Depression

Psychology Services, Auckland

 

SB Psychology offer a full range of both patient and referral services to help people manage and treat depression.

What is Depression?

Depression is a diagnosable illness where a person experiences sadness, lack of pleasure, irritation or negative thinking most of the time. It can seriously affect a person’s mental and physical wellbeing. Depending on its severity, it can also impact a person’s participation in relationships, work, education and the social aspects of life

The incidence of chronic depression is disturbingly high, affecting as many as one in four women and one in six men, and it can have a devastating impact on a victim’s family, social and work life and their general state of health. 

Depression can affect people from all walks of life. There are several different factors that can impact the causes and severity of depression. These include life events, lifestyle, physical health, genetics, and personality. Just like any other illness, depression is not the fault of the person experiencing it. As with someone experiencing a physical illness, they deserve compassion, respect and access to support.

Experts in medicine and psychology continue studying depression to better understand it and improve treatments including talk therapies, medications, complementary therapies and lifestyle changes. The treatments that work for some people, may not work for others. It’s important that a person experiencing mental illness find the right mix of care and supports for their situation.

For many who experience it, depression can remain misunderstood by those around them. Worrying about stigma can stop a person from sharing their experiences or even from getting the help they need. You can play a role in improving the situation – by supporting someone experiencing depression.

What are the signs?

Some of the signs of depression include:

  • Low mood
  • Lack of interest or enjoyment
  • Profound and persistent tiredness
  • Reduced appetite, or over-eating
  • Insomnia or fatigue
  • Low or no libido
  • Problems with concentration or poor memory
  • Aches and pains

How can I cope?

  • When engaging in pleasurable activities, think about how enjoyable they are and make time for more of them
  • Focus on small positive things that happen, or small goals that you accomplish
  • Make a list of things that you enjoy or that you are grateful for

When do I get help?

If your quality of life is badly affected by these kinds of feelings, reach out for a confidential talk with Sarah today.

About Sarah

Approach

Contact

Patient Services

We are currently accepting patients, however you may need a referral from your current doctor before we can begin treatment.

DEPRESSION

Depression is a serious condition that affects your physical and mental health which can last for long periods of time without any apparent reason.

ANXIETY

Anxiety is a normal emotion that causes increased alertness, fear, and physical signs, such as a rapid heart rate.

STRESS

Stress is the feeling of being overwhelmed or unable to cope with mental or emotional pressure.

POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

A particular set of reactions that can develop in people who have been through a traumatic event. 

ADDICTION

Addiction is a physical or psychological need to do, take or use something, to the point where it could be harmful to you

SEXUAL ABUSE

Abusive sexual behaviour by one person upon another.

WORK RELATED INJURY

Work-related injuries can include physical injuries, psychological disorders or diseases.

RELATIONSHIP ISSUES

Isolating and managing relationship issues for a positive outcome.

OFFENCE FOCUSED REHABILITATION

Helping to develop life skills, provide counselling and support, and building constructive days, routines and reinforce good habits.

The brain is wider than the sky.

Emily Dikinson

FAQ's

What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?

Psychiatrists prescribe medication, psychologists can't. Psychiatrists diagnose illness, manage treatment and provide a range of therapies for complex and serious mental illness. Psychologists focus on providing psychotherapy (talk therapy) to help patients.

What can SB Psychology provide assistance with?

Sarah specialises in assessment and treatment with adult males and females, and young people (13-21). She provides assistance with:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Stress and wellbeing
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Substance use and Addictions
  • Sexual abuse
  • Work related injury
  • Relationship issues
  • Offence focused rehabilitation

If you can't see what you are looking for, please get in touch.

How do I know it will work?

Sarah is passionate about helping people and works to create an atmosphere where her clients feel comfortable and safe. She helps her clients to develop insight into the distressing patterns in their life and works alongside to identify and empower her clients to create healthy choices and alternatives. Sarah takes a holistic yet practical approach with her clients and draws on a range of evidence-based psychological therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Sarah values the experiences each client brings and uses their unique qualities and strengths to bring about positive change and improve quality of life.

If you still aren't sure that SB Psychology Services if right for you, please get in touch for a confidential chat with Sarah today.

How do I get an appointment?

There are two ways this can happen.

If you are currently under the care of your doctor, ask them to send a referral to SB Psychology Services - just give them this web address!

If you are not under the care of a doctor, you may contact us directly however we may not be the service you require.

What can I expect in my first session?

Sarah will spend the initial session exploring what has prompted you to seek help and considering which approach will be best to help you achieve your goals or enhance your wellbeing.  This involves finding out what is important to you, where you want to get to, your values and strengths as well as exploring your difficulties and the issue that has resulting in you deciding to seek help. Sarah will work from a collaborative and tailored therapy model that will help you get where you want to be. 

How many sessions will I need?

Sarah will advise you at the start of therapy of the recommended number of sessions required to help you reach you goal. 

How long are the appointments?

Sessions are 50 minutes in duration.

Can I bring a support person/whānau member?

It is important that you feel comfortable when you attend sessions.  Support people and whānau are most welcome. Bringing them along, particularly to your first session can help alleviate any anxiety related to attending the session.

NOW is a great time to get in touch!

SB Psychology Services in Auckland are actively accepting referrals and patients.

Please get in touch to discuss how we can help.