Depression Counselling in Newcastle, NSW

Photo of Catherine Ann van Staden - The Lakes Counselling (Psychotherapist), MA
The Lakes Counselling (Psychotherapist)
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle, NSW 2300
Sometimes we need to explore past trauma and then we employ therapy such as EMDR, CBT, Narrative and solution focused to address these trauma that impede on your mental health.
A warm welcome! My name is Catherine. You have taken the first step to alter your current situation. It will be a privilege as your psychotherapist (Masters in Counselling, Level 2 ACA), to provide you with exceptional bespoke treatment for depression, anxiety and trauma (or other mental health issues ). My guidance and professional skills, (CBT, ACT, and Gottman (couples) as well as extensive counseling experience have positively impacted my clients consisting of adults,children, teens, and couples. Small business award for Couples Therapy (2023). Also counsellor for Carers Australia.
Sometimes we need to explore past trauma and then we employ therapy such as EMDR, CBT, Narrative and solution focused to address these trauma that impede on your mental health.
A warm welcome! My name is Catherine. You have taken the first step to alter your current situation. It will be a privilege as your psychotherapist (Masters in Counselling, Level 2 ACA), to provide you with exceptional bespoke treatment for depression, anxiety and trauma (or other mental health issues ). My guidance and professional skills, (CBT, ACT, and Gottman (couples) as well as extensive counseling experience have positively impacted my clients consisting of adults,children, teens, and couples. Small business award for Couples Therapy (2023). Also counsellor for Carers Australia.
(03) 6159 0103 View (03) 6159 0103
Photo of Dana Bassett, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dana Bassett
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Online Only
The expectations and judgements that we are surrounded by create a fair amount of difficulty for us humans.
There are many paths we can wander down in our own minds yet we can often feel we are pulled on to negative unhelpful paths with out much say. I provide tele-health sessions to help anyone who is struggling, to find their own path to improving their quality of life. Whether it be depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, adjusting to change, addiction, grief, or general undefined discontent, I aim to collabrate with you to create a safe and warm space in which our working relationship provides the support that you need to explore all the unhelpful corners of your mind, and help you find and strengthen helpful paths.
The expectations and judgements that we are surrounded by create a fair amount of difficulty for us humans.
There are many paths we can wander down in our own minds yet we can often feel we are pulled on to negative unhelpful paths with out much say. I provide tele-health sessions to help anyone who is struggling, to find their own path to improving their quality of life. Whether it be depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, adjusting to change, addiction, grief, or general undefined discontent, I aim to collabrate with you to create a safe and warm space in which our working relationship provides the support that you need to explore all the unhelpful corners of your mind, and help you find and strengthen helpful paths.
(07) 3555 7561 View (07) 3555 7561
Photo of Kath Doosey, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kath Doosey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle, NSW 2300
Our differences make us stronger; our connections make us healthier.
Kath is an experienced EMDR Therapist, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Psychotherapist who started Hunter Clinical Services to create a safe and accepting space to access counselling and therapy. Kath works with adults and adolescents, and has extensive experience working survivors of trauma and violence, the adjustment to a sudden event or life change. Kath also provides therapy for depression, anxiety, relationship problems and divorce, chronic and / or neurological illness, and gender-related issues. Kath has a flexible and non-judgemental approach and will work with you through the challenges of life.
Our differences make us stronger; our connections make us healthier.
Kath is an experienced EMDR Therapist, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Psychotherapist who started Hunter Clinical Services to create a safe and accepting space to access counselling and therapy. Kath works with adults and adolescents, and has extensive experience working survivors of trauma and violence, the adjustment to a sudden event or life change. Kath also provides therapy for depression, anxiety, relationship problems and divorce, chronic and / or neurological illness, and gender-related issues. Kath has a flexible and non-judgemental approach and will work with you through the challenges of life.
(02) 4075 9805 View (02) 4075 9805
Photo of Dr Reza Nejad -Clinical Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Reza Nejad -Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I integrate various therapeutic approaches to create an individualised treatment plan that responds to your needs.
I am a registered clinical psychologist with over 24 years of experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression and trauma. I hold a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Adelaide as well as Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in psychology. I can assist you with a range of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, adjustment difficulties, anger management, bullying and harassment, self-esteem issues, self-development, ADHD, eating disorder, OCD, body image issues, couple therapy and grief.
I integrate various therapeutic approaches to create an individualised treatment plan that responds to your needs.
I am a registered clinical psychologist with over 24 years of experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression and trauma. I hold a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Adelaide as well as Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in psychology. I can assist you with a range of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, adjustment difficulties, anger management, bullying and harassment, self-esteem issues, self-development, ADHD, eating disorder, OCD, body image issues, couple therapy and grief.
(08) 8646 5602 View (08) 8646 5602
Photo of Kristen Fraser, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Fraser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I am driven by ensuring my clients feel well supported to achieve your mental health wellbeing goals.
I provide face to face counselling in Newcastle, NSW and telehealth. I am passionate about supporting people through stress, depression, anxiety, grief, burnout and trauma. I am also experienced in skill building including decision making, communication skills, conflict resolution, emotional regulation and boundary setting, from many years providing Employee Assistance Counselling. I see clients under a variety of programs: private clients, Medicare Approved Mental Health Care Plans, Approved Victims of Crime, Employee Assist and Canteen Australia (12-25 year olds impacted by cancer).
I am driven by ensuring my clients feel well supported to achieve your mental health wellbeing goals.
I provide face to face counselling in Newcastle, NSW and telehealth. I am passionate about supporting people through stress, depression, anxiety, grief, burnout and trauma. I am also experienced in skill building including decision making, communication skills, conflict resolution, emotional regulation and boundary setting, from many years providing Employee Assistance Counselling. I see clients under a variety of programs: private clients, Medicare Approved Mental Health Care Plans, Approved Victims of Crime, Employee Assist and Canteen Australia (12-25 year olds impacted by cancer).
(02) 4075 3421 View (02) 4075 3421
Photo of Rob McClintock, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Rob McClintock
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I use the most effective and efficient therapeutic method in identifying the root cause of suffering.
I believe in you, more than you do, until you do. Whether you're struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Addiction or Trauma I help shift your identity from broken to fulfilled for a better tomorrow, and have some laughs along the way. I'll walk with You along your unique path to Wellness. I provide lasting transformational change work - with skills, strategies and awareness to resolve Anxiety, Depression, Trauma or Addictions. You'll become Inspired to chase the excellence of your life and not the perfection of someone else's myth. I am a pillar of certainty that you can reorganise and reshape your life against.
I use the most effective and efficient therapeutic method in identifying the root cause of suffering.
I believe in you, more than you do, until you do. Whether you're struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Addiction or Trauma I help shift your identity from broken to fulfilled for a better tomorrow, and have some laughs along the way. I'll walk with You along your unique path to Wellness. I provide lasting transformational change work - with skills, strategies and awareness to resolve Anxiety, Depression, Trauma or Addictions. You'll become Inspired to chase the excellence of your life and not the perfection of someone else's myth. I am a pillar of certainty that you can reorganise and reshape your life against.
(02) 4075 3536 View (02) 4075 3536
Photo of Kirstin Robertson-Gillam, PhD, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Kirstin Robertson-Gillam
Psychotherapist, PhD, PACFA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am well qualified to help you based on years of clinical experience and formal education.
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 am well qualified to help you based on years of clinical experience and formal education.
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 Margaret Baker, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Margaret Baker
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I understand that working on your mental health can be hard.
Creating a therapeutic space that feels warm, caring and compassionate is my primary focus. People come to therapy with a desire to feel better, typically at times of change and transition, when they may feel stuck, unmotivated or unfulfilled in their lives. This is a hard place to be, so finding a Psychologist who understands you is important. I help adults experiencing challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD and grief to find clarity. Together, we can process your distressing experiences while creating an internal sense of security and confidence, so you can lead the life you want to live.
I understand that working on your mental health can be hard.
Creating a therapeutic space that feels warm, caring and compassionate is my primary focus. People come to therapy with a desire to feel better, typically at times of change and transition, when they may feel stuck, unmotivated or unfulfilled in their lives. This is a hard place to be, so finding a Psychologist who understands you is important. I help adults experiencing challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD and grief to find clarity. Together, we can process your distressing experiences while creating an internal sense of security and confidence, so you can lead the life you want to live.
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Photo of Xavier King, Counsellor
Xavier King
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
My approach is open, relaxed, and interactive, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere for our sessions.
I work with individuals from all backgrounds, addressing challenges such as trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. My approach is non-judgmental, holistic, and compassionate, providing a safe space for exploration and healing. Together, we can build emotional resilience, enhance self-awareness, and develop effective coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges and create a fulfilling and balanced life for everyone.
My approach is open, relaxed, and interactive, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere for our sessions.
I work with individuals from all backgrounds, addressing challenges such as trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. My approach is non-judgmental, holistic, and compassionate, providing a safe space for exploration and healing. Together, we can build emotional resilience, enhance self-awareness, and develop effective coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges and create a fulfilling and balanced life for everyone.
(02) 5941 6436 View (02) 5941 6436
Photo of Carla Bonetti, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Carla Bonetti
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
Carla is available for empathetic and individualised counselling and therapy aimed at assisting clients to make meaningful and realistic changes in their lives.
Brazilian born Psychologist, Carla Bonetti understands that we all need help at times to navigate life’s challenges. She offers help that is underpinned by years of experience working within the public and private sectors with a range of different clients addressing a number of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship and existential problems.
Carla is available for empathetic and individualised counselling and therapy aimed at assisting clients to make meaningful and realistic changes in their lives.
Brazilian born Psychologist, Carla Bonetti understands that we all need help at times to navigate life’s challenges. She offers help that is underpinned by years of experience working within the public and private sectors with a range of different clients addressing a number of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship and existential problems.
(02) 4012 4035 View (02) 4012 4035
Photo of Bartholomew P Henrick, MAPS, Psychologist
Bartholomew P Henrick
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
To see if I am able to be assistance to you, please call today for a confidential chat.
I work with adults and teenagers with a wide range of presenting problems, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder. I also offer assessments and reporting for legal purposes. I offer a relaxed environment where clients can feel safe and supported.
To see if I am able to be assistance to you, please call today for a confidential chat.
I work with adults and teenagers with a wide range of presenting problems, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder. I also offer assessments and reporting for legal purposes. I offer a relaxed environment where clients can feel safe and supported.
(02) 4063 1050 View (02) 4063 1050
Photo of Martina Magnery, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Martina Magnery
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I am able to assist you transform fears and doubts that prevent you from moving forward in life.
I am a psychotherapist and relationship coach with a passion for helping those who find themselves stuck, depressed, anxious, blocked, or those restless and looking for solutions for finding a fulfilling better quality of life.
I am able to assist you transform fears and doubts that prevent you from moving forward in life.
I am a psychotherapist and relationship coach with a passion for helping those who find themselves stuck, depressed, anxious, blocked, or those restless and looking for solutions for finding a fulfilling better quality of life.
(02) 4071 8307 View (02) 4071 8307
Photo of Emma Doolan, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Emma Doolan
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
Emma holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Clinical Psychology, Master of Clinical Psychology, and Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) from the University of New South Wales, Sydney.
Emma is a Clinical Psychologist with a warm and flexible approach. She aims to work collaboratively with her clients to help them identify, understand and overcome challenges they are facing. She has experience working with individuals presenting with a range of difficulties and concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, eating disorders, drug and alcohol issues and more. Her approach focuses on providing evidence-based treatments, primarily within a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) framework, while also drawing on other modalities such as schema therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
Emma holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Clinical Psychology, Master of Clinical Psychology, and Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) from the University of New South Wales, Sydney.
Emma is a Clinical Psychologist with a warm and flexible approach. She aims to work collaboratively with her clients to help them identify, understand and overcome challenges they are facing. She has experience working with individuals presenting with a range of difficulties and concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, eating disorders, drug and alcohol issues and more. Her approach focuses on providing evidence-based treatments, primarily within a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) framework, while also drawing on other modalities such as schema therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
(02) 4005 0039 View (02) 4005 0039
Photo of Melissa Lee McKay - Guided Hope Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Guided Hope Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Please don't hestate to reach out if you have any questions.
My name is Melissa, and I’m a credentialed therapist in Australia with 16 years of professional experience. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients work through a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues. My approach to therapy is centred on treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I firmly believe in the power of tailoring our sessions to fit your individual needs. My experience extends across a wide range of areas, including addictions, depression, trauma relationship and family issues, self-esteem, and managing stress as a caregiver.
Please don't hestate to reach out if you have any questions.
My name is Melissa, and I’m a credentialed therapist in Australia with 16 years of professional experience. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients work through a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues. My approach to therapy is centred on treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I firmly believe in the power of tailoring our sessions to fit your individual needs. My experience extends across a wide range of areas, including addictions, depression, trauma relationship and family issues, self-esteem, and managing stress as a caregiver.
(03) 4150 1216 View (03) 4150 1216
Photo of Jason Dillon, MA, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Jason Dillon
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I also offer "walk and talk" therapy around the amazing beaches of Newcastle, talking outdoors free of the confines of a stuffy office space.
I work with individuals from all backgrounds, addressing challenges such as trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety through a non-judgmental, holistic, and compassionate approach. My mission is to equip clients with effective tools and strategies to calm the mind and gracefully navigate life's challenges, empowering both individuals and couples with enduring resilience skills. With a practical and relaxed counselling style, I specialise in Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, guiding clients in managing their emotions and thoughts for lasting impact.
I also offer "walk and talk" therapy around the amazing beaches of Newcastle, talking outdoors free of the confines of a stuffy office space.
I work with individuals from all backgrounds, addressing challenges such as trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety through a non-judgmental, holistic, and compassionate approach. My mission is to equip clients with effective tools and strategies to calm the mind and gracefully navigate life's challenges, empowering both individuals and couples with enduring resilience skills. With a practical and relaxed counselling style, I specialise in Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, guiding clients in managing their emotions and thoughts for lasting impact.
(02) 4005 2936 View (02) 4005 2936
Photo of Esther Ogilvie, MSc
Esther Ogilvie
MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle, NSW 2300
For the last decade I’ve committed myself to supporting a range of diverse people all around the world in trauma based therapy, gender and sexuality.
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
For the last decade I’ve committed myself to supporting a range of diverse people all around the world in trauma based therapy, gender and sexuality.
Do you suffer from unprocessed trauma or feel stuck, anxious, depressed? Are you experiencing sex or gender identity issues, interpersonal struggles or emotional dysregulation? This includes relationships with fear, self-doubt, shame and guilt, and major life transitions. Through our sessions you will see a change in your nervous system and emotional regulation, self-awareness of patterns and behaviours, self-compassion and a larger vitality for life. I offer support for individuals and couples experiencing relationship challenges particularly ethical non monogamy and kink. Couples will experience a new found sense of understanding.
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Photo of Kate Kneipp, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Kate Kneipp
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I welcome new clients and am happy to discuss your needs to see whether I am a good match for your therapeutic goals.
I utilise a person-centred approach to help clients adjust to and cope with difficulties that are arising in their life. I believe you are the expert on your own life and I enjoy collaborating with clients to evoke meaningful change. I can assist clients who are experiencing: stress, anxiety, depression, women's health issues (coping with endometriosis, fibroids, fertility and other reproductive health concerns), life transitions, grief and loss, addiction and substance use issues, and relationship concerns.
I welcome new clients and am happy to discuss your needs to see whether I am a good match for your therapeutic goals.
I utilise a person-centred approach to help clients adjust to and cope with difficulties that are arising in their life. I believe you are the expert on your own life and I enjoy collaborating with clients to evoke meaningful change. I can assist clients who are experiencing: stress, anxiety, depression, women's health issues (coping with endometriosis, fibroids, fertility and other reproductive health concerns), life transitions, grief and loss, addiction and substance use issues, and relationship concerns.
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Photo of Kirsty VandenBurg, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Kirsty VandenBurg
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I help you reconnect and trust your intuition.
We can all face difficulties like anxiety, stress and depression at one time or another and sometimes we need help to navigate these times. I specialise in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced grief and loss, PTSD, attachment/childhood trauma and intergenerational trauma. It is important to me that you feel comfortable and safe. We work out your goals and a pathway toward them together. I invite you to take a step and reach out. I am happy to have an obligation-free talk to see if I can meet your needs before you book a session.
I help you reconnect and trust your intuition.
We can all face difficulties like anxiety, stress and depression at one time or another and sometimes we need help to navigate these times. I specialise in working with adolescents and adults who have experienced grief and loss, PTSD, attachment/childhood trauma and intergenerational trauma. It is important to me that you feel comfortable and safe. We work out your goals and a pathway toward them together. I invite you to take a step and reach out. I am happy to have an obligation-free talk to see if I can meet your needs before you book a session.
(03) 7500 5339 View (03) 7500 5339
Photo of Alex Cameron - The CBT Clinic (Alexander Cameron), PsyBA General, Psychologist
The CBT Clinic (Alexander Cameron)
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I believe that a good psychology service should be effective and efficient.
I am a Psychologist in my eleventh year of clinical practice in Newcastle, NSW. I have undertaken advanced training in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) - the originating form of CBT - and met the international training standards set by The Albert Ellis Institute in New York City - where CBT was pioneered. I have been approved by the AEI as a RE-CBT Therapist, Supervisor, and Trainer. I am a Supervisor/Trainer with the Australian Institute of REBT (AIREBT). I am also an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute and Associate Member of the International Association for REBT; and am a Board-Approved Supervisor.
I believe that a good psychology service should be effective and efficient.
I am a Psychologist in my eleventh year of clinical practice in Newcastle, NSW. I have undertaken advanced training in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) - the originating form of CBT - and met the international training standards set by The Albert Ellis Institute in New York City - where CBT was pioneered. I have been approved by the AEI as a RE-CBT Therapist, Supervisor, and Trainer. I am a Supervisor/Trainer with the Australian Institute of REBT (AIREBT). I am also an Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute and Associate Member of the International Association for REBT; and am a Board-Approved Supervisor.
(02) 4012 6262 View (02) 4012 6262
Photo of Anthony Edwards
Anthony Edwards
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am skilled in building rapport with people of all ages, and I am passionate about helping people heal from their emotional, mental and behavioural struggles so that they can live the life they truly desire.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, confused, emotionally overwhelmed? Does life seem overwhelming, unfair, sad, unfulfilling, directionless, hopeless? Do you simply want more from life? You’re not alone. I endeavour to understand what is important for you, which means that I don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. Using empathy and non-judgement, I listen to understand what life is like for you and to ‘get’ you - what you are thinking and feeling, how the events of life have impacted you, and what you want and need. I create a safe space to be open and real about what you are experiencing.
I am skilled in building rapport with people of all ages, and I am passionate about helping people heal from their emotional, mental and behavioural struggles so that they can live the life they truly desire.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, confused, emotionally overwhelmed? Does life seem overwhelming, unfair, sad, unfulfilling, directionless, hopeless? Do you simply want more from life? You’re not alone. I endeavour to understand what is important for you, which means that I don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. Using empathy and non-judgement, I listen to understand what life is like for you and to ‘get’ you - what you are thinking and feeling, how the events of life have impacted you, and what you want and need. I create a safe space to be open and real about what you are experiencing.
(02) 8294 9673 View (02) 8294 9673
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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.