Depression Therapy in Phoenix, AZ, and surrounding areas

Depression can leave you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, and drained of energy. Dr. Howe provides personalized therapy to help you understand the underlying causes of your depression and develop practical strategies for managing symptoms.

Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dr. Howe helps clients identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair. CBT empowers individuals to recognize distorted thinking, challenge these patterns, and replace them with healthier perspectives. By focusing on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, CBT offers a structured approach to overcoming depression, fostering emotional resilience, and promoting positive change.

Therapy with Dr. Howe is a collaborative process that equips you with the tools and support needed to regain a sense of control and move toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.

What is Depression?

Depression is a common and serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and behave. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. Depression can also impact your physical health, affecting sleep, appetite, and energy levels. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 7% of adults in the United States experience at least one major depressive episode each year, making it one of the most prevalent mental health conditions globally. Symptoms of depression can vary, but often include difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness, fatigue, and changes in sleep or eating habits. Depression is treatable, and with the right support, individuals can regain a sense of balance and well-being.

Types of Depression

Major Depressive Disorder

Ongoing low mood, lack of interest, and physical symptoms

Persistent Depressive Disorder

Long-term, low-grade depression that feels “always present"

Postpartum Depression

Emotional struggles following childbirth, often with guilt or anxiety

Situational Depression

Depression triggered by loss, stress, or life changes

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Mood changes related to seasonal shifts or reduced daylight

Depression with Anxiety

Co-occurring symptoms that heighten emotional distress

Treatment for Depression

Dr. Howe uses a personalized, evidence-based approach to therapy that combines proven methods with compassionate care. Each treatment is adapted to support meaningful progress and long-term emotional well-being.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps clients identify and shift negative thinking patterns that impact mood and motivation. It supports behavioral change, emotional regulation, and improved daily functioning through structured, goal-oriented strategies.

Adlerian Therapy

Adlerian therapy explores how early experiences shape beliefs and behaviors. It fosters insight, encourages goal-setting, and supports a stronger sense of identity, connection, and personal meaning.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT teaches clients to accept difficult emotions without avoidance, while committing to actions aligned with their core values. It builds emotional flexibility and helps restore purpose and direction.

Strength-Based Therapy

This method highlights individual strengths, achievements, and resilience. It shifts focus from limitations to possibilities, helping clients build confidence and recognize their ability to overcome challenges and move forward.

Effective therapy begins with a supportive environment where clients feel safe, respected, and understood. Dr. Howe creates a confidential space grounded in empathy and professionalism, where individuals can explore their experiences and work toward meaningful, lasting change.

Collaboration: Therapy is a partnership. Each treatment plan is shaped by the client’s goals, values, and lived experience—ensuring that progress is practical, relevant, and aligned with what matters most.

Trust: Building trust is central to the therapeutic process. Dr. Howe offers consistent, nonjudgmental support, encouraging openness and honest reflection at every stage of the journey.

Confidentiality: Client privacy is treated with the highest level of ethical care. Sessions are held in a secure, respectful setting where personal information is protected with discretion and integrity.

What to Expect from Depression Therapy

Beginning therapy for depression can feel like a big step, but Dr. Howe’s process is designed to be clear, supportive, and focused on your unique needs from the very first session.

1

Initial Consultation

Your first appointment is a private, one-on-one session where Dr. Howe takes time to understand your current experiences, emotional challenges, and personal goals. This conversation establishes a foundation of trust and sets the tone for a collaborative therapeutic relationship.

2

Assessment & Goals

If appropriate, a brief assessment may be used to gain a clearer picture of your symptoms and how they affect different areas of life. Dr. Howe then creates a tailored treatment plan that reflects your pace, concerns, and therapeutic goals.

3

Coping Strategies

During weekly or biweekly sessions, therapy focuses on both insight-building and skill development. Dr. Howe helps clients explore the underlying patterns contributing to depression while introducing practical tools to support emotional balance and daily functioning.

4

Ongoing Reflection

As therapy progresses, the treatment plan is adjusted to reflect growth and evolving needs. Some clients move to a maintenance schedule or periodic check-ins, equipped with the strategies and self-awareness to sustain their progress independently.

Dr. Savana Howe

About Dr. Savana Howe

Dr. Savana Howe is a licensed clinical psychologist with years of experience helping individuals navigate personal challenges. She specializes in providing compassionate, evidence-based therapy for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Dr. Howe’s approach is collaborative, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions. Her goal is to empower clients to understand themselves better and make meaningful changes that promote emotional well-being and personal growth.

Benefits of Depression Therapy

Therapy offers more than relief from symptoms—it creates a foundation for long-term emotional wellness and personal growth. With expert guidance and support, clients can regain control, restore confidence, and move forward with greater clarity, stability, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Improved Emotional Stability

Therapy helps regulate mood, reduce emotional overwhelm, and restore a greater sense of balance in daily life.

Renewed Motivation and Focus

Clients often regain energy and the ability to re-engage with work, relationships, and personal goals.

Better Coping Strategies

Clients learn practical tools to navigate stress, manage difficult emotions, and prevent future setbacks.

Enhanced Relationships

By improving communication and emotional awareness, therapy can strengthen connections with loved ones and reduce feelings of isolation.

Clearer Sense of Purpose

Through guided reflection and goal-setting, therapy helps individuals reconnect with their values and move forward with intention.

Stronger Self-Esteem

Therapy supports healthier self-perception by challenging negative thoughts and reinforcing inner strengths and personal value.

Getting Started

Contact Dr. Howe today to schedule your free 15-minute consultation and begin your journey toward better mental health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Depression manifests in various ways, often impacting both emotional and physical well-being. Common emotional symptoms include persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness, irritability, and a sense of worthlessness. People with depression often lose interest in activities they once found enjoyable, feel emotionally numb, or struggle to experience pleasure in life. Physically, depression may cause fatigue, sleep disturbances (either insomnia or oversleeping), and changes in appetite or weight. Cognitive symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or negative self-talk, are also prevalent.

Typical treatments for depression include a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, replacing them with healthier ways of thinking and coping.

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Focuses on accepting difficult emotions and committing to value-driven actions to improve emotional flexibility.

  • Medication: Antidepressants may be prescribed to regulate mood and alleviate symptoms. Dr. Howe will discuss the best options based on individual needs.

  • Lifestyle Changes: Improving sleep, engaging in physical activity, managing stress, and building a support system can enhance mental well-being and complement therapy.

Dr. Howe tailors each treatment plan to your specific needs to ensure the most effective and comprehensive approach.

At Dr. Howe Psychology, depression is diagnosed through a thorough evaluation process. This includes:

  • Initial Assessment: Dr. Howe will discuss your symptoms, personal history, and mental health background to understand your emotional and psychological state.

  • Standardized Questionnaires: You may be asked to complete assessments that help measure the severity of your symptoms and their impact on your daily life.

  • Symptom Review: Dr. Howe will review common depression symptoms, such as mood changes, sleep issues, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, to ensure they meet diagnostic criteria.

  • Rule Out Other Conditions: Dr. Howe will also assess whether other medical or psychological conditions may be contributing to your symptoms.

Based on this comprehensive evaluation, a diagnosis is made, and a personalized treatment plan is developed to support your recovery.