Depression Counselling in Edinburgh

Photo of Colin Fenton, Counsellor, MBACP
Colin Fenton
Counsellor, MBACP
I work in a collaborative, respectful way with whatever you want to explore and have experience of working with: anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, guilt, grief and with work, relationship and friendship issues.
There are many reasons to look for help. If you’re feeling anxious, feeling low, have family troubles, relationship struggles, or maybe there are traumatic experiences fresh in your mind or unresolved in your past. Any of these might make you want to reach out to someone for some help.
I work in a collaborative, respectful way with whatever you want to explore and have experience of working with: anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, guilt, grief and with work, relationship and friendship issues.
There are many reasons to look for help. If you’re feeling anxious, feeling low, have family troubles, relationship struggles, or maybe there are traumatic experiences fresh in your mind or unresolved in your past. Any of these might make you want to reach out to someone for some help.
01764 910693 View 01764 910693
Photo of Suzanne Price, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Suzanne Price
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Edinburgh EH12
Common areas of focus include generalised anxiety, depression, self-doubt, relationship challenges, adult and childhood bereavement.
I draw on relational, psychodynamic, and person centred approaches, adapting how I work depending on what we agree feels most helpful and supportive for you.
Common areas of focus include generalised anxiety, depression, self-doubt, relationship challenges, adult and childhood bereavement.
I draw on relational, psychodynamic, and person centred approaches, adapting how I work depending on what we agree feels most helpful and supportive for you.
0131 381 1293 View 0131 381 1293
Photo of Fiwasade Onifade, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Fiwasade Onifade
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Edinburgh EH16
I support those who have experienced abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, major life trauma, generational trauma, betrayal, loss, bereavement, spirituality, work related issues, cultural issues, sexuality, HIV/AIDS.
At times issues and difficulties in your life might be causing you to feel unfulfilled or distressed, or even just a sense of unhappiness within you. Counselling is a process of talking about these issues and working through them confidentially with a Counsellor. Counselling also helps you address your problems in a positive way, enabling you to clarify these issues, explore options and increase self-awareness. I will offer you a confidential time and space to explore all of these in a very supportive way. I aim to work with you in a way which offers understanding, support and enables you have new perspectives.
I support those who have experienced abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, major life trauma, generational trauma, betrayal, loss, bereavement, spirituality, work related issues, cultural issues, sexuality, HIV/AIDS.
At times issues and difficulties in your life might be causing you to feel unfulfilled or distressed, or even just a sense of unhappiness within you. Counselling is a process of talking about these issues and working through them confidentially with a Counsellor. Counselling also helps you address your problems in a positive way, enabling you to clarify these issues, explore options and increase self-awareness. I will offer you a confidential time and space to explore all of these in a very supportive way. I aim to work with you in a way which offers understanding, support and enables you have new perspectives.
01764 915912 View 01764 915912
Photo of Sarah Worth, Counsellor, MSc, ACC Reg
Sarah Worth
Counsellor, MSc, ACC Reg
I have experience working with anxiety, panic attacks, self harm, suicidal thoughts, depression, boundaries, pregnancy crisis/loss, post abortion, relational issues, trauma and other areas.
I don’t know if you have ever had the opportunity to share your story where someone really listens. I mean really listens, wanting to know you, your story, your ups and downs. Where nothing is off limits. Space to speak what maybe you’ve never spoken before. Sitting in the counsellee seat is not always easy and opening up to someone you do not know can be daunting. I know that taking that first step requires courage and I would love to walk with you on your journey.
I have experience working with anxiety, panic attacks, self harm, suicidal thoughts, depression, boundaries, pregnancy crisis/loss, post abortion, relational issues, trauma and other areas.
I don’t know if you have ever had the opportunity to share your story where someone really listens. I mean really listens, wanting to know you, your story, your ups and downs. Where nothing is off limits. Space to speak what maybe you’ve never spoken before. Sitting in the counsellee seat is not always easy and opening up to someone you do not know can be daunting. I know that taking that first step requires courage and I would love to walk with you on your journey.
0131 381 0082 View 0131 381 0082
Photo of Alison Harper - Harper Clinical Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Harper Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Harper Clinical Psychology is based in Edinburgh and managed by Dr Alison Harper. Alison has over 20 years’ experience of working with a wide range of mental health issues. Also working in the practice with Alison are 6 psychological therapists who offer assessment, formulation and therapy, offering a flexible and collaborative approach to addressing mental health issues. Our website www.harperclinicalpsychology.com gives a more detailed view of our services.
Harper Clinical Psychology is based in Edinburgh and managed by Dr Alison Harper. Alison has over 20 years’ experience of working with a wide range of mental health issues. Also working in the practice with Alison are 6 psychological therapists who offer assessment, formulation and therapy, offering a flexible and collaborative approach to addressing mental health issues. Our website www.harperclinicalpsychology.com gives a more detailed view of our services.
01764 915830 View 01764 915830
Photo of Laura L Mackintosh, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Laura L Mackintosh
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Edinburgh EH10
I welcome clients of all ages and have a particular interest in supporting those facing bereavement, loneliness, anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression.
Life can feel challenging, and it’s not always easy to make sense of what you’re going through. When things become confusing, heavy, or simply too much to manage on your own, counselling offers a steady place to pause and get support. I provide a calm, confidential space where you can talk openly and without judgement. You’re welcome to bring whatever is on your mind — nothing is too small or too complex. I have the training, capability, and life experience to work with a wide range of concerns, and I’ve supported all ages of adults and young people in both primary and secondary school and early twenties too.
I welcome clients of all ages and have a particular interest in supporting those facing bereavement, loneliness, anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression.
Life can feel challenging, and it’s not always easy to make sense of what you’re going through. When things become confusing, heavy, or simply too much to manage on your own, counselling offers a steady place to pause and get support. I provide a calm, confidential space where you can talk openly and without judgement. You’re welcome to bring whatever is on your mind — nothing is too small or too complex. I have the training, capability, and life experience to work with a wide range of concerns, and I’ve supported all ages of adults and young people in both primary and secondary school and early twenties too.
01764 915860 View 01764 915860
Photo of Carol Brown - Carol’s Counselling Space, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Carol’s Counselling Space
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Edinburgh EH12
Do you feel at times you’re on the outside of life looking in? Society’s expectations and demands can be overwhelming, everyone else seems “sorted” while you are struggling with thoughts, identity, relationships, life events.
Do you feel at times you’re on the outside of life looking in? Society’s expectations and demands can be overwhelming, everyone else seems “sorted” while you are struggling with thoughts, identity, relationships, life events.
0131 381 7959 View 0131 381 7959
Photo of Eleanor Pickett, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Eleanor Pickett
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH12
As a CBT therapist, I’ll help you identify the thoughts, feelings and behaviours contributing to anxiety, depression or OCD and find healthier alternatives.
Hello, my name is Ellie and I’m a CBT therapist. If you’ve stumbled on this page, I can imagine you may be going through a difficult time. Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed or not quite yourself, and it feels hard to see a way forward. I understand how challenging it can be to break free from patterns of negative thinking and behaviour — it can feel like being tangled in knots you can’t untie. That’s where CBT can help. Together we’ll gently work through these patterns and find ways to move forward with more self-compassion.
As a CBT therapist, I’ll help you identify the thoughts, feelings and behaviours contributing to anxiety, depression or OCD and find healthier alternatives.
Hello, my name is Ellie and I’m a CBT therapist. If you’ve stumbled on this page, I can imagine you may be going through a difficult time. Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed or not quite yourself, and it feels hard to see a way forward. I understand how challenging it can be to break free from patterns of negative thinking and behaviour — it can feel like being tangled in knots you can’t untie. That’s where CBT can help. Together we’ll gently work through these patterns and find ways to move forward with more self-compassion.
0131 381 6780 View 0131 381 6780
Photo of Jaime Reininho, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Jaime Reininho
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Are you suffering with anxiety, panic, depression, stress?
MBACP Accredited psychotherapist with 20 years professional experience and a wealth of personal experience. My approach is multi disciplinary, including Solution Focused, CBT, Mindfulness, Compassion Focused, Chairwork and Non-Violent Communication. Over the years I have helped hundreds of people overcome their difficulties and move on to better places.
Are you suffering with anxiety, panic, depression, stress?
MBACP Accredited psychotherapist with 20 years professional experience and a wealth of personal experience. My approach is multi disciplinary, including Solution Focused, CBT, Mindfulness, Compassion Focused, Chairwork and Non-Violent Communication. Over the years I have helped hundreds of people overcome their difficulties and move on to better places.
0131 381 7272 View 0131 381 7272
Photo of Monika Trojanowska, Counsellor, BACP
Monika Trojanowska
Counsellor, BACP
You may be feeling stuck in patterns that keep repeating despite your best efforts. Perhaps you find yourself overthinking, taking too much responsibility, feeling “not good enough” or emotionally disconnected. Anxiety, low mood or the impact of past experiences may be leaving you exhausted and unsure of who you are beneath these patterns. You may want more than just coping — you want to understand where these patterns come from and how to move towards a more grounded, confident and authentic way of being.
You may be feeling stuck in patterns that keep repeating despite your best efforts. Perhaps you find yourself overthinking, taking too much responsibility, feeling “not good enough” or emotionally disconnected. Anxiety, low mood or the impact of past experiences may be leaving you exhausted and unsure of who you are beneath these patterns. You may want more than just coping — you want to understand where these patterns come from and how to move towards a more grounded, confident and authentic way of being.
0131 381 3423 View 0131 381 3423
Photo of Jess Bryson, Psychotherapist, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Jess Bryson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
4 Endorsed
I am experienced at working with the following issues: • Anxiety and depression • Self esteem • Loss and bereavement • Loneliness and isolation • Exploring LGBTQ+ identity • Relationship difficulties • Life transitions • Stress and burn out • Domestic abuse • Navigating neurodiversity • Childhood trauma
I work with people to help them to better understand themselves and to make changes in their lives. Before training as a Psychotherapist I worked as a Stakeholder Engagement Researcher, Project Manager and Facilitator for 15 years.
I am experienced at working with the following issues: • Anxiety and depression • Self esteem • Loss and bereavement • Loneliness and isolation • Exploring LGBTQ+ identity • Relationship difficulties • Life transitions • Stress and burn out • Domestic abuse • Navigating neurodiversity • Childhood trauma
I work with people to help them to better understand themselves and to make changes in their lives. Before training as a Psychotherapist I worked as a Stakeholder Engagement Researcher, Project Manager and Facilitator for 15 years.
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Photo of Paul Bell, Psychotherapist, ACP
Paul Bell
Psychotherapist, ACP
I have specific training and experience in the treatment of adolescent depression, psychotherapeutic interventions for fostered, adopted and looked after children, and psychotherapy for university students suffering with mood disorders.
I specialise in psychodynamic treatments for mental illness in children and adolescents. My approach is informed by attachment research, psychodynamic theory and developmental neuroscience. I believe that effective psychotherapy can take time, and that children and young people require adequate space to feel comfortable exploring their difficulties.
I have specific training and experience in the treatment of adolescent depression, psychotherapeutic interventions for fostered, adopted and looked after children, and psychotherapy for university students suffering with mood disorders.
I specialise in psychodynamic treatments for mental illness in children and adolescents. My approach is informed by attachment research, psychodynamic theory and developmental neuroscience. I believe that effective psychotherapy can take time, and that children and young people require adequate space to feel comfortable exploring their difficulties.
0131 357 6279 View 0131 357 6279
Photo of Craig Miller, Counsellor, MCOSCA
Craig Miller
Counsellor, MCOSCA
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is (non)Gender, LGBTQIA+, non-monogomy and kink affirmative. A safe, confidential and grounded space to share whatever might be concerning you. Anxiety, family/relationship struggles, traumatic experiences, feeling low...there are lots of reasons that may have driven you in search of someone to speak with. We will explore whatever has led you to seek counselling at whatever pace feels safest and easiest for you. In terms of how you might experience me...Open, warm, grounded, not afraid to have a laugh or shed a tear, sensitive, non-judgemental and welcoming of all regardless of race, age, gender, sexuality or history.
My practice is (non)Gender, LGBTQIA+, non-monogomy and kink affirmative. A safe, confidential and grounded space to share whatever might be concerning you. Anxiety, family/relationship struggles, traumatic experiences, feeling low...there are lots of reasons that may have driven you in search of someone to speak with. We will explore whatever has led you to seek counselling at whatever pace feels safest and easiest for you. In terms of how you might experience me...Open, warm, grounded, not afraid to have a laugh or shed a tear, sensitive, non-judgemental and welcoming of all regardless of race, age, gender, sexuality or history.
0131 381 0175 View 0131 381 0175
Photo of Fiona Simpson, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Fiona Simpson
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I am a Chartered Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience of working with people across the age range to manage and overcome psychological problems. I work with most types of psychological problems and greatly enjoy the diversity of my practice. I use a number of different psychological therapies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) interpersonal psychotherapy, Schema-focussed Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) targeting problems with the most effective evidence based
I am a Chartered Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience of working with people across the age range to manage and overcome psychological problems. I work with most types of psychological problems and greatly enjoy the diversity of my practice. I use a number of different psychological therapies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) interpersonal psychotherapy, Schema-focussed Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) targeting problems with the most effective evidence based
0131 378 1294 View 0131 378 1294
Photo of Karolina Allan - Best Mind Best Life Therapy, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Best Mind Best Life Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
4 Endorsed
You may feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, overthinking, low mood, depression, the impact of past or traumatic experiences, burn out or repetitive relationship issues, where nothing you try seems to change things for long.
I work with individuals and couples who are tired of feeling this way and want more than just a space to talk — they want to understand what’s happening and how to change it. Together, we’ll look at the patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and experiences — and begin to change them.
You may feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, overthinking, low mood, depression, the impact of past or traumatic experiences, burn out or repetitive relationship issues, where nothing you try seems to change things for long.
I work with individuals and couples who are tired of feeling this way and want more than just a space to talk — they want to understand what’s happening and how to change it. Together, we’ll look at the patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and experiences — and begin to change them.
0131 297 6064 View 0131 297 6064
Photo of James Jackson, Counsellor, MBACP
James Jackson
Counsellor, MBACP
Waitlist for new clients
Many adult difficulties—shame, depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship issues, self-harm, obsessiveness, being overwhelmed—arise from a complex mix of nurture, nature, and fate.
I am an accredited counsellor offering couples counselling and individual therapy in the west end of Edinburgh. I am passionate about helping to improve well-being with care and understanding. My approach is with warmth and compassion, working together to identify, explore, and understand the roots of your challenges. Through this process, I will support you in coming to terms with who you are and guide you in transforming troubling emotions, thoughts and behaviours, leading to a happier and healthier state of mind. This can sometimes be difficult; I will make every effort to ensure you feel safe, supported and capable of change.
Many adult difficulties—shame, depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship issues, self-harm, obsessiveness, being overwhelmed—arise from a complex mix of nurture, nature, and fate.
I am an accredited counsellor offering couples counselling and individual therapy in the west end of Edinburgh. I am passionate about helping to improve well-being with care and understanding. My approach is with warmth and compassion, working together to identify, explore, and understand the roots of your challenges. Through this process, I will support you in coming to terms with who you are and guide you in transforming troubling emotions, thoughts and behaviours, leading to a happier and healthier state of mind. This can sometimes be difficult; I will make every effort to ensure you feel safe, supported and capable of change.
0131 381 6300 View 0131 381 6300
Photo of Alison Cooper, Counsellor, MBACP
Alison Cooper
Counsellor, MBACP
Are you looking for a space to talk, be listened to and make sense of how you feel? I understand it can be hard to open up to someone. I'll provide a safe, confidential and nonjudgmental place where you will be supported to explore any issues which may be affecting your life and help you to find a way to move forwards. I believe that we all have the ability to grow and achieve our potential and that a positive therapeutic relationship can greatly aid this process.
Are you looking for a space to talk, be listened to and make sense of how you feel? I understand it can be hard to open up to someone. I'll provide a safe, confidential and nonjudgmental place where you will be supported to explore any issues which may be affecting your life and help you to find a way to move forwards. I believe that we all have the ability to grow and achieve our potential and that a positive therapeutic relationship can greatly aid this process.
0131 357 5713 View 0131 357 5713
Photo of Andy Clarke, Counsellor, MBACP
Andy Clarke
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Hi, I'm Andy! Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, struggling to find direction, or seeking personal growth? My counselling service is here to support you on your unique journey. With a personalised approach that integrates psychodynamic, cognitive, person-centred, and existential therapies, I offer both short and long-term counselling tailored to your specific needs on-line. Whether you're navigating professional hurdles, seeking balance, or aiming to unlock your full potential, my on-line sessions provide a convenient and confidential space for you to explore and overcome obstacles. Free initial 15 minutes.
Hi, I'm Andy! Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, struggling to find direction, or seeking personal growth? My counselling service is here to support you on your unique journey. With a personalised approach that integrates psychodynamic, cognitive, person-centred, and existential therapies, I offer both short and long-term counselling tailored to your specific needs on-line. Whether you're navigating professional hurdles, seeking balance, or aiming to unlock your full potential, my on-line sessions provide a convenient and confidential space for you to explore and overcome obstacles. Free initial 15 minutes.
0131 381 5708 View 0131 381 5708
Photo of Marika Lisowska, Counsellor, MUKCP
Marika Lisowska
Counsellor, MUKCP
I see therapy as a process of discovery, healing, and growth. We will explore 'how' you are in relationships, make choices, and co-create your world through embodied dialogue. We will learn and play together. We will look at where you feel ‘stuck’ and what seems ‘difficult.’ We will connect with the embodied feelings and complexities that emerge, making space for deeper understanding and new possibilities.I believe that change happens when we have enough support, when we acknowledge our present situation, and commit to the work. My role is to walk WITH you as you reconnect with your aliveness, joy, spontaneity and creativity.
I see therapy as a process of discovery, healing, and growth. We will explore 'how' you are in relationships, make choices, and co-create your world through embodied dialogue. We will learn and play together. We will look at where you feel ‘stuck’ and what seems ‘difficult.’ We will connect with the embodied feelings and complexities that emerge, making space for deeper understanding and new possibilities.I believe that change happens when we have enough support, when we acknowledge our present situation, and commit to the work. My role is to walk WITH you as you reconnect with your aliveness, joy, spontaneity and creativity.
0131 381 8048 View 0131 381 8048
Photo of Mary Wilson, Counsellor
Mary Wilson
Counsellor
I have experience of working with a wide range of problems including, anxiety, OCD, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues.
Thank you for checking out my page. We can all get stuck in distressing thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Sometimes our circumstances change, our past keeps us stuck, or our ways of coping feel like they no longer work. I specialise in helping people overcome these problems through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). We will work together to help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to your distress, empowering you to feel more in control of your mental health.
I have experience of working with a wide range of problems including, anxiety, OCD, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues.
Thank you for checking out my page. We can all get stuck in distressing thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Sometimes our circumstances change, our past keeps us stuck, or our ways of coping feel like they no longer work. I specialise in helping people overcome these problems through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). We will work together to help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to your distress, empowering you to feel more in control of your mental health.
0141 673 0626 x44 View 0141 673 0626 x44

See more therapy options for Edinburgh

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.