Treatment for Depression in Adults

Caring & Professional Psychotherapy For Adult Depression

Newport Beach | Orange County CA

Do You Feel Depressed, Overwhelmed & Alone?

What Does Depression In Adults Look Like?

Do you feel alone and isolated?  Is your energy low, even after a good night’s rest?  Have you experienced a loss of meaning or purpose in your life?  Do you find yourself feeling uninterested in and unmotivated to do the activities you typically enjoy?

These are some classic examples of what depression can be like in adulthood.  All of the stress of being an adult can add up quickly, as adulthood represents one of the busiest and most emotionally demanding phases of life.  Raising children, caring for aging parents, paying bills, attending college, finding steady employment.  As these stressors add up, many healthy adults may feel overwhelmed, anxious or depressed.   

Depression is one of the most common mental health concerns in adulthood, as well as one of the most common reasons for unemployment.  Approximately 10% of adults in the U.S. suffer from depressive symptoms each year (Compton, Conway, Stinson, & Grant, 2006; CDC, 2010).

Symptoms of depression might include (DSM-5):

  • Hopelessness

  • Tiredness

  • Loss of pleasure / enjoyment

  • Feeling down or sad

  • Sleep or appetite changes

  • Irritability

  • Thoughts of suicide or death*

  • Isolation

* If you or a loved one is experiencing thoughts of suicide, contact the suicide hotline immediately (1-800-273-8255), or call 911. 

Depression is a highly debilitating illness that can impact the ability to function with our work, school, and relationships.  Left untreated, symptoms of depression can be disruptive and harmful, which is why untreated depression is one of the largest reasons for disability in the U.S. (CDC, 2010).  

Do not let depression rule your life.  If you or someone you know struggles with depression, there is hope.  Schedule your first meeting with me today to get the help you need.

Treatment for Depression in Adulthood

Clinical psychologists take a careful and direct approach to helping adults overcome depression.   Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been found to be one of the most effective treatment options for depression (Barth et al, 2013; Beard et al, 2016).  Medication can also be helpful (Cuijpers et al, 2013); however, the first and safest treatment option is psychotherapy.

In treating depressive disorders, my process begins with a thorough intake interview and diagnosis.  Based on the diagnosis and the goals you have for improving your life, I design an evidence-based treatment plan with a focus in symptom reduction. 

Therapy can help adults with depression:

Increase motivation and energy

Decrease avoidance or “numbing” behaviors

Tactics for coping with depressive symptoms

Increase tolerance and management of negative feelings

Regulate emotions and self-soothe

Manage suicidal thoughts

Improve daily functioning

As depression impacts the ability to be active and seek help, reaching out may feel daunting.  Take a step towards regaining control of your life, and schedule your first session today.     

Interested?  Let’s connect!

If you or your child are interested in therapy services, contact me as soon as possible. I would love to hear from you and answer any questions you may have about my practice.  

It is never too late for your child to receive treatment.  I believe I can help make a difference in your child’s life.  

Together, we can help them reach their potential.  

Dr. Montgomery holds dual certifications in Clinical Psychology (California Board of Psychology PSY28475) and Family Therapy (California Board of Behavioral Sciences MFT49608). He has dedicated his professional and academic activities to understanding and addressing psychological, behavioral and interpersonal health in children, adolescents, and families.

Education:

  • Psy.D. Clinical Psychology

  • M.A. Clinical Psychology

  • M.S. Counseling Psychology

  • B.A. Psychology