Therapy for Co-occurring Problems in Overland Park & Kansas City
You may notice that anxiety or depression seem to only be part of your problem and that other issues, like alcohol or drug use or difficult relationships, are also greatly disrupting your life. These are often problems that need to be addressed as part of a comprehensive approach to psychotherapy to help you achieve results that are long lasting.
As part of your psychotherapy treatment at Gaughan Psychological Services in Overland Park, I can help you develop the skills to overcome co-occurring conditions.
The Importance of Addressing Common Co-occurring Conditions
While working with individuals who struggle with anxiety and depression is my main area of expertise, I’m also equipped to respond to co-occurring conditions that appear in connection with anxiety and depression. As part of your psychotherapy process, you may discuss skills to address other problems, including:
- Anger – Disordered anger may be out of proportion with a situation, lead to conflict, or cause personal distress. When we experience uncontrolled levels of anger, our bodies are put under a lot of strain. Unresolved and unprocessed anger can be detrimental both mentally and physically, so it’s important that if you struggle with anger you learn to deal with this potentially overwhelming emotion. During therapy sessions, you may learn anger management skills that help you reclaim control from your angry feelings.
- Stress – Stress is a chronic problem among people in the U.S., and it only seems to be on the rise. Like anger, stress has both psychological and physical side effects that can be detrimental to health. Learning to understand causes of stress and process it in a healthy way can mean a major improvement in all aspects of your life.
- Substance Use Issues – Because of your struggles with depression and anxiety, you may use alcohol or drugs to numb overwhelming emotions. Or substance use may give you the ability to experience moments of improved mood than is possible in your daily life. This dependence on substances can create a false sense of stability or happiness and be detrimental to both your physical and emotional health. Many people who struggle with substance use problems seek treatment to get sober, but they don’t consider therapy for the co-occurring depression or anxiety. Without effectively treating both the substance use and the anxiety or depression, you are more likely to continue struggling.
- Diminished Self-Esteem & Self-Worth – For many people, a cycle of negative thinking creates increased levels of anxiety or depressed mood. These negative thought patterns can also adversely your sense of self-esteem. When coupled with ongoing anxiety or depression, low self-worth can increase the risk for suicidal ideation and self-harm and make it more difficult to achieve the level of confidence necessary to process anxiety or depression and attain your life goals. In order to achieve therapy goals, taking time to first develop greater self-esteem may be essential.
Schedule Your Introductory Session
If you’re interested in learning more about Gaughan Psychological Services or what it’s like to work with me, please get in touch. We’ll get started with a short, complimentary consultation over the phone. This session gives you the opportunity to ask questions and discuss your psychotherapy solutions before your first full session. It’s a great first step toward investing in your long-term goals.