Depression doesn’t discriminate against whom it impacts. Research shows that over 17 million Americans struggle with depression (including nearly 2 million children ages 3-17), and depression is highly correlated with a variety of other physical and mental health conditions. It is the leading cause of disability around the world, and it costs an estimated $44 billion each year in lost productivity.
Depression is treatable, and it can be managed. But, with all the different types of therapy and treatments available for mental health, you might be wondering, “What is outpatient therapy for depression?”.
What Is Outpatient Therapy For Depression?
In its simplest form, outpatient therapy for depression refers to ongoing psychological support with a mental health professional.
Are you confused between the differences of what outpatient therapy is for depression versus intensive outpatient therapy for depression? Outpatient typically requires less of a financial and time commitment than intensive outpatient treatment. It is usually recommended for clients who have mild or moderate depressive symptoms. Most clients receiving this treatment still attend to their daily routines of work, school, and various family obligations.
What is outpatient therapy for depression? It’s interactive, collaborative, and dynamic. You may work on a variety of goals related to your self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, self-care, and your work-life balance. You may also tackle topics related to co-occurring issues like trauma, substance use, compulsive behaviors, or other mental illness.
It’s about providing support, guidance, and a roadmap for healing. It may be about addressing pertinent crisis issues like suicidal thoughts, but it’s also about offering hope when life seems seemingly dark and bleak.
What Is Outpatient Therapy For Depression: A Typical Session
If this is your first time seeking treatment, you may feel uncertain or apprehensive about how the therapy process works. These feelings are normal. If you’re asking yourself, ”What is outpatient therapy for depression, and what should I expect?”, it’s crucial to know that the structure of each session looks different for everyone.
Your therapist will collaborate with you to design the best kind of care for your individual needs and preferences. Therapy activities for adults with depression may include:
- Increasing your awareness of how past events/patterns impact your current mood
- Free association (speaking whatever is on your mind to “work through” specific issues)
- Dream analysis
- Focusing on enhancing your sense of self-worth and self-esteem
- Identifying problematic triggers and discussing how you can change, eliminate, or redefine their role in your life
Individual therapy offers numerous advantages over group therapy when it comes to depression treatment. You’ll receive full attention and personalized guidance and support from your therapist, and you will likely progress and grow faster than if you were only attending a group.
What Is Outpatient Therapy For Depression: Final Thoughts
If you are looking for individual or depression group therapy near me, Lumos Counseling PC can help. We specialize in providing therapy focused on helping you feel better and more empowered over your life. Your depression may be frustrating and exhausting, but it doesn’t have to define your happiness.
Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential consultation.