Depression Counselling in Mayfair, London

Photo of Joanne Bell, Psychotherapist in Mayfair, London, England
Joanne Bell
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1K
I work with adults, and young people, to overcome conditions like panic attacks, anxiety, depression and phobias.
In my experience every client comes to therapy with a unique set of life circumstances. Sometimes these contribute to personal and emotional problems which can feel overwhelming or even insurmountable. Often, it is at this point that a person reaches out for professional help. They may identify that low mood, negative thinking, stress or relationship problems are impediments to living a good life and they will want help to restore healthy self-esteem, confidence, balance and self-worth. Often clients are looking for a supportive, non-judgmental, compassionate and caring professional to guide them on their journey to wellbeing.
I work with adults, and young people, to overcome conditions like panic attacks, anxiety, depression and phobias.
In my experience every client comes to therapy with a unique set of life circumstances. Sometimes these contribute to personal and emotional problems which can feel overwhelming or even insurmountable. Often, it is at this point that a person reaches out for professional help. They may identify that low mood, negative thinking, stress or relationship problems are impediments to living a good life and they will want help to restore healthy self-esteem, confidence, balance and self-worth. Often clients are looking for a supportive, non-judgmental, compassionate and caring professional to guide them on their journey to wellbeing.
020 3835 6345 View 020 3835 6345
Photo of Dr Gertrude Reiss, Psychotherapist in Mayfair, London, England
Dr Gertrude Reiss
Psychotherapist, PhD, BPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mayfair, London W1B
As a Psychotherapist, I provide support to individuals who are seeking professional guidance in navigating processes of change in their lives. It is common for people to experience periods of anxiety or depression. You may find yourself feeling stagnant, lacking motivation, or grappling with a traumatic experience or loss that impacts your life. Work-related stress and relationship difficulties are also commonplace, as is the pursuit of self-development. Therapy provides an opportunity to explore and understand these challenges, fostering self-understanding and enhancing interpersonal relationships.
As a Psychotherapist, I provide support to individuals who are seeking professional guidance in navigating processes of change in their lives. It is common for people to experience periods of anxiety or depression. You may find yourself feeling stagnant, lacking motivation, or grappling with a traumatic experience or loss that impacts your life. Work-related stress and relationship difficulties are also commonplace, as is the pursuit of self-development. Therapy provides an opportunity to explore and understand these challenges, fostering self-understanding and enhancing interpersonal relationships.
020 3915 5910 View 020 3915 5910
Photo of Luisa Escudero-Franco, Psychotherapist in Mayfair, London, England
Luisa Escudero-Franco
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1B
I provide help with problems of anxiety, depression, addictions, personality disorders and emotional difficulties.
Hi I am Luisa!, therapist with more than 20 years of experience. Thanks to all the years of training in various therapies in Peru, the United States and the United Kingdom, I offer my knowledge in English and Spanish. During the sessions it is very important for me to understand the different difficulties that my patients are going through, offering them a space of listening that allows the best understanding and solution to their difficulties.
I provide help with problems of anxiety, depression, addictions, personality disorders and emotional difficulties.
Hi I am Luisa!, therapist with more than 20 years of experience. Thanks to all the years of training in various therapies in Peru, the United States and the United Kingdom, I offer my knowledge in English and Spanish. During the sessions it is very important for me to understand the different difficulties that my patients are going through, offering them a space of listening that allows the best understanding and solution to their difficulties.
01480 772030 View 01480 772030
Photo of Nima Nowruzi, Psychologist in Mayfair, London, England
Nima Nowruzi
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1K
I am very good at treating people with Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, as well as those with traumatic experiences. I apply a very modern and effective type of dynamic psychotherapy called Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). I work on repressed feelings and emotions and help you to get rid of the pain and suffer to become a mature personality. For most people, psychological stress and unresolved traumas are so overwhelming that often leads to many other problems, such as low performance, low confidence, unpleasant encounters and a gradual destruction of well-being. If left untreated, these psychological issues can be transferred from one generation to the next, due to its lasting effects on children. Modern treatments in psychotherapy can help you overcome many types of psychological problems. People suffering from these problems can be helped to regain their sense of pride, efficiency, and effectiveness. My clients need to be well motivated, and cooperative.
I am very good at treating people with Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, as well as those with traumatic experiences. I apply a very modern and effective type of dynamic psychotherapy called Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). I work on repressed feelings and emotions and help you to get rid of the pain and suffer to become a mature personality. For most people, psychological stress and unresolved traumas are so overwhelming that often leads to many other problems, such as low performance, low confidence, unpleasant encounters and a gradual destruction of well-being. If left untreated, these psychological issues can be transferred from one generation to the next, due to its lasting effects on children. Modern treatments in psychotherapy can help you overcome many types of psychological problems. People suffering from these problems can be helped to regain their sense of pride, efficiency, and effectiveness. My clients need to be well motivated, and cooperative.
07763 104309 View 07763 104309
Photo of Dr Samina Khatun, Psychologist in Mayfair, London, England
Dr Samina Khatun
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1K
Dr Samina is a highly specialist counselling psychologist who treats people suffering from a wide spectrum of disorders. Her areas of expertise lie in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of complex PTSD, depression and anxiety disorders, confidence and low self-esteem, relationship issues and trauma. She has over 10 years clinical experience within the NHS and private practice including the Priory in London Harley Street. Her integrative method will help you identify blocks and subconscious programming that are holding you back so that you can heal and shift into a more magnetic state and live your life with greater ease.
Dr Samina is a highly specialist counselling psychologist who treats people suffering from a wide spectrum of disorders. Her areas of expertise lie in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of complex PTSD, depression and anxiety disorders, confidence and low self-esteem, relationship issues and trauma. She has over 10 years clinical experience within the NHS and private practice including the Priory in London Harley Street. Her integrative method will help you identify blocks and subconscious programming that are holding you back so that you can heal and shift into a more magnetic state and live your life with greater ease.
020 4538 3892 View 020 4538 3892
Photo of Chryssa Chalkia, Psychotherapist in Mayfair, London, England
Chryssa Chalkia
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mayfair, London W1B
I've worked with diverse challenges, guiding individuals and groups through depression, anxiety, relationships, workplace issues, cultural nuances, and mental health conditions.
Are you currently facing the challenges of overwhelming stress, dissatisfaction, or a sense of being stuck in your personal or professional life? Are emotions or behaviours becoming harder to manage? Is the demands of work overshadowing your life? I specialize in helping individuals like you overcome obstacles, regain control, and achieve their goals. By using evidence based strategies and tailored support, we can unlock your full potential and foster a life of balance and success. Invest in your well-being and professional growth. Take the first step toward positive change; reach out, and let's explore a brighter future together.
I've worked with diverse challenges, guiding individuals and groups through depression, anxiety, relationships, workplace issues, cultural nuances, and mental health conditions.
Are you currently facing the challenges of overwhelming stress, dissatisfaction, or a sense of being stuck in your personal or professional life? Are emotions or behaviours becoming harder to manage? Is the demands of work overshadowing your life? I specialize in helping individuals like you overcome obstacles, regain control, and achieve their goals. By using evidence based strategies and tailored support, we can unlock your full potential and foster a life of balance and success. Invest in your well-being and professional growth. Take the first step toward positive change; reach out, and let's explore a brighter future together.
020 3962 0643 View 020 3962 0643
Photo of Helen Caro, Counsellor in Mayfair, London, England
Helen Caro
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1K
I am fully qualified Integrative Relational Counsellor. This means that I draw upon a variety of skills and approaches depending on what your needs and personality requires. Above all else, I believe that it is the relationship between you and I that will offer the best opportunity for change. I see clients with a wide range of issues and rest assured no matter how big or small the problem seems to you, you will be treated with warmth and respect. Some of the challenges I work with include: Anxiety, Depression, General low mood, Bereavement, Low self-confidence and self-esteem and stress. This list is by no means exhaustive.
I am fully qualified Integrative Relational Counsellor. This means that I draw upon a variety of skills and approaches depending on what your needs and personality requires. Above all else, I believe that it is the relationship between you and I that will offer the best opportunity for change. I see clients with a wide range of issues and rest assured no matter how big or small the problem seems to you, you will be treated with warmth and respect. Some of the challenges I work with include: Anxiety, Depression, General low mood, Bereavement, Low self-confidence and self-esteem and stress. This list is by no means exhaustive.
07593 511810 View 07593 511810
Photo of Gina Phillips, Counsellor in Mayfair, London, England
Gina Phillips
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1B
This informs my practice which includes working with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, addiction, relationship and workplace issues and bereavement.
I am an experienced BACP accredited counsellor with an Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling and a Post Graduate Certificate in CBT. I believe that the most important aspect of counselling is a strong therapeutic relationship between counsellor and client. I aim to provide a warm, safe, supportive, non-judgemental space, which allows you to challenge established ways of thinking and being. Working collaboratively I aim to help you evaluate your needs to gain a deeper understanding and practical tools to enable you to make empowered choices.
This informs my practice which includes working with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, addiction, relationship and workplace issues and bereavement.
I am an experienced BACP accredited counsellor with an Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling and a Post Graduate Certificate in CBT. I believe that the most important aspect of counselling is a strong therapeutic relationship between counsellor and client. I aim to provide a warm, safe, supportive, non-judgemental space, which allows you to challenge established ways of thinking and being. Working collaboratively I aim to help you evaluate your needs to gain a deeper understanding and practical tools to enable you to make empowered choices.
020 4538 1064 View 020 4538 1064
Photo of Anita Sarin, Psychotherapist in Mayfair, London, England
Anita Sarin
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1S
Counselling and psychotherapy can help with a range of issues including - anxiety - bereavement - depression - divorce or separation - family and childhood difficulties - insomnia and sleep problems and relationship difficulties.
Contacting a therapist might seem daunting at first but therapy can provide a confidential and non-judgemental space to make sense of current concerns. Speaking in confidence can help you less burdened and enable you to work towards living a more fulfilling life.
Counselling and psychotherapy can help with a range of issues including - anxiety - bereavement - depression - divorce or separation - family and childhood difficulties - insomnia and sleep problems and relationship difficulties.
Contacting a therapist might seem daunting at first but therapy can provide a confidential and non-judgemental space to make sense of current concerns. Speaking in confidence can help you less burdened and enable you to work towards living a more fulfilling life.
020 3974 2529 View 020 3974 2529
Photo of Besarta Zogaj, Psychologist in Mayfair, London, England
Besarta Zogaj
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1J
You are not broken. You may be experiencing emotional injury, and/or psychological distress, but this does not communicate brokenness. On the contrary, this communicates an emotional BUILD. You might be struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, women's issues, trauma, grief, loss, low self-esteem, low self-worth, etc. It may even be likely that you have learned how to live in a way that attempts to guard you from any additional emotional injuries. Essentially, your life experiential may have taught you how to build a wall of emotional defense, but that is not your truest self
You are not broken. You may be experiencing emotional injury, and/or psychological distress, but this does not communicate brokenness. On the contrary, this communicates an emotional BUILD. You might be struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, women's issues, trauma, grief, loss, low self-esteem, low self-worth, etc. It may even be likely that you have learned how to live in a way that attempts to guard you from any additional emotional injuries. Essentially, your life experiential may have taught you how to build a wall of emotional defense, but that is not your truest self
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Photo of Virginie Sussest, Counsellor in Mayfair, London, England
Virginie Sussest
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London N16
Feeling depressed, anxious and unworthy; suffering loss, bereavement, relationship issues, or just wanting to make sense of the world and know yourself better? Counselling can help. As a psychotherapist my main concern is to provide you with an environment where you fell feel safe and accepted. A place where you can speak freely and reflect without be judged regardless of who you are. A safe place where you can grow and blossom - I will not offer advice, but will offer a response appropriate to the material you have shared, perhaps offering a new perspective. Finding the right counsellor is a very important step in a person’s life.
Feeling depressed, anxious and unworthy; suffering loss, bereavement, relationship issues, or just wanting to make sense of the world and know yourself better? Counselling can help. As a psychotherapist my main concern is to provide you with an environment where you fell feel safe and accepted. A place where you can speak freely and reflect without be judged regardless of who you are. A safe place where you can grow and blossom - I will not offer advice, but will offer a response appropriate to the material you have shared, perhaps offering a new perspective. Finding the right counsellor is a very important step in a person’s life.
01296 327585 View 01296 327585
Photo of Geri Walker, Counsellor in Mayfair, London, England
Geri Walker
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1K
Areas I work with, but not limited to, include depression, generalised anxiety disorder, panic, stress , burnout, illness, bereavement, loss, grief, self -esteem, shame, self -harm, trauma, sexual abuse, relationship difficulties , life transitions, identity, sexuality , cross-cultural issues, spirituality, young adults, mid-life and later -life issues .
I am an empathic and intuitive psychotherapeutic counsellor. When working with you, I consider the impact of your past as well as what is happening in your life now. I work at your pace drawing on our therapeutic relationship to help you deepen your understanding of other relationships. By paying attention to the mind, emotion and body connection, I help you uncover what may not yet be obvious. Connecting with these deeper aspects of self can help you experience life more fully, uncover hidden potential and understand what is blocking you. My training was in Integrative Transpersonal Counselling and I am a trained yoga teacher.
Areas I work with, but not limited to, include depression, generalised anxiety disorder, panic, stress , burnout, illness, bereavement, loss, grief, self -esteem, shame, self -harm, trauma, sexual abuse, relationship difficulties , life transitions, identity, sexuality , cross-cultural issues, spirituality, young adults, mid-life and later -life issues .
I am an empathic and intuitive psychotherapeutic counsellor. When working with you, I consider the impact of your past as well as what is happening in your life now. I work at your pace drawing on our therapeutic relationship to help you deepen your understanding of other relationships. By paying attention to the mind, emotion and body connection, I help you uncover what may not yet be obvious. Connecting with these deeper aspects of self can help you experience life more fully, uncover hidden potential and understand what is blocking you. My training was in Integrative Transpersonal Counselling and I am a trained yoga teacher.
020 8051 4560 View 020 8051 4560
Photo of Ales Zivkovic, Psychotherapist in Mayfair, London, England
Ales Zivkovic
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1K
I’m a psychotherapist, counsellor, clinical supervisor and psychotherapy trainer, working with individuals and couples. I specialise in trauma and trauma-related issues, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, difficult relationships, eating disorders, dependency, internal emptiness and meaninglessness, personality disorders etc. My experience involves work within NHS where I conducted individual and group psychotherapy. As a supervisor, I provide clinical supervision to qualified psychotherapists and trainees. I also teach internationally as a visiting trainer at various psychotherapy training institutes.
I’m a psychotherapist, counsellor, clinical supervisor and psychotherapy trainer, working with individuals and couples. I specialise in trauma and trauma-related issues, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, difficult relationships, eating disorders, dependency, internal emptiness and meaninglessness, personality disorders etc. My experience involves work within NHS where I conducted individual and group psychotherapy. As a supervisor, I provide clinical supervision to qualified psychotherapists and trainees. I also teach internationally as a visiting trainer at various psychotherapy training institutes.
020 3974 2387 View 020 3974 2387
Photo of Karolina Soukupova, Counsellor in Mayfair, London, England
Karolina Soukupova
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London SW1Y  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Karolina, I am a Humanistic counsellor and therapist. I know sometimes life can feel daunting, challenging, or overwhelming. You might feel anxious, depressed, or stuck. You don't have to face these challenges alone. I strive to create a welcoming, warm, and safe space, where we can explore your thoughts and feelings together. My therapeutic style is centred around compassion, respect and empathy, and I value working collaboratively to support your growth and healing.
Hi, my name is Karolina, I am a Humanistic counsellor and therapist. I know sometimes life can feel daunting, challenging, or overwhelming. You might feel anxious, depressed, or stuck. You don't have to face these challenges alone. I strive to create a welcoming, warm, and safe space, where we can explore your thoughts and feelings together. My therapeutic style is centred around compassion, respect and empathy, and I value working collaboratively to support your growth and healing.
07742 701745 View 07742 701745
Photo of Xenia Watson, Counsellor in Mayfair, London, England
Xenia Watson
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1K
I cannot imagine an ideal client, each person is so unique. At the moment most of my clients suffer with anxiety or depression, a lack of confidence in themselves. But the needs are similar, a desire to become autonomous, to find a new direction and a self belief, to feel able and capable and change their outlook. To blend different therapies to suit individuals needs according to their personalities.
I cannot imagine an ideal client, each person is so unique. At the moment most of my clients suffer with anxiety or depression, a lack of confidence in themselves. But the needs are similar, a desire to become autonomous, to find a new direction and a self belief, to feel able and capable and change their outlook. To blend different therapies to suit individuals needs according to their personalities.
0115 647 0249 View 0115 647 0249
Photo of Dr Diwakar Sukul, Psychologist in Mayfair, London, England
Dr Diwakar Sukul
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1B
As a Chartered Clinical Psychologist, I believe in evidence-based psychological therapy. My approach to the treatment is holistic, integrating eastern and western approaches of mind. My sessions involve an in-depth assessment of the causative factors of your emotional problems to offer you a solution-oriented approach. I believe in empowering you and will share several healing techniques to heal yourself. I will discuss the line of treatment after your in-depth assessment. I address a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, addiction, Borderline Personality Disorder and relationship challenges
As a Chartered Clinical Psychologist, I believe in evidence-based psychological therapy. My approach to the treatment is holistic, integrating eastern and western approaches of mind. My sessions involve an in-depth assessment of the causative factors of your emotional problems to offer you a solution-oriented approach. I believe in empowering you and will share several healing techniques to heal yourself. I will discuss the line of treatment after your in-depth assessment. I address a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, addiction, Borderline Personality Disorder and relationship challenges
020 3917 4612 View 020 3917 4612
Photo of Dr Kelly Dickson, Counsellor in Mayfair, London, England
Dr Kelly Dickson
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1C
I have experience working with people struggling with a range of issues, including relationships difficulties, career concerns, stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, narcissism, trauma, chronic pain and LGBTQ issues.
The evidence suggests that finding a therapist you feel able to talk to and understood by is key to a successful therapeutic experience. I am a down-to-earth, intelligent and non-judgmental integrative psychotherapist working with a range of issues. Ideally, therapy is a collaborative partnership and my style is active and empowering. I see you as the 'expert' in your life and myself as the 'expert' on therapeutic interventions. Together we focus on utilising your strengths and fostering insight and awareness in a safe and confidential environment. I love my work and look forward to helping you improve your mental health and wellbeing
I have experience working with people struggling with a range of issues, including relationships difficulties, career concerns, stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, narcissism, trauma, chronic pain and LGBTQ issues.
The evidence suggests that finding a therapist you feel able to talk to and understood by is key to a successful therapeutic experience. I am a down-to-earth, intelligent and non-judgmental integrative psychotherapist working with a range of issues. Ideally, therapy is a collaborative partnership and my style is active and empowering. I see you as the 'expert' in your life and myself as the 'expert' on therapeutic interventions. Together we focus on utilising your strengths and fostering insight and awareness in a safe and confidential environment. I love my work and look forward to helping you improve your mental health and wellbeing
020 3962 0347 View 020 3962 0347
Photo of Iana Trichkova, Psychotherapist in Mayfair, London, England
Iana Trichkova
Psychotherapist, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1S
I have experience working with people presenting with various issues including but not limited to: substance misuse, depression, anxiety, emotional, physical and sexual abuse, interpersonal problems, loss and bereavement, eating disorders.
I am a professionally qualified Integrative counsellor based in South London and I offer short and long term counselling and psychotherapy. My aim is to provide a safe, confidential and compassionate space where you can explore what troubles you without fear of being judged or rejected. For me counselling is a collaborative process which facilitates increased understanding and self-awareness, greater self-acceptance and more fulfilling relationships with others and life in general. I practice an integration of several theoretical approaches: Person Centred, Humanistic, Existential, Psychodynamic /Psychoanalytic.
I have experience working with people presenting with various issues including but not limited to: substance misuse, depression, anxiety, emotional, physical and sexual abuse, interpersonal problems, loss and bereavement, eating disorders.
I am a professionally qualified Integrative counsellor based in South London and I offer short and long term counselling and psychotherapy. My aim is to provide a safe, confidential and compassionate space where you can explore what troubles you without fear of being judged or rejected. For me counselling is a collaborative process which facilitates increased understanding and self-awareness, greater self-acceptance and more fulfilling relationships with others and life in general. I practice an integration of several theoretical approaches: Person Centred, Humanistic, Existential, Psychodynamic /Psychoanalytic.
07492 885917 View 07492 885917
Photo of Marcus Cook, Psychotherapist in Mayfair, London, England
Marcus Cook
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mayfair, London W1B
How are you feeling? Are you having a difficult time at the moment? ​I work with a diverse range of people dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression and low mood, stress and burnout, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, and low self-worth. As a mixed-race therapist who has lived in several countries, I have a particular interest in identity, belonging, feeling 'different', disconnection, cultural differences and migration issues.
How are you feeling? Are you having a difficult time at the moment? ​I work with a diverse range of people dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression and low mood, stress and burnout, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, and low self-worth. As a mixed-race therapist who has lived in several countries, I have a particular interest in identity, belonging, feeling 'different', disconnection, cultural differences and migration issues.
020 3376 7880 View 020 3376 7880
Photo of Matt Treadwell, Psychologist in Mayfair, London, England
Matt Treadwell
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Mayfair, London W1F
I’m a chartered counselling psychologist, working in private practice in Central London. I also work in the NHS. I work individually, with adults. I have experience working with issues including depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationship problems, anger issues, abuse and trauma. I also specialise in working with compulsive behaviours and addictions. And I additionally am experienced in working with complex issues, including diagnoses of personality disorder.
I’m a chartered counselling psychologist, working in private practice in Central London. I also work in the NHS. I work individually, with adults. I have experience working with issues including depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationship problems, anger issues, abuse and trauma. I also specialise in working with compulsive behaviours and addictions. And I additionally am experienced in working with complex issues, including diagnoses of personality disorder.
020 3958 4126 View 020 3958 4126

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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.