Depression & Anxiety Counseling

What Is Depression & Anxiety Counseling?

Depression and anxiety counseling is a form of mental health therapy designed to help individuals understand and manage emotional, cognitive, and behavioral patterns that contribute to distress. Therapy focuses on identifying root causes, reducing symptoms, and developing healthy coping strategies that support long-term well-being.

This type of counseling helps individuals:

• Improve mood and emotional stability

• Reduce anxiety, worry, and panic symptoms

• Strengthen coping and stress-management skills

• Restore motivation, confidence, and purpose

• Improve relationships and daily functioning

Our Therapeutic Process

Comprehensive Clinical Assessment

Therapy begins with a thorough assessment conducted by a licensed mental health professional. This evaluation helps determine the nature, severity, and duration of depressive and anxiety symptoms, as well as contributing emotional, relational, and environmental factors.

Evidence-Based Talk Therapy

Sessions take place in a safe, confidential environment and may incorporate proven therapeutic approaches such as:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

These approaches help individuals recognize negative thought patterns, regulate emotions, and develop healthier responses to stress and life challenges.

Goal-Oriented Treatment Planning

Clients and therapists work collaboratively to set meaningful and achievable goals, which may include:

• Reducing depressive or anxiety symptoms

• Improving self-esteem and emotional resilience

• Enhancing daily functioning at work, school, or home

• Developing healthier thought and behavior patterns

Skill-Building & Coping Strategies

Therapy emphasizes practical tools that can be applied outside of sessions, including:

• Stress and anxiety management techniques

• Emotional regulation skills

• Cognitive restructuring and self-compassion practices

• Healthy routines for sleep, nutrition, and self-care

Medication Collaboration (When Appropriate)

In some cases, medication may be recommended to support treatment, particularly for moderate to severe symptoms. When needed, collaboration with a psychiatrist or medical provider is encouraged. Ahava Shalom does not prescribe medication but supports coordinated care.

Conditions Addressed in Depression & Anxiety Counseling

This service can help with:

• Major depressive disorder

• Persistent depressive symptoms

• Generalized anxiety disorder

• Panic attacks and panic disorder

• Anxiety-related depression

• Chronic stress and emotional burnout

• Feelings of hopelessness or overwhelm

Who Can Benefit From This Therapy?

Individuals Experiencing Emotional Distress

Therapy is beneficial for individuals experiencing mild, moderate, or severe symptoms of depression or anxiety.

People Seeking Support and Guidance

Those navigating difficult life transitions, grief, relationship challenges, or ongoing stress can benefit from professional counseling.

Individuals Focused on Mental Wellness

Even without a current crisis, therapy can be a proactive step toward improving emotional health, self-awareness, and quality of life.

Signs You May Need Depression & Anxiety Counseling

You may benefit from therapy if you experience:

• Persistent sadness, low mood, or loss of interest

• Excessive worry, fear, or nervousness

• Panic attacks or physical anxiety symptoms

• Difficulty functioning at work or in relationships

• Emotional exhaustion, hopelessness, or overwhelm

• Changes in sleep, appetite, or behavior

• Social withdrawal or isolation

Important:
If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please seek immediate help by calling 911 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Faith-Informed Counseling

For clients who desire it, Ahava Shalom integrates Christian values such as hope, peace, renewal, and compassion into the therapeutic process. This holistic approach supports healing of both emotional and spiritual well-being while remaining grounded in sound clinical practice.