Depression can change how life looks and feels
Depression may involve sadness, but it can also appear as irritability, disconnection, exhaustion, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, loss of motivation, or the sense that ordinary responsibilities have become unmanageable.
Karen evaluates the pattern and severity of symptoms, medical factors, previous treatment, relationships, family history, and the demands surrounding the patient.
Psychotherapy and medication may work together
Psychotherapy can help patients understand patterns, develop skills, address relationships, and reconnect with parts of life that depression has narrowed. Medication may also be useful for some patients. When both are appropriate, Karen can provide them within one coordinated relationship.
Treatment is individual
Not every patient needs medication, and no single approach is right for everyone. Recommendations reflect the patient’s symptoms, history, preferences, medical situation, and response over time.
A note about urgent needs
Karen’s private practice is not an emergency service. Anyone in immediate danger or experiencing a psychiatric emergency should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. People in the United States can call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.