Depression lies to you. It tells you nothing will help, nothing will change. That part isn't true.
Depression is not a character flaw, a lack of willpower, or something you can simply snap out of. It is a medical condition that affects how you think, feel, sleep, eat, and experience the world. It can look like persistent sadness - but it can also look like numbness, irritability, exhaustion, or just feeling like a dimmer version of yourself.
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) involves episodes of deep, impairing low mood. Persistent Depressive Disorder (dysthymia) is a milder but longer-lasting form. Seasonal Affective Disorder follows a seasonal pattern. All are real, all deserve care.
Depression often comes hand-in-hand with anxiety, sleep disruption, and physical symptoms. The right treatment addresses the full picture - not just one part of it.
Depression responds well to a combination of medication and therapy - and I offer both. Our first appointment is a full hour, because depression is shaped by your whole life: your history, your relationships, your sleep, your sense of meaning. I want to understand all of it before we build a plan together.
For many people, the right medication can make everything else easier - including the work of therapy and daily life. I also incorporate supportive psychotherapy and psychoeducation throughout our work together. All sessions are via telehealth across Virginia, available in English and Tiếng Việt.
If you are in crisis right now, please do not wait for an appointment.
Call or text 988 — the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Free, confidential, available 24/7.
For emergencies, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Alice Tran Psychiatric Care does not operate 24/7 and does not provide crisis services. Emails, voicemails, text or portal messages are typically responded to within 24 to 72 business hours.
You don't have to do it alone.