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(512) 250-WELL (9355) | info@ncwcaustin.com

Therapy for Anxiety and Depression

Psychological suffering is prevalent in our culture. Nearly 30% of the adult population is afflicted with a recognized psychiatric disorder. In spite of the advent of a wide range of psychiatric medications, the numbers of disabled mentally ill continues to climb.

Part of the problem is our North American culture insisting that we feel no pain. We have come to expect that we should encounter no hardship in life. We are trapped in the belief that life should always be lead “happily ever after” and discomfort is to be avoided at all costs. When the inevitable difficulties occur in life, we find it intolerable – a condition Albert Ellis termed “can’t-stand-it-itis”.

Western medicine has no answer for this trap, but is pretty good at medicating symptoms. This, of course is pharmaceutical avoidance of misery and perpetuates the message that we really can’t stand it. Symptom avoidance is a problem many believe is the fuel behind psychiatric disorders.

Western medicine is also very good at mending broken human machinery (my mother knees, broken bones, appendectomies). Unfortunately, there is no “soul transplant” or “spirit apparatus” to install when people suffer from extreme fear, sadness, hopelessness.

There is promising news in healing modalities that emphasize a more spiritual and mindful approach to symptoms rather than focus on prescription drug remedies and symptom alleviation as the goal. These modalities help you to make room for painful thoughts and feelings, reduce their impact, and decrease their influence in your life. “Mindfulness based practices” such as ACT, focus on leading a rich and meaningful life in spite of distressing thoughts and feelings. Paradoxically, symptoms often diminish with mindfulness practice, though symptom alleviation is not the primary goal of this therapy.

Northwest Counseling offers mindfulness based treatments of depression and anxiety that support clients in creating “psychological space”, re-connecting with values, taking meaningful action. Learn how to have a different conversation with your suffering and explore how you can create a life worth living.

-John

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Call Us

(512) 250-WELL (9355)

We are available from 9am until 5pm, Monday-Friday.
We are closed on Saturday and Sunday.

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Northwest Counseling & Wellness Center
12335 Hymeadow Drive
Suite 300
Austin, TX 78750

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Carla’s Epiphany More Meditation, Less Medication
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Effective immediately, Northwest Counseling is offering virtual IOP substance abuse programming via the Zoom video/audio conferencing platform.  Day and evening IOP program options are available.

Zoom provides HIPAA compliant, telehealth technology, allowing programming to occur with minimal interruption from your home or secure place of your choosing.  Connection to Zoom is easy. You will need a desktop, laptop, smart phone, or tablet, and an email address and a web connection to get started. On the day of your designated programming, go to the website Zoom.us, enter the meeting code (which we will provide) and join in. 

Virtual programming will deliver all the elements of an actual IOP including assessment, orientation, psychoeducational lecture, group process, contemplative practice, treatment planning, homework review, aftercare services, and more.  As is our custom, NCWC will continue to provide holistic healthcare and human connection necessary for recovery and well-being. While a less than preferred option, at this time of social distancing Zoom is a very safe and effective alternative.

 

Call us to get started. We can help. (512) 250-WELL (9355)

 

Some things to keep in mind:

Find a private, confidential, and quiet space with internet access during the hours of your programming.  

While Zoom is HIPAA compliant, your space may not be.  Please do not invite others into the therapy session.

Participate with group members as you would in an actual, on-site group therapy.  Do not ‘multi-task’ during IOP. Give your attention and respect to all group members.

We will give ample breaks during IOP sessions (do not use tobacco during therapy, take care of your restroom needs before group and during breaks).