Depression Therapy in NYC

Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the US and often occurs with symptoms of anxiety. Untreated depression has destructive effects on the people who suffer with it and those close to them. Fortunately, depression is very responsive to treatment. A large body of research supports CBT for Depression and Interpersonal Therapy for Depression. Dr. Williams has two decades of experience tailoring these evidence base treatments to his clients.  Dr. Williams can provide the support and collaborative treatment you need to break out of depression and back into a rewarding life.

Overview

Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the United States. Roughly 20-30% of people will experience Depression at some point in their lives. The causes of depression are complex and include genes, biology, environment, and psychological factors. Depression often starts in adulthood but childhood onset does occur. Depression can be triggered by stressful life events but sometimes it seems to come out of nowhere.

Risk Factors for Depression

Risk factors for depression include a personal or familial history of depression, major life stressors, and some physical illnesses and medications. Once someone is depressed, they can’t simply snap out of it, like a bad mood.

Depression Symptoms

If you have been experiencing some of the symptoms below for at least two weeks, you could be depressed. A diagnosis of depression cannot be determined by a symptom checklist alone. An evaluation by a trained clinician is needed. There are several forms of depression and not everyone will fit one type perfectly or experience every symptom. A key issue is how much the symptoms impair your ability to live your life the way you want.

Vicious Cycle of Depression

Depression can lead people to shut down and turn to unhealthy ways of managing their feelings, such as isolation, lack of activity, eating or drinking too much, and avoiding responsibilities and self care. This can create a vicious cycle and intensify feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and low self worth. As depression robs a person of joy it feeds itself. Depression can wear down close others and take a real toll on relationships.

Depression Therapy NYC

Dr. Williams has extensive experience treating depression and will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addressees your particular situation and goals. Depression robs people of enjoyment, motivation, and hope. Treatment is supportive but encourages gradually increasing meaningful activity at the beginning of treatment. Therapy also focuses on rebuilding hope and motivation to persue dreams. Dr. Williams will help you clarify your values and identify unhelpful habits in thought and behavior that are keeping you from living your best life.