Lauren Merclean, MA, LCSW
Lauren Merclean MA, LCSW
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Depression
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Depression is marked by symptoms of persistent low mood, decreased energy, motivation, appetite loss, loss of interest or enjoyment in previously enjoyable things, sleep disturbance, difficulty concentrating and fatigue.
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Treatment for depression utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to look for patterns of thinking and behaving that can feed the illness. Additionally, using strategies of Behavior Activation (B.A.) to behaviorally work to offset the symptoms of depression to thoughtfully and gradually increase energy and motivation through behavior change. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and DBT skills can be used in conjunction to treat depression symptoms behaviorally.
Depending on severity, a referral to medication management is indicated to adequately treat symptoms of depression.
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Lastly, in treating depression, I work with patients to address sleep issues that could feed depression and implement strategies to include quality of sleep.
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I have significant experience treating depression through my training at the Mood and Anxiety Clinic of Western Psychiatric Institue and Clinic of UPMC in Pittsburgh, PA in both Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient levels of care.