Therapy for Depression

Am I depressed?

Feelings of hopelessness and lack of interest in doing usual things could be a sign that you are depressed. These symptoms can last for a day or longer. If they persist longer than 2 weeks it is a good time to seek support.

At Past and Present therapy we help our clients in multiple ways using a variety of interventions. One of the approaches we use is Attachment Theory. Understanding how attachment theory informs our relationships allows for a more nuanced approach to treatment for depression. Individuals who have experienced insecure attachments may develop maladaptive coping mechanisms, contributing to depressive symptoms. By exploring these attachment styles, therapists can help clients understand the origins of their emotional struggles and provide a framework for healing.

Take a Free Depression Screening Questionnaire

Symptoms of Depression

• Sadness that lasts for more than 2 weeks

• Loss of interest in usual activities, difficulty doing “self care” things

• Impaired concentration

• Fatigue

• Eating too much or not enough / appetite changes

• Irritability, crabby, lashing out at others

• Difficulty Sleeping or sleeping to much

Depression Therapy

We use a variety of treatment approaches to helping our clients feel better sooner. In addition to Attachment Theory, our clients may benefit from Narrative Theory, Interpersonal Neurobiology, and on-occassion creative arts therapy.

Narrative theory plays a crucial role in this context, as it emphasizes the importance of personal stories in shaping identity and experience. In therapy, clients are encouraged to narrate their lived experiences, particularly those involving trauma, which can help to re-author their narratives. This process empowers individuals, transforming their understanding of past events and enabling them to construct a more coherent and positive self-concept.

Interpersonal neurobiology provides a scientific basis for understanding how our experiences, particularly those during formative years, shape brain development and emotional regulation. Through this lens, therapists can explain how attachment styles influence interpersonal relationships and emotional responses. This framework can help clients make sense of their reactions and provide context for their feelings of depression.

Combining these three approaches—attachment theory, narrative theory, and interpersonal neurobiology—creates a holistic treatment plan for depression. It allows for the exploration of personal histories, the re-framing of narratives, and education about the neurobiological impacts of trauma. With this comprehensive perspective, clients can develop healthier attachment patterns, leading to improved emotional resilience and well-being. Ultimately, this integrated approach offers a tailored path toward healing, empowering individuals to address the roots of their depression through connection, story, and understanding.