Depression Counselling in Harrington Park, NSW

Photo of Lisy M C De La Chaise - Allied Help Counselling Services, Counsellor, PACFA
I work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety/ depression,anger or conflict in their relationships & families.
I am a highly skilled and accomplished counsellor with over 35 years experience. I hold memberships with several associations in Australia. I am passionate in working with Individuals, Couples and families to support them in any circumstance they might be going through. Having been in this industry for such a long time, I am very well aware of the pressures that are on families, parents, couples and individuals. With the advancement of technology and both parents working, problems are getting more complexed these days. Relationships are getting more demanding, challenging & complicated
I work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety/ depression,anger or conflict in their relationships & families.
I am a highly skilled and accomplished counsellor with over 35 years experience. I hold memberships with several associations in Australia. I am passionate in working with Individuals, Couples and families to support them in any circumstance they might be going through. Having been in this industry for such a long time, I am very well aware of the pressures that are on families, parents, couples and individuals. With the advancement of technology and both parents working, problems are getting more complexed these days. Relationships are getting more demanding, challenging & complicated
(02) 4708 9604 View (02) 4708 9604
Photo of Irene O'Neill, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Irene O'Neill
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Serves Area
Some of the concerns I have supported my clients through include emotional regulation issues, low self-esteem and confidence, social skills, anxiety, depression, trauma, and anger management.
I have a particular interest in working with children and young people and enjoy using creative approaches such as art and play in therapy. I can also provide counselling under the NDIS and the Victims Support scheme. I offer face-to-face sessions in Elderslie, and I also offer telehealth services for those unable to travel or who might prefer teletherapy.
Some of the concerns I have supported my clients through include emotional regulation issues, low self-esteem and confidence, social skills, anxiety, depression, trauma, and anger management.
I have a particular interest in working with children and young people and enjoy using creative approaches such as art and play in therapy. I can also provide counselling under the NDIS and the Victims Support scheme. I offer face-to-face sessions in Elderslie, and I also offer telehealth services for those unable to travel or who might prefer teletherapy.
(02) 4214 8009 View (02) 4214 8009
Photo of Trudy Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trudy Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Choosing the right therapist can be tough. I am triple degree qualified (inc. a research Masters) currently embarking on a PhD. I am a senior clinician & clinical supervisor, with 25 years' plus experience in counselling, psychotherapy & mentaI health. I welcome a range of referrals (including Medicare/GP referred/ADF/Victim's Services). I see clients aged 18 and above. I have extensive experience in managing & treating anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, grief & loss , life adjustments, relational issues & workplace stress. Additionally, I provide coaching to help improve/enhance communication skills (work/career development).
Choosing the right therapist can be tough. I am triple degree qualified (inc. a research Masters) currently embarking on a PhD. I am a senior clinician & clinical supervisor, with 25 years' plus experience in counselling, psychotherapy & mentaI health. I welcome a range of referrals (including Medicare/GP referred/ADF/Victim's Services). I see clients aged 18 and above. I have extensive experience in managing & treating anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, grief & loss , life adjustments, relational issues & workplace stress. Additionally, I provide coaching to help improve/enhance communication skills (work/career development).
(02) 4607 2781 View (02) 4607 2781
Photo of Catherine Eve Groome - Catherine Groome Counselling, Counsellor, PACFA
Catherine Groome Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
You are not what happened to you - you are what you choose to become. I support adults and children to heal and grow through life's challenges. I believe that you have the strength not just to survive, but to truly thrive. Sometimes we may find ourselves struggling with who we are and why we do what we do. We may have behaviours we would like to change or relationships we would like to enrich. Sharing is a big step towards taking care of one's emotional health. I am here to walk the journey with you.
You are not what happened to you - you are what you choose to become. I support adults and children to heal and grow through life's challenges. I believe that you have the strength not just to survive, but to truly thrive. Sometimes we may find ourselves struggling with who we are and why we do what we do. We may have behaviours we would like to change or relationships we would like to enrich. Sharing is a big step towards taking care of one's emotional health. I am here to walk the journey with you.
(02) 4214 4925 View (02) 4214 4925

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Timothea Goddard, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Timothea Goddard
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
If you wish to do some group learning - to reduce stress, anxiety, depression or pain - the 8 week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course might suit you.
Life can be perplexing at times. Psychotherapy can help. It firstly involves meeting together to understand your current experience and to foster a relationship of safety. We can then work respectfully to help you find fresh and empowering responses to the patterns and relationships that are causing stress and distress. I draw on evidence-based approaches - developmental psychology (ANZAP), mindfulness training (MBSR and MiCBT) and Internal Family Systems Therapy. These approaches harness present moment awareness and exploration to build a more compassionate and empowering relationship with yourself.
If you wish to do some group learning - to reduce stress, anxiety, depression or pain - the 8 week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course might suit you.
Life can be perplexing at times. Psychotherapy can help. It firstly involves meeting together to understand your current experience and to foster a relationship of safety. We can then work respectfully to help you find fresh and empowering responses to the patterns and relationships that are causing stress and distress. I draw on evidence-based approaches - developmental psychology (ANZAP), mindfulness training (MBSR and MiCBT) and Internal Family Systems Therapy. These approaches harness present moment awareness and exploration to build a more compassionate and empowering relationship with yourself.
(02) 8294 5830 View (02) 8294 5830
Photo of Megan Andriessen, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Megan Andriessen
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Megan has completed training in the assessment and treatment of a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress and traumatic stress disorders, life transition and adjustment issues.
Megan loves connecting people to the skills they need to live well, and strives to create an empathic, non-judgemental and safe space so her clients feel comfortable talking about the issues that negatively impact their wellbeing. Megan is passionate about seeing people develop awareness and understanding of unhelpful responses to stress that negatively impact on their functioning at work, in their personal life, and their relationships.
Megan has completed training in the assessment and treatment of a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress and traumatic stress disorders, life transition and adjustment issues.
Megan loves connecting people to the skills they need to live well, and strives to create an empathic, non-judgemental and safe space so her clients feel comfortable talking about the issues that negatively impact their wellbeing. Megan is passionate about seeing people develop awareness and understanding of unhelpful responses to stress that negatively impact on their functioning at work, in their personal life, and their relationships.
(02) 8188 4623 View (02) 8188 4623
Photo of Kirstin Robertson-Gillam, Psychotherapist, PhD, PACFA
Kirstin Robertson-Gillam
Psychotherapist, PhD, PACFA
Online Only
I have a Bachelor of Arts (Psych), a Master of Counselling, a Master of Arts (Hons Research), and a PhD exploring the use of creative arts in the treatment of depression.
I offer tailored counselling by phone or video for people navigating neurological conditions and age-related cognitive changes, as well as for their adult children coping with their parents' evolving health challenges. I will collaborate with your medical professionals by providing comprehensive clinical assessments and reports. As an associate of the Parkinson's Unit, Concord Hospital, Sydney, and a former practitioner at Dementia Australia, I have clinical experience with neurodegenerative conditions. My goal is to empower you with practical coping strategies, guided meditations, and an enhanced understanding of cognitive health.
I have a Bachelor of Arts (Psych), a Master of Counselling, a Master of Arts (Hons Research), and a PhD exploring the use of creative arts in the treatment of depression.
I offer tailored counselling by phone or video for people navigating neurological conditions and age-related cognitive changes, as well as for their adult children coping with their parents' evolving health challenges. I will collaborate with your medical professionals by providing comprehensive clinical assessments and reports. As an associate of the Parkinson's Unit, Concord Hospital, Sydney, and a former practitioner at Dementia Australia, I have clinical experience with neurodegenerative conditions. My goal is to empower you with practical coping strategies, guided meditations, and an enhanced understanding of cognitive health.
(02) 6188 7349 View (02) 6188 7349
Photo of Oliver Brooke - Oliver Brooke - IFS Certified Therapist, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Oliver Brooke - IFS Certified Therapist
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
2 Endorsed
Online Only
For anxiety, depression, or relational trauma, I work with clients on an ongoing basis with Internal Family Systems Therapy.
Oliver is a Certified Internal Family System (IFS) Therapist, ACA Registered Counsellor (Level 4), and ACA Recognised Supervisor. Are you searching for a deeper connection to yourself and others? Are parts of you feeling stuck? Do you feel conflicted inside? Have you tried talking therapy and felt like you weren't getting anywhere? IFS therapy offers a powerful alternative to traditional therapy going directly to the parts of you which are stuck, releasing your true inner potential for connection to yourself, and may shift burdened emotions and beliefs. Allow Oliver to guide you to your true nature with IFS.
For anxiety, depression, or relational trauma, I work with clients on an ongoing basis with Internal Family Systems Therapy.
Oliver is a Certified Internal Family System (IFS) Therapist, ACA Registered Counsellor (Level 4), and ACA Recognised Supervisor. Are you searching for a deeper connection to yourself and others? Are parts of you feeling stuck? Do you feel conflicted inside? Have you tried talking therapy and felt like you weren't getting anywhere? IFS therapy offers a powerful alternative to traditional therapy going directly to the parts of you which are stuck, releasing your true inner potential for connection to yourself, and may shift burdened emotions and beliefs. Allow Oliver to guide you to your true nature with IFS.
(08) 6490 9826 View (08) 6490 9826
Photo of Daniela Huepe, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Daniela Huepe
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or past experiences, I’m here to offer a warm, affirming space where you feel heard and supported.
I have 10 years of experience helping clients with different life circumstances and difficulties. I offer a tailored approach, using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness. My goal is to empower you to manage emotions, shift unhelpful patterns, and create change with compassion and practical tools.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or past experiences, I’m here to offer a warm, affirming space where you feel heard and supported.
I have 10 years of experience helping clients with different life circumstances and difficulties. I offer a tailored approach, using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness. My goal is to empower you to manage emotions, shift unhelpful patterns, and create change with compassion and practical tools.
(02) 8105 6092 View (02) 8105 6092
Photo of Hitika Bhatia - Blossoming Minds Therapy, Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
Blossoming Minds Therapy
Psychotherapist, ACA-L3
Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153
We strive to prevent depression and anxiety caused by stress, grief, or trauma in individuals, couples, and children.
I'm Hitika Bhatia, Principal Clinician at Blossoming Minds Therapy, providing Psychosynthesis psychodynamic psychotherapy which emphasizes the integration of different aspects of the self. This approach is beneficial if you are seeking to explore how your past experiences impact your current relationships. This can lead to improved communication, and stronger connections with self, and others. Exploring difficult emotions in a safe, and supportive environment can help people reduce stress. By exploring unconscious thoughts, and emotions, people may find new sources of inspiration, and increase creativity.
We strive to prevent depression and anxiety caused by stress, grief, or trauma in individuals, couples, and children.
I'm Hitika Bhatia, Principal Clinician at Blossoming Minds Therapy, providing Psychosynthesis psychodynamic psychotherapy which emphasizes the integration of different aspects of the self. This approach is beneficial if you are seeking to explore how your past experiences impact your current relationships. This can lead to improved communication, and stronger connections with self, and others. Exploring difficult emotions in a safe, and supportive environment can help people reduce stress. By exploring unconscious thoughts, and emotions, people may find new sources of inspiration, and increase creativity.
(02) 8203 8768 View (02) 8203 8768
Photo of David Pollak - Australian Psychology Solutions, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Australian Psychology Solutions
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Natural emotion regulation strategies can help when feeling anxious or depressed and can be practiced between appointments.
Australian Psychology Solutions was founded in 2003 with the aim of offering a quality psychologist service to adults. Australian Psychology Solutions psychologists are experienced, registered with the Psychology Board of Australia, and adhere to the APS Code of Ethics. Evidence based approaches offered are natural and many of these can be practiced between appointments. ​
Natural emotion regulation strategies can help when feeling anxious or depressed and can be practiced between appointments.
Australian Psychology Solutions was founded in 2003 with the aim of offering a quality psychologist service to adults. Australian Psychology Solutions psychologists are experienced, registered with the Psychology Board of Australia, and adhere to the APS Code of Ethics. Evidence based approaches offered are natural and many of these can be practiced between appointments. ​
0407 676 192 View 0407 676 192
Photo of Agnes Ka Yan Ip, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Agnes Ka Yan Ip
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
West Ryde, NSW 2114
I am trained as a clinical psychologist in Hong Kong, with experience in treating depression and anxiety, as well as supporting those who are suffering from relationhship problems, work or study stress, life transitions, grief and loss, insomnia, chronic pain, and issues related to self-image and childhood experiences.
I provide psychological assessments and treatments in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. Currently, I am based in Sydney and am offering psychological services both in-person and via zoom.
I am trained as a clinical psychologist in Hong Kong, with experience in treating depression and anxiety, as well as supporting those who are suffering from relationhship problems, work or study stress, life transitions, grief and loss, insomnia, chronic pain, and issues related to self-image and childhood experiences.
I provide psychological assessments and treatments in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. Currently, I am based in Sydney and am offering psychological services both in-person and via zoom.
(02) 9909 6145 View (02) 9909 6145
Photo of Hamada Els - The Centre for Professional Wellbeing, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
The Centre for Professional Wellbeing
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Sydney, NSW 2000
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, grief, stress, burnout, building resilience, building effective relationships (work and home), and workplace bullying.
I have a diverse skillset developed as both a Clinical Psychologist and as a senior executive in a variety of companies over the last 22 years. My corporate experience gave me a unique insight into the realities of professional life and made me very passionate about looking after the mental health and wellbeing of working professionals. By blending powerful evidence-based Psychological therapies with practical Executive Coaching tools, I aim to empower my clients with both the emotional coping resources and the practical skills to thrive in spite of the varied challenges they face at work and at home.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, grief, stress, burnout, building resilience, building effective relationships (work and home), and workplace bullying.
I have a diverse skillset developed as both a Clinical Psychologist and as a senior executive in a variety of companies over the last 22 years. My corporate experience gave me a unique insight into the realities of professional life and made me very passionate about looking after the mental health and wellbeing of working professionals. By blending powerful evidence-based Psychological therapies with practical Executive Coaching tools, I aim to empower my clients with both the emotional coping resources and the practical skills to thrive in spite of the varied challenges they face at work and at home.
(02) 8074 5211 View (02) 8074 5211
Photo of Hee Zee Lu, Counsellor, PACFA
Hee Zee Lu
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
I specialize in providing tailored outpatient psychological care that effectively addresses a range of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and support for victims and caregivers navigating difficulties.
My approach revolves around somatic psychotherapy, a gentle yet powerful method guiding clients toward self-awareness, positivity, and healing. Within a safe and neutral space, I encourage exploration, active listening, and queries to facilitate this journey.
I specialize in providing tailored outpatient psychological care that effectively addresses a range of challenges including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and support for victims and caregivers navigating difficulties.
My approach revolves around somatic psychotherapy, a gentle yet powerful method guiding clients toward self-awareness, positivity, and healing. Within a safe and neutral space, I encourage exploration, active listening, and queries to facilitate this journey.
(02) 9100 0600 View (02) 9100 0600
Photo of Julie Chapman - Julie Chapman Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Julie Chapman Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Erskineville, NSW 2043
Areas of special interest include complex post traumatic stress disorder, addictions, depression (including post natal depression), anxiety, borderline personality disorder and poor self-esteem.
I love my work. I have been a practicing Psychologist for the last 13 years, working in addictions and trauma in public health. I have worked with people from a variety of backgrounds, which has given me a thorough understanding of the complexity of problems that people experience. My skill lies in helping people understand the issues they bring to therapy, so that we can work together on evidence based solutions to solve them. I also like to think that I bring a friendly and personable approach to this process, making therapy a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Areas of special interest include complex post traumatic stress disorder, addictions, depression (including post natal depression), anxiety, borderline personality disorder and poor self-esteem.
I love my work. I have been a practicing Psychologist for the last 13 years, working in addictions and trauma in public health. I have worked with people from a variety of backgrounds, which has given me a thorough understanding of the complexity of problems that people experience. My skill lies in helping people understand the issues they bring to therapy, so that we can work together on evidence based solutions to solve them. I also like to think that I bring a friendly and personable approach to this process, making therapy a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
(02) 9160 3209 View (02) 9160 3209
Photo of Sarah B, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Sarah B
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Parramatta, NSW 2150
I specialise in Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Relationships, Addictions, Grief & Loss - Providing individual therapy.
Hi, I’m Sarah. I am a Registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist. I focus on a Trauma-Informed, Person-Centred therapeutic approach - meaning that, as I listen to your story, I work with you and support you through life’s messy bits. I understand that sometimes our journey in life can seem a bit isolating and jarring. This is why I am passionate about making you feel heard, connected, safe and less alone.
I specialise in Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Relationships, Addictions, Grief & Loss - Providing individual therapy.
Hi, I’m Sarah. I am a Registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist. I focus on a Trauma-Informed, Person-Centred therapeutic approach - meaning that, as I listen to your story, I work with you and support you through life’s messy bits. I understand that sometimes our journey in life can seem a bit isolating and jarring. This is why I am passionate about making you feel heard, connected, safe and less alone.
(02) 8806 0639 View (02) 8806 0639
Photo of Shahn Baker Sorekli - Drummoyne Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Drummoyne Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Drummoyne, NSW 2047
The staff at Drummoyne enjoy using a variety of psychological methods to assist those who describe feeling stuck in repetitive patterns to enact change in one or multiple areas of their life, including lifestyle, substance use, depression, anxiety, relationships, and work.
The staff at Drummoyne Psychology are warm and non-judgemental Clinical Psychologists. They work with people to increase life quality, taking a holistic approach to bring sustained change. They aim to work with each person in a tailored application of psychology, to reduce suffering, build resilience and cultivate inner contentment. The staff at Drummoyne Psycholo are experienced therapists who are also experienced relationship counsellors and have a passion for improving communication, increasing validation and fostering connection in relationships.
The staff at Drummoyne enjoy using a variety of psychological methods to assist those who describe feeling stuck in repetitive patterns to enact change in one or multiple areas of their life, including lifestyle, substance use, depression, anxiety, relationships, and work.
The staff at Drummoyne Psychology are warm and non-judgemental Clinical Psychologists. They work with people to increase life quality, taking a holistic approach to bring sustained change. They aim to work with each person in a tailored application of psychology, to reduce suffering, build resilience and cultivate inner contentment. The staff at Drummoyne Psycholo are experienced therapists who are also experienced relationship counsellors and have a passion for improving communication, increasing validation and fostering connection in relationships.
(02) 8188 4629 View (02) 8188 4629
Photo of Julia Sideris, Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Julia Sideris
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Serves Area
I have worked with people struggling with: post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, difficulty in regulating overwhelming feelings, grief and loss, implementing personal goals, difficulty in adjusting to new environments (e.g. country/work/family), and general distress.
I offer a thoughtful, client-centred approach to support you in exploring your understanding of the world, your experiences and relationships. Depending on your needs, I will draw on a range of methods including art making and working with the body.
I have worked with people struggling with: post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, difficulty in regulating overwhelming feelings, grief and loss, implementing personal goals, difficulty in adjusting to new environments (e.g. country/work/family), and general distress.
I offer a thoughtful, client-centred approach to support you in exploring your understanding of the world, your experiences and relationships. Depending on your needs, I will draw on a range of methods including art making and working with the body.
0414 539 419 View 0414 539 419
Photo of Jordan Wainer, Psychologist, MAPS
Jordan Wainer
Psychologist, MAPS
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My areas of focus include: anxiety, depression, trauma (including childhood trauma), conflict and complexity in relationship, lack of fulfilment and meaning.
In my work I have found that people are often exploring how to heal, how to hold overwhelming experience, how to find some relief and understanding in the midst of psychological distress, how to manage complexity in relationships. Each person has their own reasons for seeking therapy and their own sense of what they would like the process to provide. My commitment is to offer a confidential space where I listen to you with care and respect and where we work together to understand what you are experiencing.
My areas of focus include: anxiety, depression, trauma (including childhood trauma), conflict and complexity in relationship, lack of fulfilment and meaning.
In my work I have found that people are often exploring how to heal, how to hold overwhelming experience, how to find some relief and understanding in the midst of psychological distress, how to manage complexity in relationships. Each person has their own reasons for seeking therapy and their own sense of what they would like the process to provide. My commitment is to offer a confidential space where I listen to you with care and respect and where we work together to understand what you are experiencing.
(02) 9100 0296 View (02) 9100 0296
Photo of Juliane Thieme, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Juliane Thieme
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I have experience of working with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety/panic, difficulties with relationships, perfectionism, bereavement/loss, abuse, anger issues, low self-esteem, feelings of emptiness/meaninglessness, sexual concerns, work-related problems, difficult family relationships, fertility, pregnancy and parenthood.
It can be hard trying to cope on your own. Talking to a trained professional helps you make sense of your thoughts and feelings and it means you have somebody on your side while you face difficult times. My approach is psychodynamic, which means I explore with you both your conscious and your unconscious mind in order to facilitate long-lasting change.
I have experience of working with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety/panic, difficulties with relationships, perfectionism, bereavement/loss, abuse, anger issues, low self-esteem, feelings of emptiness/meaninglessness, sexual concerns, work-related problems, difficult family relationships, fertility, pregnancy and parenthood.
It can be hard trying to cope on your own. Talking to a trained professional helps you make sense of your thoughts and feelings and it means you have somebody on your side while you face difficult times. My approach is psychodynamic, which means I explore with you both your conscious and your unconscious mind in order to facilitate long-lasting change.
(02) 9100 0319 View (02) 9100 0319
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.