Damarys J. Gilligan (she/her)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based intervention that has been successful in treating many mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and panic disorders. CBT can facilitate changes in thinking patterns that affect the way we process emotions. Clients are encouraged to examine their thought processes and recognize changes needed. CBT in conjunction with the use of medications, when needed, can yield better results in therapy.

Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) has proven to be successful in the treatment of depression as the remission rates are lower than other approaches. MBCT integrates the use of cognitive therapy, meditation, and mindfulness. Practicing mindfulness can help us navigate through difficult feelings and allow us to focus our attention on ourselves.

Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is based on finding solutions more than analyzing the problem in detail. The use of SFBT in therapy allows the client to find and apply a solution to their situation. This is done is a “brief” period of time in order to reduce time spent in therapy and help the person move on and live a more fulfilled life. SFBT can be used effectively in different settings including couples and family therapy.

We all experience anxiety throughout our lives. Not everyone experiences it the same way. Our symptoms manifest based on the situations we face at the time. Not all anxiety is bad. At times, it can help us accomplish tasks and face challenges. When anxiety becomes chronic and interferes with your daily life, therapy can help you learn how to manage your symptoms. Utilizing coping skills that will decrease the symptoms and the frequency, we can work together to manage your anxiety.

We all experience anxiety throughout our lives. Not everyone experiences it the same way. Our symptoms manifest based on the situations we face at the time. Not all anxiety is bad. At times, it can help us accomplish tasks and face challenges. When anxiety becomes chronic and interferes with your daily life, therapy can help you learn how to manage your symptoms. Utilizing coping skills that will decrease the symptoms and the frequency, we can work together to manage your anxiety.

When we face a loss in our lives, it could take a while to feel normal again. Grief counseling can help us regain control of our emotions while honoring the memories of those who we’ve lost. We experience grief in our own unique way and there is no right or wrong way to grieve our loss. Together we can go through the process of working through your grief and help you make meaning after your loss.

Depression is often treated with psychotherapy, or talk therapy, and antidepressant medications. My approach to treating this disorder lies in assessing your needs first before we discuss the need for medications. Utilizing evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), we can move towards making changes in your life that will address your depression.