What happens when I come in?

Initial Consultation. The first step on the road to recovery is to talk with one of our therapists who can help develop a treatment plan that fits your situation. During your first meeting, you will have the opportunity to express your concerns, talk about how depression has affected your life, and ask any questions you may have. Your therapist will want to learn more about your symptoms, your history, and about what is important to you in life.

Your therapist will also ask you to complete some questionnaires to help measure your depression and life satisfaction. These measures will help you and your therapist better understand your experience, and will serve as a baseline when tracking your progress.

In addition to addressing your depression, issues such as substance abuse, trauma, suicidal ideation, and medical conditions may need to be considered when planning your treatment. By learning more about your personal situation during your initial consultation, your therapist will help determine whether individual therapy and/or group therapy will be the best match for your treatment needs.

Depending on your situation, you may have other medical or mental health care providers involved in your treatment. Your therapist will want to know about the types of care you are receiving in order to coordinate your care. It can be helpful to bring a list of your other health care providers’ contact information to give to your therapist, along with information about any medications you may be taking.

Finally, while there are practical matters to attend to, you and your therapist will want to have a good working relationship that is personal, genuine, and fulfilling. The initial consultation is an opportunity for you and your therapist to begin forming a meaningful and curative relationship.

Individual Therapy. Following your initial consultation, you and your therapist may conclude that you are a good match for individual therapy. Individual therapy can work as a stand-alone treatment for depression, or can be supplemented with group therapy. Individual therapy can help address issues that may not be fully addressed in the ACT for Depression Group (see below), such as substance abuse, trauma, suicidality, or chronic illness. Individual therapy is tailored to your specific treatment needs, but generally involves developing new skills to deal with difficult thoughts and emotions while moving forward with life. Individual therapy involves meeting once per week for 45-50 minute sessions over roughly 3 or more months; the time frame is adjusted depending on whether you are continuing to make progress.

Group Therapy or Skills Class. During the initial consultation, it may also be determined that you are a good match for a therapy group or skills class that relates to your problems. While you may be facing other issues such as anxiety or substance abuse, the group is an opportunity to focus your attention on finding new ways to overcome depression. Depending on the level of care appropriate to you, you may attend the group alone or attend both the group and individual therapy. Group therapy is effective in treating depression, with the added benefits of the support and perspective that can be gained from interacting with your fellow group members. We usually offer a variety of other groups and classes. You are welcome to consider attending any services you find helpful.

Medication Evaluation. Your provider will speak with you about whether you would like to consider antidepressant medication if you are not taking one or whether you are happy with your current medications if you are already taking some. They will then help you either get in to see our psychiatrist on staff or help you find an appropriate referral (this often depends on your health insurance).

Get an initial consultation

If you’d like an initial consultation to learn about your treatment options, or just want more information, we’re here to help.

To reach us, give us a call at: 503-281-4852

or send us a message using the confidential form below.