent crying, guilt, anxiety, fatigue, and possibly difficulty caring for the baby.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

SAD is related to changes in season, typically starting in the fall and continuing through the winter months, causing moodiness and sapping energy.

What Are the Symptoms of Depression?

People with depression have their own unique experiences which may range from mental to emotional to physical – and a mix of them all. Common symptoms include:

  • Sadness
  • Loneliness
  • Emptiness
  • Helplessness
  • Hopelessness
  • Self-Loathing
  • Fatigue
  • Anxiousness
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Loss of sex drive
  • Changes in appetite
  • Irritability
  • Social withdrawal
  • Poor concentration
  • Thoughts of suicide
  • Lost of interest in things you usually like
  • Changes in weight

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, please call seek immediate assistance by calling 911 or going to the emergency room.

Not everyone with depression feels like they can’t get out of bed or have difficulty moving throughout their daily activities. Many depressed people are highly functioning and active.

How Can Therapy Help?

Together, we will explore the feelings you are experiencing through psychotherapy and devise a personalized strategy to help you get back to feeling like you again. As your therapist, I will help you uncover and understand the underlying issues causing your depression, then teach you skills to better grasp and overcome your mood disturbances. You will learn how other people affect your mood and emotions and how to act on that.

Cognitive behavior therapy is very effective in treating depression, and has been shown to be as effective as antidepressants without the side effects. As a CBT therapist, I can help you learn new ways of thinking and teach you exercises to change your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I also will explore important life issues such as establishing meaning and overall purpose, exploring personal strengths, and building resilience in the face of life stressors and challenging events.

I am with you on every step of your depression therapy.