Our therapists provide depression counseling in Berkeley, CA

Depression counseling at Thriveworks in Berkeley, CA is characterized by fully licensed, highly experienced, compassionate therapists delivering expert care to the people who need it the most. Work with a therapist at Thrivweorks Berkeley, someone who can put you back on the path to achieving your goals.   

Give our office a call today at (510) 544-8907 or schedule online to get started.

What Is Depression?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) lists the following eight criteria for depression:

1. A depressed mood lasting longer than two weeks 
2. Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you usually enjoy, aka anhedonia
3. Changes in appetite 
4. Psychomotor retardation (slowed-down movements and thoughts)
5. Fatigue and/or exhaustion
6. Overwhelming feelings of sadness, guilt, or worthlessness
7. Problems with concentration and/or memory
8. Suicidality (If you’re ever considering harming yourself, call a crisis hotline immediately.)

But depression isn’t always by the book. Though the criteria above are important, the licensed depression counselors at Thriveworks in Berkeley, CA will also be on the lookout for the following symptoms:

• Irritability, which can manifest in depressed men more than women 
• Substance abuse or addiction, which can be a sign that someone is having difficulty coping with distressed feelings
• Psychomotor agitation (sped-up thoughts and actions)
• Changes in sleeping patterns 
• Changes in libido (sex drive)
• Social isolation

What Are the Best Therapies for Depression?

Some of the best therapies for depression include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) aims to modify maladaptive thought patterns and beliefs to improve mental health
• Dialectical behavior therapy, which is a type of CBT that helps regulate emotions
• Supportive therapy, which enables a person to use their own resources to improve general functioning
• Psychodynamic therapy, which uses self-reflection and self-examination in talk therapy to bring awareness to the origins of distress
• Holistic remedies like meditation, muscle relaxation, and mindfulness
• Family therapy or couples therapy, which helps support and include loved ones in depression recovery 
• Behavioral activation, which focuses on a person’s behavior and environment
• Psychiatric medications 

What Is the Relationship Between Depression and Substance Abuse?

People who are depressed are at risk of turning to drugs, alcohol, and other substances to self-medicate. This means that they find a short-term coping strategy for their distress that will probably create more problems in the long run. People who are depressed may also become addicted to sex or gambling to escape from their feelings of sadness. Depression counselors at Thriveworks in Berkeley, CA can address a client’s substance abuse issues alongside depression. 

Find Exceptional Treatment for Depression at Thriveworks in Berkeley, CA

At Thriveworks in Berkeley, CA, our therapists are ready to help you overcome your depression and get back to your life. Call Thriveworks and meet an exceptional counselor who can help at (510) 544-8907.