
Do I Really Need Therapy For Depression?
At Mertens Counseling in Kearney, we understand the profound impact depression can have on your daily life. You don't have to face it alone if you’re feeling overwhelmed, lacking motivation, or struggling to find joy. Our therapy for depression in Kearney offers a path to healing and provides the support you need to navigate this challenging time.
How Depression Affects Your Life
Depression is more than just sadness; it is a complex mental health condition that can affect multiple aspects of your life, both physically and emotionally. Scientifically, depression is linked to imbalances in brain chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which regulate mood, sleep, and energy. This imbalance can disrupt your body’s natural rhythms, leading to chronic fatigue, insomnia, or hypersomnia.
Depression also impacts cognitive functions such as memory, decision-making, and concentration. Many individuals report a sense of mental fog, which makes daily responsibilities feel overwhelming. Physically, depression can cause changes in appetite—either loss of appetite or overeating—and may lead to weight fluctuations. It can also weaken your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to illnesses.
Socially, depression can strain relationships with loved ones. Feelings of isolation and a lack of motivation to engage in social activities may lead to withdrawal, exacerbating feelings of loneliness. Professionally, depression can affect your performance at work or school, leading to decreased productivity and difficulties meeting deadlines.
Emotionally, depression often brings persistent feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and guilt. These emotions may manifest as irritability or anger, and in severe cases, depression can lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Recognizing these challenges is crucial for seeking support and taking the first step toward recovery. Our therapy for depression in Kearney counselors are here to help you navigate these struggles and work toward a healthier, more balanced life.

Telehealth Therapy for Depression Available
Explore the convenience of flexible mental health care with Mertens' Counseling in Kearney. Our Telehealth services are just a click away wherever you are. Receive compassionate, expert care for anxiety, depression, trauma, and more—all from the comfort and privacy of your choice. Mertens' Counseling delivers the perfect blend of convenience and quality, with in-person and online sessions available. Embrace therapy that adapts to your life, offering relief and guidance exactly when and where you need it.
The Role of Therapy for Depression
Depression counseling provides a safe and understanding space where you can share your feelings and experiences. Our counselors in Kearney will work with you to uncover the root causes of your depression, identify effective coping strategies, and develop a personalized plan to manage your symptoms. Therapy for depression in Kearney can help you regain hope, rebuild your confidence, and rediscover a sense of purpose and joy. With the right support, relief from depression is achievable.


EMDR Therapy for Depression
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an innovative and effective approach to managing depression. Initially developed to treat trauma and PTSD, EMDR has shown promising results for individuals dealing with depression by addressing negative thought patterns and emotional distress at their core.
EMDR therapy for depression works by helping individuals process unresolved emotional experiences that may be contributing to their symptoms. During EMDR therapy for depression in Kearney, clients engage in guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation while focusing on distressing thoughts or memories. This process helps reframe these experiences, reducing their emotional impact and fostering healthier perspectives.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy for Depression
Identifying Root Causes: EMDR helps uncover and address underlying issues that contribute to depression, such as past traumas or deeply ingrained negative beliefs.
Breaking Negative Cycles: By reprocessing difficult memories, clients often experience relief from recurring negative thought patterns and emotional pain.
Enhanced Coping Skills: EMDR equips clients with tools to manage depressive symptoms more effectively and regain control over their emotions.
Improved Emotional Regulation: Many individuals feel lighter and more at peace after EMDR sessions, which can improve mood and energy levels.
At Mertens Counseling, we have trained therapists who can incorporate EMDR into personalized treatment plans to ensure you receive the best care possible. Whether used as a standalone approach or in combination with other therapies, EMDR can play a vital role in helping you overcome depression and reclaim a fulfilling life.


Understanding Different Types of Depression
Depression can take various forms, each presenting unique challenges. Our approach to therapy for depression in Kearney is customized to meet your specific needs.
Major Depressive Disorder: Persistent sadness and a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Chronic depression lasting for at least two years.
Bipolar Disorder: Alternating episodes of depression and mania or hypomania.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression that typically occurs during the winter months.
Postpartum Depression: Affects some women after childbirth, marked by severe mood swings and feelings of hopelessness.
Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood: Sadness and hopelessness following significant life changes, such as a breakup, loss, or major transition.

EMDR THERAPY
EMDR therapy is a powerful treatment for trauma and other mental health conditions. At Mertens' Counseling, our trained EMDR counselors use this innovative approach to help you heal from traumatic experiences. EMDR therapy can improve symptoms, provide relief, and foster resilience. This therapy can be particularly effective for those struggling with PTSD and other trauma-related issues. If you’re seeking EMDR therapy in Kearney, NE, Mertens' Counseling offers experienced care to help you heal.