Therapy for depression

If you're struggling with persistent sadness, hopelessness, or losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, you may be dealing with depression. I understand how overwhelming and debilitating depression can be. I’m here to help you navigate through your struggles and find lasting relief.

What is Depression?

Depression is a mental health condition that’s characterized by prolonged feelings of sadness, emptiness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities you once found enjoyable. While occasional sadness is a normal part of life, persistent and intense depressive symptoms can interfere with your daily routine, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Depression can manifest in different forms, including:

  • Major depressive disorder

  • Persistent depressive disorder

  • Postpartum depression

Each form comes with its own set of challenges that can affect your mental well-being. If you're experiencing these symptoms, it's important to seek support.

The Psychodynamic Approach to Treating Depression

I specialize in psychodynamic therapy—a type of talk therapy that focuses on understanding the unconscious factors contributing to depression. This approach helps uncover the deeper psychological influences from your past that shape your present emotional state.

Key Concepts of Psychodynamic Therapy for Depression:

  • Unconscious Conflicts: Psychodynamic therapy seeks to uncover unconscious conflicts that may be fueling your depression.

  • Early Life Experiences: Your past experiences and relationships can provide insight into the underlying causes of your depressive symptoms.

  • Defense Mechanisms: We explore how defense mechanisms, such as self-blame or emotional suppression, may be affecting your mood and coping abilities.

  • Transference: This involves understanding how your past relationships influence the way you interact with others and how this might be exacerbating your depression.

How Therapy Works

In psychodynamic therapy, you’ll work closely with a therapist to explore your inner emotional world—examining your thoughts, feelings, and experiences that might be contributing to your depression. This process helps you gain deeper insight into the roots of your emotional distress and empowers you to develop healthier coping strategies.

For individuals dealing with severe or long-standing depression, psychoanalysis—a more intensive form of psychodynamic therapy—might be recommended. This involves more frequent sessions and a deeper dive into unconscious processes.

Benefits of Psychodynamic Therapy for Depression

Engaging in psychodynamic therapy can provide long-term benefits, including:

  • Reduced Depressive Symptoms: By addressing the root causes of depression, you may experience relief from symptoms like persistent sadness, hopelessness, and lack of motivation.

  • Improved Self-Awareness: Gain a better understanding of your emotional triggers and unconscious patterns, which can improve emotional regulation and decision-making.

  • Enhanced Coping Skills: Learn healthy ways to manage stress and emotions, building resilience against depressive episodes.

  • Stronger Relationships: Explore how past relationships impact your current ones, leading to better communication and emotional connection.

  • Lasting Relief: Psychodynamic therapy creates sustainable change by tackling the root causes of depression, offering a solution that goes beyond just symptom management.

If you're dealing with depression, know that you're not alone and that help is available. I offer a safe, compassionate environment for you to explore your depression and begin the healing process through psychodynamic therapy.

By addressing the unconscious factors contributing to your depression, you can gain insight, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and experience lasting improvements in your emotional well-being.

📍 Located in Union Square, Manhattan – In-person and Virtual Therapy Options Available