In order to help you along in the process, there are two more decisions I encourage you to make before you decide to get individual counseling:

1. Do a little research on the types of psychotherapeutic treatment options that are indicated for depression

2. Shop around for a therapist who you feel comfortable with and either works with the treatment modalities you found in your research or, can introduce you to a modality you weren't aware of and refer you to information sources for your own corroboration.

The relationship you develop with your counselor should not be underestimated. It will play a large role in your treatment outcome. I encourage you to find someone you feel you can speak openly and honestly with, is a good listener, AND actively employs therapeutic interventions to help you facilitate the change you need.

Effective therapy involves more than just talking and listening. It involves practicing new ways of thinking and new ways of dealing with your emotions. Counseling depression may involve several different philosophical approaches, treatment modalities and therapeutic interventions. There is no single remedy that applies as the best one for everybody. However, in the scientific and medical literature, cognitive behavior therapy is most popular and considered highly effective.

Individual counseling for depression can serve as an adjunct (additional) form of treatment or, as your primary therapeutic modality. It will compliment and possibly, even replace medication but, make sure you check in with your doctor on that as you progress in your treatment plan.

For more information on types of treatment modalities that indicated for depression visit these links: CBT EMDR

Relationships can be affected by many different types of psychological, emotional and behavioral factors. This is why Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists have special expertise in areas that are directly related to mood problems, addictions, personality disorders, cognitive problems and somatic issues meaning, problems that are "held in the body".

If you are shopping around for an lmft in Santa Cruz, I encourage you to make a few lists:

• List of qualities that you desire in a therapist
• List of treatment goals you would like to pursue
• List of treatment modalities you would like to experience (base this on your own research)
• List of attributes you want in an office location
• Then, email or call a potential psychotherapist you might like to work with and ask as many questions as she or he will give you time for.

Remember that one of the greatest determinants of success in psychotherapy will come down to the quality of your relationship to your therapist. If you don't feel completely safe to be honest and vulnerable, you may want to keep shopping around.