Therapy for Mood Problems
Many people decide they need therapy as a result of mood “disorders.” Depending on the client’s presentation and personality, I will use cognitive therapy, narrative and dreams, gestalt, or a family systems approach. *

Whichever approach is right for the person, my goal is to help them move forward and to find the answer to the questions that these conditions demand: with anxiety or fear – what must be protected; with anger – what has been violated and how does one prevent additional violations; with depression – what has sapped someone's energy, what will it take to get going again?

Many people use prescribed medications to tackle one or more of these issues. Some find that medication can be used as a crutch or to get through a difficult time. My apporoach to medication is that it can be useful, but not always ideal for a long-term solution. Research shows that best results can happen when medication is used in conjunction with therapy.

I will assess your feelings and experiences with medication, and try to help you achieve your goals in this context. I am happy to work with your psychiatrist or doctor if medication is indicated and it fits your preferences. I am also enthusiastic to help clients find more permanent alternatives to medication.

* See explanation of these approaches in the therapeutic techniques section.