Signs of Depression
Depression looks different for everyone. For some it is sadness. For others it is numbness, irritability or exhaustion.
Many people keep functioning on the outside, going to work and taking care of others, while feeling empty inside. High-functioning depression is still depression, and it deserves care.
- Persistent sadness, emptiness or hopelessness
- Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
- Changes in sleep, appetite or energy
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Harsh self-criticism, guilt or feeling worthless
- Pulling away from friends, family or activities
How Therapy Can Help
In our work, we look at what is contributing to how you feel, including thoughts, relationships, life circumstances and past experiences. Understanding the pattern is the first step toward changing it.
I use CBT to address negative thinking, interpersonal and relational approaches to strengthen connection, strength-based work to reconnect with what matters to you, and mindfulness to ease rumination.
Depression often comes with a harsh inner voice. Part of our work is learning to notice that voice, question it, and respond to yourself with more understanding.
Therapy is a safe, non-judgmental space. You do not have to have the right words or a clear explanation for how you feel. We start where you are.
What Sessions Look Like
Early sessions focus on understanding your story and how depression shows up in your daily life. We talk about your sleep, energy, relationships and the thoughts that tend to pull you down.
Together we set small, realistic goals. That might mean reintroducing activities that once brought you meaning, noticing and questioning self-critical thoughts, or reaching out to people who support you. Small steps, repeated over time, can add up to real change.
We check in regularly on how you are feeling and adjust our approach as needed. You are an active partner in the process.
Sometimes depression is tied to painful experiences or long-held beliefs like "I am not enough." Research shows EMDR can also help with depression symptoms related to these experiences. If that fits your situation, we may include EMDR therapy as part of treatment. We decide together.
Depression at Different Stages of Life
Depression can appear at any age. For some adults, it follows a loss, a health change, retirement or caregiving. For others, it has been a quiet companion for years.
In older adults, depression is sometimes mistaken for a normal part of aging. It is not, and it can be treated at any age.
I work with adults of all ages, including older adults, and pay attention to the life circumstances that shape how you are feeling. If a recent change is part of the picture, we can make space in therapy to explore how that change is affecting your mood, your relationships and your sense of self.
Reach Out for a Free Consultation
When energy is low, getting to an appointment can feel like one more hurdle. Sessions take place by secure, HIPAA-compliant video, or phone if needed, for adults located in New York or New Jersey, so you can meet from home. In-person sessions in Montclair, NJ are available on request.
Taking the first step can be the hardest part. A free 15-minute consultation lets you ask questions and see if working together feels right. You can contact me here, or read about fees and insurance.
Therapy is not an emergency service. If you are having thoughts of suicide or harming yourself, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
