Depression Treatment

Depression can affect energy, motivation, concentration, sleep, appetite, relationships, and hope. Treatment planning often includes both symptom relief and rebuilding the routines and supports that depression tends to disrupt.

• Psychotherapy
• Pharmacotherapy
• Behavioral Activation

What to expect

• Low mood, emptiness, numbness, or irritability that persists.
• Loss of interest in activities, relationships, work, or school.
• Sleep, appetite, energy, or concentration changes.
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness, or thoughts of self-harm.

Approaches we use

• Therapy focused on behavior activation, thought patterns, grief, stressors, or relationship context.
• Medication evaluation or medication management when symptoms, history, or preference make that relevant.
• Safety planning when depression includes self-harm thoughts or escalating risk.
• Coordination with primary care when medical, sleep, substance use, or medication factors may contribute.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Motivational Interviewing (MI)

Who this helps

• People feeling stuck, withdrawn, or unable to function like themselves.
• Adults with recurring depressive episodes.
• Individuals whose depression overlaps with anxiety, trauma, grief, or medical stress.
• People trying to decide whether therapy, medication support, or both may fit.

Frequently asked questions

• Can depression improve with therapy?

  Many people use therapy to change patterns that maintain depression, process stressors, and rebuild routines. Medication support may also be considered depending on need.
• What if depression includes suicidal thoughts?

  Suicidal thoughts should be taken seriously. If there is immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. In the U.S., call or text 988 for crisis support.
• What should I ask before choosing depression care?

  Ask how safety concerns are handled, what treatment approaches are used, how progress is reviewed, and whether medication questions can be coordinated.