Depression Counselling in TN34

Photo of Harriet Dudley, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Harriet Dudley
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
It can feel daunting to reach for help by getting in touch, but if you can find the courage to take that first step you may be surprised at how empowering it feels.
As an integrative psychotherapist I tailor my approach to meet your needs. Together we will develop tools to help you manage your thoughts and feelings so that you can have the relationships you want and pursue a meaningful life. If you are struggling with emotional pain, worry, anxiety or depression, I can provide a safe and confidential space to begin your recovery. During your introductory session you can get a sense of if and how we might work together.
It can feel daunting to reach for help by getting in touch, but if you can find the courage to take that first step you may be surprised at how empowering it feels.
As an integrative psychotherapist I tailor my approach to meet your needs. Together we will develop tools to help you manage your thoughts and feelings so that you can have the relationships you want and pursue a meaningful life. If you are struggling with emotional pain, worry, anxiety or depression, I can provide a safe and confidential space to begin your recovery. During your introductory session you can get a sense of if and how we might work together.
01424 619080 View 01424 619080
Photo of Karolina Jobson, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Karolina Jobson
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Whether you are experiencing feeling of lonliness, powerlessness or dealing with anxiety, depression or panic attacks, I am happy to assist you in your healing process.
Experienced qualified Counsellor and a Psychologist offering short term and open-ended therapy sessions face to face and online, with progressive experience across various mental health settings (NHS, charity sector, private practice). I am a member of BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and a British Psychological Society.
Whether you are experiencing feeling of lonliness, powerlessness or dealing with anxiety, depression or panic attacks, I am happy to assist you in your healing process.
Experienced qualified Counsellor and a Psychologist offering short term and open-ended therapy sessions face to face and online, with progressive experience across various mental health settings (NHS, charity sector, private practice). I am a member of BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and a British Psychological Society.
01424 236849 View 01424 236849
Photo of Beri Cohn, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Beri Cohn
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hastings TN34  (Online Only)
I use several on-line platforms which I have found to be extremely effective and where we can begin your healing.
No one needs to suffer alone, and in fact, I like to think that no one needs to suffer at all. I have dedicated most of my adult life, helping people with their mental health, as a nurse, a social worker and as a psychologist. I have over 40 years experience in the Mental Health field, 16 of which have been with the NHS as a Senior Psychologist. I help all age groups using on-line therapy. My clients have varied needs and I offer an individual plan of treatment for each person depending upon their specific needs and goals. I also have a special interest in working with LGBTQ+ clients
I use several on-line platforms which I have found to be extremely effective and where we can begin your healing.
No one needs to suffer alone, and in fact, I like to think that no one needs to suffer at all. I have dedicated most of my adult life, helping people with their mental health, as a nurse, a social worker and as a psychologist. I have over 40 years experience in the Mental Health field, 16 of which have been with the NHS as a Senior Psychologist. I help all age groups using on-line therapy. My clients have varied needs and I offer an individual plan of treatment for each person depending upon their specific needs and goals. I also have a special interest in working with LGBTQ+ clients
01323 409736 View 01323 409736
Photo of Gina Langley, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Gina Langley
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
I have been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a logical extension of CBT.
Welcome! I am an HCPC Registered Counselling Psychologist and have been working as a therapist since 1995. I offer a range of ways to help you through a difficult time, tackle a chronic problem or help you realise your potential. I feel that counselling/psychotherapy shouldn't be intimidating but should help you explore and cope with the issues in your life. I have extensive experience of working with depression, anxiety, relationships and associated issues including loss, anger, and pain amongst others.
I have been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a logical extension of CBT.
Welcome! I am an HCPC Registered Counselling Psychologist and have been working as a therapist since 1995. I offer a range of ways to help you through a difficult time, tackle a chronic problem or help you realise your potential. I feel that counselling/psychotherapy shouldn't be intimidating but should help you explore and cope with the issues in your life. I have extensive experience of working with depression, anxiety, relationships and associated issues including loss, anger, and pain amongst others.
07480 784489 View 07480 784489
Photo of Trevor Gray - Trevor Gray, Therapy for Sport & Performing Arts, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Trevor Gray, Therapy for Sport & Performing Arts
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
I am a Registered Member of both the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM), and was previously Behavioural Therapist at the Brit School for Performing Arts & Technology in London.
I specialise in psychotherapy for performers in the arts and sport, helping people better understand themselves and their relationships with others. I am a qualified therapist, counsellor and performance coach working mostly online, but also offer bespoke services for those on set, on tour or in need of face-to-face consultations. In addition to my 4 year Postgraduate Diploma in TA (Transactional Analysis) Practice, I have trained in and incorporated CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) in my sessions, and offer therapy for issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, abuse, personal relationships and self-esteem.
I am a Registered Member of both the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM), and was previously Behavioural Therapist at the Brit School for Performing Arts & Technology in London.
I specialise in psychotherapy for performers in the arts and sport, helping people better understand themselves and their relationships with others. I am a qualified therapist, counsellor and performance coach working mostly online, but also offer bespoke services for those on set, on tour or in need of face-to-face consultations. In addition to my 4 year Postgraduate Diploma in TA (Transactional Analysis) Practice, I have trained in and incorporated CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) in my sessions, and offer therapy for issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, abuse, personal relationships and self-esteem.
01424 231447 View 01424 231447
Photo of Shahna Thurston Bsc (Hons) Pgcert, MBACP, Counsellor
Shahna Thurston Bsc (Hons) Pgcert
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
The therapeutic relationship is a collaborative process and the key to effective therapy.
As a person-centred experiential therapist based in Eastbourne, I deeply respect the challenging journeys people undertake in life. I work in private practice with extensive experience as a Social Prescriber and Recovery Worker in the NHS, passionately supporting individuals facing addictive behaviours, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, isolation, loneliness, bereavement, trauma and CPTSD. Whether you seek support for personal growth, mental health and emotional challenges, addiction recovery, or trauma, I am here to accompany you on your path toward healing, self-discovery and a fulfilling life.
The therapeutic relationship is a collaborative process and the key to effective therapy.
As a person-centred experiential therapist based in Eastbourne, I deeply respect the challenging journeys people undertake in life. I work in private practice with extensive experience as a Social Prescriber and Recovery Worker in the NHS, passionately supporting individuals facing addictive behaviours, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, isolation, loneliness, bereavement, trauma and CPTSD. Whether you seek support for personal growth, mental health and emotional challenges, addiction recovery, or trauma, I am here to accompany you on your path toward healing, self-discovery and a fulfilling life.
01323 921086 View 01323 921086
Photo of Jenny Murray-Smith, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jenny Murray-Smith
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
I offer a safe and secure environment where, together we can explore your thoughts and feelings in a confidential and non-judgemental manner.
My name is Jenny and I am a qualified counsellor. I see people struggling with a range of difficulties such as anxiety, depression, OCD, panic disorder, relationship issues, phobias and low-esteem. I also see couples who find themselves with issues such as poor communication, issues with trust, lack of confidence of one or both, jealousy and sexual issues.
I offer a safe and secure environment where, together we can explore your thoughts and feelings in a confidential and non-judgemental manner.
My name is Jenny and I am a qualified counsellor. I see people struggling with a range of difficulties such as anxiety, depression, OCD, panic disorder, relationship issues, phobias and low-esteem. I also see couples who find themselves with issues such as poor communication, issues with trust, lack of confidence of one or both, jealousy and sexual issues.
01424 236859 View 01424 236859
Photo of Nicolas Karapatis, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Nicolas Karapatis
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
My way of working is tailored to the individual needs of the client, with a focus on collaboration.
As an existential counsellor and psychotherapist I work with individuals who are seeking to improve their situation in life. You might be suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction, or just wanting to reflect on your position in the world and the decisions that have brought you to the present moment. Whatever the issue might be, talking through your problems can bring new light to how you see yourself and those around you.
My way of working is tailored to the individual needs of the client, with a focus on collaboration.
As an existential counsellor and psychotherapist I work with individuals who are seeking to improve their situation in life. You might be suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction, or just wanting to reflect on your position in the world and the decisions that have brought you to the present moment. Whatever the issue might be, talking through your problems can bring new light to how you see yourself and those around you.
01323 690082 View 01323 690082
Photo of Andreia de Almeida Paim - Andreia Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Andreia Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Have you ever felt an unpleasant heaviness on your chest or tummy? A struggle to get the words out of your mouth that creates a lump in your throat that suffocates you.
Welcome and thank you for getting in touch with me, it takes courage to get the first step. I hope by reading this page you will feel curious and wondering how I would be able to assist you and your needs. I am a Person-centred therapist and passionate about my job. I am committed to working with safety and care when dealing with your troubled experiences. I offer a confidential space for us to build a relationship of trust with mutual respect, aiming to explore and work through any difficulties you may be facing. My approach is nurturing and non-judgmental.
Have you ever felt an unpleasant heaviness on your chest or tummy? A struggle to get the words out of your mouth that creates a lump in your throat that suffocates you.
Welcome and thank you for getting in touch with me, it takes courage to get the first step. I hope by reading this page you will feel curious and wondering how I would be able to assist you and your needs. I am a Person-centred therapist and passionate about my job. I am committed to working with safety and care when dealing with your troubled experiences. I offer a confidential space for us to build a relationship of trust with mutual respect, aiming to explore and work through any difficulties you may be facing. My approach is nurturing and non-judgmental.
01273 121268 View 01273 121268
Photo of Hannah Creedon, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Hannah Creedon
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
There can be multiple reasons why you feel this is the right time to come for counselling, but prioritising our emotional health can be deeply rewarding.
Welcome! Im a Queer Integrative Counsellor from Ireland. I have worked with clients aged 18+ from all backgrounds and identities from within (and outside of) the LGBTQ+ Community. I like to focus on helping clients work towards having healthier and happier relationships both with themselves and others. I work online (via Zoom) and in-person, in Hove. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, gender identity, family issues, issues around 'coming out', self-esteem+social isolation.Please note I am currently offering time limited therapy of 12-16 sessions.
There can be multiple reasons why you feel this is the right time to come for counselling, but prioritising our emotional health can be deeply rewarding.
Welcome! Im a Queer Integrative Counsellor from Ireland. I have worked with clients aged 18+ from all backgrounds and identities from within (and outside of) the LGBTQ+ Community. I like to focus on helping clients work towards having healthier and happier relationships both with themselves and others. I work online (via Zoom) and in-person, in Hove. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, gender identity, family issues, issues around 'coming out', self-esteem+social isolation.Please note I am currently offering time limited therapy of 12-16 sessions.
View
Photo of Amanda Dormon, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Amanda Dormon
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
I currently see couples and individuals in private practice online and in Hastings (at a slightly reduced rate).
Couples often come to see me at a crucial turning point in their relationship, following the birth of a child, after an affair, or when communication feels like it has broken down. I also see individuals affected by the same issues, plus anxiety and grief, loss, depression or a sense that life may not have turned out the way they would have hoped. Whatever you’re struggling with, having a non-judgmental other, who is able to think when thinking can often feel impossible, can bring relief and a feeling of being understood, perhaps for the very first time.
I currently see couples and individuals in private practice online and in Hastings (at a slightly reduced rate).
Couples often come to see me at a crucial turning point in their relationship, following the birth of a child, after an affair, or when communication feels like it has broken down. I also see individuals affected by the same issues, plus anxiety and grief, loss, depression or a sense that life may not have turned out the way they would have hoped. Whatever you’re struggling with, having a non-judgmental other, who is able to think when thinking can often feel impossible, can bring relief and a feeling of being understood, perhaps for the very first time.
01424 236557 View 01424 236557
Photo of Lindsay McKean, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lindsay McKean
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
I offer a safe and non judgmental space to explore and be curious about all aspects of who you are.
Therapy is a unique and powerful undertaking that can change how you see yourself in the world. It can also be a playful and creative way to recover aspects of yourself that have been hidden, rejected or disallowed. I work with individuals who wish to explore their life and what they want it to be, or who are experiencing problems with relationships, anxiety, depression, illness, work or bereavement. I have a particular interest in working with dreams and creativity, both of which can be a means of tapping into inner processes and potential.
I offer a safe and non judgmental space to explore and be curious about all aspects of who you are.
Therapy is a unique and powerful undertaking that can change how you see yourself in the world. It can also be a playful and creative way to recover aspects of yourself that have been hidden, rejected or disallowed. I work with individuals who wish to explore their life and what they want it to be, or who are experiencing problems with relationships, anxiety, depression, illness, work or bereavement. I have a particular interest in working with dreams and creativity, both of which can be a means of tapping into inner processes and potential.
01273 934624 View 01273 934624
Photo of Recovery From Trauma And Abuse. Kelly Andrews, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Recovery From Trauma And Abuse. Kelly Andrews
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
I understand that reaching out for help takes a huge amount of courage and is often something we feel ambivalent about, I offer a free of charge, no obligation 20-minute confidential chat if you would like to discuss the process or ask any questions.
Struggling with low mood, anxiety, trust and relationship issues? The root cause could be unresolved trauma. With 20 years of evidence-based care, I help people who have experienced trauma and abuse move past pain and into the life they want.
I understand that reaching out for help takes a huge amount of courage and is often something we feel ambivalent about, I offer a free of charge, no obligation 20-minute confidential chat if you would like to discuss the process or ask any questions.
Struggling with low mood, anxiety, trust and relationship issues? The root cause could be unresolved trauma. With 20 years of evidence-based care, I help people who have experienced trauma and abuse move past pain and into the life they want.
01273 092870 View 01273 092870
Photo of Karen Taylor, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Karen Taylor
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
I am committed to providing an empathetic, inclusive and non-judgemental environment in which our therapeutic relationship can grow and where we can work together to comfortably explore the challenges which may be impacting your well-being.
I am an accredited, fully insured therapeutic counsellor having studied Transactional Analysis psychotherapy, based in East Sussex; working with adults on a one-to-one basis, either in-person or on-line. I have a corporate background which compliments my work and provides context to some of the challenges my clients face. This mixture of experience allows me to better understand the struggles of how our 'public face' can often feel at odds with our inner world and of the pressures and expectations of self and others that often feel overwhelming.
I am committed to providing an empathetic, inclusive and non-judgemental environment in which our therapeutic relationship can grow and where we can work together to comfortably explore the challenges which may be impacting your well-being.
I am an accredited, fully insured therapeutic counsellor having studied Transactional Analysis psychotherapy, based in East Sussex; working with adults on a one-to-one basis, either in-person or on-line. I have a corporate background which compliments my work and provides context to some of the challenges my clients face. This mixture of experience allows me to better understand the struggles of how our 'public face' can often feel at odds with our inner world and of the pressures and expectations of self and others that often feel overwhelming.
01424 232859 View 01424 232859
Photo of Alison Skilbeck, MBACP, Counsellor
Alison Skilbeck
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialise in guiding clients to access the innate wisdom and creativity of their unconscious mind, and to develop mindfulness of body, thoughts and feelings so that they are less swept along by unhelpful thoughts and feelings, and more able to access inner calm.
If you decide to work with me it will be rather like setting out on a journey together. On that journey I’ll be your fellow traveller, companion and guide. Whether or not your reason for coming to see me is an external situation that’s impacting your life, a key part of our time together will be to explore your inner world. As we explore that world together you may develop greater insight into patterns of thought and behaviour that served you once but now limit you; you may find alternative ways of approaching difficulties; you may discover a way of being in the world that is more in tune with who you truly are.
I specialise in guiding clients to access the innate wisdom and creativity of their unconscious mind, and to develop mindfulness of body, thoughts and feelings so that they are less swept along by unhelpful thoughts and feelings, and more able to access inner calm.
If you decide to work with me it will be rather like setting out on a journey together. On that journey I’ll be your fellow traveller, companion and guide. Whether or not your reason for coming to see me is an external situation that’s impacting your life, a key part of our time together will be to explore your inner world. As we explore that world together you may develop greater insight into patterns of thought and behaviour that served you once but now limit you; you may find alternative ways of approaching difficulties; you may discover a way of being in the world that is more in tune with who you truly are.
01323 914938 View 01323 914938
Photo of Carol Andrews, MBACP, Counsellor
Carol Andrews
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
It's not easy sharing our deepest experiences and emotions, but in our therapy sessions you will be my priority, and I will be totally committed to supporting you through your counselling journey, in a confidential, non-judgemental, un-biased, empathic safe space, where you can feel heard, understood and able to address the issues you are struggling with.
Hi a warm welcome! Life can be really trying at times, when we don't know where to go or what to do, but you are not alone. You have just taken the bravest first step, to help you find the support and tools needed to help and empower you on the journey towards healing. I am able to support adults, children and young people experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, grief or loss, abuse, relationship issues, trauma, low self-esteem and confidence and OCD. Whatever has brought you to counselling, we will travel together, at your pace, working to achieve the goals you set.
It's not easy sharing our deepest experiences and emotions, but in our therapy sessions you will be my priority, and I will be totally committed to supporting you through your counselling journey, in a confidential, non-judgemental, un-biased, empathic safe space, where you can feel heard, understood and able to address the issues you are struggling with.
Hi a warm welcome! Life can be really trying at times, when we don't know where to go or what to do, but you are not alone. You have just taken the bravest first step, to help you find the support and tools needed to help and empower you on the journey towards healing. I am able to support adults, children and young people experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, grief or loss, abuse, relationship issues, trauma, low self-esteem and confidence and OCD. Whatever has brought you to counselling, we will travel together, at your pace, working to achieve the goals you set.
01323 402868 View 01323 402868
Photo of Louise Elizabeth Ayling, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Louise Elizabeth Ayling
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Are you feeling exhausted and unsupported, not sure where to turn? please contact me, in confidence.
Are you struggling to resolve current issues that are creating difficulties in your life and not sure where to turn? I offer a supportive and compassionate safe space for you to talk through and explore your feelings, helping you to find your way to healing and making the positive changes that you seek. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, narcissistic abuse, addiction issues, bereavement and loss, low self esteem, infertility, Long Covid, please contact me so that I can offer you a calming, comforting and confidential Initial Consultation Session to discuss the problems you are facing.
Are you feeling exhausted and unsupported, not sure where to turn? please contact me, in confidence.
Are you struggling to resolve current issues that are creating difficulties in your life and not sure where to turn? I offer a supportive and compassionate safe space for you to talk through and explore your feelings, helping you to find your way to healing and making the positive changes that you seek. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, narcissistic abuse, addiction issues, bereavement and loss, low self esteem, infertility, Long Covid, please contact me so that I can offer you a calming, comforting and confidential Initial Consultation Session to discuss the problems you are facing.
01785 907063 View 01785 907063
Photo of Sonia Sidonia Stiles - Downs Counselling Services, PsychD, MBACP, Counsellor
Downs Counselling Services
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
I am passionate about the well-being of others and have spent most of my life learning about the way we think and the why’s and how’s of life.
Hi there, Are you feeling the stresses of Covid 19? Does life feel hard to deal with right now? I'm Sonia Stiles and I am a trained Counselling Therapist with 14 years of experience. As a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP), I work within the BACP Ethical Framework of Data Protection and Confidentiality. I specialise in Couple Therapy and Family Therapy. I help you address any friction and arguing in relationships that pull people apart and cause more hurt and upset. I do this by looking at the individuals with a caring and nurturing approach to enable everyone to look at the bigger picture.
I am passionate about the well-being of others and have spent most of my life learning about the way we think and the why’s and how’s of life.
Hi there, Are you feeling the stresses of Covid 19? Does life feel hard to deal with right now? I'm Sonia Stiles and I am a trained Counselling Therapist with 14 years of experience. As a member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP), I work within the BACP Ethical Framework of Data Protection and Confidentiality. I specialise in Couple Therapy and Family Therapy. I help you address any friction and arguing in relationships that pull people apart and cause more hurt and upset. I do this by looking at the individuals with a caring and nurturing approach to enable everyone to look at the bigger picture.
01323 914807 View 01323 914807
Photo of Helaine Wood - Helaine Wood Counselling & EMDR Services, MBACP, Counsellor
Helaine Wood Counselling & EMDR Services
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I combine 36 years of nursing knowledge and integrate Talking Therapy and EMDR to assess how best to support you.
Do you need an opportunity to help process your thoughts and feelings in a safe, non-judgemental, confidential environment? I can offer you a warm, confidential and trusting relationship. Although what distresses you is the most important factor, I will also discuss with you your lifestyle, health, sleep patterns and other aspects, such as relaxation techniques. Whatever the situation take your first step whether you are anxious, depressed, grieving or feeling bad about yourself. You are the real expert in what is going on for you and what you need. I am here to support you and together we can work through your concerns. ​
I combine 36 years of nursing knowledge and integrate Talking Therapy and EMDR to assess how best to support you.
Do you need an opportunity to help process your thoughts and feelings in a safe, non-judgemental, confidential environment? I can offer you a warm, confidential and trusting relationship. Although what distresses you is the most important factor, I will also discuss with you your lifestyle, health, sleep patterns and other aspects, such as relaxation techniques. Whatever the situation take your first step whether you are anxious, depressed, grieving or feeling bad about yourself. You are the real expert in what is going on for you and what you need. I am here to support you and together we can work through your concerns. ​
01323 700275 View 01323 700275
Photo of Rebecca Flintham, BACP, Counsellor
Rebecca Flintham
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
I work in a way where I put your hopes and goals at the heart of the work we do.
Anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, as well low self-esteem and procrastination are some of the main issues I help clients with. Deciding to see a therapist takes courage, it's a leap of faith and it is a really positive step towards starting to feel better. Together we work out what needs to change so you can feel happier in yourself and in your relationships . We find the tools you need to deal with what's happening now and the space to explore your past and what you want for your future.
I work in a way where I put your hopes and goals at the heart of the work we do.
Anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, as well low self-esteem and procrastination are some of the main issues I help clients with. Deciding to see a therapist takes courage, it's a leap of faith and it is a really positive step towards starting to feel better. Together we work out what needs to change so you can feel happier in yourself and in your relationships . We find the tools you need to deal with what's happening now and the space to explore your past and what you want for your future.
01722 444021 View 01722 444021
1

See more therapy options for TN34

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.