Depression, Grief & Loss

Depression is so widespread at this time that it has rightfully been referred to as an epidemic. While severe depression almost always requires some form of psychiatric medication, milder forms of depression often respond well to therapy.

Those who are fighting depression may well have a genetic disposition, as is evident when this condition has shown itself for several generations. In spite of this predisposition, individuals can emerge from depression and live happy, healthy, meaningful lives.

Under the umbrella of depression are a variety of experiences, ranging from mild feelings of unworthiness and lack of motivation to intense suicidal tendencies. Therapy must address each person according to their particular underlying issues and pain.

One common dynamic that characterizes a wide spectrum of depressed individuals is the presence of an inner voice which is highly critical and undermining. This inner voice may tell a person that he/she is unworthy, a loser, unloveable and other negative messages. In these cases therapy must help the client to become more powerful than these negative voices.

Depressed individuals generally have diminished motivation for self care and have difficulty envisioning a future that has any hope. Isolation, loneliness, feeling like a burden to others, also colors the experience of depression. The therapeutic relationship can help the depressed individual to navigate this labyrinth of obstacles that seem insurmountable.

Another aspect of therapy is working with grief and loss. As a culture, we often underestimate how long it can take to recover from loss and how devastating the impact may be on our lives. Therapy provides an individual with the space and support to be exactly where one is in the grief process and to recognize that all of our feelings are legitimate.