Depression Treatment
Depression doesn't always announce itself. Sometimes it's a heavy, immovable low; sometimes it's a slow draining of color from a life that looks fine from the outside. Either way, it's treatable — and you don't have to keep pushing through it alone.
New Leaf provides psychiatric care for depression by telehealth across Florida and Colorado: a real evaluation, a tailored plan, and follow-up that actually follows up. Sheilah Battle-Stephens, PMHNP-BC, has spent 36 years in healthcare listening to people who felt unheard.
What depression can look like
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or a flatness that won't lift
- Exhaustion that sleep doesn't fix — or sleep that won't come
- Loss of interest in things that used to matter
- Difficulty concentrating, deciding, or remembering
- Irritability, guilt, or a harsh inner voice narrating the day
- High-functioning depression: performing on the outside, empty on the inside
How care works here
It starts with an unhurried evaluation to understand what you're experiencing, how long it's been going on, and what's contributing — because depression has different shapes and causes. From there, Sheilah develops a tailored, evidence-based plan and explains the reasoning clearly.
That plan may include a thoughtfully chosen medication approach, coordination with a therapist for talk therapy, and practical adjustments. Follow-up visits let the plan be fine-tuned over time. Nothing is promised except careful attention and honest communication.
A collaborative, whole-person approach
Sheilah works as part of a team around you. Medication is often most effective alongside therapy, so she refers to trusted therapists and coordinates care rather than treating symptoms in isolation. Seniors, veterans, first responders, and LGBTQ+ adults are all welcome, and care is tailored to your life, not a template.
If you or someone you love is in immediate danger, call or text 988 or 911. Telehealth is not for emergencies, and if your situation ever needs a higher level of care, Sheilah will help you get there.
Getting started
Care is delivered by secure video; you'll need to be in Florida or Colorado at visit time. The initial evaluation is $325, and insurance differs by state — details are on the Rates & Insurance page.
Frequently asked.
Is medication the only option?+
No. Medication is one evidence-based tool, and it's discussed with you after an evaluation. For many people it works best alongside therapy, which is why Sheilah coordinates with therapists as part of care.
I'm still functioning. Is it worth being seen?+
Yes. High-functioning depression is real — holding it together on the outside while feeling empty inside is worth taking seriously. An evaluation can help you understand what's going on and what would help.
How soon might I feel better?+
Everyone responds differently, and it can take patience to find the right approach — Sheilah is honest about that. What she commits to is careful evaluation, a monitored plan, and adjustments over time. No responsible provider guarantees outcomes.
Do you accept insurance for depression care?+
It depends on your state. Colorado: Medicare and Medicaid accepted, self-pay welcome. Florida: self-pay only. See Rates & Insurance.
What if I'm in crisis?+
If you or someone you love is in immediate danger, call or text 988 or 911 right away. Telehealth appointments are not a substitute for emergency care.