By Judith Karbal, M.A., L.C.P.C
Midwest Center Healthcare AffiliateUsing the Attacking Anxiety and Depression Program
I am writing this little article to introduce myself to those connected with the Midwest Center for Stress and Anxiety. As a therapist working in the Chicago area, I recently bought the Center’s program for a relative who has been experiencing anxiety and depression for many years. In looking over the materials about depression and anxiety when they arrived, I found - to my great surprise and joy - a phenomenal program that expresses and enhances my own life’s work. Lucinda Bassett has created a step-by-step process that really “anchors” one to reality - in such a loving way!The Attacking Anxiety and Depression Program Offers Coaching
I have always felt that the most effective therapist functions as a guide/coach/educator - as well as a sensitive listening ear. My early training for treating mood disorders like depression and anxiety is through a system called Recovery, Inc: a self-help organization that has been around since the 1950’s. Developed by Dr. Abraham A. Low, Recovery is one of the earliest cognitive behavioral approaches to many mood disorders. Through group meetings, people learn how to recognize temper (blame/shame) at self and others, and then proceed through a 4-step process to recovery.What was missing, though, was a more in-depth systematic and detailed retraining of anxious and depressive habits, as well as the spiritual underpinnings for relief that can anchor the soul. Lucinda offers both in the Attacking Anxiety and Depression program by incorporating the best of so many “tools” and “techniques” as well as the philosophy needed to pull it all together.
Therapy is the Best Treatment for most People
I believe that therapy is most effective for basically healthy people who have been hurt by various losses, persecution, trauma, lost love, etc. In that sense, all therapy is really grief therapy because we all experience various kinds of losses in our lives that can lead to sadness and depression. When there is no one to help witness and guide a person through the difficulties, one often loses oneself and one’s vision. It’s the job of the therapist to help the client “find” that lost self, relearn trust and work towards empowerment once again. The Attacking Anxiety and Depression program does just that.I have often been asked how I can do this work. How can I listen to stories of human heartache- day in and day out -without burning out? My answer is that I feel I am in a privileged position to watch growth and goodness emerging in front of my eyes. I have the good fortune to do what I love, and love what I do. I hope to be able to help my clients achieve the same.
Sincerely,
Judith Karbal, IL

