Depression

Depressive moods are not unusual in children and adolescents.  Parents struggle with whether their child’s distress will dissipate on its own or whether it is indicative of a more serious concern that would benefit from professional assessment and possible treatment. 

Often when parents give us a call about their child’s sadness they are looking for reasons why it might be happening, ideas for how they can help their child themselves, and of course how to get their child back on happier footing again.

When considering seeing a psychologist a good indicator for parents to consider is the Frequency, Intensity, and Duration (FID) of the child’s symptoms and reactions.  The greater the FID the more an assessment is indicated.  All of the psychologists at Bryn Mawr Psychological Associates are trained in assessing, diagnosing, and treating depressive disorders.

We receive frequent calls from adults for therapy in which they can explore and work through their painful circumstances. Most often the aims are to attain better day-to-day functioning, work through challenging decisions, improve relationships, and achieve greater happiness.  

Depression, Dysthymia, and Bipolar Disorder are the most common mood disorders.  To varying degrees mood disorders are caused and maintained by a combination of factors: Environmental, psychological, biological, and genetic.  Psychotherapy is mindful of the relative contribution of these factors with treatment aimed primarily at reducing the impact of environmental stressors and gaining insight and direction through intervention on the psychological aspects. 

At Bryn Mawr Psychological Associates we utilize CBT, Cognitive Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and Family-based therapies when addressing mood disorders depending upon the psychologist doing the treatment and the specific issues involved.

Medication is commonplace in the treatment of mood disorders, however, many individuals do not wish to start with medication or to even use medication at all, especially for younger children.  Research and practical experience clearly demonstrate that psychotherapy can significantly improve the functioning of individuals and families struggling with mood disorders. If a medication consult is indicated we have connections with many psychiatrists and other physicians in the area to whom we can refer.