It’s Not Just About Positive Thinking: CBT Therapy Approach to Depression Treatment
Depression is Real
Depression is not a sign of weakness, a decision to be miserable, or a cry for attention. It is not simply a matter of not trying hard enough to be happy. It is not made up, invented, or imagined by those who suffer from it. Depression is not an issue of laziness or selfishness. If you’re struggling with depression counseling can help.
When we stop thinking of depression in these terms, we begin to see it for what it really is, a physical, mental, AND emotional condition. It can be chronic, draining, and life threatening at times. Depression is no more a choice than diabetes. It is a combination of factors, habits, genetic predispositions, and experiences that make up the causes for depression. It is for this reason, that the approach to treatment should be equally comprehensive.
While I believe in the power of positive thinking, the old adage “just look on the bright side” doesn’t always apply in cases of clinical depression. Depression counseling requires an integrative approach that includes the use of many other techniques that are dependent on your individual needs, concerns, and personality. Together we can find the combination that works best for you.
Here is a list of some of the techniques we cover that have been proven to decrease depression:
Challenging negative automatic thoughts that reinforce feelings of defeat and hopelessness
Challenging self-defeating behaviors to reinforce low energy and feelings of shame
Mindfulness to improve your ability to identify and observe your inner patterns
Techniques for processing emotional pain
Identifying personal unmet needs and values
Assertive communication
The ultimate goal of depression counseling is to help you get to a place where you regain control over your ability to alter your own mood. This happens over time as you try out new techniques and strategies and find what works for you. Once you’ve accumulated a solid therapeutic tool belt so to speak, most people find that they not only feel more in control of pulling themselves out of depression, but also more able to prevent depressive episodes in the future.
We can help.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, please reach out. We offer depression treatment with CBT Therapists in Orlando and online throughout the state of Florida. Call today or send us your info and we’ll reach out for a free consultation to see if one of our therapists would be a good fit.
