Welcome to Seattle! Let's deal with that anxiety, depression, and sinking feeling that you made the wrong choice.

Moving to Seattle can be an exciting adventure, whether you're starting a new job in tech, seeking a change in scenery, or simply getting away from it all. But it can also be overwhelming, especially if you're coming from a small town. It's completely normal to feel a range of emotions as you adjust to your new surroundings.  Anxiety and depression are logical responses to finding yourself in an unfamiliar place. While some people are able to adapt quickly, others may have a harder time. That doesn't mean there's something wrong with you - we all handle change differently. 

My name is Derrick and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist.  I have lived in Seattle for 3 years now and know firsthand how difficult it can be to adjust to an entirely new way of living.  Moving from the deep South where "hospitality" and "punctuality" were sacrosanct, it took some time to adjust to the "laid back" attitude of the pacific northwest.  And while some of the adjustments I needed to make were due to minor annoyances, some of them impacted my mental health in a significant way. I found myself struggling with feelings of isolation and loneliness, which were compounded by the challenges of adjusting to a new job and a new way of life.

It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed when moving to a new city, but sometimes those feelings can be so intense that they meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental disorder known as an adjustment disorder. An adjustment disorder is a temporary mental disorder that arises from complications adjusting to a major life change, such as moving to Seattle. The good news is that adjustment disorders have an excellent prognosis, with complete remission typically achieved within four to seven therapy sessions.

The symptoms of adjustment disorder can be wide-ranging and include many of the same symptoms associated with other mental health disorders like generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, and even substance use disorders in some cases. However, unlike those other disorders, adjustment disorders are purely situational and stem from the challenges of adapting to a new environment.

 While cognitive-behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for many mental health disorders, it is often ineffective when treating adjustment disorders. The reason for this is that cognitive-behavioral therapy assumes that the reason for your symptoms is solely based on your thoughts, but in the case of an adjustment disorder, your symptoms are a logical response to being overwhelmed in a new city. What you need is support, validation, and a way to see your situation differently. You don't need more worksheets, new vocabulary, or breathing exercises. My approach combines my natural sense of humor, storytelling ability, and extensive knowledge of therapeutic theories to craft a solution that will fit you as an individual. 

I ask all potential clients to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation with me. During this time, you can ask any questions you have about working with me as your therapist, and I'll ask questions to ensure we're a good fit. My hourly rate is $350, and I offer substantial financial assistance to those who qualify, ensuring everyone can access the care they need. If you'd like to use your insurance, please note that you'll need to pay upfront and submit your own claims. I'll be happy to assist you in the submission process. 

You don't have to handle this adjustment alone.  Most people who work with me are able to gain the skills necessary to thrive in only 4 to 7 sessions.  Why not take the first step and reach out to me and schedule your free talk? You have nothing to lose and even if I can't help you, I will get you referred to someone who can! 

Contact me at 318-732-7489 or derrickhoardlmft@gmail.com, or click below to schedule an appointment. I look forward to working with you!