The Correlation Between:
Mindset, Relationships, Depression & Loneliness
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Rebecca Sidoti, LCSW
VR Therapist
OCD & Anxiety Expert
Kristin Justice
Grief & Loss
Women’s Mental Health
Stress & Adjustments
Caroline Goodhines
Maria Rice
Denise Spivey
Depression and loneliness often go hand in hand, each amplifying the effects of the other. It’s like they’re in a relentless dance, and we’re caught in the middle. Yet, there’s a way out. Addressing these feelings requires a dual approach: understanding our external interactions and diving deep into our internal thoughts. It’s a journey of self-discovery and connection. Let’s delve deeper into this intricate relationship.
Internal & External Influences on Depression & Lonliness
Building and maintaining quality connections is akin to having a safety net. These relationships, whether with family, friends, or even colleagues, provide a buffer against the harsh realities of life. They offer a listening ear, a comforting shoulder, and sometimes, just the company one needs to feel less alone. In the context of New Jersey, with its bustling life and myriad challenges, these connections become even more crucial. They serve as anchors, grounding us and reminding us of our worth.
Community Engagement Helps Reduce Depression
In New Jersey, there’s no shortage of community events and groups, from hands-on workshops to supportive gatherings. Joining these groups not only connects you with others who share your interests but also reminds you that you’re not alone in whatever you’re going through. Whether you’re into reading, singing, or hiking, it’s all about coming together and finding solace in shared moments.
The Mind's Role in Perceiving and Addressing Loneliness and Depression
The Power of Perception
Our mind is a powerful tool. It shapes our reality, coloring our experiences with its perceptions. Two individuals can experience the same event and come away with entirely different feelings, all based on their perceptions. Recognizing this power is the first step. The next is harnessing it. By actively working on reshaping negative perceptions, one can significantly impact their feelings of loneliness and depression.
Rigid Thinking: A Barrier to Connection
Rigid thinking patterns limit our experiences and trap us in a cycle of negativity. However challenging these, questioning their validity, and actively seeking alternative thought patterns leads to more positive experiences and stronger connections with others. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors. Here are some CBT examples related to the content:
CBT Techniques for Depression & Loneliness
Identify, challenge & Reframe the Negative Thought
– What evidence do I have that supports this thought?
– What evidence do I have that goes against this thought?
– Example: “I remember succeeding at tasks in the past, so it’s not true that I ‘always’ mess things up.”
– Replace the negative thought with a more balanced or positive one.
– Example: “Everyone makes mistakes sometimes, but I also have many successes. I’ll learn from this and move forward.”
Behavioral Activation to break Cycles of Depression
– Engage in an activity that contradicts the negative belief.
– Example: If you believe you’re not good at social interactions, make an effort to join a group or attend a social event.
Mindfulness & Meditation
– Practice staying present and not getting overly reactive or overwhelmed by negative thoughts.
– Example: When a rigid thought arises, take a few deep breaths, acknowledge the thought without judgment, and then let it pass.
Seek Feedback around Your Perceptions
– Talk to trusted friends or family about your beliefs to get an external perspective.
– Example: If you believe you’re bad at relationships, ask a close friend for their honest opinion. They might provide examples of when you’ve been a great friend or partner.
Journaling
– Write down negative thoughts and challenge them on paper. This can provide clarity and a different perspective.
– Example: “Today, I felt like I wasn’t good enough at work. But then I remembered the positive feedback I received last week.”
Ketamine for Depression: A Catalyst for Shifting Perspectives
Ketamine, once primarily known as an anesthetic, has emerged as a beacon of hope for many battling depression. Research and testimonials have highlighted its potential in alleviating depressive symptoms, often when other treatments have failed. But how does it work? Ketamine acts on the brain’s NMDA receptors, promoting neural growth and connectivity. This not only alleviates symptoms but also promotes a more positive outlook.
Reshaping Thought Patterns
Beyond its immediate effects, ketamine has shown promise in breaking rigid thinking patterns. Patients often report a newfound clarity, an ability to see beyond their entrenched beliefs, and a renewed hope. This shift in perspective can be transformative, offering individuals a fresh start.
True, Interpersonal Connections = Decreased Loneliness
The journey to holistic well-being is not one to be undertaken alone. It requires bridges, connections that offer support and understanding. Building these bridges, whether by reaching out to old friends, making new ones, or seeking professional help, is a step towards a brighter future.
Mindfulness and Cognitive Flexibility
The mind, like any other muscle, requires exercise. Practices like mindfulness meditation, journaling, and cognitive-behavioral therapy can enhance self-awareness and promote cognitive flexibility. They offer tools to challenge and reshape negative thought patterns, paving the way for a more adaptive mindset.
Final Thoughts
Feelings of depression and loneliness, while daunting, are not insurmountable. By seeking support, understanding how perception influences mood and emotions, and considering treatments like ketamine, you can begin living your life the way you want. Help is here. Take the next step today.
How do I get started as a new client?
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What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that clients provide at least 24 hours notice in the event that they need to cancel to avoid the 50% cancellation fee. we understand that life happens and do our best to be flexible & reschedule.
Does my insurance cover my visits?
We provide”Courtesy Billing” for clients who are using the Out-of-network insurance benefits.
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Do you offer traditional talk therapy?
of course! though we have some unconventional therapy approaches, we are rooted in evidenced based practices. Talk therapy is a major player in the therapy room! See What we Treat and Integrative Services for more information
Is Online Therapy As Effective As In-Person Therapy?
Online therapy is essentially face-to-face counseling, just conducted remotely. Studies show that teletherapy is as effective as traditional counseling. Professional organizations and state governments recognize its benefits and have set regulations for it. However, like any therapy, its success in achieving your goals isn’t guaranteed. It’s important to discuss with your therapist whether teletherapy is working for you.
Can I Change Therapists If I'm Not Happy?
Yes, you can switch therapists to another provider within the practice, or we can provide you a referral if preferred. We want to ensure that your time and effort are well spent, and that you are getting the relief you need, that’s why we work collaboratively with each other in the practice, as well as outside therapists who we know and trust.
How Do I Know If Therapy Is Helping?
You should feel like you’re making progress. Signs it’s working include:
Feeling comfortable talking to your therapist
Your therapist respects boundaries
You’re moving towards your goals
You feel listened to
You’re doing better in life
Your self-esteem is getting better
Is Online Therapy Easy to Use for Non-Tech-Savvy People?
Yes, it’s pretty simple to access sessions. You’ll need basic internet skills, such as opening and visiting the patient link sent to you via email. It’s similar to video chatting like Facetime or Zoom. We can also walk you through it on the phone the first time to ensure a strong connection
What Questions Should I Ask My New Therapist?
Feel free to ask anything. Some good questions are:
- How often will we meet?
- What do you specialize in?
- What experience do you have with my issue?
- What outcomes can I expect?
- How will I know I’m progressing?
- How long do you usually work with clients?
- How will we set my treatment goals?
How Should I Prepare for My First Session?
Showing up is all that you need to do! But if you really want to get the most out of session, it could help to take some time to think about what you want from therapy. It helps to write down your goals, questions you have or things that you feel are important to share.
What is the difference between associate therapists & fully licensed therapists?
Our Qualifications:
Our founder, Rebecca Sidoti, is a highly qualified, state-licensed therapist and supervisor with extensive training in anxiety related disorders and innovative treatment such as Ketamine Therapy. Mind by Design Counseling adheres to standards set by the our governing counseling boards.
To see each providers credentials, training and licenses, visit our “Meet the Therapists” Page to learn more.
- LAC/LSW are therapists who may practice clinical work under the supervision of a fully licensed therapist.
- LPC/LCSW are therapists who have completed the necessary clinical hours post-graduation under supervision and can practice clinical work independently.
What Geographic Areas Are Served?
Currently, we serve clients in New Jersey and are expanding to other states as telehealth laws evolve. While telehealth offers the convenience of attending sessions from anywhere, state laws require clients to be in-state during their session.
Is Virtual Counseling Suitable for Everyone?
Online therapy might not be as effective for individuals with chronic suicidal thoughts, severe trauma, significant mental health history, or those recently in intensive care. Such cases often benefit more from traditional, in-person counseling. We’ll help you decide if our online services are right for you during your intake and evaluation.
What Equipment is Needed for Online Therapy?
To join a session, log in using the credentials we provide. No downloads are needed. Our platform, compatible with both individual and group sessions, requires:
A computer or mobile device with a webcam and internet access.
We’ll help you test your setup before your first appointment to ensure a reliable connection. iOS users should use the Safari browser for mobile and tablet sessions.
What Questions Will Therapists Ask Me?
It depends on your goals. Expect questions about your thoughts, feelings, relationships, work, school, and health. They’ll ask to understand your therapy goals.
How Do You Keep Client Information Secure?
Security and Confidentiality of Sessions:
Your privacy is crucial to us. We use TherapyNotes, a HIPAA-compliant platform, ensuring secure and confidential teletherapy sessions. This platform’s security features include encrypted video connections, secure data transfers, and encrypted databases, ensuring your information is safe at all times.
What is VRT used for?
we use VRT to support Exposure Therapy, a long standing traditional therapy modality to treat phobias, anxiety and stress. we send a headset directly to your home so you can access VRT from anywhere.
VRT not only helps with exposure therapy for phobias, but is great for ADHD, mindfulness, PTSD and social anxiety.