Depression Counselling in Crows Nest, NSW

Photo of Jonathan Holman, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Jonathan Holman
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I believe my life experiences have enabled the development of insight into the struggles, both personal and social that many people go through.
Today, many men are confused about our role and relevance in society. A clear sense of manhood, is I believe, critical to healthy relationships between men and women; men and other men; and obviously men as parents. I believe that my personal experiences are relevant here. Over many years, as parent, partner, friend and colleague, I have learned from my many mistakes and now feel that in a non-judgmental and collaborative way, I have something to offer both men and women in this regard. I believe that therapy is the best way to find out about oneself, that we are all unique and that each person’s life pathway is intensely personal
I believe my life experiences have enabled the development of insight into the struggles, both personal and social that many people go through.
Today, many men are confused about our role and relevance in society. A clear sense of manhood, is I believe, critical to healthy relationships between men and women; men and other men; and obviously men as parents. I believe that my personal experiences are relevant here. Over many years, as parent, partner, friend and colleague, I have learned from my many mistakes and now feel that in a non-judgmental and collaborative way, I have something to offer both men and women in this regard. I believe that therapy is the best way to find out about oneself, that we are all unique and that each person’s life pathway is intensely personal
(02) 9100 0030 View (02) 9100 0030
Photo of Christine Bennett, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Christine Bennett
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Would you like to learn how to reconnect with your partner in a more loving way? Would you like to be free of stress, anxiety or emotional pain overload? Help is an email or phone call away and you could start enjoying the benefits of change in your very first session.
Are you struggling with conflict and feeling distant from your partner? Are you constantly worried about life and what happens next? Or is it more about what happened today or yesterday? Are you overcome by a significant loss in your life? A job, your health, a friend, a partner, a house, a family member? Or is life just so “blahhh” that it is a struggle to get through the day? All these situations and many others are a result of your most intimate and important relationship – the one you have with yourself!
Would you like to learn how to reconnect with your partner in a more loving way? Would you like to be free of stress, anxiety or emotional pain overload? Help is an email or phone call away and you could start enjoying the benefits of change in your very first session.
Are you struggling with conflict and feeling distant from your partner? Are you constantly worried about life and what happens next? Or is it more about what happened today or yesterday? Are you overcome by a significant loss in your life? A job, your health, a friend, a partner, a house, a family member? Or is life just so “blahhh” that it is a struggle to get through the day? All these situations and many others are a result of your most intimate and important relationship – the one you have with yourself!
(02) 8294 9427 View (02) 8294 9427
Photo of Scott Whiteway, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Scott Whiteway
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I appreciate that it can be hard to get started and be sure you have the right person for you.
Hello! I help people resolve personal challenges and mental health issues quickly and effectively. With over 20 years experience successfully providing psychological treatment I develop strong collaborative relationships to get results. I will work with you to identify and achieve your best self. No matter what your life situation or challenges are, together we can determine a plan on how to successfully achieve clarity, a positive mindset and resolve your personal challenges.
I appreciate that it can be hard to get started and be sure you have the right person for you.
Hello! I help people resolve personal challenges and mental health issues quickly and effectively. With over 20 years experience successfully providing psychological treatment I develop strong collaborative relationships to get results. I will work with you to identify and achieve your best self. No matter what your life situation or challenges are, together we can determine a plan on how to successfully achieve clarity, a positive mindset and resolve your personal challenges.
(02) 8074 5252 View (02) 8074 5252
Photo of Barry Lewis, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Barry Lewis
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I know how daunting it can be to seek the help of a therapist, however for many it can be a truly life changing process.
Many different events will impact our lives, most of the time we can deal with them, other times we cannot. A difficult childhood, the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an illness or accident, a toxic work environment, sexuality & gender, unemployment, the current pandemic affecting our world or just being at a new stage of our lives can cause us to feel lost within ourselves and the wider world. This can lead to anxiety or depression, it can affect our self-esteem and disconnect us from everyone around us, leaving us isolated and alone.
I know how daunting it can be to seek the help of a therapist, however for many it can be a truly life changing process.
Many different events will impact our lives, most of the time we can deal with them, other times we cannot. A difficult childhood, the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an illness or accident, a toxic work environment, sexuality & gender, unemployment, the current pandemic affecting our world or just being at a new stage of our lives can cause us to feel lost within ourselves and the wider world. This can lead to anxiety or depression, it can affect our self-esteem and disconnect us from everyone around us, leaving us isolated and alone.
(02) 6189 2878 View (02) 6189 2878
Photo of Andrew McPherson, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Andrew McPherson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I adopt a non-judgemental and supportive attitude in clinical practice, aiming to provide adaptable and effective treatment methods to a wide range of people in both short and long-term treatments.
As a clinical psychologist I treat adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction. I aim to provide an empathetic and warm approach to help people improve their mental health and their quality of life.
I adopt a non-judgemental and supportive attitude in clinical practice, aiming to provide adaptable and effective treatment methods to a wide range of people in both short and long-term treatments.
As a clinical psychologist I treat adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction. I aim to provide an empathetic and warm approach to help people improve their mental health and their quality of life.
(02) 9100 0856 View (02) 9100 0856
Photo of Christine Kim - Christine Kim Principal Psychologist, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Christine Kim Principal Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Christine provides a warm, gentle, safe and therapeutic environment in which supports you and your family members as you explore your life challenges.
Many clients come to counselling with a hope. This hope is an opportunity for the clients to change, to become someone they want to be. Using client's strengths, counselling can help them find a new direction in their lives. Christine Kim is a registered psychologist with a passion for, and experience in working with adolescents and adults in educational and clinical settings. For over 10 years, Christine has experience working across a range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, social anxiety and a range of childhood anxiety disorders), bullying and work-related stress issues.
Christine provides a warm, gentle, safe and therapeutic environment in which supports you and your family members as you explore your life challenges.
Many clients come to counselling with a hope. This hope is an opportunity for the clients to change, to become someone they want to be. Using client's strengths, counselling can help them find a new direction in their lives. Christine Kim is a registered psychologist with a passion for, and experience in working with adolescents and adults in educational and clinical settings. For over 10 years, Christine has experience working across a range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, social anxiety and a range of childhood anxiety disorders), bullying and work-related stress issues.
(02) 8806 0035 View (02) 8806 0035
Photo of John Coady, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Coady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Common themes in my role include depression and anxiety, drug and alcohol over-use, cultural & social implications of traumatic history, psychological adjustment to a major health diagnosis, relationships, sexual health issues, grief and loss, social isolation and access to health and support services.
As a social worker, counsellor and psychotherapist I utilize an interpersonal relationship to enable self-understanding, shared focus, stress reduction and assist the changes that you currently seek. I am trained in a number of therapeutic approaches and modalities and integrate these according to your needs and situation. I have completed a diploma in adult psychotherapy, developing a strong interest in Self Psychology in the treatment of depression, anxiety and a range of trauma-based disorders. This influences my work frame, in relation to your psychosocial and mental health experiences.
Common themes in my role include depression and anxiety, drug and alcohol over-use, cultural & social implications of traumatic history, psychological adjustment to a major health diagnosis, relationships, sexual health issues, grief and loss, social isolation and access to health and support services.
As a social worker, counsellor and psychotherapist I utilize an interpersonal relationship to enable self-understanding, shared focus, stress reduction and assist the changes that you currently seek. I am trained in a number of therapeutic approaches and modalities and integrate these according to your needs and situation. I have completed a diploma in adult psychotherapy, developing a strong interest in Self Psychology in the treatment of depression, anxiety and a range of trauma-based disorders. This influences my work frame, in relation to your psychosocial and mental health experiences.
(02) 8294 7822 View (02) 8294 7822
Photo of Sanchana Venkatesh, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych., Psychologist
Sanchana Venkatesh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I am passionate about helping people live a life with meaning and purpose and help them through tough times.
I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, chronic health issues, grief and loss, life transitions (e.g. career, stage of life, migration), PTSD, OCD, tics and Tourettes. I am passionate about helping individuals live a life worth living based on their values. Some populations I particularly enjoy working with include people of colour, gifted individuals, young women, and creatives. In addition to providing individual therapy, I have a keen interest in cognitive assessments to identify gifted abilities or learning disabilities.
I am passionate about helping people live a life with meaning and purpose and help them through tough times.
I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, chronic health issues, grief and loss, life transitions (e.g. career, stage of life, migration), PTSD, OCD, tics and Tourettes. I am passionate about helping individuals live a life worth living based on their values. Some populations I particularly enjoy working with include people of colour, gifted individuals, young women, and creatives. In addition to providing individual therapy, I have a keen interest in cognitive assessments to identify gifted abilities or learning disabilities.
(02) 9100 0086 View (02) 9100 0086
Photo of Mitra Storey, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Mitra Storey
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
My primary therapeutic orientation is a blend of schema, CBT, ACT, and EMDR therapies.
Hello there! I am a registered psychologist with a strong passion for helping people transform their lives. I specialise in working with clients who are dealing with a wide range of presentations, such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, shame, and trauma. When working with clients, I believe in taking a holistic and client-centred approach. This means that I work collaboratively with my clients to design and implement treatment plans that are based on best practice and evidence.
My primary therapeutic orientation is a blend of schema, CBT, ACT, and EMDR therapies.
Hello there! I am a registered psychologist with a strong passion for helping people transform their lives. I specialise in working with clients who are dealing with a wide range of presentations, such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, shame, and trauma. When working with clients, I believe in taking a holistic and client-centred approach. This means that I work collaboratively with my clients to design and implement treatment plans that are based on best practice and evidence.
(02) 8074 5442 View (02) 8074 5442
Photo of Helen Caroline Gibbons, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Helen Caroline Gibbons
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Online Only
Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, would like to book an appointment or just want to get a 'feel' as to whether I might be the right 'fit' for you.
I am a very experienced holistic focused Clinical Psychologist having worked in clinical practice and health psychology for over 25 years. I have a warm and caring approach to psychotherapy and treat all my clients with respect. I am passionate about helping clients who are struggling as a result of anxiety, depression, trauma, narcissistic abuse, work stress, psychosomatic or chronic medical conditions. I also offer a neuro-affirming service in the management of adult and young adult ADHD and ASD.
Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, would like to book an appointment or just want to get a 'feel' as to whether I might be the right 'fit' for you.
I am a very experienced holistic focused Clinical Psychologist having worked in clinical practice and health psychology for over 25 years. I have a warm and caring approach to psychotherapy and treat all my clients with respect. I am passionate about helping clients who are struggling as a result of anxiety, depression, trauma, narcissistic abuse, work stress, psychosomatic or chronic medical conditions. I also offer a neuro-affirming service in the management of adult and young adult ADHD and ASD.
(02) 5104 1059 View (02) 5104 1059
Photo of Anna Sheppard, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Anna Sheppard
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I offer you a safe space to share just what you need to, without fear of judgement or "bossy" advice giving.
I offer trauma informed, evidence-based counselling and psychotherapy for teenagers and adults struggling with anxiety, stress or depression. I help my clients understand and manage the fears, anxieties or negative self-beliefs that hold them back from living the life they hope for.
I offer you a safe space to share just what you need to, without fear of judgement or "bossy" advice giving.
I offer trauma informed, evidence-based counselling and psychotherapy for teenagers and adults struggling with anxiety, stress or depression. I help my clients understand and manage the fears, anxieties or negative self-beliefs that hold them back from living the life they hope for.
(02) 9100 0020 View (02) 9100 0020
https://mindspsychology.com.au/
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Waitlist for new clients
Sessions can be held in English or Spanish.
Issues I deal with are anxiety, depression, phobias, loss and grieving, obsessive compulsive disorders, schizophrenia, mood disorders. I also work with couples plus organizational issues
Sessions can be held in English or Spanish.
Issues I deal with are anxiety, depression, phobias, loss and grieving, obsessive compulsive disorders, schizophrenia, mood disorders. I also work with couples plus organizational issues
(02) 9100 0860 View (02) 9100 0860
Photo of Larissa Kirpichnikov, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Larissa Kirpichnikov
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Individual therapy services are offered to assist in a range of areas including anxiety, depression, stress, performance, burnout, self-identity, assertive communication, parenting, life transitions, women's health, divorce & separation support, co-parenting, and navigating relationships.
Couples Therapy & Coaching / Individuals Therapy & Coaching / Family Dispute Resolution Mediation (FDRP) & Divorce Coaching Services. With more than 25 years experience of living and working in Australia and abroad, Larissa understands that life and relationships are not always smooth. Whether you are wishing to improve your intimate relationship, seek individual support, parenting &/or financial FDR mediation services, or divorce coaching, please call to discuss how we can best assist you. You may also visit our website for further information.
Individual therapy services are offered to assist in a range of areas including anxiety, depression, stress, performance, burnout, self-identity, assertive communication, parenting, life transitions, women's health, divorce & separation support, co-parenting, and navigating relationships.
Couples Therapy & Coaching / Individuals Therapy & Coaching / Family Dispute Resolution Mediation (FDRP) & Divorce Coaching Services. With more than 25 years experience of living and working in Australia and abroad, Larissa understands that life and relationships are not always smooth. Whether you are wishing to improve your intimate relationship, seek individual support, parenting &/or financial FDR mediation services, or divorce coaching, please call to discuss how we can best assist you. You may also visit our website for further information.
(02) 9100 0410 View (02) 9100 0410
Photo of Ziting Gao, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Ziting Gao
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
As
a published researcher, Ziting’s committed to evidence-based practice and ensures that he provides flexible, individualized treatment plans.
Ziting has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Dickinson College (U.S.), a Bachelor of
Arts in Psychology (Honours) from The University of Queensland, and a Master of Clinical Psychology from Western Sydney University. Originally from Beijing, China, Ziting’s multicultural background enriches his ability to empathize with diverse clients in both English and Mandarin (普通话). His empathetic, genuine, and conscientious nature fosters strong therapeutic relationships with his clients. He believes in the transformative power of storytelling and active listening, which helps him fully understand and address his clients’ unique concerns.
As
a published researcher, Ziting’s committed to evidence-based practice and ensures that he provides flexible, individualized treatment plans.
Ziting has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Dickinson College (U.S.), a Bachelor of
Arts in Psychology (Honours) from The University of Queensland, and a Master of Clinical Psychology from Western Sydney University. Originally from Beijing, China, Ziting’s multicultural background enriches his ability to empathize with diverse clients in both English and Mandarin (普通话). His empathetic, genuine, and conscientious nature fosters strong therapeutic relationships with his clients. He believes in the transformative power of storytelling and active listening, which helps him fully understand and address his clients’ unique concerns.
(02) 8000 1623 View (02) 8000 1623
Photo of Fiona Martin, PhD, PsyBA - Ed. Psych., Psychologist
Fiona Martin
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Dr Fiona Martin is an Educational and Developmental psychologist with more than 20 years of clinical and research experience. She provides psychological services to children, adolescents and adults. She conducts comprehensive assessments and provides therapy services to patients with a variety of mental health problems, including stress, anxiety and depression and neurodevelopmental disorders (ASD, ADHD). She has a special interest in helping individuals going through separation and divorce. Dr Martin provides consultancy services, including customised training workshops and research projects, to a range of organisations.
Dr Fiona Martin is an Educational and Developmental psychologist with more than 20 years of clinical and research experience. She provides psychological services to children, adolescents and adults. She conducts comprehensive assessments and provides therapy services to patients with a variety of mental health problems, including stress, anxiety and depression and neurodevelopmental disorders (ASD, ADHD). She has a special interest in helping individuals going through separation and divorce. Dr Martin provides consultancy services, including customised training workshops and research projects, to a range of organisations.
(02) 9713 7143 View (02) 9713 7143
Photo of Nicola Mowday, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Nicola Mowday
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
If you are seeking to develop greater self-awareness, resilience, insight, and empowerment, please reach out to Paradigm Psychology Clinic today.
Principal Psychologist of Paradigm Psychology Clinic. Nicola has over 10 years' experience working with children, teenagers, and adults. Empowering individuals with a deeper understanding of their behaviour, personality, and capabilities. Nicola offers therapy to address diverse challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, work/school stress and more. Additionally, Nicola offers psychological assessments for ASD/ADHD as well as Cognitive and Academic Assessments.
If you are seeking to develop greater self-awareness, resilience, insight, and empowerment, please reach out to Paradigm Psychology Clinic today.
Principal Psychologist of Paradigm Psychology Clinic. Nicola has over 10 years' experience working with children, teenagers, and adults. Empowering individuals with a deeper understanding of their behaviour, personality, and capabilities. Nicola offers therapy to address diverse challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, work/school stress and more. Additionally, Nicola offers psychological assessments for ASD/ADHD as well as Cognitive and Academic Assessments.
(02) 9100 0675 View (02) 9100 0675
Photo of Marzena Diard - Marzena Diard Therapy, Psychotherapist
Marzena Diard Therapy
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
My practice is trauma-informed and suitable for individuals who experience: Anxiety and Depression, Attachment and Adjustment challenges Bereavement and Grief Low self-esteem A sense of feeling stuck or unworthiness Somatic Pain Trauma.
I welcome people from all backgrounds and experiences. I have a special interest in supporting Individuals who migrated to Australia and are experiencing a multitude of challenges such as cultural shifts, language barrier, adjusting to the new country, homesickness, loneliness, isolation and a sense of feeling stuck.
My practice is trauma-informed and suitable for individuals who experience: Anxiety and Depression, Attachment and Adjustment challenges Bereavement and Grief Low self-esteem A sense of feeling stuck or unworthiness Somatic Pain Trauma.
I welcome people from all backgrounds and experiences. I have a special interest in supporting Individuals who migrated to Australia and are experiencing a multitude of challenges such as cultural shifts, language barrier, adjusting to the new country, homesickness, loneliness, isolation and a sense of feeling stuck.
(02) 9100 0784 View (02) 9100 0784
Photo of Kelsey Hendrickson, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Kelsey Hendrickson
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I want to see and hear you, your struggles and difficulties, your wins and successes.
I am a female counsellor / psychotherapist working in private practice at Exclusive Wellbeing in Parramatta and in my own clinic in Crows Nest. I bring a holistic approach to therapy, drawing on my years working in the corporate environment as well as teaching yoga. My passion is helping people better understand themselves on a deep, wholistic level by being seen and heard. I have a special interest in working with people pleasing, boundaries, relationship issues, healing childhood wounds, parenting as well as postpartum anxiety and depression.
I want to see and hear you, your struggles and difficulties, your wins and successes.
I am a female counsellor / psychotherapist working in private practice at Exclusive Wellbeing in Parramatta and in my own clinic in Crows Nest. I bring a holistic approach to therapy, drawing on my years working in the corporate environment as well as teaching yoga. My passion is helping people better understand themselves on a deep, wholistic level by being seen and heard. I have a special interest in working with people pleasing, boundaries, relationship issues, healing childhood wounds, parenting as well as postpartum anxiety and depression.
(02) 7804 4232 View (02) 7804 4232
Photo of Dr Mojgan Fadaei, PhD, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Dr Mojgan Fadaei
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Whether you are a young person, adult or senior; together, we will create an environment of safety and trust, where you can freely explore your feelings, face your challenges, and move forward with renewed strength and confidence.
Drawing from more than 15 years of international counseling experience, I blend contemporary therapeutic approaches with timeless eastern wisdom for your unique wellness journey. I specialize in trauma, grief, ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationships, career /work issues, women's mental health (peri/menopause transition),and (migration issues (grief, adjustment, acculturation). I believe in working partnership with you to uncover root causes, understand the impact on all aspects of your lives and create a personalized plan that aligns with your specific needs and goals, integrating diverse modalities for lasting positive change.
Whether you are a young person, adult or senior; together, we will create an environment of safety and trust, where you can freely explore your feelings, face your challenges, and move forward with renewed strength and confidence.
Drawing from more than 15 years of international counseling experience, I blend contemporary therapeutic approaches with timeless eastern wisdom for your unique wellness journey. I specialize in trauma, grief, ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationships, career /work issues, women's mental health (peri/menopause transition),and (migration issues (grief, adjustment, acculturation). I believe in working partnership with you to uncover root causes, understand the impact on all aspects of your lives and create a personalized plan that aligns with your specific needs and goals, integrating diverse modalities for lasting positive change.
(02) 8403 1804 View (02) 8403 1804
Photo of Caroline Moon, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Caroline Moon
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
I am a human being, just like you, who has felt all of the pain and intensity that life can offer.
Living with childhood trauma can feel lonely and overwhelming. But you are not broken, True healing is possible. I absolutely believe that with the right support you can heal. I am here to be your guide and companion. To help you find the parts of yourself that are lost, frozen, scared and hurting and bring you back to wholeness. If there is something in your life that is making you feel anxious, sad, lost, stuck, depressed, ashamed or uncomfortable in any way, please reach out. You don't have to do it alone. We can work together to help you create a life worth living - with more peace, joy, direction and vitality.
I am a human being, just like you, who has felt all of the pain and intensity that life can offer.
Living with childhood trauma can feel lonely and overwhelming. But you are not broken, True healing is possible. I absolutely believe that with the right support you can heal. I am here to be your guide and companion. To help you find the parts of yourself that are lost, frozen, scared and hurting and bring you back to wholeness. If there is something in your life that is making you feel anxious, sad, lost, stuck, depressed, ashamed or uncomfortable in any way, please reach out. You don't have to do it alone. We can work together to help you create a life worth living - with more peace, joy, direction and vitality.
(02) 7804 4136 View (02) 7804 4136
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Depression Counsellors

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognise and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioural activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.