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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression

a young person awaits cbt for depression

There are many different ways to treat depression in teenagers. While anti-depressants can reduce symptoms of depression, it does not treat the cause. Cognitive-behavioral therapy or CBT for depression is an evidence-backed form of talk therapy that has proven to be very beneficial in treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. A Washington cognitive-behavioral therapy program can help teens struggling with depression if their symptoms interfere with their development and education.

At Imagine Seattle, we support teen boys and girls aged 12-17 who suffer from depression and need help before their symptoms worsen into a co-occurring disorder or risk of suicide. Our certified therapists use CBT for depression and other holistic therapies for a whole-person treatment experience that has a higher rate of success. Call 888.346.0473 today to speak with one of our compassionate staff if you are concerned that your teen son or daughter may be struggling with depression or other mental health disorders.

Treating Depression with CBT

Teenagers can have a difficult time understanding and coping with their changing thoughts and emotions, all while dealing with continuing issues such as school shootings, the lingering pandemic, and an uncertain future. For some teens, this can become too much and lead to depression. If left untreated, mild cases of depression can worsen and significantly impact their development.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy for depression is very effective in helping teens cope with their racing thoughts. They learn to address their feelings in a positive way while developing new coping skills that will significantly improve their ability to handle any situation in the future. Plus, they gain better communication skills and learn how to form healthy relationships that encourage a healthy lifestyle.

If you are concerned your teen may suffer from depression, look for these common signs:

  • Apathy
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • A lack of interest in doing things they enjoy
  • Withdrawing from friends and family
  • Changes in diet
  • Insomnia/hypersomnia
  • Mood changes

At Imagine Seattle, we treat depression with CBT and other forms of behavioral therapies. Patients will participate in private and group therapy, where they learn and practice new skills and rediscover the power they have to change their negative thoughts and behaviors.

The Benefits of CBT for Depression

There are many benefits of treating depression with CBT for teens whose symptoms affect their health and happiness. They learn new coping skills and learn that it is okay to talk about their feelings and how to express these feelings in a healthy manner. Other benefits of cognitive-behavioral therapy for depression include:

  • Teens work one-on-one with therapists to uncover the root cause of their depression and learn how to replace negative thoughts with healthy ones.
  • During group therapy, teens will practice coping skills and learn how their peers are coping with depression. This can help your teen understand that they are not alone with their struggles and introduce them to new ways of thinking.
  • Teens will participate in holistic therapies that can improve their physical and mental health. Programs such as meditation, yoga, and creative writing are very effective in helping teens cope with their feelings without the use of medication.
  • Family therapy is another essential tool for depression and CBT. Parents and siblings learn how they can help with recovery and give them a safe space to vent any frustrations or feelings of neglect they may feel. Family therapy can go a long way in improving and strengthening the family bond.

Receive Safe and Effective CBT for Depression at Imagine Seattle

At Imagine Seattle, our outpatient treatment facility supports teens aged 12-17 struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health illnesses. Our certified therapists have years of experience helping teens from all walks of life understand where their feelings are coming from and how to better cope with them before they can worsen.

To give your teen the mental health support they need to lead a happy and healthy life, call 888.346.0473 or fill out our online form today for more information about our depression treatment programs.