Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Persistent sadness, loss of interest, and low energy that lasts most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or more.
When depression becomes overwhelming and starts affecting your daily life, it’s important to seek help. At Austin Family Counseling, our therapists provide compassionate anxiety therapy for children, teens, and adults — in person at our Westlake and Northwest Hills offices, or through virtual therapy anywhere in Texas.

Since 2014 — locally owned group practice.
Children, teens, adults, couples & families
15 + clinicians specializing in depression
Hope Isn't Out of Reach
Are you or someone you love experiencing feelings of hopelessness or despair? You might find it hard to focus at work, struggle with sleep, notice changes in your appetite, or feel disconnected from activities you once enjoyed. These are all common signs of depression.
When these symptoms persist for more than two weeks and start to interfere with your daily life, they may indicate a major depressive episode. Depression is more common than many people realize — it affects an estimated 1 in 12 U.S. adults each year, and rates are highest among young adults. While depression can feel isolating and overwhelming, it’s important to know that help is available and healing is possible.
Recognizing the Signs of Depression
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, know that you’re not alone, and help is available.
Source: National Institute of Mental Health
Persistent sadness, loss of interest, and low energy that lasts most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or more.
Depressive episodes that alternate with periods of elevated mood or energy — requiring a different treatment approach than depression alone.
Overwhelming sadness, anxiety, or exhaustion after childbirth that goes beyond the normal “baby blues.” Our therapists support new parents through this transition.
Depression that’s tied to the changing seasons, often bringing low energy, oversleeping, and withdrawal during darker months.
A lower-grade but longer-lasting form of depression — often described as “always in the background” — that can go unrecognized for years.
Depression that shows up as irritability, isolation, slipping grades, or loss of motivation. Our child and teen counselors specialize in age-appropriate support for Austin-area families.
We take a holistic, long-term approach to therapy — addressing both the symptoms of depression and any co-occurring challenges. Our focus isn’t on quick fixes, but on fostering meaningful, lasting change. Through therapy, we’ll help you:
Depression often overlaps with…
Anxiety: persistent worry can accompany depression, creating a cycle that feels hard to break. Stress: ongoing life stress can deepen depressive symptoms and make daily tasks harder. Trauma: past experiences can contribute to depression, hopelessness, or emotional numbness. Physical health: depression can worsen fatigue, sleep issues, or chronic pain.
Licensed therapists serving Austin, TX
Our licensed counselors bring warmth, expertise, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. We'll match you with the right therapist from day one.
Have questions about getting started, fees, or finding the right therapist in Austin? We're here to help.