Depression Therapists in Surrey, BC

Photo of Helen Tang, RPC, CHT, CMA, Counsellor
Helen Tang
Counsellor, RPC, CHT, CMA
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3Z
Having worked in the corporate sector as a Chartered Professional Accountant, I understand the pressure you sometimes face trying to balance everything in life.
Is stress, anxiety and depression taking its toll on you? Are you struggling with emotional and physical pain? Worried about the conflicts in your relationship? People often seek out my counselling services because they want to experience peace and joy again in their life and relationships. In a safe, gentle and compassionate environment, I will support you to make the shift you desire toward a life that is more peaceful and fulfiling.
Having worked in the corporate sector as a Chartered Professional Accountant, I understand the pressure you sometimes face trying to balance everything in life.
Is stress, anxiety and depression taking its toll on you? Are you struggling with emotional and physical pain? Worried about the conflicts in your relationship? People often seek out my counselling services because they want to experience peace and joy again in their life and relationships. In a safe, gentle and compassionate environment, I will support you to make the shift you desire toward a life that is more peaceful and fulfiling.
(778) 868-4094 View (778) 868-4094
Photo of Danleigh Sokerov - Danleigh Sokerov Counselling, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Danleigh Sokerov Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
It would be an honour to support you on this journey.
Are you feeling the weight of being stuck, despite your best efforts? You’ve had some success but also feel exhausted. Life's hurdles have felt overwhelming, adding to the stress and disconnection you're experiencing. You long to rediscover a sense of connection and presence, to feel whole again. While you know deep down that change is possible, the journey seems daunting, especially when facing it alone. That's why you're seeking support, a safe and nurturing environment where judgment is left at the door. I work with teens, adults and couples as well as those finding they need support as partners, caregivers and parents.
It would be an honour to support you on this journey.
Are you feeling the weight of being stuck, despite your best efforts? You’ve had some success but also feel exhausted. Life's hurdles have felt overwhelming, adding to the stress and disconnection you're experiencing. You long to rediscover a sense of connection and presence, to feel whole again. While you know deep down that change is possible, the journey seems daunting, especially when facing it alone. That's why you're seeking support, a safe and nurturing environment where judgment is left at the door. I work with teens, adults and couples as well as those finding they need support as partners, caregivers and parents.
(236) 326-9579 View (236) 326-9579
Photo of Stefan Malloch - Inside Out Success Coaching & Hypnotherapy, CHT, NLP, HNLP, Coach, Trainer
Inside Out Success Coaching & Hypnotherapy
CHT, NLP, HNLP, Coach, Trainer
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S
Using a combination of coaching, NLP (Neuro linguistic programming), HNLP (Humanistic Neuro linguistic psychology) and hypnotherapy, my clients are able to tackle any habits and obstacles as well as set goals and work towards them while learning skills to manage life's ups and downs easily in the future.
Clients report recovery in often under 3 sessions! Changes in 1! Finding passion and helping people awaken to their true potential is what drives me! I use a combination of supplemental and widely known techniques to help you break free of issues without the use of drugs or invasive methods. More importantly, I help give my clients a foundation of thinking that give them the tools and the ability to make better life decisions moving forward! Through education and self discovery, people are increasingly tapping into their unlimited potential! More @ www.insideoutschool.com
Using a combination of coaching, NLP (Neuro linguistic programming), HNLP (Humanistic Neuro linguistic psychology) and hypnotherapy, my clients are able to tackle any habits and obstacles as well as set goals and work towards them while learning skills to manage life's ups and downs easily in the future.
Clients report recovery in often under 3 sessions! Changes in 1! Finding passion and helping people awaken to their true potential is what drives me! I use a combination of supplemental and widely known techniques to help you break free of issues without the use of drugs or invasive methods. More importantly, I help give my clients a foundation of thinking that give them the tools and the ability to make better life decisions moving forward! Through education and self discovery, people are increasingly tapping into their unlimited potential! More @ www.insideoutschool.com
(778) 888-7720 View (778) 888-7720
Photo of Pardeep Kaur Thandi, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Pardeep Kaur Thandi
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
As a counsellor, I want to support clients in their healing process while using a client-centered approach and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy techniques.
Every one of us develops core beliefs as we grow and start seeing the world accordingly. In this situation, we all become experts of our own lives. At the same time, we do not realize when we develop false beliefs that start impacting our mental health over all. Some may feel helpless, hopeless, and worthless because of those false beliefs. My role as a counsellor is to help those clients understand their core beliefs and replace false beliefs and negative thoughts with positive beliefs and thoughts.
As a counsellor, I want to support clients in their healing process while using a client-centered approach and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy techniques.
Every one of us develops core beliefs as we grow and start seeing the world accordingly. In this situation, we all become experts of our own lives. At the same time, we do not realize when we develop false beliefs that start impacting our mental health over all. Some may feel helpless, hopeless, and worthless because of those false beliefs. My role as a counsellor is to help those clients understand their core beliefs and replace false beliefs and negative thoughts with positive beliefs and thoughts.
(236) 233-9330 View (236) 233-9330
Photo of Bir Paul (Veera) Grewal, RCC, MCP, BA, Counsellor
Bir Paul (Veera) Grewal
Counsellor, RCC, MCP, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3W
I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for you to express yourself freely.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (#17576) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and an approved provider for the Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP). I offer counselling in both English and Punjabi. I view all clients as resilient individuals who have the ability to recover and thrive from difficult life experiences. As a counsellor, my role is to help clients access their resilience and support them in achieving their unique goals.
I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for you to express yourself freely.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (#17576) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and an approved provider for the Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP). I offer counselling in both English and Punjabi. I view all clients as resilient individuals who have the ability to recover and thrive from difficult life experiences. As a counsellor, my role is to help clients access their resilience and support them in achieving their unique goals.
(604) 373-4720 View (604) 373-4720
Photo of Jodi Bridges, RCC, Counsellor
Jodi Bridges
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3Z
I am dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, patience, and authenticity as you navigate your path toward positive change.
Do you find yourself stuck in a loop, rethinking past events or worrying about the future? Are you feeling overwhelmed by everyday life? Your thoughts and feelings are valid, and you don’t have to navigate them alone. Together, we can explore them and make sense of what you’re experiencing.I am passionate about supporting youth, teens and adults who are navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, post partum, and neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism.
I am dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, patience, and authenticity as you navigate your path toward positive change.
Do you find yourself stuck in a loop, rethinking past events or worrying about the future? Are you feeling overwhelmed by everyday life? Your thoughts and feelings are valid, and you don’t have to navigate them alone. Together, we can explore them and make sense of what you’re experiencing.I am passionate about supporting youth, teens and adults who are navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, post partum, and neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism.
(548) 800-1570 View (548) 800-1570
Photo of Cassandra Santlal, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Cassandra Santlal
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
I believe you are the expert on your life experience.
Self acceptance, stress, relationship with others and life in general can be hard. My goal is to work with you to help you improve your quality of life, personal struggles and relationships. If you're an overwhelmed parent or a teenager struggling to get along with your parents. Talking and learning new skills will help your day to day life. If your traumatic past creeps up on you and impacts your life and relationships today, let's work through it together so your future days are more pleasant. If anxiety and depression dictate your mood and lifestyle, we can work on how to take your life back.
I believe you are the expert on your life experience.
Self acceptance, stress, relationship with others and life in general can be hard. My goal is to work with you to help you improve your quality of life, personal struggles and relationships. If you're an overwhelmed parent or a teenager struggling to get along with your parents. Talking and learning new skills will help your day to day life. If your traumatic past creeps up on you and impacts your life and relationships today, let's work through it together so your future days are more pleasant. If anxiety and depression dictate your mood and lifestyle, we can work on how to take your life back.
(604) 305-3038 View (604) 305-3038
Photo of Valerie Hoock, MAMFT, RCC, Counsellor
Valerie Hoock
Counsellor, MAMFT, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3W
Val’s gentle spirit and empathic presence will help provide a safe environment for you to move towards healing and wholeness.
Val would be privileged to walk with you through whatever challenge or distress you are encountering such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relational issues, chronic pain, trauma, or life transitions.
Val’s gentle spirit and empathic presence will help provide a safe environment for you to move towards healing and wholeness.
Val would be privileged to walk with you through whatever challenge or distress you are encountering such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relational issues, chronic pain, trauma, or life transitions.
(604) 239-4923 View (604) 239-4923
Photo of Jas Sandhu, MEd, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Jas Sandhu
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S
Jas has over a decade of clinical experience and expertise in integrating holistic wellness with contemporary psychotherapy in the treatment of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, stress, substance use and relationship issues.
Are you feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or alone in your life situation? Is your mental, emotional, physical, or social wellness being compromised by stress and unhealthy coping? Therapeutic counselling offers a compassionate and supportive space where you can press pause on the daily grind and engage in a personal growth journey to identify, manage and overcome the obstacles blocking you from living a satisfying and successful life.
Jas has over a decade of clinical experience and expertise in integrating holistic wellness with contemporary psychotherapy in the treatment of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, stress, substance use and relationship issues.
Are you feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or alone in your life situation? Is your mental, emotional, physical, or social wellness being compromised by stress and unhealthy coping? Therapeutic counselling offers a compassionate and supportive space where you can press pause on the daily grind and engage in a personal growth journey to identify, manage and overcome the obstacles blocking you from living a satisfying and successful life.
(236) 302-4252 View (236) 302-4252
Photo of Claire De Boer - Safe Haven Counselling, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Claire De Boer - Safe Haven Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4A
Waitlist for new clients
Relationships are hard, especially the one we have with ourselves.
Are you struggling with relationship conflicts, feeling trapped in negative coping patterns, or grappling with deep-rooted anxiety or depression? Are past experiences creating barriers in your personal growth? I understand how overwhelming these struggles can be, and how they can affect your life and your relationships. As a relational therapist, I am here to help you navigate these challenges. My name is Claire De Boer, a Registered Clinical Counsellor based on the serene border of Surrey and White Rock, British Columbia.
Relationships are hard, especially the one we have with ourselves.
Are you struggling with relationship conflicts, feeling trapped in negative coping patterns, or grappling with deep-rooted anxiety or depression? Are past experiences creating barriers in your personal growth? I understand how overwhelming these struggles can be, and how they can affect your life and your relationships. As a relational therapist, I am here to help you navigate these challenges. My name is Claire De Boer, a Registered Clinical Counsellor based on the serene border of Surrey and White Rock, British Columbia.
(778) 200-1714 View (778) 200-1714
Photo of Helen Tang, RPC, MPCP, CHT, CMA, Counsellor
Helen Tang
Counsellor, RPC, MPCP, CHT, CMA
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3Z
In addition to couples counselling.
Are you struggling with the most important relationship in your life? Do you want to rekindle the love and feel the connection you once shared with your partner? As a therapist who has specialized training in marriage and relationship counselling, I can help you find hope and room for growth. Over 50% of my client workload is couples counselling so when we work together, take comfort in knowing that you will be working with a specialist in the field. Falling in love is easy, staying together often takes work. You don't have to do it alone.
In addition to couples counselling.
Are you struggling with the most important relationship in your life? Do you want to rekindle the love and feel the connection you once shared with your partner? As a therapist who has specialized training in marriage and relationship counselling, I can help you find hope and room for growth. Over 50% of my client workload is couples counselling so when we work together, take comfort in knowing that you will be working with a specialist in the field. Falling in love is easy, staying together often takes work. You don't have to do it alone.
(778) 868-4094 View (778) 868-4094
Photo of Neelma Singh, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Neelma Singh
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I understand taking the first steps can be a difficult one as I have also attended counselling, therefore I understand that the first step towards your healing journey can be the hardest.
Hello, my name is Neelma, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor, here to work collaboratively with you to help you navigate through the complexities in life. It can become difficult to work through the challenging thought patterns, feelings, and emotions, which can hinder or cause disruptions in you daily life. Life is in a constant change, whether that be finding a new job, having relationship issues, dealing with anxiety or depression, or coming to a point in which self-development is necessary for your future well-being and success.
I understand taking the first steps can be a difficult one as I have also attended counselling, therefore I understand that the first step towards your healing journey can be the hardest.
Hello, my name is Neelma, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor, here to work collaboratively with you to help you navigate through the complexities in life. It can become difficult to work through the challenging thought patterns, feelings, and emotions, which can hinder or cause disruptions in you daily life. Life is in a constant change, whether that be finding a new job, having relationship issues, dealing with anxiety or depression, or coming to a point in which self-development is necessary for your future well-being and success.
(581) 481-4337 View (581) 481-4337
Photo of Annie Cousland - Annie Cousland Counselling & Consulting, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Annie Cousland Counselling & Consulting
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4A
I can support you as you look within to explore a variety of issues including: Low self-esteem, shame, and stigma; Trauma and grief; Marriage, parenting, divorce, and complex family relationships; Life transitions, such as career changes or new relationships; Depression and anxiety; and Eating disorders and body image struggles.
Clarity. Understanding. Acceptance. These are all things we want for ourselves but, occasionally, the mirror of our mind becomes clouded and tarnished by anxiety, depression, trauma, and a variety of other life struggles. This can distort how we see ourselves, people around us, and the potential for our future. We can work together to shift your view, restore clarity and hope for the present, and bring new possibilities for a transformed future into focus.
I can support you as you look within to explore a variety of issues including: Low self-esteem, shame, and stigma; Trauma and grief; Marriage, parenting, divorce, and complex family relationships; Life transitions, such as career changes or new relationships; Depression and anxiety; and Eating disorders and body image struggles.
Clarity. Understanding. Acceptance. These are all things we want for ourselves but, occasionally, the mirror of our mind becomes clouded and tarnished by anxiety, depression, trauma, and a variety of other life struggles. This can distort how we see ourselves, people around us, and the potential for our future. We can work together to shift your view, restore clarity and hope for the present, and bring new possibilities for a transformed future into focus.
(604) 265-6163 View (604) 265-6163
Photo of San Samra, MA, RCC, Counsellor
San Samra
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S
I understand that the relationship with your counsellor is of the upmost importance.
Do you struggle with your emotions? Do they lead you to engage in behaviours that you regret? Are you struggling with interpersonal conflicts, substance use, self harm, or mental health concerns? I can help you achieve your goals and to go from surviving to thriving. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. With having worked in both private and public mental health settings, I've been able to work with people struggling with addiction, depression, intense emotions, life transitions, self-harm, stress/anxiety, suicidal ideation, trauma/PTSD, and many others.
I understand that the relationship with your counsellor is of the upmost importance.
Do you struggle with your emotions? Do they lead you to engage in behaviours that you regret? Are you struggling with interpersonal conflicts, substance use, self harm, or mental health concerns? I can help you achieve your goals and to go from surviving to thriving. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. With having worked in both private and public mental health settings, I've been able to work with people struggling with addiction, depression, intense emotions, life transitions, self-harm, stress/anxiety, suicidal ideation, trauma/PTSD, and many others.
(604) 706-1378 View (604) 706-1378
Photo of Operine Ilena Banton - Mandala Counselling Services, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Mandala Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3Z
Life is not fair.
We all have our unique journeys that is often filled with challenges and obstacles that can be extremely difficult to solely manage effectively. We are all worthy and deserving of healing and inner peace. I create a safe and confidential place where the individuals, couples and family and children experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, loss, communication, sexual abuse, relationship difficulties, drug and alcohol, eating disorder, trauma, separation and divorce, family violence and Indian Residential School effects. You will know what your needs are, what you want and why, make reachable goals and take steps to get them.
Life is not fair.
We all have our unique journeys that is often filled with challenges and obstacles that can be extremely difficult to solely manage effectively. We are all worthy and deserving of healing and inner peace. I create a safe and confidential place where the individuals, couples and family and children experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, loss, communication, sexual abuse, relationship difficulties, drug and alcohol, eating disorder, trauma, separation and divorce, family violence and Indian Residential School effects. You will know what your needs are, what you want and why, make reachable goals and take steps to get them.
(604) 670-4713 View (604) 670-4713
Photo of Gurroop Kaur Sahota, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Gurroop Kaur Sahota
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Every day, I am moved by my clients’ courage and bravery to disclose parts of themselves that crave healing— a difficult process that I, too have walked through.
Only within a non-judgemental, empathetic, and warm therapeutic space, can people feel safe to open up and be vulnerable; I hope to create just that for my clients. I am a person-centred counsellor that welcomes collaborative dialogue with my clients as they discover progress, determination, growth, and celebration. Whilst borrowing from various therapeutic modalities to guide my work, I am an avid believer in the power of self-compassion, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Inner Child work. I am also trained in providing Emotionally-Focused Therapy for couples and individuals.
Every day, I am moved by my clients’ courage and bravery to disclose parts of themselves that crave healing— a difficult process that I, too have walked through.
Only within a non-judgemental, empathetic, and warm therapeutic space, can people feel safe to open up and be vulnerable; I hope to create just that for my clients. I am a person-centred counsellor that welcomes collaborative dialogue with my clients as they discover progress, determination, growth, and celebration. Whilst borrowing from various therapeutic modalities to guide my work, I am an avid believer in the power of self-compassion, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Inner Child work. I am also trained in providing Emotionally-Focused Therapy for couples and individuals.
(226) 240-3599 View (226) 240-3599
Photo of Nataliya Chorna, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Nataliya Chorna
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3Z
My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
You deserve to be happy and functional and leave past in the past. I will teach you how to be your own therapist by providing you with tools and skills you will use for a lifetime. Whatever you are struggling with, can be fixed and you will be able to live a productive and happy life. Anxiety, depression, stress, post-traumatic stress, grief, anger, insomnia, low self-esteem, and marital problems, can be reduced to a minimum, if not totally eliminated. I will meet you wherever you are right now in your life, and guide you gently from there to a more stable, balanced, and happier you.
My goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
You deserve to be happy and functional and leave past in the past. I will teach you how to be your own therapist by providing you with tools and skills you will use for a lifetime. Whatever you are struggling with, can be fixed and you will be able to live a productive and happy life. Anxiety, depression, stress, post-traumatic stress, grief, anger, insomnia, low self-esteem, and marital problems, can be reduced to a minimum, if not totally eliminated. I will meet you wherever you are right now in your life, and guide you gently from there to a more stable, balanced, and happier you.
(778) 654-6271 View (778) 654-6271
Photo of Elizabeth Nardella, RCC, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Elizabeth Nardella
Registered Social Worker, RCC, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3Z
If you’re seeking support, guidance, or a listening ear, consider taking the courageous step of reaching out for counselling.
Elizabeth, an experienced and well-rounded therapist, operates from a trauma-informed practice. She creates a safe haven for her clients, allowing them to be heard and seen. Elizabeth specializes in addressing challenges related to anxiety, depression, and personal identity. Her mission is to guide clients toward their “lightbulb moments”—those transformative insights that illuminate their paths. One of Elizabeth’s core passions lies in empowering women. She helps them discover their unique voices, tap into their inner power, and navigate their paths to success. By fostering self-expression and encouraging women to use their voices
If you’re seeking support, guidance, or a listening ear, consider taking the courageous step of reaching out for counselling.
Elizabeth, an experienced and well-rounded therapist, operates from a trauma-informed practice. She creates a safe haven for her clients, allowing them to be heard and seen. Elizabeth specializes in addressing challenges related to anxiety, depression, and personal identity. Her mission is to guide clients toward their “lightbulb moments”—those transformative insights that illuminate their paths. One of Elizabeth’s core passions lies in empowering women. She helps them discover their unique voices, tap into their inner power, and navigate their paths to success. By fostering self-expression and encouraging women to use their voices
(604) 305-3123 View (604) 305-3123
Photo of Leah Potts Kostamo, MA, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Leah Potts Kostamo
Counsellor, MA, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3Z
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, life transitions, and/or the impacts of trauma on your self or your relationships, please know that there is hope.
Leah’s greatest joy is traveling with others in the deep waters of their own transformation. She helps clients come home to their good, authentic selves. Using interventions based on the latest developments in neuroscience psychology, Leah creates a safe and nurturing environment in which clients can resolve traumatic and sensitive issues.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, life transitions, and/or the impacts of trauma on your self or your relationships, please know that there is hope.
Leah’s greatest joy is traveling with others in the deep waters of their own transformation. She helps clients come home to their good, authentic selves. Using interventions based on the latest developments in neuroscience psychology, Leah creates a safe and nurturing environment in which clients can resolve traumatic and sensitive issues.
(548) 490-8498 View (548) 490-8498
Photo of Kristina Sohal, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Kristina Sohal
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3T
With over ten years of experience, I work with clients managing various mental health and personality disorders.
Feeling stuck in emotional turmoil? Struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or anger issues? I’m a highly experienced registered clinical counselor offering personalized mental health support. With over 10 years of experience, I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy to create tailored treatment plans. Together, we’ll break down barriers, build confidence, and foster lasting well-being. Take the first step toward a brighter future—contact me today for compassionate, professional guidance on your path to healing.
With over ten years of experience, I work with clients managing various mental health and personality disorders.
Feeling stuck in emotional turmoil? Struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or anger issues? I’m a highly experienced registered clinical counselor offering personalized mental health support. With over 10 years of experience, I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy to create tailored treatment plans. Together, we’ll break down barriers, build confidence, and foster lasting well-being. Take the first step toward a brighter future—contact me today for compassionate, professional guidance on your path to healing.
(778) 488-5619 View (778) 488-5619
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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.