Depression Treatment
Comprehensive care for depression and mood disorders
Understanding Depression
Depression isn't just feeling sad—it's like living under a heavy gray cloud that won't lift. Maybe you wake up exhausted no matter how much you sleep, or activities you once loved now feel pointless. Perhaps you've been told to "just think positive," but it feels impossible when your brain keeps telling you nothing will get better. You might go through the motions at work or with family, but inside you feel numb, empty, or like you're watching your life from behind glass.
If this resonates, you're not alone, and you're not weak. Depression is a medical condition involving real changes in brain chemistry and function. It affects millions of people and is one of the most treatable mental health conditions. With the right combination of support, medication, and lifestyle changes, people recover and reclaim their lives every day.
You might be experiencing:
If you're having thoughts of suicide, please reach out immediately. Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or text "HELLO" to 741741 (Crisis Text Line). You deserve support, and help is available 24/7.
Our Medication Approach
Antidepressant medications work by correcting chemical imbalances in the brain that contribute to depression. They're not "happy pills" or a quick fix—they help restore your brain's ability to regulate mood so you can feel like yourself again. Our goal is to find the right medication with minimal side effects, allowing you to engage fully in life and therapy.
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
The most commonly prescribed first-line treatment for depression. These medications increase serotonin levels in the brain, which improves mood, sleep, and energy.
- Examples: Sertraline (Zoloft), Escitalopram (Lexapro), Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Typically takes 4-6 weeks to feel full effects
- Generally well-tolerated with manageable side effects
SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)
Target both serotonin and norepinephrine. Often helpful for people who haven't responded to SSRIs or who have both depression and chronic pain.
- Examples: Venlafaxine (Effexor), Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
- Can help with energy and motivation
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
A unique antidepressant that works on dopamine and norepinephrine. Good option if you're concerned about sexual side effects or need help with energy and focus.
- Can be combined with SSRIs for better results
- Also approved for smoking cessation
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Particularly helpful if you're struggling with insomnia or have lost your appetite. Works differently than SSRIs.
Atypical Antipsychotics (Augmentation)
Sometimes added to antidepressants for treatment-resistant depression. Low doses can enhance the effectiveness of your primary medication.
- Examples: Aripiprazole (Abilify), Quetiapine (Seroquel)
- Requires careful monitoring for side effects
Our Prescribing Philosophy
- We consider your symptoms, medical history, previous responses, and personal preferences
- Start with the lowest effective dose and adjust based on your response
- Regular check-ins, especially in the first few months
- Open communication about side effects—we can often switch or adjust
- Medication is most effective when combined with therapy
- When you're ready, we'll work together on a plan to safely taper off if desired
Therapy & Lifestyle Changes
Medication helps correct brain chemistry, but therapy gives you tools to change thought patterns, improve relationships, and develop skills for lasting recovery. Lifestyle changes support your brain's healing process and can be as powerful as medication for mild to moderate depression.
Therapy Approaches We Recommend
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
The most researched and effective therapy for depression. CBT helps you identify negative thought patterns ("I'm worthless," "Nothing will get better") and replace them with more balanced, realistic thoughts. You'll learn practical skills to challenge depressive thinking and change behaviors that keep you stuck.
Behavioral Activation
Depression makes you want to withdraw and isolate. Behavioral activation helps you gradually re-engage with activities and people, which breaks the cycle of depression. Start small—even tiny steps forward matter.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Focuses on improving your relationships and addressing life transitions that may be contributing to depression. Particularly helpful if relationship problems, grief, or major life changes are part of your struggle.
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Combines mindfulness practices with CBT. Especially effective for preventing relapse in people who've had multiple depressive episodes. Helps you relate differently to negative thoughts.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Explores how past experiences and unconscious patterns affect your current mood and relationships. Can be helpful for long-standing depression or when depression is connected to deeper emotional issues.
Lifestyle Changes That Make a Real Difference
Exercise (This is Critical)
Exercise is as effective as antidepressants for mild to moderate depression. It increases endorphins, improves sleep, and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
- Start small: Even a 10-minute walk counts
- Aim for 30 minutes most days when you're able
- Movement in nature has additional benefits
Sleep Routine
Depression disrupts sleep, and poor sleep worsens depression. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule is foundational.
- Same bedtime and wake time daily, even when you don't feel like it
- Get morning sunlight—it helps regulate your body clock
- Limit naps to 20-30 minutes before 3 PM
Social Connection (Even When You Don't Want To)
Depression tells you to isolate, but isolation makes depression worse. Connection is medicine.
- Reach out to one person—a text, a call, coffee with a friend
- Join a support group or community activity
Nutrition
What you eat affects your brain. Focus on whole foods, omega-3 fatty acids (fish, walnuts), and minimize processed foods and excess sugar. Stay hydrated. If appetite is low, eat small amounts regularly rather than forcing large meals.
Limit Alcohol
Alcohol is a depressant. It might provide temporary relief but ultimately worsens depression, disrupts sleep, and can interfere with medications.
Structure and Routine
When depression makes everything feel overwhelming, having a basic daily routine provides stability. Set small, achievable goals each day—making your bed, taking a shower, eating one healthy meal.
Be Patient With Yourself
Recovery isn't linear. You'll have good days and hard days. Progress might be slow, but every small step matters. Self-compassion is part of healing.
There Is Hope—And We're Here to Help
Depression can feel endless, but it's treatable. You don't have to fight this alone. Our team has helped countless people find their way back to feeling like themselves. Let's create a personalized treatment plan that works for you.