Depression isn't just feeling sad. It can look like losing interest in things you used to enjoy, sleeping too much or barely at all, feeling tired no matter what you do, or simply going through the motions. When it lasts for weeks and starts affecting your work, relationships, or how you see yourself, it's time to get real help.
Our board-certified psychiatric providers treat depression in teens and adults across Washington State, by secure telehealth or in person in Lakewood when appointments are available.
Signs it may be depression
- Low mood most days, or feeling empty or numb
- Losing interest in people, hobbies, or things you used to enjoy
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or weight
- Low energy, trouble focusing, or feeling slowed down
- Feeling worthless, guilty, or hopeless
What we look at
Depression often has more than one cause, so we take a full picture. We ask about your mood over time, past treatment and medications, sleep, stress, family history, and physical health. Thyroid problems, low vitamin levels, hormone changes, and sleep issues can all drive symptoms, and we'll check in with your primary care provider about labs when it makes sense.
Some people have depression alongside anxiety, ADHD, or mood swings that point to bipolar disorder. Getting that right matters because it changes which treatment will actually help.
Treatment options
For many people, the right antidepressant makes a real difference. We'll explain why we recommend a medication, what to expect in the first few weeks, and common side effects. If you've tried medications before that didn't work or had side effects, we'll use that history to choose a better fit.
How care works with us
- Start with an evaluation. Your first visit is a full psychiatric evaluation, about an hour, by secure video or in person in Lakewood when available.
- Build a plan together. You'll hear what we think is going on, your options, and the reasoning behind any recommendation.
- Ongoing follow up. If medication is part of your plan, we monitor and adjust it through regular medication management visits.
- Work with your therapist. We don't provide therapy, but many of our patients see a therapist, and we're glad to coordinate with yours.
If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or call 911. We are an outpatient practice and can't provide emergency care.
Frequently asked questions
How long does depression treatment take to work?
Many people notice some improvement within 4 to 6 weeks of starting a medication, with fuller benefit over 2 to 3 months. We follow up regularly so we can adjust if something isn't working.
Can depression be treated by telehealth?
Yes. Evaluations and medication management for depression work well by secure video, and you can be anywhere in Washington State during your visit.
What if antidepressants haven't worked for me before?
That's common and doesn't mean nothing will work. We review what you've tried, the doses, and how long, and look at whether something else, like a sleep problem or bipolar symptoms, is getting in the way.
Is depression treatment covered by insurance?
Most major plans cover psychiatric evaluation and medication management. See our accepted insurance.
Ready to get started?
Book online in a few minutes, call us, or leave your details below and our team will call you to schedule. Telehealth anywhere in Washington State. Most major insurance accepted.
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