Depression Counselling in Balsall Common

Photo of Elizabeth Sanders, MBACP, Counsellor
Elizabeth Sanders
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Balsall Common CV7
I strive to build a positive, non-judgmental, empathic relationship with all my clients to help get them back on track.
Hello and thank you for looking at my profile. My name is Liz and I run a small counselling practice covering Warwickshire and the West Midlands. I offer a calm, safe, reassuring presence to work with you to make sense of difficulties in your life and move towards a more positive future. We cannot change what happens to us, but we can change how we respond. Counselling can help with a wide range of issues such as bereavement, loss of purpose or identity, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, ill health, low self-worth or self-esteem, relationship challenges or a sense of something missing in life.
I strive to build a positive, non-judgmental, empathic relationship with all my clients to help get them back on track.
Hello and thank you for looking at my profile. My name is Liz and I run a small counselling practice covering Warwickshire and the West Midlands. I offer a calm, safe, reassuring presence to work with you to make sense of difficulties in your life and move towards a more positive future. We cannot change what happens to us, but we can change how we respond. Counselling can help with a wide range of issues such as bereavement, loss of purpose or identity, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, ill health, low self-worth or self-esteem, relationship challenges or a sense of something missing in life.
01827 948337 View 01827 948337
Photo of Dr Catherine Bamford - Bamford Psychology & Counselling Service, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Bamford Psychology & Counselling Service
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Balsall Common CV7
Bamford Psychology Service is led by Dr Catherine Bamford, Consultant Clinical Psychologist. We are a small team of experienced psychologists and counsellors, based in Leamington Spa. We provide high quality counselling, psychological assessment and therapy to children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health difficulties and life challenges. Common issues include depression, anxiety, OCD, phobias, relationship difficulties, autism, ADHD, bereavement, chronic pain and PTSD. Please visit the website for more information and for our fees www.bamfordpsychologyservice.co.uk
Bamford Psychology Service is led by Dr Catherine Bamford, Consultant Clinical Psychologist. We are a small team of experienced psychologists and counsellors, based in Leamington Spa. We provide high quality counselling, psychological assessment and therapy to children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health difficulties and life challenges. Common issues include depression, anxiety, OCD, phobias, relationship difficulties, autism, ADHD, bereavement, chronic pain and PTSD. Please visit the website for more information and for our fees www.bamfordpsychologyservice.co.uk
01926 293392 View 01926 293392
Photo of Lyndsay Goulding, BACP, Counsellor
Lyndsay Goulding
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Balsall Common CV7
If you have any questions or would like to discuss further how I may be able to help, please feel free to get in touch via email or we can arrange an initial free phone consultation.
I am an experienced CBT therapist. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy focuses on challenging and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, improve emotional regulation and the development of personal coping strategies. This enables individuals to work through and overcome difficult issues. I work with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, anger issues, rape & sexual abuse or anything that is important to you. I work one-on-one to help uncover the source of stress, pain, resentment, frustration in a person's life and develop the skills you need to resolve difficult issues.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss further how I may be able to help, please feel free to get in touch via email or we can arrange an initial free phone consultation.
I am an experienced CBT therapist. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy focuses on challenging and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, improve emotional regulation and the development of personal coping strategies. This enables individuals to work through and overcome difficult issues. I work with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, anger issues, rape & sexual abuse or anything that is important to you. I work one-on-one to help uncover the source of stress, pain, resentment, frustration in a person's life and develop the skills you need to resolve difficult issues.
024 7526 2533 View 024 7526 2533
Photo of Dr Caterina Pasi, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Caterina Pasi
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Balsall Common CV7
Working on the dynamics of your relationships I will enable you to improve your communication skills and so your mental health.
Life doesn't really go as expected and finding the right support is key to move forward. I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in combination with Systemic therapy allowing a tailored approach based on clients needs. CBT is aimed to support clients identifying the triggers and the dynamics that hide behind their difficulties, learning coping strategies to deal with them. Systemic therapy is often considered an approach to treat families and groups however, it also effectively apply to individuals.
Working on the dynamics of your relationships I will enable you to improve your communication skills and so your mental health.
Life doesn't really go as expected and finding the right support is key to move forward. I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in combination with Systemic therapy allowing a tailored approach based on clients needs. CBT is aimed to support clients identifying the triggers and the dynamics that hide behind their difficulties, learning coping strategies to deal with them. Systemic therapy is often considered an approach to treat families and groups however, it also effectively apply to individuals.
01842 773632 View 01842 773632
Photo of Sinead Carroll, HCPC - Forensic Psych., Psychologist
Sinead Carroll
Psychologist, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Balsall Common CV7
I have helped many individuals, groups and families develop psychological flexibility and work towards a life they want to live.
I am a chartered forensic psychologist with 20 yrs’ experience of working with people with a history of mental illness, emotional disturbance, personality difficulties, learning difficulties, offending behaviour, and other psychological difficulties. I trained and supervised a range of healthcare professionals across the UK. Working with both male, female and non-binary clients, my aim is to personalise therapy to individual client needs, having a proven track record in positive outcomes for people experiencing emotional difficulties. I understand the importance for clients to feel safe, to connect with their values, and others.
I have helped many individuals, groups and families develop psychological flexibility and work towards a life they want to live.
I am a chartered forensic psychologist with 20 yrs’ experience of working with people with a history of mental illness, emotional disturbance, personality difficulties, learning difficulties, offending behaviour, and other psychological difficulties. I trained and supervised a range of healthcare professionals across the UK. Working with both male, female and non-binary clients, my aim is to personalise therapy to individual client needs, having a proven track record in positive outcomes for people experiencing emotional difficulties. I understand the importance for clients to feel safe, to connect with their values, and others.
07403 928506 View 07403 928506

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Chauhan, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Melissa Chauhan
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Coventry CV6
Support with emotional management, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Parenting .
Consultant Psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience working with adults, young people & families. I have worked in a variety of multi-disciplinary mental health & private settings. Key skills include, Therapy, Training & Consultation. Skills are designed to manage emotional distress and aid emotional regulation to elicit long term positive change.
Support with emotional management, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Parenting .
Consultant Psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience working with adults, young people & families. I have worked in a variety of multi-disciplinary mental health & private settings. Key skills include, Therapy, Training & Consultation. Skills are designed to manage emotional distress and aid emotional regulation to elicit long term positive change.
024 7526 2583 View 024 7526 2583
Photo of Luke Webster, MBACP, Counsellor
Luke Webster
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Allesley CV5
If you have any more questions or concerns, don't hesitate to send a message and we can talk things through a little further.
I understand that what has happened to you and what you are experiencing is challenging and comes with difficult thoughts and feelings. I can offer a safe place where you can explore those thoughts and feelings without judgment or pressure. Whether you are looking to understand your self more, be understood or to find out a path to feel happier and think differently, I can help. I work with many different challenges including anxiety, depression, stress and many more.
If you have any more questions or concerns, don't hesitate to send a message and we can talk things through a little further.
I understand that what has happened to you and what you are experiencing is challenging and comes with difficult thoughts and feelings. I can offer a safe place where you can explore those thoughts and feelings without judgment or pressure. Whether you are looking to understand your self more, be understood or to find out a path to feel happier and think differently, I can help. I work with many different challenges including anxiety, depression, stress and many more.
024 7693 2045 View 024 7693 2045
Photo of Roger Look, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Roger Look
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coventry CV4  (Online Only)
You will find that I am a kind, caring, and accepting person who will listen to your difficulties and help you to work out and implement a plan to overcome them.
I can help people who are experiencing all levels of distress and unhappiness. You may have feelings of dissatisfaction and a sense that you are not getting all that you want in your life. At the other end of the spectrum you may be finding that every day is a real struggle with strong, even overwhelming, feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, anger etc. I believe that all of us want to strive to feel happier and more fulfilled than we currently are. We want to feel a connection with other people and to have a sense that we are leading meaningful, enjoyable lives - even when at times we feel at a loss as to how to achieve this.
You will find that I am a kind, caring, and accepting person who will listen to your difficulties and help you to work out and implement a plan to overcome them.
I can help people who are experiencing all levels of distress and unhappiness. You may have feelings of dissatisfaction and a sense that you are not getting all that you want in your life. At the other end of the spectrum you may be finding that every day is a real struggle with strong, even overwhelming, feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, anger etc. I believe that all of us want to strive to feel happier and more fulfilled than we currently are. We want to feel a connection with other people and to have a sense that we are leading meaningful, enjoyable lives - even when at times we feel at a loss as to how to achieve this.
01926 800626 View 01926 800626
Photo of Adrian Murray - Adrian Murray Counselling , MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Adrian Murray Counselling
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Coventry CV7
Making contact can be one of the hardest things you ever do but working with someone who listens and understands where you are in your life in a non judgemental empathic way could be the best thing you ever do.
We all struggle with many things from all kinds of abuse in our lives, be that Anxiety, Depression, various trauma, from major or minor incidents, along with equality issues, organisational issues, bereavement, self harm, family issues, post traumatic stress disorder(PTSD), personality disorders, and many other issues. No matter how low or out of control these issues make us feel, with the right support and relationship we can get through these difficult times in our lives. You do not have to go through this on your own. I can listen and support without any judgement. I can offer advice and my experience.
Making contact can be one of the hardest things you ever do but working with someone who listens and understands where you are in your life in a non judgemental empathic way could be the best thing you ever do.
We all struggle with many things from all kinds of abuse in our lives, be that Anxiety, Depression, various trauma, from major or minor incidents, along with equality issues, organisational issues, bereavement, self harm, family issues, post traumatic stress disorder(PTSD), personality disorders, and many other issues. No matter how low or out of control these issues make us feel, with the right support and relationship we can get through these difficult times in our lives. You do not have to go through this on your own. I can listen and support without any judgement. I can offer advice and my experience.
01842 771097 View 01842 771097
Photo of Chanel McDevitt-Kyle, MBACP, Counsellor
Chanel McDevitt-Kyle
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Coventry CV1
Even amongst close friends and family, some thoughts and feelings can be difficult to express or share.
I offer a Free 30-minute telephone consultation as I recognise that it can feel difficult to know if counselling is right for you. You may be feeling nervous about beginning therapy or unsure of how counselling could help. To alleviate some of this uncertainty, the consultation; this gives you an opportunity to ask any questions that you may have about counselling as well as an opportunity for us both to talk about how we could work together. By booking a free, friendly telephone consultation, it gives us the chance to build a rapport, and helps in supporting you to explore your options in counselling.
Even amongst close friends and family, some thoughts and feelings can be difficult to express or share.
I offer a Free 30-minute telephone consultation as I recognise that it can feel difficult to know if counselling is right for you. You may be feeling nervous about beginning therapy or unsure of how counselling could help. To alleviate some of this uncertainty, the consultation; this gives you an opportunity to ask any questions that you may have about counselling as well as an opportunity for us both to talk about how we could work together. By booking a free, friendly telephone consultation, it gives us the chance to build a rapport, and helps in supporting you to explore your options in counselling.
024 7526 2565 View 024 7526 2565
Photo of Nav Heer, MBACP, Counsellor
Nav Heer
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Coventry CV4  (Online Only)
I work in Person Centred and CBT modalities , tailored to you.
In the current world of uncertainty and change, it has been a challenging time for ourselves, our loved ones and society’s mental health. Counselling explores difficulties you are having, distress you may be experiencing, dissatisfaction with life or loss of a sense of direction & purpose. I will listen attentively, in a non-judgemental way, provided in a professional and respectful manner, counselling will begin to bring awareness and help you to see things more clearly, possibly from a different perspective. I have worked with children & adults, giving equal respect and treatment, regardless of their background or beliefs.
I work in Person Centred and CBT modalities , tailored to you.
In the current world of uncertainty and change, it has been a challenging time for ourselves, our loved ones and society’s mental health. Counselling explores difficulties you are having, distress you may be experiencing, dissatisfaction with life or loss of a sense of direction & purpose. I will listen attentively, in a non-judgemental way, provided in a professional and respectful manner, counselling will begin to bring awareness and help you to see things more clearly, possibly from a different perspective. I have worked with children & adults, giving equal respect and treatment, regardless of their background or beliefs.
024 7526 2023 View 024 7526 2023
Photo of Helen Gillies, MSc, UKCP Trainee, Counsellor
Helen Gillies
Counsellor, MSc, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coventry CV6
It can be daunting and overwhelming trying to find the right therapist for you, especially when life could already feel overwhelming.
Your place in this world matters. Choosing a therapist is an important part of your journey, my objective is to create a space in which you feel safe and comfortable to express yourself. Being integrative means that I am trained in more than one approach to counselling, allowing me to be flexible with the approach that works for you. Through counselling, we can create the space to explore parts of yourself that you might feel unable to share with others. I have helped people with experience of trauma, depression, social anxiety and more. I offer face to face and online sessions.
It can be daunting and overwhelming trying to find the right therapist for you, especially when life could already feel overwhelming.
Your place in this world matters. Choosing a therapist is an important part of your journey, my objective is to create a space in which you feel safe and comfortable to express yourself. Being integrative means that I am trained in more than one approach to counselling, allowing me to be flexible with the approach that works for you. Through counselling, we can create the space to explore parts of yourself that you might feel unable to share with others. I have helped people with experience of trauma, depression, social anxiety and more. I offer face to face and online sessions.
024 7542 4994 View 024 7542 4994
Photo of Kinder Sandhu, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Kinder Sandhu
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Coventry CV6  (Online Only)
If you feel you are struggling with any of the difficulties outlined above and feel we could work through these together to help overcome these challenges, please book an introduction call or reach out via email and we can explore this together.
Many clients I work with are at a time in their lives when they feel stuck and disconnected from themselves. This can be due to trauma, loss or transitions that have occurred both past and present. My approach to therapy is specifically around working together and processing any situation which may have led to the occurrence of difficult emotions, such as; depression, anxiety, stress or grief. At times like this, we may lose ourselves and it is not always easy to navigate these situations alone. However, If there is one thing that life has taught me, it is that sharing and working together brings the possibility of hope and change.
If you feel you are struggling with any of the difficulties outlined above and feel we could work through these together to help overcome these challenges, please book an introduction call or reach out via email and we can explore this together.
Many clients I work with are at a time in their lives when they feel stuck and disconnected from themselves. This can be due to trauma, loss or transitions that have occurred both past and present. My approach to therapy is specifically around working together and processing any situation which may have led to the occurrence of difficult emotions, such as; depression, anxiety, stress or grief. At times like this, we may lose ourselves and it is not always easy to navigate these situations alone. However, If there is one thing that life has taught me, it is that sharing and working together brings the possibility of hope and change.
024 7542 4674 View 024 7542 4674
Photo of Agnieszka Walaszek - Aga Counselling, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Aga Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Coventry CV6
I am an integrative counsellor ready to provide you support. My experience is extensive, working with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. I am equipped to handle a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, low self-esteem, addiction, co-dependency, LGBTQ+ related issues, and helping individuals adjust to life changes. I understand that everyone's journey is unique, and I approach therapy with an integrative approach, tailoring my techniques to meet the specific needs of each client. Additionally, I offer walking therapy, allowing clients to engage in therapy while enjoying the outdoors.
I am an integrative counsellor ready to provide you support. My experience is extensive, working with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. I am equipped to handle a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, low self-esteem, addiction, co-dependency, LGBTQ+ related issues, and helping individuals adjust to life changes. I understand that everyone's journey is unique, and I approach therapy with an integrative approach, tailoring my techniques to meet the specific needs of each client. Additionally, I offer walking therapy, allowing clients to engage in therapy while enjoying the outdoors.
024 7542 7355 View 024 7542 7355
Photo of Tanya Oosthuyzen, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Tanya Oosthuyzen
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Coventry CV7  (Online Only)
I work from a person-centred approach, where your needs are addressed with non-judgement, empathy & confidentiality.
Are you maybe having difficulties with anxiety or depression; feeling overwhelmed; lacking in motivation; experiencing relationship difficulties; having intrusive or ruminating thoughts; struggling to make decisions; looking to explore greater personal growth & insight or feel you are not quite reaching your full potential? - perhaps I can help. I am a Clinical Psychologist in private practice providing psychotherapy within a safe, containing space - allowing you the opportunity to openly explore a range of thoughts, behaviours & emotions, with someone trained to help understand & make sense of them.
I work from a person-centred approach, where your needs are addressed with non-judgement, empathy & confidentiality.
Are you maybe having difficulties with anxiety or depression; feeling overwhelmed; lacking in motivation; experiencing relationship difficulties; having intrusive or ruminating thoughts; struggling to make decisions; looking to explore greater personal growth & insight or feel you are not quite reaching your full potential? - perhaps I can help. I am a Clinical Psychologist in private practice providing psychotherapy within a safe, containing space - allowing you the opportunity to openly explore a range of thoughts, behaviours & emotions, with someone trained to help understand & make sense of them.
01423 648724 View 01423 648724
Photo of Donita Rodrigues, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Donita Rodrigues
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Coventry CV7  (Online Only)
The cultivation of a collaborative therapeutic alliance is the cornerstone of my therapeutic approach.
When you are navigating your life and its challenges, you may feel anxious; depressed; frustrated with your motivation; worried that you are not doing enough to achieve what you want for your life or in your relationships; have intrusive thoughts; struggle to sleep; or no longer enjoy activities or relationships the way you used to. Together, in a non-judgmental, empathic and confidential therapeutic relationship, we will unpack why you feel this way.
The cultivation of a collaborative therapeutic alliance is the cornerstone of my therapeutic approach.
When you are navigating your life and its challenges, you may feel anxious; depressed; frustrated with your motivation; worried that you are not doing enough to achieve what you want for your life or in your relationships; have intrusive thoughts; struggle to sleep; or no longer enjoy activities or relationships the way you used to. Together, in a non-judgmental, empathic and confidential therapeutic relationship, we will unpack why you feel this way.
020 7123 9240 View 020 7123 9240
Photo of Jacqueline Hurst, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Jacqueline Hurst
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Coventry CV4
You will find that I am a kind, an understanding ,caring, and accepting and compassionate person who will listen to your difficulties and help you to gain the tools to overcome the issues you face .
People who are finding every day a real struggle with strong, even overwhelming feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, anger. At the other end of the spectrum are some who may have feelings of dissatisfaction a sense that they are not getting all they want in their lives. I believe that all of us want to strive to be happier and more fulfilled than we currently are. We want to feel a connection with other people and to have a sense of well being and connection with the world around us.
You will find that I am a kind, an understanding ,caring, and accepting and compassionate person who will listen to your difficulties and help you to gain the tools to overcome the issues you face .
People who are finding every day a real struggle with strong, even overwhelming feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, anger. At the other end of the spectrum are some who may have feelings of dissatisfaction a sense that they are not getting all they want in their lives. I believe that all of us want to strive to be happier and more fulfilled than we currently are. We want to feel a connection with other people and to have a sense of well being and connection with the world around us.
024 7693 5264 View 024 7693 5264
Photo of Claire Nash, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Claire Nash
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Coventry CV4
It can be scary to take those first steps towards therapy but I can support and guide you through every part of the process.
The struggles of day to day life can take its toll on our emotional & physical well-being. When we are stressed, anxious, depressed or having difficulty in expressing ourselves to others, then just getting through a day can feel like an impossible task.
It can be scary to take those first steps towards therapy but I can support and guide you through every part of the process.
The struggles of day to day life can take its toll on our emotional & physical well-being. When we are stressed, anxious, depressed or having difficulty in expressing ourselves to others, then just getting through a day can feel like an impossible task.
07794 495067 View 07794 495067
Photo of Jeremy Alan Tudway, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Jeremy Alan Tudway
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Coventry CV5
If you think that I might be able to assist you then please feel free to contact me for an informal discussion.
I offer therapy and psychological help to adults of all abilities in respect of emotional, social and behavioural problems.
If you think that I might be able to assist you then please feel free to contact me for an informal discussion.
I offer therapy and psychological help to adults of all abilities in respect of emotional, social and behavioural problems.
01676 939478 View 01676 939478
Photo of Iris Kay, PsychD, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Iris Kay
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Coventry CV1  (Online Only)
I have experience working for Government organisations, including the NHS, Fire Service, Police and Emergency Services via Zoom/Teams Using psycho therapies for PTSD, trauma, stressful events and experiencing flashbacks, panic, anxiety and depression.
I am Consultant EMDR Trauma Therapist and NHS Experienced Trauma Therapist with over 20 years experience NHS Mental Health Experience. I am an accredited Counsellor and Psychotherapist, and Accredited Consultant EMDR Trauma Therapist. I work using the latest neuropsychological therapies that involve working with Brain and Body interaction and within the NHS Nice Guidelines and World Health Organisation Recommendations and Guidelines. My experience of working on line worldwide via Zoom/Teams since COVID pandemic and works really well wth the advantage of flexibility, no parking, time saving and efficient psychologically.
I have experience working for Government organisations, including the NHS, Fire Service, Police and Emergency Services via Zoom/Teams Using psycho therapies for PTSD, trauma, stressful events and experiencing flashbacks, panic, anxiety and depression.
I am Consultant EMDR Trauma Therapist and NHS Experienced Trauma Therapist with over 20 years experience NHS Mental Health Experience. I am an accredited Counsellor and Psychotherapist, and Accredited Consultant EMDR Trauma Therapist. I work using the latest neuropsychological therapies that involve working with Brain and Body interaction and within the NHS Nice Guidelines and World Health Organisation Recommendations and Guidelines. My experience of working on line worldwide via Zoom/Teams since COVID pandemic and works really well wth the advantage of flexibility, no parking, time saving and efficient psychologically.
024 7542 2408 View 024 7542 2408

See more therapy options for Balsall Common

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.