Anxiety and Depression Therapy
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Introduction
In the journey of life, we all navigate through a spectrum of emotions. However, when these emotions start to feel overwhelming and persistent, they can manifest into mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. As an integrative psychologist, I am dedicated to shedding light on these often misunderstood conditions, offering hope and pathways to healing through a compassionate and holistic approach.
Anxiety and Depression: What You Need to Know
Anxiety and depression, while distinct, often co-exist, creating a complex internal experience of emotional, physical, and mental symptoms. Anxiety is characterised by persistent worry and fear, often about everyday situations, leading to physical symptoms like increased heart rate, sweating, and exhaustion. Depression, on the other hand, is marked by a deep sense of sadness, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, changes in appetite, and feelings of worthlessness, affecting one’s ability to function daily.
The Role of Guilt, Shame, Self-Blame, and Self-Criticism
Individuals suffering from anxiety and depression sometimes harbour intense feelings of guilt, shame, self-blame, and self-criticism. These emotions are not only symptoms but can also be contributing factors to the cycle of these mood disorders. Recognising and addressing these feelings is a crucial step in the healing process, something I routinely do in my practice.
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How an Integrative Approach Can Help
As an integrative practitioner, I carefully combine various therapeutic approaches to create a personalised treatment plan that acknowledges the unique needs of each individual. Central to my practice are Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which are particularly effective in addressing the critical elements of guilt, shame, self-blame, and self-criticism often found in those experiencing anxiety and depression.
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
CFT is designed to help individuals develop a more compassionate relationship with themselves and others. This approach is grounded in the understanding that feelings of shame and self-criticism can be deeply rooted in our evolutionary past and personal life histories. Through CFT, individuals learn to cultivate kindness and compassion towards themselves, replacing self-criticism with self-support, thereby alleviating the emotional pain at the heart of anxiety and depression.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty for them. It emphasises the importance of living a value-driven life, even in the presence of pain and suffering. By learning to observe their thoughts without judgment and commit to actions aligned with their values, individuals can lead a more fulfilling life, despite the challenges posed by anxiety and depression.
A Path Forward
My role as your psychologist is to guide you through the complexities of anxiety and depression with empathy, understanding, and evidence-based practices. Together, we will explore the depths of your emotions, understand their origins, and develop strategies to navigate through them with compassion and acceptance. It is a journey of healing, transformation, and ultimately, empowerment.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety or depression, I am here to support you. Together, we can uncover the path to a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
I offer a free consultation session during which time you can get a flavour of how I work, while I get an idea about your needs; and together we can decide whether we are a good fit.