I have a relative who is very, very depressed and is very fatiqued. While she is checking it out from a medical standpoint, she would also like a strong recommendation for a therapist who specializes in that and who has great follow up. I was kind of impressed when I read some things about Dr. Valette Liedtke-Hendrickson in Hurst. Anyone know her? She is willing to go anywhere in Flower Mound out 20 miles (includes Southlake, the Mid Cities, North Dallas, West Plano.
Thank you for your suggestions. I read an article on Adult A.D.D. which reminded me that since she has A.D.D. with associated depression on and off, we really need a psychiatrist and therapist who are knowledgeable about that too. I really appreciate that there was a very positive response about Dr. Hendrickson. We are trying to schedule an appointment today and see if it is a good match. The exercise suggestion is great and hellped her before when she was in college in a gym class in teh morning. Practically, how goes anyone do that in August when they work from 6:30am to 2:30 pm and can't afford a gym membership? But, we heard about some dance/exercise classes in late afternoon so we may try that together. Since she's dealing with some heady issues and an unsupportive husband, I'm not sure the Mr. Rogers type is a good fit for her. Thank you all. I pray that our efforts to find help pay off.
I went to Dr. H (what I called her - Dr. Valette Hendrickson) about 2-3 years ago and LOVED her! She was really a great therapist and actually gave "homework" and answers and really helped me. I only had to go to her a few times but wanted to keep going because I liked her so much! I REALLY recommend her and think she's well worth the drive! Good luck to your relative and hopefully she reaps the benefits that I did!
Along with medical advice, counseling advice, you should also suggest that she exercise. Several studies have shown that when you divide depressed people into groups, one group takes an anti-depressant, one group walks each day - - both have the exact same percentage of people who feel better. Tell her to step outside her door, check her watch, walk 10 min. in any direction, turn around, and walk back home! The natural outdoor light will also elevate her Vitamin D reserves. (People with low levels of Vitamin D get SAD - Seasonal Affective Disorder.) Later, if she really likes walking, there are resources for walking meditations.
The therapist I see is Dr. Richard Clark with the Selah Center in Lewisville, right near the Lewisville Medical Center on Main Street. He runs a christian counseling practice but I'm not christian and he has never brought up the bible or faith in any of our sessions.
He is very calm, down to earth, and kind of reminds me of Mr. Rogers so I feel very safe talking with him. I have PTSD from a childhood trauma and am on medication for nightmares. He is not a psychiatrist, he believes doctors should prescribe medicine and he worked with my doctor to get me on the prazosin which has been a miracle!
Since your relative is seeking medical help, having a therapist who is willing to work with her doctor to provide a holistic care approach is so important!
Good Luck!
376 W Main Street # D
Lewisville, TX 75057-3872
Phone:
###-###-####
I personally know and like Shannon Thomas with Southlake Christian Counseling or Chris Hunt (huntcounseling.com). Both are located in Southlake.
