Topic: depression

Question: What can I do about my depression and anxiety after trying so many things?
I have terrible anxiety and depression. I've tried various therapists and pills, but nothing's helped.

Answer (from Sherry Katz, LCSWCouples and Family Therapist, LCSW):
Is it possible you simply didn't mix well with the particular therapists with whom you've worked?   If this is possible, interview a therapist before  starting therapy.   Then you will be choosing a therapist who feels compatible with your way of seeing yourself and your life.Also, therapy isn't for everyone.Read about the different healing modalities and see if one of these speaks to your interest in feeling better.What matters most is finding among all the legitimate healing methods, what you believe will be effective.

Answer (from Kaileen McMickle, MS, LPCLicensed Professional Counselor):
I'm sorry you've had a difficult time finding what you need.  Sounds like you have been trying super hard!It's common for people to go through a few therapists before they find a fit.  I agree with the prior post that relationship is the most important factor in counseling, otherwise techniques don't really work.  It can be the case that you are connecting with your counselor but not able to implement what you are learning for whatever reason.  That's pretty typical in depression when lethargy is high and motivation is low.  Have you discussed your medication with your prescribing provider?  It seems like you have advocated for yourself in the past and have put some effort into trying new things.  That's actually really tough to do, depression or not!  When I have clients that seem to make no progress despite many sessions and different medications, I recommend trying a service called GeneSight.  Here's the link: https://genesight.com/.This service allows you find medications that fit best with your genetic makeup.  I don't have any affiliation to this service, but I've seen some success for people that have followed through since it is very personalized.  I believe some insurance companies cover the full cost and it's easy to use.Let me also point out that your motivation is spectacular.  You have been through multiple therapists and meds, yet you still reach out on this forum filled with counselors!  That shows some dedication to yourself and hope that you can find help to change.  That's not easy with depression or anxiety.

Answer (from Lauren Ostrowski, MA, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, CCTP, CCHI tailor my therapeutic approach to each client's strengths and goals):
I'm sorry that you have tried several different things and not had much relief.I will say that there are several different types of medications that may help and each therapist is different, so it is quite possible that a different combination of things you've already tried may be helpful.I would encourage you to continue trying different therapists. I would say to give each one at least six sessions before you decide that the approach that they are using is not working for you. Also, most places have a certain sort of structured initial session that must be done, but after that, the decisions are largely up to what you and the clinician feel is helping. If something is or is not working, communicate this with your therapist. This is a big deal. Most therapists I know actually welcome this feedback.There is a fair amount of research into the idea that the therapeutic alliance (the relationship that you have in the context of working through the reasons that brought you into therapy) is very important. Also, sometimes anxiety and depression can make it difficult to go to therapy on a regular basis. If that is something with which you are struggling, I would encourage you to talk about that as well.In addition to a solid relationship with a therapist who you connect with, you may consider trying something like yoga or meditation. Mindfulness is sometimes helpful as well.Here's a link to questions for finding suitable therapists: http://www.pharmatherapist.com/12-tips-for-finding-a-suitable-therapist