The link between chronic or relational trauma and profound feelings of depression is significant and frequently overlooked. Those who have endured such trauma commonly struggle with pervasive depressive feelings, feeling entrapped by intense sadness or a sense of hopelessness. Recognizing this connection is vital, as it illuminates the reasons behind the persistence of such deep emotional states, even when one rationally understands their own circumstances.
Fortunately, there is a path to healing. Utilizing therapeutic trauma-informed methods, individuals can begin to comprehend the roots of their depressive feelings, encouraging self-kindness and paving the way for a journey towards a life filled with greater fulfillment and self-compassion.
Overcome depression by addressing unhealthy, hopeless thoughts through CBT, hypnotherapy & EMDR.
Depression, a complex and multifaceted mental health condition, often manifests through a profound loss of interest or pleasure in activities, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and a pervasive sense of negative thinking that obscures positive solutions. This condition can be intricately linked with deep-seated feelings of shame and guilt, where individuals battle a relentless inner critic that erodes their self-worth and value. This struggle is frequently concealed, as people might feel too embarrassed or fearful to share these feelings, creating a profound sense of isolation.
Our team of experienced Clinical Psychologists specializes in addressing the intricate interplay between depression, shame, and guilt, especially as it relates to relational trauma. They employ a comprehensive treatment approach, utilizing evidence-based therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These methods are designed to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying emotional turmoil.
Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Hoffenberg, with her specialized focus on depression, delves into how it's often intertwined with past trauma, particularly in cases involving social withdrawal and feelings of worthlessness. Her approach is deeply rooted in the understanding that these aspects of depression are frequently symptoms of unresolved traumatic experiences. By integrating EMDR, a trauma-informed methodology, and mindfulness practices, she creates a therapeutic space that is both healing and empowering.
Her primary objective is to help individuals connect the dots between their depression and past traumas. This process involves exploring how traumatic events can manifest as feelings of worthlessness and lead to social isolation. With EMDR, Dr. Hoffenberg assists her clients in confronting these traumatic memories, facilitating a reprocessing of these experiences in a way that reduces their emotional impact. Her empathetic and comprehensive approach aims to guide clients out of the grips of trauma-linked depression, paving the way for improved self-esteem and healthier social interactions.
Read More about Dr. Hoffenberg
Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Yunusova specializes in treating depression, with a particular focus on tackling symptoms such as guilt and negative thinking, which are critical in understanding and addressing the complexities of depression. Her therapeutic approach is a dynamic blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), offering a holistic and effective means of treatment.
EMDR plays a crucial role in her approach, especially for clients whose depression is rooted in or exacerbated by complex or relational traumatic experiences. This technique aids in processing and recontextualizing these experiences, thereby reducing their emotional impact. Together, these therapies form a comprehensive framework through which Dr. Yunusova guides her clients towards not only alleviating the symptoms of depression but also fundamentally transforming their relationship with guilt and negative thinking, paving the way for a more positive and fulfilling life.
Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Citrin is a recognized expert in male depression, rumination, grief, and loss, with a special focus on how unresolved trauma affects both men and their relationships. She understands that male depression often deviates from the classic image of sadness, frequently manifesting as irritability, anger, physical symptoms, or risk-taking behaviors. These less recognized signs not only mask inner emotional pain but also leave partners feeling helpless, isolated, or confused by the sudden emotional distance or bursts of anger.
Using a trauma-informed approach that integrates EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dr. Citrin helps clients uncover and process the intertwined roots of depression, grief, and trauma. By addressing these challenges directly, she empowers individuals to break free from cycles of rumination and emotional paralysis, ultimately fostering healing, emotional resilience, and more fulfilling relationships where both partners feel understood and supported.
Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Zala specializes in depression, self-esteem, and feelings of worthlessness. She recognizes that depression often manifests in deeply internalized ways—marked by pervasive self-doubt, isolation, and a persistent belief in one's inadequacy. For many, these experiences are not isolated but stem from unresolved trauma. Early painful experiences can become internalized, leading to a lasting narrative of unworthiness that influences every aspect of one’s life.
Using a trauma-informed, psychoanalytic approach enhanced by EMDR, Dr. Zala helps clients uncover and process these hidden wounds. By gently exploring the origins of their trauma, she guides them in understanding how past experiences contribute to present feelings of worthlessness and depression. Through this process, clients learn to challenge and reframe negative self-beliefs, gradually rebuilding their self-esteem and fostering a renewed sense of hope and connection.
Depression is frequently linked to relational or complex trauma, a connection that underscores the profound impact of interpersonal relationships and traumatic experiences on mental health. Relational trauma, which often arises from significant disruptions or harm within close relationships, can deeply affect an individual's emotional well-being, leading to feelings of abandonment, betrayal, or unworthiness. Similarly, complex trauma, resulting from repeated or prolonged exposure to highly stressful situations, can disrupt a person's sense of security and self-esteem. Both forms of trauma can set the stage for depression, manifesting as persistent sadness, withdrawal, and a pervasive sense of hopelessness.
The intricate link between these traumatic experiences and depression highlights the importance of addressing the underlying emotional pain and disrupted attachment patterns in therapeutic interventions for effective healing and recovery from depression.
Research on EMDR has been increasingly focusing on its effectiveness in treating depression, particularly when linked to traumatic experiences. Studies have demonstrated that EMDR can significantly reduce symptoms of depression, especially when it is a secondary condition to trauma. This is because EMDR targets the root causes of emotional distress by processing traumatic memories, which in turn alleviates associated depressive symptoms. One of the key strengths of EMDR highlighted in research is its potential for long-term effectiveness, suggesting a reduced likelihood of depressive relapse.
Embark on a journey towards self-understanding and freedom from the grip of depression. Allow us to guide you towards a more peaceful state of mind, nurturing a harmonious relationship with your emotions and thoughts.
