Professional Depression Treatment in Arlington VA

High-functioning depression is real and deserves treatment. Just because you're managing work or daily responsibilities doesn't mean you're not suffering. Treatment can help improve your quality of life, prevent symptoms from worsening, and help you thrive rather than just survive. Many successful people seek treatment to address depression that others might not even notice.

It's important to discuss any plans to stop treatment with your provider. Stopping too soon can lead to relapse. Generally, it's recommended to continue treatment for several months after symptoms improve to consolidate gains and prevent recurrence. Your provider will help you create a plan for gradually reducing treatment when appropriate, and may suggest maintenance strategies to support long-term wellness.

LCSWs (Licensed Clinical Social Workers) have master's degrees in social work and training that often emphasizes understanding how environmental and social factors affect mental health. LPCs (Licensed Professional Counselors) have master's degrees in counseling or psychology with focus on therapeutic techniques. Both are qualified therapists who can effectively treat depression – the difference is mainly in their educational background and approach.

Primary care doctors can diagnose and treat mild to moderate depression, and they prescribe about 70% of antidepressants. They're a good starting point for many people. However, for more complex cases, treatment-resistant depression, or if you want therapy, seeing a mental health specialist is recommended. Your primary care doctor can provide referrals to specialists when needed.

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) primarily increase serotonin levels in the brain. Common ones include Prozac, Zoloft, and Lexapro. SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) affect both serotonin and norepinephrine. Examples include Effexor and Cymbalta. SNRIs may be particularly helpful for depression with fatigue or pain symptoms. Your provider will recommend the best option based on your specific symptoms and medical history.

Never stop antidepressants suddenly without medical supervision. Abrupt discontinuation can cause uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms (discontinuation syndrome) including dizziness, nausea, anxiety, and brain zaps. More importantly, stopping suddenly increases the risk of depression relapse. Your provider will create a tapering schedule to gradually reduce your dose over weeks or months, minimizing withdrawal effects and monitoring for returning symptoms.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) is a structured, time-limited therapy that focuses on improving relationships and social functioning to relieve depression symptoms. It addresses four main problem areas: grief, role disputes, role transitions, and interpersonal deficits. IPT typically lasts 12-16 sessions and is particularly effective for depression triggered by relationship problems, major life changes, or loss. It's practical and present-focused rather than exploring past issues extensively.

Mindfulness-based therapies, like MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy), combine cognitive therapy techniques with mindfulness meditation practices. These approaches teach you to observe thoughts and feelings without judgment, reducing rumination and preventing depression relapse. You'll learn meditation techniques, body awareness, and how to respond rather than react to negative thoughts. Research shows MBCT is particularly effective at preventing depression recurrence.

Several options exist for affordable treatment: community mental health centers offer sliding-scale fees, many therapists have reduced-rate slots, university psychology clinics provide low-cost therapy with supervised trainees, some employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) with free sessions, and online therapy platforms can be more affordable. Don't let cost prevent you from seeking help – providers want to help and can often suggest resources.

While video sessions are generally preferred because they allow for non-verbal communication, phone sessions can still be effective for depression treatment. Some people actually feel more comfortable with phone sessions, finding it easier to open up without the pressure of being on camera. The most important factor is maintaining regular contact with your therapist. If video isn't possible, phone sessions are much better than no treatment.