Some describe depression as a heavy, wet blanket thrown over us for days, weeks, or months at a time. Others describe it as a mute button that turns our emotions down to a whisper. We may feel tired and disengaged from the world around us and then feel shame for having these feelings in the first place. Self-care exists to prevent and manage everyday symptoms, but this requires a lot of energy. We then reach a paradox: where do we find the initial energy to use that self-care that energizes us?

As your therapist, I treat depression as a block in the natural ebbs and flows of our feelings that drains our energy. The most efficient path to removing this block is through vulnerability. You may feel nervous seeing that word, and that’s okay. While many coping skills provide relief, vulnerable spaces are where you’ll often find your root concerns.

When we explore these concerns, we can stop putting a band-aid on old wounds and begin the uncomfortable, but complete healing process. Practically, this may look like analyzing your past, strengthening your emotional vocabulary, shifting your automatic thoughts, or some combination of all three. Wherever you are on your path, we’ll move through it together.