Anxiety & Depression

Understanding Depression and Anxiety

Depression is more than just feeling sad or having the occasional bad day. It’s a persistent feeling of emptiness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in the things that were once enjoyable. Oftentimes, it’s not clear to the sufferer why they’re feeling this way, since there is nothing that is obviously wrong. This can make the experience even more painful and confusing. And it’s not “just” an emotional problem: depression can affect how a person thinks, feels in their body, and handles daily activities.
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Anxiety disorders, on the other hand, are characterized by chronic and excessive worry that go beyond typical nervousness. While transient anxiety is a normal part of everyday life, the condition becomes more complex when we begin to feel anxious about the possibility of becoming anxious, creating a cycle of anticipatory worry.

Anxiety disorders are often accompanied by distressing physical symptoms, like a racing heart or chest tightness. Individuals with these disorders may attempt to manage their discomfort by avoiding situations that trigger their anxiety. While this avoidance strategy provides temporary relief, over time it significantly restricts our experiences, resulting in a less interesting and fulfilling life.

If you are experiencing depression or anxiety, you are far from alone. According to recent studies, about one in five American adults experience mental health conditions each year, with anxiety and depression being the most common. It's also worth noting that depression and anxiety often occur together – what we call comorbidity. Now for some good news: current research clearly shows that both depression and anxiety are highly responsive to psychotherapy. In fact, the effectiveness of therapy is on par with heart bypass surgery!

Some Common Experiences of Depression

Chronic sadness without a clear reason or emotional numbness
Inability to enjoy life
Low self-esteem or excessive guilt
Shame-based social isolation
Difficulty concentrating or staying in the present moment

Some Common Experiences of Anxiety

Excessive worrying & Overwhelming fear about future unknowns
Procrastination or difficulty concentrating
Restlessness or indecisiveness
Sleep disruption

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My Approach

I primarily use relational approaches which emphasize the critical role of human bonds in mental health. Together, we explore the important relationships that have shaped who you are and how you connect with others.

We regard the therapy relationship with a spirit of curiosity, and examine how patterns that emerge in-session may also be present in other important relationships. To the extent that these patterns lead to disconnection, we consider and experiment with alternative ways of relating that lead to more fulfilling bonds. I also use interventions from a variety of mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Interactive

I actively participate in the therapeutic process by providing clear guidance, feedback, and interpretations. My aim is to help you in understanding your patterns, and developing strategies for change.

Curious

I approach every patient with “beginner’s mind.” Throughout our work together, I will ask probing questions to help us both better understand how you came to be who they are.

Responsive

I am sensitive to the unique needs and sensibilities of each patient, and adapt my approach to meet you where you are. I always welcome feedback about how I could be more helpful.

Process-oriented

As an important part of our treatment, we will sometimes focus on how your experiences unfold within our sessions. This is a powerful way of building emotional awareness and working through relational issues as they arise.

Our Process

What to Expect During Therapy

Consultation

In order for us to decide if we are well-suited to work together, I offer a twenty minute phone consultation. During this call, we will briefly discuss the issues bringing you to therapy and I will answer any initial questions you may have about how I work. If you’d like to move forward, you are welcome to make an initial appointment after this call. If it seems that another therapist may be a more suitable fit, I am happy to make an appropriate referral.

Evaluation

In the first stage of our therapy together, we will spend a few sessions completing a thorough clinical interview to get a better sense of the issues that are bringing you into therapy, and the relevant personal history. Throughout this evaluation process, we will work together to clarify your goals, and discuss the roadmap for reaching them.

Psychotherapy

After we establish our treatment goals, we will begin therapy. Throughout this process, we will touch base to make sure that we are on track, and that our work together is addressing your needs. When challenges arise in our work (as they do in most therapies), we will work through them together.

Closure

Once we collaboratively determine that your goals for therapy have been met, we will begin the process of ending our work for the time being. This process is often one of the richest parts of therapy, as it gives people an opportunity to examine their relationship with endings, and to experience a healthy goodbye. It is also an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate your progress!

Can Therapy Help You Move Through Depression and Anxiety?

You might be here because you've noticed a quiet but persisting feeling that life could be more fulfilling. Or maybe you feel disconnected, and the behaviors that used to help you cope aren’t working anymore. You might have an unsettling sense that something isn't quite right, but despite your best efforts, you can’t pinpoint the cause. Your loved ones see you struggling, and they’re concerned about you.

Depression and anxiety have a way of convincing us that we’re broken. But that’s not true: you might just need some help understanding yourself, and figuring out how to get unstuck. Therapy can help you navigate overwhelming emotions, and chart a course toward a more rewarding future.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

1. How long does therapy last?

The length of therapy varies for each person , and depends on the individual’s needs and goals. We will work together to determine the right time to wrap up our work.

2. Where is your office located?

My office is at 808 Union Street, Suite 3A, Brooklyn, NY 11215. I offer in-person sessions Monday through Thursday. In certain situations, I offer virtual therapy.

3. Do you accept insurance?

I do not participate in any insurance plans and will be considered by all plans to be an “out-of-network provider”. If you have out-of-network benefits, as a courtesy, I will submit claims to your insurance plan for reimbursement. My rates are available upon request.

4. How often will we need to meet?

I typically meet with people on a weekly basis, and maintain a consistent time each week. In cases where more intensive treatment is needed, meeting twice weekly may be indicated. I generally do not schedule sessions less than once per week, as doing so compromises the quality of the treatment.

5. What is your cancellation policy?

Consistency is an important element of effective therapy and my cancellation policy reflects this. Excluding federal holidays, patients may miss one session every two calendar months without a charge. Exceeding this limit will result in the session fee. I will make every effort to reschedule your appointment within the same week when possible.

I understand that sometimes, last minute emergencies cannot be avoided. As such, I do not have a late-cancellation policy.

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