Therapy for Depression
You’re not broken — you’re struggling. Let’s find a way forward together.
What Depression Can Feel Like
Depression doesn’t always look like sadness. Sometimes it shows up as numbness, irritability, or just feeling “off.” It can make the things you used to care about feel out of reach.
You might be noticing:
These experiences can make even simple tasks feel impossible. But you don’t have to stay in this place.
Why It Feels So Heavy
Depression is more than just a bad day — it’s a real and valid emotional experience that affects how you think, feel, and move through the world.
It can be triggered by loss, trauma, life changes, or sometimes… nothing obvious at all. That doesn’t make it any less real. It’s not a failure or a flaw — it’s a signal that something in you needs attention and care.
In therapy, we create space for that care. Not to “fix” you, but to meet you where you are and begin gently shifting what feels stuck.
How Therapy Can Help
In our work together, we’ll focus on:
Modalities I draw from include:
Therapy won’t always be easy, but it offers you a place to be real — and to begin again.
What to Expect in Sessions
When depression has dimmed everything, even showing up for therapy can feel like a challenge. I meet you wherever you are — with no pressure, no judgment, and no expectations to be anything other than human.
We’ll move at your pace, focusing on what feels most important to you. Some days that might be reflection, other days structure. Always, I’ll bring presence, empathy, and a calm space where your truth is safe.
“You don’t have to pretend you’re okay. Let’s start with where you are.”
What Clients Say
“Before working with Irene, I didn’t even realize how anxious I was all the time. She helped me slow down, breathe, and feel like I wasn’t broken — just burnt out.”
What Clients Say
“I used to feel like my mind never shut off. Now I feel like I have actual tools that work. And I know I’m not alone.”
What Clients Say
“Irene helped me realize I don’t have to say yes to everything. Learning to set boundaries changed everything.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if I’m “depressed enough” for therapy?
If you're struggling, you’re deserving of support. You don’t need a diagnosis or a crisis to benefit from therapy.
Q: Will therapy actually help?
Many clients find that consistent therapy helps them understand their patterns, improve mood, and reconnect with meaning and motivation — even if it takes time.
Q: Do you recommend medication?
If appropriate, I may suggest consulting with a psychiatrist for medication as an option — but that’s always your choice. Therapy can be effective on its own or alongside medication.
Q: Do you offer online therapy?
Yes. I see clients in person in Newport Beach and online throughout California.
Q: Is what we talk about confidential?
Yes. Everything we discuss is private and protected under HIPAA regulations.
Schedule a Free Consultation
You don’t have to push through this alone. If you’re feeling stuck, numb, or disconnected, therapy can offer the support and clarity you’ve been needing.
Maria Irene Alvarez de Schwartz, LMFT 155789
(949) 385-3689
Newport Beach Office
1000 Quail St., Suite 220
Laguna Beach Office
333 3rd St #6
Online Therapy
California Residents Only
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