Depression Treatment in Brookline: Harvard Psychiatrist Offering Hope & Healing

Residents of Brookline seeking depression treatment deserve compassionate, evidence-based care. As a Harvard-trained psychiatrist serving the Brookline community, I provide comprehensive depression treatment tailored to your unique needs.

Understanding Depression in Brookline

Brookline’s diverse, educated population faces unique stressors:

• High-pressure careers in healthcare, education, and business
• Perfectionism in affluent communities
• Isolation despite urban density
• Seasonal affective disorder during long winters
• Work-life balance challenges

Types of Depression We Treat

Major Depressive Disorder

Persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest lasting 2+ weeks, significantly impacting daily life.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

Chronic low mood lasting 2+ years, often overlooked as “just personality.”

Treatment-Resistant Depression

Depression not responding to standard treatments, requiring specialized approaches.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Depression linked to reduced sunlight, common in New England winters.

Postpartum Depression

Depression following childbirth, requiring specialized treatment considerations.

Comprehensive Depression Treatment Approach

1. Thorough Evaluation

• 90-minute initial assessment
• PHQ-9 depression screening
• Medical history review
• Lab work to rule out medical causes
• Family psychiatric history
• Substance use assessment

2. Personalized Treatment Planning

Evidence-based interventions including:

• Medication management: Antidepressants carefully selected and monitored
• Therapy referrals: CBT, DBT, psychodynamic therapy
• Lifestyle interventions: Exercise, nutrition, sleep hygiene
• Light therapy: For seasonal depression
• Mindfulness practices: Meditation and stress reduction

Medication Options for Depression

Class	Examples	Best For
SSRIs	Lexapro, Zoloft, Prozac	First-line treatment, anxiety comorbidity
SNRIs	Effexor, Cymbalta	Depression with pain, fatigue
Atypical	Wellbutrin, Remeron	Low energy, weight concerns
TCAs	Nortriptyline, Amitriptyline	Treatment-resistant cases
MAOIs	Parnate, Nardil	Severe treatment-resistant depression

Treatment Timeline & Expectations

• Weeks 1-2: Initial adjustment, possible mild side effects
• Weeks 2-4: Early improvements in sleep, appetite
• Weeks 4-6: Mood improvements become noticeable
• Weeks 6-12: Continued improvement, dose optimization
• 3-6 months: Full remission for many patients
• 6-12 months: Maintenance phase to prevent relapse

When to Seek Immediate Help

Contact us immediately or go to the ER if experiencing:

• Suicidal thoughts or plans
• Thoughts of harming others
• Severe hopelessness
• Inability to care for yourself
• Psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, delusions)

Crisis Resources:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
• Beth Israel Deaconess Emergency: 617-667-3200
• Brigham and Women’s Emergency: 617-732-6600

Why Choose Dr. Ronald Lee for Depression Treatment

• ✓ Harvard Medical School training in mood disorders
• ✓ 10+ years treating depression
• ✓ Expertise in treatment-resistant cases
• ✓ Collaborative approach with therapists
• ✓ Convenient Brookline area location
• ✓ Telepsychiatry options available

Insurance & Accessibility

We accept most major insurances including:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Harvard Pilgrim
• Tufts Health Plan
• United Healthcare
• Aetna
• Medicare

Serving all Brookline neighborhoods:

• Coolidge Corner
• Brookline Village
• Washington Square
• Chestnut Hill
• Cleveland Circle

Success Stories

“After struggling with depression for years, Dr. Lee helped me find the right medication combination. I feel like myself again.” – Brookline patient

“The comprehensive approach made all the difference. It wasn’t just about medication – it was about understanding my whole situation.” – Local teacher

]]>