Dr. Rachel B. Aarons LCSW

Dr. Rachel B. Aarons LCSW

Together we will open the door to hope for a more fulfilling and satisfying life.​

For more information, or to schedule a consultation:

Click Here to Contact Me

Overcoming Depression

People with depression cannot make it go away by simply "cheering up" or using will power. However, depression can be treated.  

I have over 40 years' experience helping people overcome depression. I have found strategies that not only help you cope with depression but also address and resolve the underlying causes of depression. 

One of these ways is to heal past trauma which is the source of depression. By far the most effective and most rapid way of healing trauma is EMDR. Clients can actually resolve their depression in just ONE two hour processing session with me. In addition, I have found that the results are long-lasting. Not one of my clients has had to return to work on the same issue again.    

I can also help you change the negative thoughts and beliefs that underlie depression using a simple but very powerful Cognitive Behavioral approach.  

Client comments:

"I think you are such an incredible therapist and each week I look forward to seeing you. I feel so lucky to have found you and am a better person because of you. Thanks for everything."  EH

"You've really helped to teach me (by actually practicing what you preach) what it's like to be open and honest and trust that the other person (you) likes me for me."  ND

"I realized I am a better person than I thought."  A.U.



What causes depression?


There are different types of factors that contribute to depression:

  • Sometimes the tendency to become depressed is hereditary;  it may be in your family history.
  • Depression may result from changes in brain chemistry caused by medical conditions or hormonal factors.
  • Depression may be a reaction to a loss experience such as divorce or the death of a loved one or the loss of a job.
  • Childhood experience of abuse or neglect may lead to depression.
  • Depression may accompany other psychological problems such as eating disorders, substance abuse and other addictions.
  • Unhealthy relationships may be a source of depression.
  • Depression may arise from guilt or shame.
  • People who turn their anger inward may become depressed.
  • Depression may result from stressful events in your life that are overwhelming or traumatic.

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Don’t let depression ruin your life. Take steps to feel better now.


What are common symptoms of depression?


  • little interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy;
  • crying, sometimes for "no reason";
  • feeling tired and having little energy;
  • difficulty making decisions;
  • trouble falling asleep or staying asleep;
  • waking up early not feeling rested;
  • sleeping so much that that it interferes with your life;
  • loss of appetite and/or pleasure in eating  OR
  • eating so much it feels out of control;
  • unexplained aches and pains such as headaches or stomach aches;
  • difficulty concentrating and focusing;
  • negative thoughts about yourself and others;
  • feeling worthless or guilt ridden;
  • lack of motivation to get things done;
  • moving very slowly as if carrying a burden  OR
  • moving in rapid or agitated ways;
  • withdrawing from social activities;
  • self-destructive patterns of behaving;
  • loss of meaning in your life;
  • desire to injure yourself or end your life.


Don’t let depression get you down any longer. Start feeling better now. 



What can you do about depression?

You can see your doctor and you can see a therapist. Both may be helpful. Your doctor can prescribe medication that may be required by some people struggling with depression for specific periods of time. You may want to discuss the benefits and downside of medication with both your doctor and your therapist to make a decision that is right for you.

Whether or not you decide to use medication, therapy can help you deal with depression in a number of ways: 

  • talking to a trained professional can offer you support and relief;
  • you can discover the underlying causes of your depression and what you can do about them;
  • you can heal the traumatic events and experiences that have given rise to depression using EMDR therapy;
  • you can find strategies to change the negative thoughts and behaviors that lead to depression;
  • you can receive guidance on effective methods to relieve and avoid depression in the future;
  • you can acquire a new positive and fresh outlook on your life and your future;
  • you will have a committed professsional partner working with you so you no longer feel alone.​


Don't suffer any longer.  Take action now.  


Click here to email me or call (805) 450-6365  

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Depression affects millions of people. It is not just about feeling sad or blue. It involves a number of symptoms that can severely undermine the quality of your life.  

Santa Barbara Therapist and Author