Same Day, Weekend, and Evening Appointments Available!
Same Day, Weekend, and Evening Appointments Available!
.webp)
When you’re struggling with clinical depression, it can feel like a weight pressing down on every aspect of your life. You may find it difficult to enjoy the things you once loved, withdraw from social interactions, or experience persistent fatigue and low motivation. For many, even getting out of bed can feel like an overwhelming challenge.
Depression is a serious mental illness, but is treatable with the help and support of an experienced professional. No matter the underlying cause of your depression, it's possible to find the right treatment plan to provide relief and help you regain control of your life.
At Louis Laves-Webb & Associates, we offer outpatient treatment for individuals seeking support through talk therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy. Our compassionate therapists are experienced in treating a wide range of mood disorders and work closely with each client to create a personalized approach tailored to their needs.
Depression is a condition characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness or disappointment that could impair full enjoyment of your life. It may lead to feelings of hopelessness, lethargy, a lack of motivation, and a loss of interest in daily activities.
We all experience sadness or disappointment at some point, but when those feelings intensify and last for at least several weeks, it could signify a larger issue. Depression often consumes a considerable portion of an individual’s life, affecting their relationships and ability to work, sleep, study, or eat.
It can look different in every person it affects. While it can be triggered by life events, it is not always something that has a simple “reason” behind it. Depression can often be brought on by a combination of environmental, genetic, psychological, and social factors. There are also circumstances where depression can happen as defense against other painful emotions.
Such factors can include:
At Louis Laves-Webb & Associates, we work to accurately diagnose depression and develop a treatment plan that addresses both the symptoms and the root causes.
In the United States, an estimated 21 million adults experience major depression each year, underscoring the widespread impact of this mental illness.
Seeking professional depression treatment is becoming more common. Also in 2021, the National Institute of Mental Health reported that “approximately 61.0% of U.S. adults aged 18 or older with a major depressive episode received treatment in the past year.”
Depression therapy is not only effective but also essential in preventing severe complications. Individuals who receive timely treatment are less likely to experience suicidal ideation, with intervention reducing the risk of suicide.
At Louis Laves-Webb & Associates, we are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based depression treatment in Austin, helping individuals regain hope, emotional balance, and a fulfilling life. If you or a loved one is struggling, schedule a consultation today.
.webp)
Symptoms vary greatly depending on the person and the experiences they have lived through. This could include gender, culture, and age of the individual, although the symptoms could also change throughout the course of the condition. These depression symptoms can begin at any age and may vary in frequency, intensity, and duration.
Some common symptoms include:
In working with depression, it’s important to understand the severity of symptoms before treatment. It can range from seasonal feelings of sadness as a result of the changes in time, a mild depressed mood that is challenging to shake, and even severe symptoms such as intense feelings of vacancy and despair.
Depression can also lead to physical symptoms of nausea, pains, aches, and intense fatigue which could present a challenge in your everyday life.
In the same way that there are different personalities and people, there are a variety of types of depression that are addressed in different ways. 5 subtypes of major depressive disorder called specifiers have been identified by mental health professionals.
These specifiers provide therapists with a clearer picture of what treatment to offer based on the severity and the length of your symptoms. These include:
Melancholic depression is a form of major depressive disorder which has melancholic features, such as a noticeable down mood in the morning. Those with melancholic symptoms are often unresponsive to positive news or events around them. This includes several other symptoms such as loss of pleasure in daily activities, deep feelings of despair or worthlessness, and a persistent feeling of guilt.
Atypical depression is similar to the melancholic type, however those who experience it are responsive to their environment and experience mood changes. It’s often seen earlier in life in comparison to other varieties, usually in the early teenage years. There are several symptoms that are displayed, with the most common being a sensitivity to rejection, heavy feelings in the arms or legs, and trouble sleeping.
Catatonic depression is often associated with a state of stupor alongside traditional symptoms. Most of the symptoms are associated with movement and trouble speaking, which are common for catatonia. It’s a rare condition to experience; however, addressing the underlying causes of these symptoms is important.
Seasonal depression, otherwise known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a term used to describe the appearance of symptoms such as sadness, fatigue, or hopelessness as a result of the changing of seasons. It often appears at the same time each year, usually in fall and ending in spring.
Many are aware of the baby blues where mood swings, crying, and anxiety are common for a period of 2 weeks after a baby is born. However, a long-lasting condition might occur 3 weeks after birth with more intense symptoms that need to be addressed. Postpartum depression can be associated with a rise and drop of hormone levels while pregnant, a history of having the condition in your family, as well as stress related to your current situation.
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is not classified as one of the five subtypes of major depressive disorder, but it is a significant challenge for many individuals living with depression. For individuals experiencing treatment-resistant depression, symptoms may persist despite trying multiple antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or combinations of psychotherapy and medication management. This can be frustrating and discouraging, but it does not mean that relief is impossible.
Political events can have a significant impact on mental health, especially for those already dealing with clinical depression. In times of political uncertainty, individuals may experience:
For those struggling with election stress, Louis Laves-Webb & Associates election stress counseling to help individuals process emotions, develop new tools for coping, and navigate complex interpersonal dynamics.
If recent political events have affected your mental health, you’re not alone. Seeking talk therapy can help you manage emotions, reduce stress, and improve resilience.
Depression can be among the most common reasons why an individual seeks the guidance of a therapist. However, a perceived stigma and a feeling of being judged often discourages those who would benefit from treatment from doing so.
Even though this condition may look similar in different people, we work diligently to understand your individual experience, hear your needs, and learn what is most concerning for you and tailor our treatment accordingly. This may include: exploring current problem areas, barriers to happiness, and gaining awareness of more vulnerable feelings.
A therapist can provide a different viewpoint to engage the individual to view their state with curiosity and without judgement. By identifying the source of your depression, we’re able to find relief from the symptoms while enhancing the outcome of the treatment.
Depression can be a serious condition that can require a multifaceted treatment approach. With the proper care, it can be adequately addressed with lasting relief from the symptoms and signs that can cause concern.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used and effective approaches for treating clinical depression and other mood disorders. This evidence-based therapy helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to depressive symptoms. By replacing unhelpful cognitive distortions with healthier, more balanced thinking, CBT empowers individuals to develop new tools for managing emotions, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being. CBT is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing treatment-resistant depression, major depression, or anxiety-related conditions.
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines traditional CBT techniques with mindfulness practices to help individuals manage recurring depressive symptoms. MBCT teaches individuals how to observe their thoughts and emotions without becoming overwhelmed by them. This approach is particularly effective in preventing relapse in individuals with major depression or treatment-resistant depression. By cultivating mindfulness, patients learn to break the cycle of negative thinking, reduce stress, and improve emotional regulation.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a powerful approach to treating depression, trauma, and mood disorders by helping individuals understand and heal different parts of themselves. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, IFS is based on the idea that the mind consists of various "parts," each with its own role and emotional response. Some parts may carry pain, shame, or fear, while others take on protective roles to help individuals cope.
Through IFS therapy, individuals learn to identify and communicate with these internal parts in a compassionate and nonjudgmental way. By fostering self-awareness and self-leadership, IFS therapy can help individuals with treatment-resistant depression, traumatic experiences, and anxiety access deeper healing. This approach is especially beneficial for those struggling with self-esteem, family dynamics, and unresolved trauma that may be influencing their current emotional state.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a highly effective trauma therapy designed to help individuals process and heal from past distressing experiences. EMDR therapy is particularly useful for individuals struggling with PTSD, major depression, and anxiety, as well as those who have experienced emotional abuse, domestic violence, or traumatic events that contribute to mood disorders.
This approach involves structured eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories in a healthier way. By reducing the emotional intensity of painful memories, EMDR allows individuals to move forward without being overwhelmed by past experiences.
For those dealing with depression and trauma-related symptoms, EMDR therapy can provide relief and help reframe negative thought patterns, leading to improved emotional functioning and recovery.
At Louis Laves-Webb & Associates, we provide affirming therapy, a compassionate and inclusive approach that recognizes and validates each individual's unique identity and lived experiences. Many individuals struggling with depression, self-image issues, family rejection, or societal pressures benefit from working with a therapist who offers a nonjudgmental and supportive space for healing.
Affirming therapy is especially valuable for individuals from marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, those experiencing disenfranchisement, and individuals facing cultural or gender-based stress. We understand how social expectations, discrimination, and identity conflicts can contribute to depression, anxiety, and low self-worth.
Through affirming therapy, individuals gain the support they need to explore their emotions, build self-compassion, and develop healthy coping strategies. Our goal is to provide a safe, inclusive environment where every individual can feel seen, heard, and valued.
For some, outpatient treatment is enough to provide relief, while others may require intensive treatment or a combination of therapy and medication. Our goal is to create a treatment plan that supports long-term recovery.
Learn more about LGBTQIA+ Affirming Therapy
Develop greater self-awareness and emotional balance through mindfulness techniques such as mindful breathing, body scans, and meditation. These practices help individuals with clinical depression stay present, reduce overthinking, and cultivate inner calm.
Manage stress, irritability, and mood swings with evidence-based relaxation methods like progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and deep breathing exercises. These techniques support both emotional and physical recovery from depression.
Enhance self-esteem and emotional resilience by practicing self-compassion. Techniques such as positive self-affirmations, self-kindness exercises, and compassionate letter-writing can help individuals move away from self-criticism and toward self-acceptance.
Overcome low motivation and isolation by setting small, manageable goals for daily activities. This approach encourages individuals to engage in meaningful and rewarding experiences, gradually increasing their energy and sense of accomplishment.
Strengthen relationships by learning effective communication and boundary-setting techniques. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing relationship difficulties, family conflict, or social withdrawal due to depression.
Manage moments of emotional distress, panic, or suicidal ideation by practicing grounding exercises such as the 5-4-3-2-1 sensory technique, focusing on physical surroundings, or using self-soothing statements to stay anchored in the present.
Process emotions, trauma, and underlying issues by using guided journaling exercises. Writing about thoughts and feelings can help individuals gain clarity, recognize patterns, and release emotional tension in a constructive way.
Improve sleep patterns disrupted by major depression through structured sleep hygiene practices. Techniques include establishing a consistent bedtime, limiting screen time before bed, and incorporating relaxation rituals to promote restful sleep.
These techniques are integrated into individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy at Louis Laves-Webb & Associates, ensuring a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan for each client. Schedule a consultation today to explore how these strategies can support your journey toward recovery and emotional well-being.
At Louis Laves-Webb & Associates, we provide depression treatment in Austin, TX, through two convenient locations:
Located near the University of Texas, our Central Austin location is ideal for students, professionals, and those seeking therapy in a vibrant city setting.
Situated in a more suburban area, this location offers a quieter, private space for therapy sessions.
Both offices offer in-person and virtual therapy options to ensure accessibility and flexibility.
If depression is interfering with your daily life, relationships, work, or overall well-being, therapy can be a valuable tool in helping you regain control. Signs that you may benefit from therapy include persistent sadness, lack of motivation, social withdrawal, difficulty concentrating, or changes in sleep and appetite. Seeking support early can prevent symptoms from worsening and help you develop coping strategies tailored to your needs.
If previous treatment options didn’t provide relief, it doesn’t mean therapy won’t work for you. It may be a matter of adjusting the approach, working with a different , or exploring new tools that better align with your personal needs. Depression treatment is not one-size-fits-all, and at Louis Laves-Webb & Associates, we work to create a treatment plan that is flexible and responsive to what works best for you.
We do not prescribe prescription medications directly, but we do offer medication management support by collaborating with medical professionals. If medication is a recommended part of your treatment plan, we can help coordinate with psychiatrists or primary care providers to ensure your care is comprehensive and aligned with your therapy sessions.
Inpatient treatment involves staying at a depression treatment center or residential depression treatment program, where patients receive 24/7 medical care and supervision. This option is typically recommended for those with severe depression, suicidal ideation, or co-occurring mental health conditions that require intensive care.
Outpatient treatment, which is what we offer at Louis Laves-Webb & Associates, allows individuals to attend talk therapy, group therapy, or family therapy while continuing their daily routines. Outpatient care is effective for those who need structured support but do not require round-the-clock medical supervision.
Yes. Political events, particularly elections, can heighten stress, anxiety, and even contribute to depressive symptoms. Many people feel disenfranchised, overwhelmed by the news cycle, or experience tension in relationships due to differing beliefs. Therapy provides a space to process these emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and find ways to stay engaged without becoming emotionally drained.
The length of depression treatment varies depending on the individual. Some people see improvement within a few months, while others may require long-term therapy to manage their condition. At Louis Laves-Webb & Associates, we work closely with our clients to reassess progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
601 West 18th St
Austin, TX 78701
3818 Spicewood Springs Rd
Suite 300
Austin, TX 78759
© Copyright 2024 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy | Office Policies
