Depression Therapy in Berlin (Prenzlauer Berg) | Psychotherapy in English
FACING DEPRESSION TOGETHER -
FINDING FREEDOM &
QUALITY OF LIFE
I support you in managing depressive symptoms through evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) methods in German or English.
Depression is among the most common mental health conditions worldwide and can profoundly affect all areas of life. As a licensed psychotherapist in Berlin (Prenzlauer Berg), I offer scientifically-based therapy methods for the treatment of depression.
In my practice, you will find a protected space where we can work together to understand and manage your depressive symptoms. My integrative approach combines proven methods of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with modern mindfulness-based techniques and is individually tailored to your personal situation.
Recognizing Depression – Symptoms and Signs
Depression is more than just temporary sadness or a bad phase. It is a serious mental health condition that can profoundly influence your thinking, feeling, and actions. As a psychotherapist in Berlin (Prenzlauer Berg), I encounter people daily who experience various forms and manifestations of depressive symptoms.
The main symptoms of depression manifest on an emotional level through persistent low mood, anhedonia, and a deep loss of interest in activities that once brought joy. Many affected individuals describe a feeling of inner emptiness or report feeling as if they are separated from life behind a glass wall.
Physical signs also play an important role. Sleep disturbances are typical – whether difficulty falling asleep, early waking, or excessive need for sleep. Changes in appetite (increase or decrease), chronic exhaustion, and a noticeable lack of energy can also occur. Even everyday tasks may seem like insurmountable obstacles.
On a cognitive level, many people with depression suffer from concentration and memory problems. Circular thoughts, so-called rumination, and negatively biased thinking often characterize daily life. Self-doubt, self-criticism, and feelings of guilt further intensify the depressive symptoms.
Depending on severity and course, we distinguish between different forms of depression:
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Major Depression (Depressive Episode) with distinct symptoms that persist for at least two weeks
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Dysthymic Disorder (Dysthymia) with less intense but long-lasting symptoms over years
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Seasonal Depression, which typically occurs during the darker months
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Postpartum Depression after childbirth
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Bipolar Disorders, where depressive phases alternate with manic high phases
Important to know: Depression can manifest differently in each person. While some individuals openly show their symptoms, others hide their condition behind a facade of functionality. In my therapeutic practice in Berlin, I place great importance on understanding the individual manifestations of your depression – as this forms the foundation for effective treatment.
Understanding the Causes of Depression
Depression develops through a complex interplay of various factors. Recognizing this complexity forms the foundation for an effective therapeutic approach in my practice in Berlin (Prenzlauer Berg).
Biological factors play an essential role in the development of depressive states. Genetics contributes to vulnerability – people with family members who suffer from depression have an increased risk themselves. On a neurobiological level, depression often shows changes in the balance of neurotransmitters like serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine. Physical conditions such as thyroid disorders, chronic pain, or neurological changes can also trigger or intensify depressive symptoms.
Psychological factors contribute significantly to the development and maintenance of depression. Negative thought patterns and dysfunctional beliefs ("I am worthless," "I must always be perfect") can promote depression. Personality traits such as perfectionism or pronounced self-criticism also increase the risk. Additionally, early stressful experiences, especially in childhood, can influence stress processing in the long term and increase vulnerability to depressive episodes.
Environmental factors and current life circumstances often act as triggers for depressive phases. Persistent stress at work or in private life, significant loss experiences such as separations or deaths, as well as major life changes can trigger depression. Social isolation and lack of support represent additional risk factors. In today's digitalized and performance-oriented society, chronic overwhelm and the feeling of constant availability can also contribute to the development of depressive symptoms.
Understanding depression as a multifactorial process shapes my therapeutic approach. In my psychotherapeutic practice in Berlin, I view your individual situation holistically and consider the various influencing factors. My integrative approach uses both elements of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based methods that complement each other. This enables a deeper understanding of personal patterns and the development of new perspectives in dealing with distressing thoughts and feelings.
Important to know: Depression is not a personal weakness or character flaw. It is a complex condition with biological, psychological, and social components, where professional support can be helpful.
My Treatment Approach for Depression
As a psychotherapist who accompanies people with depression, I combine various established methods in my Berlin practice:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This helps to identify and gradually change distressing thought patterns and behaviors
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Behavioral Activation: This involves the careful re-engagement with positive and meaningful activities
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): This approach promotes the development of psychological flexibility and values-based action even during difficult phases
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Mindfulness-Based Approaches: These can foster a non-judgmental attitude toward difficult feelings and thoughts
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Parts Work: This focuses on understanding the different "parts" of the personality and their role in depressive states
My therapeutic approach is always oriented to your individual situation. Support for depression occurs in several phases, from careful diagnostics through the active therapy phase to developing strategies for preventing future depressive episodes.
Each therapeutic process is different, and the methods applied are adapted to your personal needs and resources. As a psychotherapist, I see my task as professionally accompanying you on this journey and working together with you to develop tools that can contribute to greater well-being.
Depression Treatment Process in My Practice
The therapy for depression in my Berlin practice typically proceeds in the following steps:
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Initial Consultation (First Session): Getting to know each other and an initial assessment of your situation
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Diagnostic Phase: Precise analysis of the depressive symptoms and their triggers
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Therapy Planning: Joint determination of goals and treatment plan
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Active Therapy Phase: Regular sessions with various interventions
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Final Phase: Securing progress and relapse prevention
The therapy can be accessed through private health insurance, as a self-pay service, or in exceptional cases after approval by statutory health insurance through a cost reimbursement procedure.