Depression Therapists in Hamilton, ON

Photo of Dawn Associates, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Dawn Associates
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9B
We are dedicated to working with you & your partner, or your child, preteen or teenager deal with any number of issues including communication & conflict, addictions, bullying, behaviour & academic problems, peer, anxiety & depression.
Are you feeling stressed due to your job or workplace, family relationships or dealing with school or peers? Do you have trauma or distressing memories that are intruding on your ability to function? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious and distressed about your situation or the issues in your life? Are you ready to talk to a therapist who can help you to navigate the problems, and work with you to reduce your anxious and negative thoughts?
We are dedicated to working with you & your partner, or your child, preteen or teenager deal with any number of issues including communication & conflict, addictions, bullying, behaviour & academic problems, peer, anxiety & depression.
Are you feeling stressed due to your job or workplace, family relationships or dealing with school or peers? Do you have trauma or distressing memories that are intruding on your ability to function? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious and distressed about your situation or the issues in your life? Are you ready to talk to a therapist who can help you to navigate the problems, and work with you to reduce your anxious and negative thoughts?
(289) 206-8783 View (289) 206-8783
Photo of Natalie J Sobel, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Natalie J Sobel
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
Emotional pain is awful: not knowing when or even if it will end! The distress we go through in a lifetime from so many sources can feel unbearable at times. I work with people at all ages & stages to lift out of Depression, learn to regulate strong emotions such as Anxiety, Anger, Shame, & Grief; relationship problems; parenting struggles; processing trauma; caring for elderly; issues with aging and health; stress from work/school; improving youth mental health. I aim to create a safe & supportive therapeutic relationship with warmth, compassion, & humour to help clients develop inner resources and Mindfulness to meet life.
Emotional pain is awful: not knowing when or even if it will end! The distress we go through in a lifetime from so many sources can feel unbearable at times. I work with people at all ages & stages to lift out of Depression, learn to regulate strong emotions such as Anxiety, Anger, Shame, & Grief; relationship problems; parenting struggles; processing trauma; caring for elderly; issues with aging and health; stress from work/school; improving youth mental health. I aim to create a safe & supportive therapeutic relationship with warmth, compassion, & humour to help clients develop inner resources and Mindfulness to meet life.
(365) 601-8500 View (365) 601-8500
Photo of Jan Caceres, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Jan Caceres
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples struggling with a wide variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, past trauma, grief, low self-esteem and life transitions. Therapy can heal old wounds, change unwanted thoughts or behaviors and improve relationships with yourself and others. I offer a safe, respectful and nonjudgmental environment, where you may expect to be treated with compassion and empathy. My eclectic approach allows me to utilize the best methods and techniques of treatment to fit each individual client or couple. We will work together as a team to reach your goals and bring about needed change.
I work with individuals and couples struggling with a wide variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, past trauma, grief, low self-esteem and life transitions. Therapy can heal old wounds, change unwanted thoughts or behaviors and improve relationships with yourself and others. I offer a safe, respectful and nonjudgmental environment, where you may expect to be treated with compassion and empathy. My eclectic approach allows me to utilize the best methods and techniques of treatment to fit each individual client or couple. We will work together as a team to reach your goals and bring about needed change.
(365) 800-0964 View (365) 800-0964
Photo of Marcie Richardson - Empower Counselling Services, Registered Social Service Worker in Hamilton, ON
Marcie Richardson - Empower Counselling Services
Registered Social Service Worker, RSSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8R
Accepting new clients. Life can be so challenging! We have so many issues we think we need to deal with in order to get to that place of happiness and contentment but we are never taught how. We live our lives in cycles of suffering and unnecessary hardships.Do you want to break free from that suffering and become skillful and empowered? You've come to the right place. With over 25 years of experience I have been able to take clients who are suffering with issues like depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma and many other struggles to a place where they are thriving and successful in their lives.
Accepting new clients. Life can be so challenging! We have so many issues we think we need to deal with in order to get to that place of happiness and contentment but we are never taught how. We live our lives in cycles of suffering and unnecessary hardships.Do you want to break free from that suffering and become skillful and empowered? You've come to the right place. With over 25 years of experience I have been able to take clients who are suffering with issues like depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma and many other struggles to a place where they are thriving and successful in their lives.
(365) 803-0170 View (365) 803-0170
Photo of Jason Stotts, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Jason Stotts
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8S  (Online Only)
I specialize in sex and sexuality related disorders (such as "sex addiction," sexual abuse, or performance anxiety), trauma and stress related disorders (such as PTSD) from a variety of causes (rape, car accident, injury), mood disorders (such as Anxiety and Depression), and relationship and couples' issues (such as affairs and relationship conflict).
I work to meet people where they are and help them to unravel psychological problems that are negatively impacting their lives. I utilize a collaborative approach to therapy where I’ll explain what we’re doing and why so that we can engage in the process together. My goal is to help people to get back on the path towards happiness and living as well as they can.
I specialize in sex and sexuality related disorders (such as "sex addiction," sexual abuse, or performance anxiety), trauma and stress related disorders (such as PTSD) from a variety of causes (rape, car accident, injury), mood disorders (such as Anxiety and Depression), and relationship and couples' issues (such as affairs and relationship conflict).
I work to meet people where they are and help them to unravel psychological problems that are negatively impacting their lives. I utilize a collaborative approach to therapy where I’ll explain what we’re doing and why so that we can engage in the process together. My goal is to help people to get back on the path towards happiness and living as well as they can.
(289) 489-6166 View (289) 489-6166
Photo of Ronit Kaufman, Counsellor in Hamilton, ON
Ronit Kaufman
Counsellor, LLB, HonMDiv, CCPA
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8R
I specialize in treating young adults and adults with depression, anxiety, relationship, and general life problems.
I'm so glad you are here and have taken the courageous step of seeking help. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, due to a life transition, or a career change.it is important to know you don't have to be alone on this journey. I have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome these struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Since no two individuals are the same, I tailor our sessions together to address the challenges unique to you.
I specialize in treating young adults and adults with depression, anxiety, relationship, and general life problems.
I'm so glad you are here and have taken the courageous step of seeking help. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, due to a life transition, or a career change.it is important to know you don't have to be alone on this journey. I have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome these struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Since no two individuals are the same, I tailor our sessions together to address the challenges unique to you.
(289) 212-6378 View (289) 212-6378
Photo of Rob Menning McRae, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Rob Menning McRae
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P
I focus on addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety and personal growth.
We are all on a path of healing and discovery that leads, eventually and inevitably, to the realization of our true potential. I see psychotherapy as a powerful companion on this journey - it is a helpful friend that can help ease the burden during dark times, and it is a ray of light that can guide us more quickly beyond our own limitations when we are moving towards a goal. My practice is based in modern cognitive therapy and the neuroscience of trauma, while always anchored in the wisdom of mindfulness, acceptance and nondual awareness.
I focus on addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety and personal growth.
We are all on a path of healing and discovery that leads, eventually and inevitably, to the realization of our true potential. I see psychotherapy as a powerful companion on this journey - it is a helpful friend that can help ease the burden during dark times, and it is a ray of light that can guide us more quickly beyond our own limitations when we are moving towards a goal. My practice is based in modern cognitive therapy and the neuroscience of trauma, while always anchored in the wisdom of mindfulness, acceptance and nondual awareness.
(855) 495-7219 View (855) 495-7219
Photo of The Therapy Centre, Psychologist in Hamilton, ON
The Therapy Centre
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9A
Some of the most commonly presenting problems include: depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, stress and anger management, parenting skills, and behavioural problems.
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise, such as: eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, chronic pain, postpartum mood issues, and obsessive compulsive disorder. We tailor our treatment approach to suit the needs of each individual client.
Some of the most commonly presenting problems include: depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, stress and anger management, parenting skills, and behavioural problems.
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise, such as: eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, chronic pain, postpartum mood issues, and obsessive compulsive disorder. We tailor our treatment approach to suit the needs of each individual client.
(289) 274-3157 View (289) 274-3157
Photo of Everwell Integrated Health Professionals, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Everwell Integrated Health Professionals
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P  (Online Only)
Our areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, parenting, coping with cancer, navigating life transitions, managing stress, addictions, trauma, family therapy, attachment issues - and more!.
Having trouble deciding which therapist is the best fit for you? At everwell Integrated Health Professionals we have a team of therapists who specialize in various areas and we take the time to consider your needs to match you with a therapist who will suit you best. We have Registered Psychotherapists and Social Workers on our team who are ready to put their skills and experience to work for you. We serve adults, couples, families and children. Give us a call or send us an email and we will help you find the therapist that's right for you!
Our areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, parenting, coping with cancer, navigating life transitions, managing stress, addictions, trauma, family therapy, attachment issues - and more!.
Having trouble deciding which therapist is the best fit for you? At everwell Integrated Health Professionals we have a team of therapists who specialize in various areas and we take the time to consider your needs to match you with a therapist who will suit you best. We have Registered Psychotherapists and Social Workers on our team who are ready to put their skills and experience to work for you. We serve adults, couples, families and children. Give us a call or send us an email and we will help you find the therapist that's right for you!
(289) 512-0787 View (289) 512-0787
Photo of Melissa Riewald | Spoken Shore Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Melissa Riewald | Spoken Shore Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, BSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S
I work with individuals and couples on a variety of issues including conflict, emotional disconnection, communication issues, depression, anxiety, stress, burnout, self-esteem, grief and more.
Accepting new clients! - I’m so glad you’re here. Life can feel messy, confusing, and out of balance sometimes, and we all need someone to talk to. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, a long-standing issue, or recent curve ball you didn’t see coming, I believe change is possible and that we all have within us resilience and an innate capacity to heal. I work from an evidence-based, mindfulness-based perspective and believe firmly that healing happens on the foundation of a trusting, authentic relationship. I’m confident that together we can find a new and hopeful way forward.
I work with individuals and couples on a variety of issues including conflict, emotional disconnection, communication issues, depression, anxiety, stress, burnout, self-esteem, grief and more.
Accepting new clients! - I’m so glad you’re here. Life can feel messy, confusing, and out of balance sometimes, and we all need someone to talk to. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, a long-standing issue, or recent curve ball you didn’t see coming, I believe change is possible and that we all have within us resilience and an innate capacity to heal. I work from an evidence-based, mindfulness-based perspective and believe firmly that healing happens on the foundation of a trusting, authentic relationship. I’m confident that together we can find a new and hopeful way forward.
(365) 607-5662 View (365) 607-5662
Photo of Minomi Subapanditha, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Minomi Subapanditha
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MSc, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9H
I received training in trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) at the Anxiety Treatment and Research Clinic at St Joe’s Hamilton, where I worked largely with individuals presenting with difficulties associated with anxiety and depression.
I completed my Master of Science in Psychotherapy and Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a minor in Psychology from McMaster University. I followed a career in Biochemistry for a few years before finding my passion in psychotherapy. I value building rich connections with others by being open, nonjudgmental, and empathetic, and fostering trust that allows others to be vulnerable. I use an anti-oppressive approach to actively listen to the diverse life experiences of each individual.
I received training in trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) at the Anxiety Treatment and Research Clinic at St Joe’s Hamilton, where I worked largely with individuals presenting with difficulties associated with anxiety and depression.
I completed my Master of Science in Psychotherapy and Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a minor in Psychology from McMaster University. I followed a career in Biochemistry for a few years before finding my passion in psychotherapy. I value building rich connections with others by being open, nonjudgmental, and empathetic, and fostering trust that allows others to be vulnerable. I use an anti-oppressive approach to actively listen to the diverse life experiences of each individual.
(289) 204-1039 View (289) 204-1039
Photo of Zavera Ghadially, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Zavera Ghadially
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8R
As an intern under supervised practice, supporting folks with navigating emotional difficulties, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, BIPOC & newcomer challenges is my specialty.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Does it seem like everyone around you is adjusting to life changes more easily? Though you may feel alone in this struggle, I assure you that it’s more common than you think. Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious and uncertain as they attempt to manage relationships, career, and life transitions. But it doesn’t have to be that way, you can feel more at ease and in control of your life. Accessing support and opening up can feel vulnerable. Which is why you will be provided a welcoming, safe, and flexible therapeutic space where you feel heard and validated.
As an intern under supervised practice, supporting folks with navigating emotional difficulties, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, BIPOC & newcomer challenges is my specialty.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Does it seem like everyone around you is adjusting to life changes more easily? Though you may feel alone in this struggle, I assure you that it’s more common than you think. Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious and uncertain as they attempt to manage relationships, career, and life transitions. But it doesn’t have to be that way, you can feel more at ease and in control of your life. Accessing support and opening up can feel vulnerable. Which is why you will be provided a welcoming, safe, and flexible therapeutic space where you feel heard and validated.
(365) 645-6461 View (365) 645-6461
Photo of Dr. Frida Marshi Nasser, Psychologist in Hamilton, ON
Dr. Frida Marshi Nasser
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8R  (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience assessing and treating individuals who have been involved in MVA, in workplace injuries (WSIB), first responders, and individuals who are on disability from their place of employment, who are dealing with chronic pain, anxiety, driving fear, PTSD, trauma, depression, sleep and cognitive difficulties, and other issues.
I am a clinical and rehabilitation psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I work in a private practice, Life Psychology Clinic, providing psychological treatment for children, adolescents, and adults, and psychological assessment services for adults. I provide therapy for a wide variety of psychological difficulties, which include mood and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, adjustment to loss and change, developmental disorders, anger and stress management, self-esteem difficulties, behavior problems, interpersonal and relational issues, school and learning issues, parenting, and many other.
I also have extensive experience assessing and treating individuals who have been involved in MVA, in workplace injuries (WSIB), first responders, and individuals who are on disability from their place of employment, who are dealing with chronic pain, anxiety, driving fear, PTSD, trauma, depression, sleep and cognitive difficulties, and other issues.
I am a clinical and rehabilitation psychologist registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I work in a private practice, Life Psychology Clinic, providing psychological treatment for children, adolescents, and adults, and psychological assessment services for adults. I provide therapy for a wide variety of psychological difficulties, which include mood and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, adjustment to loss and change, developmental disorders, anger and stress management, self-esteem difficulties, behavior problems, interpersonal and relational issues, school and learning issues, parenting, and many other.
(289) 273-3942 View (289) 273-3942
Photo of Stephanie Davis, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Stephanie Davis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
Are you feeling stuck? Anxious? Are you inclined towards mindful and body-centred practices like yoga? Perhaps you've tried cognitive behavioural groups but don't feel that you are getting to the underlying root? I work with adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, life transitions (e.g. separation and divorce), relationship issues, trauma, pregnancy and post-partum. I work collaboratively helping you to make sense of your experience, heal any pieces getting in the way, build new skills, so you ultimately can become more alive, aligned and peaceful.
Are you feeling stuck? Anxious? Are you inclined towards mindful and body-centred practices like yoga? Perhaps you've tried cognitive behavioural groups but don't feel that you are getting to the underlying root? I work with adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, life transitions (e.g. separation and divorce), relationship issues, trauma, pregnancy and post-partum. I work collaboratively helping you to make sense of your experience, heal any pieces getting in the way, build new skills, so you ultimately can become more alive, aligned and peaceful.
(365) 601-6964 View (365) 601-6964
Photo of Nathan J Cooper And Associates, Psychologist in Hamilton, ON
Nathan J Cooper And Associates
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8L
Dr. Cooper and his associates, Joel Schramm, Maryam Rahat and Carlin Palme, offer care for individuals and couples dealing with concerns that are getting in the way of fully functioning both personally and socially. Common concerns include: anxiety, depression, substance use, procrastination, trauma, self-esteem, relationship conflict, career indecision, and many others. Maryam Rahat is focused on providing support to individuals in managing ADHD including associated issues of organization and behavioural addiction. Maryam is also fluent in Farsi and Arabic.
Dr. Cooper and his associates, Joel Schramm, Maryam Rahat and Carlin Palme, offer care for individuals and couples dealing with concerns that are getting in the way of fully functioning both personally and socially. Common concerns include: anxiety, depression, substance use, procrastination, trauma, self-esteem, relationship conflict, career indecision, and many others. Maryam Rahat is focused on providing support to individuals in managing ADHD including associated issues of organization and behavioural addiction. Maryam is also fluent in Farsi and Arabic.
(289) 768-7727 View (289) 768-7727
Photo of Eric Windhorst, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Eric Windhorst
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8R
"What shape waits in the seed of you to grow and spread its branches against a future sky?" Are you struggling with anxiety and/or depression? Do you feel driven to grow, yet are perpetually stuck? Are you navigating a particularly difficult life transition? I can help. I will provide you with a safe place to explore your unique situation and equip you with tools to work through it. I can meet with you in my beautiful, private office located in West Hamilton.
"What shape waits in the seed of you to grow and spread its branches against a future sky?" Are you struggling with anxiety and/or depression? Do you feel driven to grow, yet are perpetually stuck? Are you navigating a particularly difficult life transition? I can help. I will provide you with a safe place to explore your unique situation and equip you with tools to work through it. I can meet with you in my beautiful, private office located in West Hamilton.
(289) 804-0170 View (289) 804-0170
Photo of Ahmad Sakkijha, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Ahmad Sakkijha
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MPsy
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9C
I completed a training in rural Ontario conducting psychoeducational and psychological assessments with children, adolescents, and adults. In addition, I have been volunteering and facilitating a Support for Depression group at the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) . I am interested in helping individuals complaining from Post-Traumatic symptoms, depression, anxiety, specific-anxieties, sexual behaviors, as well as, experiencing stress from work, life situations, relationship issues, and mood and anxiety disorders. I am bilingual in both English and multiple dialects in Arabic. I use an eclectic approach for treatment.
I completed a training in rural Ontario conducting psychoeducational and psychological assessments with children, adolescents, and adults. In addition, I have been volunteering and facilitating a Support for Depression group at the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) . I am interested in helping individuals complaining from Post-Traumatic symptoms, depression, anxiety, specific-anxieties, sexual behaviors, as well as, experiencing stress from work, life situations, relationship issues, and mood and anxiety disorders. I am bilingual in both English and multiple dialects in Arabic. I use an eclectic approach for treatment.
(365) 364-1270 View (365) 364-1270
Photo of Cortney Pasternak Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist in Hamilton, ON
Cortney Pasternak Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
My specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, life and career transitions, grief, marriage and relationship conflicts, dating, and parenting. I realize there is rarely one issue and it takes courage to ask for help. I offer a safe, sincere and supportive environment to share, reflect upon, and experience positive growth from the issues you bring to counselling. I work with individuals, couples and families and have over 20 years of experience helping people share their stories and struggles - to feel heard and understood. Please know I also offer professional supervision to other psychotherapists and now, EMDR to clients.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, life and career transitions, grief, marriage and relationship conflicts, dating, and parenting. I realize there is rarely one issue and it takes courage to ask for help. I offer a safe, sincere and supportive environment to share, reflect upon, and experience positive growth from the issues you bring to counselling. I work with individuals, couples and families and have over 20 years of experience helping people share their stories and struggles - to feel heard and understood. Please know I also offer professional supervision to other psychotherapists and now, EMDR to clients.
(647) 699-0493 View (647) 699-0493
Photo of Casey Boyce, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Hamilton, ON
Casey Boyce
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8R  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! Congratulations on taking the first step of your mental health journey! Do you struggle with feelings of depression or anxiety? Are you going through a life transition that is causing problems and uncertainty in your life? Are you unsure on what your next steps are to develop future life goals? Or perhaps you are struggling with different relationships in your life. I am here to help you navigate life's challenges from a client-focused approach.
Hi! Congratulations on taking the first step of your mental health journey! Do you struggle with feelings of depression or anxiety? Are you going through a life transition that is causing problems and uncertainty in your life? Are you unsure on what your next steps are to develop future life goals? Or perhaps you are struggling with different relationships in your life. I am here to help you navigate life's challenges from a client-focused approach.
(289) 806-4939 View (289) 806-4939
Photo of Sarah Downey, Registered Social Worker in Hamilton, ON
Sarah Downey
Registered Social Worker, BAH, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P  (Online Only)
I work with people who are experiencing a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, grief & loss, and relationship challenges; and specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma or difficult childhoods.
My approach to counselling is strengths based, client centred and collaborative. That means working with you to figure out what’s working well, and how to do more of it. Feelings can often become overwhelming, I help people find balance and meaning. Through our work together, we will explore patterns of thoughts and behaviours which may be keeping you stuck, as well as ways of coping that aren’t helpful. I empower people to make connections between early life experiences and who they are today, moving towards change and building on their resilience.
I work with people who are experiencing a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, grief & loss, and relationship challenges; and specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma or difficult childhoods.
My approach to counselling is strengths based, client centred and collaborative. That means working with you to figure out what’s working well, and how to do more of it. Feelings can often become overwhelming, I help people find balance and meaning. Through our work together, we will explore patterns of thoughts and behaviours which may be keeping you stuck, as well as ways of coping that aren’t helpful. I empower people to make connections between early life experiences and who they are today, moving towards change and building on their resilience.
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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.