Therapy for Depression

According to a survey in 2023, about 29% of US adults report having been diagnosed with depression in their lifetime. This is an increase of 10% since 2015. If you are one of those who struggle with depression know that you are not alone and there is treatment. Each person needs to determine what treatment is best for them based on their depression symptoms. Sometimes medication is needed for clients to make progress, but often times starting with talk therapy is a great first step. I have a variety of approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Parts work (IFS), EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing to help with depression symptoms. And while each of these approaches have their different methods for how to help individuals with depression, my preferred approach is to combine them for your unique needs. What I have learned through my many years of experience as a therapist, which is also written about by Duncan, Miller, and Hubble, is that the factors that lead to change have to do with things like:

1, Client and extra therapeutic factors

These are the factors like the client’s environment, support network and individual strengths that the therapist can support to lead to positive change.

2. Relationship factors

The strength of the therapeutic alliance is a big factor when it comes to change. If the client does not trust the therapist, it’s hard to make progress.

3. Models or techniques

The specific model, theory, or technique that the therapist uses that specifically is a match for the client is also important.

4. Expectancy factors

The client’s belief in the idea that therapy can be helpful is another factor that impacts therapy outcomes. When a client feels a sense of optimism that therapy can be helpful this tends to actually have a positive impact on the results.

And so when you consider these four research-based factors that lead to change, I think you will see why I emphasize these aspects of the therapy process. If you are ready to begin your therapy journey with me click below and let’s start working together.