The Power of Focusing-Oriented Therapy for Depression: A Psychologist’s Perspective
Psychotherapy in Petaluma
As a psychologist who has worked with countless individuals struggling with depression, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the transformative potential of Focusing-Oriented Therapy (FOT). This approach, developed by Eugene Gendlin, is grounded in the idea that our bodies hold implicit wisdom—feelings and insights that lie just beneath the surface of conscious awareness. Unlike more directive modalities, FOT invites clients to slow down, tune into their bodily felt sense, and uncover fresh, emotionally grounded insights. It’s in this delicate inner space that real healing begins.
In my practice, I’ve seen how FOT empowers clients to connect with their emotions in a profoundly different way. Depression often manifests as a numbness or heaviness, a sense of being stuck or lost. Focusing provides a gentle yet powerful method for engaging with these feelings without judgment or pressure. Clients learn to listen inwardly with curiosity and compassion, which fosters a sense of agency and self-trust. This isn’t about “fixing” oneself—it’s about creating a safe space where something new can emerge from within.
What I find particularly impactful is how FOT respects the client’s own inner process. Rather than imposing interpretations, I act as a guide, helping clients stay present with what arises in the moment. Many have expressed surprise at the depth of insight they gain when they allow themselves to sit with a vague or murky feeling long enough. In doing so, they often discover not only the root of their emotional pain but also the next step forward—a shift that feels authentic and relieving. This kind of self-discovery is deeply empowering and often leads to lasting change.
Moreover, FOT fosters a deep sense of connection—not just with oneself, but with the world. As clients become more attuned to their inner experiences, they often report feeling more present in their relationships, more creative, and more alive. Depression tends to narrow our perception and isolate us from our vitality. FOT opens those inner doors gently, helping people reconnect with what matters most to them. It doesn’t offer quick fixes, but it does offer profound, sustainable transformation through a relationship of respect and embodied awareness.
If you or someone you love is living with depression and traditional talk therapies haven’t resonated, I encourage you to explore Focusing-Oriented Therapy. It might feel unfamiliar at first, but it has the potential to unlock deeply personal paths to healing. Contact Me to begin learning how to listen to your inner felt sense. The journey toward healing begins with a single step inward—and you don’t have to take it alone.