Understanding Depression
Depression is one of the most common mental health struggles people face, and yet it often feels deeply personal and isolating. If you’re finding it hard to get through the day or feeling disconnected from yourself and the world around you, you are not alone—and you’re not broken.
Many people living with depression describe moving through life in a fog, going through the motions while feeling empty inside. Sleep and appetite may change. Relationships can feel strained, and work might feel unmanageable. Even things that once brought joy might now feel meaningless. You might want to feel better—more present, more fulfilled—but lack the energy or motivation to get there. That does not make you weak. It makes you human.
Where It Comes From
Depression isn’t something you choose, and it is not something you can just “snap out of.” It can be influenced by a variety of factors—genetics, trauma, chronic stress, chronic illness, major life changes, or even seemingly small daily struggles that quietly accumulate over time.
It is a real, medical condition—not a character flaw. That is why support matters. Depression therapy in St. Louis can help you uncover the roots of your depression and learn new ways to manage it. It’s about learning to recognize your patterns, care for yourself, and slowly, gently build a path forward.
How It Can Show Up
Depression does not always look the way people expect. You do not have to be crying all the time to be depressed. You might feel flat, disconnected, restless, or constantly tired. You might be showing up to work and taking care of others while quietly falling apart inside. Whether you are facing a major depressive episode or feeling worn down by long-term sadness, your pain is real—and you do not have to manage it alone. Depression is highly treatable, and healing is possible.
Common symptoms of depression include:
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Feeling worthless, guilty, or like a burden
- Withdrawing from friends or family
- Frequent fatigue or lack of motivation
- Persistent sadness or a sense of emptiness
How Depression Therapy Can Help
Therapy is a place where you do not have to carry the weight alone. Here, there is no pressure to be anything other than exactly who you are, in whatever state you’re in.
Together, we will look at what is contributing to your depression and gently begin the process of untangling it. If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, we will create a personalized, practical plan to help you feel safe and supported. You do not have to go through this alone, and you do not have to feel ashamed for needing help.
Therapy is not about fixing you—it is about honoring your pain, reclaiming your voice, and helping you move toward a life that feels more manageable, more connected, and more you. Our work might include:
You Are Not Alone
If you have been feeling isolated in your experience, please know you are not the only one. Millions of patients struggle with depression, even though it often feels like no one else could understand what you’re going through.
You may have heard messages—spoken or unspoken—that you should just “tough it out” or “be grateful for what you have.” But depression does not respond to guilt or willpower. It needs understanding, care, and connection.
Reaching out for help is an act of courage. Working with a depression therapist in St. Louis can offer you space to breathe, reflect, and begin to heal—with someone in your corner every step of the way.
Meet Your St. Louis Depression Therapist
I, Karen Geren, am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over two decades of experience supporting individuals through depression, trauma, and life’s most difficult transitions. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Purdue University and a Master’s in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and deeply rooted in trauma-informed care. I work closely with each client to create a supportive, personalized treatment plan—whether you’re battling depression, adjusting to life changes, or experiencing emotional exhaustion. At the heart of my work is a strong belief in your capacity for growth, resilience, and positive change.
A Supportive Space for All
The practice is grounded in compassion and inclusivity, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds—including BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. Depression affects people from all walks of life, and Karen is committed to offering affirming, supportive mental health care to anyone seeking help.
Start Your Healing Journey
You do not have to have it all figured out to begin. Just by being here, reading this, and considering support—you are already taking a meaningful step.
Karen is here to walk beside you as you navigate this journey. Her goal is to help you reconnect with your strength and find hope again, even when it feels far away.
