Depression Counselling in Edinburgh

Photo of Dr Mike Forrester, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Mike Forrester
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Edinburgh EH16
This can involve working with issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, neurodiversity and perfectionism.
I integrate counselling, coaching and consultancy to facilitate personal growth. Whether you are looking to move: from despair to hope; from struggling to coping; or from managing to flourishing, we can work collaboratively to cultivate a better inner and outer life for you. For twenty years I have worked with those aged 12 to older adults, blending CBT, ACT, person-centred therapy and behavioural modelling to offer support tailored towards your needs and preferences.
This can involve working with issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, neurodiversity and perfectionism.
I integrate counselling, coaching and consultancy to facilitate personal growth. Whether you are looking to move: from despair to hope; from struggling to coping; or from managing to flourishing, we can work collaboratively to cultivate a better inner and outer life for you. For twenty years I have worked with those aged 12 to older adults, blending CBT, ACT, person-centred therapy and behavioural modelling to offer support tailored towards your needs and preferences.
01764 915900 View 01764 915900
Photo of Stephanie Saunders, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Stephanie Saunders
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Online Only
I specialise in working with a number of issues from relationship difficulties, communication problems, low self esteem, issues around intimacy & confidence, depression, anxiety & stress.
I am an Edinburgh based sex and relationship counsellor working full time in private practice with individuals & couples. My practice is based in central Edinburgh however I am currently working online. I specialise in explorative & action based proactive talk therapy aimed at helping you achieve the changes you would like to make in your life & to help you gain clarity & understanding of life experiences. I offer an initial session where we can talk through why you would like to come to therapy. The fee for this is £35. Thereafter, Individual and Couples Therapy is charged at £65 and Sex Therapy sessions are charged at £75.
I specialise in working with a number of issues from relationship difficulties, communication problems, low self esteem, issues around intimacy & confidence, depression, anxiety & stress.
I am an Edinburgh based sex and relationship counsellor working full time in private practice with individuals & couples. My practice is based in central Edinburgh however I am currently working online. I specialise in explorative & action based proactive talk therapy aimed at helping you achieve the changes you would like to make in your life & to help you gain clarity & understanding of life experiences. I offer an initial session where we can talk through why you would like to come to therapy. The fee for this is £35. Thereafter, Individual and Couples Therapy is charged at £65 and Sex Therapy sessions are charged at £75.
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Photo of Laura L Mackintosh, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Laura L Mackintosh
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Edinburgh EH10
I have a special interest in issues such as bereavement, loneliness, anxiety, low self-esteem and depression.
Being human can be complicated, there are times we all struggle to make sense of how we’re living. Sometimes nothing seems to bring us any sense of joy, meaning or simply contentment anymore. Talking to a counsellor might seem intimidating or downright terrifying but it’s honestly true that talking can make a huge difference and help make those negative or even desperate times easier to manage. I will provide you with a safe, non-judgemental space in which you can share any problems or troubling thoughts you might have. Together we will work through these in order that you can find resolution and happiness in your life.
I have a special interest in issues such as bereavement, loneliness, anxiety, low self-esteem and depression.
Being human can be complicated, there are times we all struggle to make sense of how we’re living. Sometimes nothing seems to bring us any sense of joy, meaning or simply contentment anymore. Talking to a counsellor might seem intimidating or downright terrifying but it’s honestly true that talking can make a huge difference and help make those negative or even desperate times easier to manage. I will provide you with a safe, non-judgemental space in which you can share any problems or troubling thoughts you might have. Together we will work through these in order that you can find resolution and happiness in your life.
01764 915860 View 01764 915860
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 Dr Pauline Bell, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Pauline Bell
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
I work with adults experiencing a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, trauma, life-transitions & relationship difficulties.
Therapy is a collaborative process & my aim is to create an environment in which you feel comfortable sharing your concerns & goals in a respectful & confidential environment. I work with people for both short & long-term therapy & use a range of approaches including person-centred therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR & mindfulness-based approaches.
I work with adults experiencing a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, trauma, life-transitions & relationship difficulties.
Therapy is a collaborative process & my aim is to create an environment in which you feel comfortable sharing your concerns & goals in a respectful & confidential environment. I work with people for both short & long-term therapy & use a range of approaches including person-centred therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR & mindfulness-based approaches.
0131 378 8335 View 0131 378 8335
Photo of Pam Black, Counsellor, MBACP
Pam Black
Counsellor, MBACP
Edinburgh EH12
I work with clients who struggle with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, grief, loss, childhood trauma and low self-esteem .
People come to counselling for many reasons. Sometimes this decision is motivated by a need for change or perhaps having to deal with unexpected change. For others it may be a desire to talk, to understand and be understood. I believe there can be real value in talking with someone who is trained and experienced to listen in a way that allows you to feel heard and understood. I provide a safe and non-judgemental space where we can explore the issues that you want to address.
I work with clients who struggle with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, grief, loss, childhood trauma and low self-esteem .
People come to counselling for many reasons. Sometimes this decision is motivated by a need for change or perhaps having to deal with unexpected change. For others it may be a desire to talk, to understand and be understood. I believe there can be real value in talking with someone who is trained and experienced to listen in a way that allows you to feel heard and understood. I provide a safe and non-judgemental space where we can explore the issues that you want to address.
0131 381 1479 View 0131 381 1479
Photo of Deborah McGill, Counsellor, BACP
Deborah McGill
Counsellor, BACP
I work with people bringing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, difficulties around weight, size and eating, loss and grief, and relationship problems.
The relationship between client and counsellor is central to my way of working. Mutual trust and respect are needed to help you feel comfortable enough to express difficult feelings and share painful experiences. We are holistic beings: mind, body, emotions and spirit, and I am interested in working with all these aspects of you.
I work with people bringing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, difficulties around weight, size and eating, loss and grief, and relationship problems.
The relationship between client and counsellor is central to my way of working. Mutual trust and respect are needed to help you feel comfortable enough to express difficult feelings and share painful experiences. We are holistic beings: mind, body, emotions and spirit, and I am interested in working with all these aspects of you.
0131 378 8282 View 0131 378 8282
Photo of Phil Jackman, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Phil Jackman
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
All emotions have a place in therapy ranging from sadness, anger, depression and hurt to joy, happiness and excitement.
My job as a therapist is to help you to live life better. The purpose of therapy is to help you to identify what is holding you back or getting in the way of you living your life how you want to. Whether this is cycles of thoughts, persistent feelings, repetitive behaviours or being stuck in relationships or situations that aren’t fulfilling you. Therapy can help you to explore these, gain understanding and develop solutions that make sense to you.
All emotions have a place in therapy ranging from sadness, anger, depression and hurt to joy, happiness and excitement.
My job as a therapist is to help you to live life better. The purpose of therapy is to help you to identify what is holding you back or getting in the way of you living your life how you want to. Whether this is cycles of thoughts, persistent feelings, repetitive behaviours or being stuck in relationships or situations that aren’t fulfilling you. Therapy can help you to explore these, gain understanding and develop solutions that make sense to you.
0131 381 5537 View 0131 381 5537
Photo of Shannon Jones, Counsellor, MA, BACP
Shannon Jones
Counsellor, MA, BACP
1 Endorsed
My areas of clinical work include anxiety, depression, play therapy, grief, trauma, life transition, and substance use issues.
I believe that healing happens in the context of relationships, and I am dedicated to cultivating a safe and welcoming environment where clients can come as they are and work collaboratively toward their goals. It takes great strength to decide to come to counselling and it has been a joy to witness the healing that happens when clients give themselves space to slow down and process.
My areas of clinical work include anxiety, depression, play therapy, grief, trauma, life transition, and substance use issues.
I believe that healing happens in the context of relationships, and I am dedicated to cultivating a safe and welcoming environment where clients can come as they are and work collaboratively toward their goals. It takes great strength to decide to come to counselling and it has been a joy to witness the healing that happens when clients give themselves space to slow down and process.
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Photo of Carolyn Cassidy, Counsellor, MBACP
Carolyn Cassidy
Counsellor, MBACP
Edinburgh EH12
You may be feeling low, anxious or depressed.
I bring a wealth of knowledge to my counselling practice. For the past 13 years, I had been working within the NHS. My experience has been gained by working within multiple supporting roles. I currently work with an organisation seeing clients suffering with many addictions , as well as running a small Private Practice in the centre of Edinburgh.
You may be feeling low, anxious or depressed.
I bring a wealth of knowledge to my counselling practice. For the past 13 years, I had been working within the NHS. My experience has been gained by working within multiple supporting roles. I currently work with an organisation seeing clients suffering with many addictions , as well as running a small Private Practice in the centre of Edinburgh.
0131 510 4167 View 0131 510 4167
Photo of Vagelis Dimitriou, Counsellor, MBACP
Vagelis Dimitriou
Counsellor, MBACP
There are so many circumstances that cause us pain and suffering expressed in different forms: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, loneliness, lack of purpose and so on.
You will make the choices and the changes to happen. My role is to support you and guide you towards your innate resilience, hope and capacity for change. Ultimately, I believe we all have the answers we need within us and my role is to assist you in finding your own so you can lead a fuller, more fulfilling life.
There are so many circumstances that cause us pain and suffering expressed in different forms: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, loneliness, lack of purpose and so on.
You will make the choices and the changes to happen. My role is to support you and guide you towards your innate resilience, hope and capacity for change. Ultimately, I believe we all have the answers we need within us and my role is to assist you in finding your own so you can lead a fuller, more fulfilling life.
0131 381 6921 View 0131 381 6921
Photo of Owen Vaughan, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Owen Vaughan
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Edinburgh EH11
I have worked with clients of all ages and a with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, workplace problems, academic issues, extended grieving, boarding school trauma, relationships (either as individual client or couples), divorce or separation, redundancy, and retirement.
I offer counselling and psychotherapy on a wide range of issues based on my training in Transactional Analysis, which I finds provides a flexible and responsive approach to therapy and counselling. Throughout our work, I want you to understand the therapy process and feel comfortable that we are focussing on your needs. I work both short and long-term with clients as their needs arise.
I have worked with clients of all ages and a with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, workplace problems, academic issues, extended grieving, boarding school trauma, relationships (either as individual client or couples), divorce or separation, redundancy, and retirement.
I offer counselling and psychotherapy on a wide range of issues based on my training in Transactional Analysis, which I finds provides a flexible and responsive approach to therapy and counselling. Throughout our work, I want you to understand the therapy process and feel comfortable that we are focussing on your needs. I work both short and long-term with clients as their needs arise.
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Photo of Celeste Micciche, Psychotherapist, MSc, BACP
Celeste Micciche
Psychotherapist, MSc, BACP
Given my training in these two areas, I work with various issues that may afflict you, such as depression, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorders, relationship issues, etc.
The Neo-Functionalism approach, with which I was trained, is an integrated therapy and is characterized by a specific theory of the mind-body relationship that looks at the person as a whole and as multidimensional. Therefore this approach pays equal attention to the body and to the mind. The resulting therapeutic work is specific to you and your needs.
Given my training in these two areas, I work with various issues that may afflict you, such as depression, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorders, relationship issues, etc.
The Neo-Functionalism approach, with which I was trained, is an integrated therapy and is characterized by a specific theory of the mind-body relationship that looks at the person as a whole and as multidimensional. Therefore this approach pays equal attention to the body and to the mind. The resulting therapeutic work is specific to you and your needs.
0141 673 8698 View 0141 673 8698
Photo of Krzysztof Wlodarski - Be Yourself Psychotherapy , Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBABCP
Be Yourself Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBABCP
Waitlist for new clients
I’m an integrative CBT therapist specialising in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step—but you don’t have to do it alone. In our first session, we’ll explore what’s brought you here and how your challenges are affecting your life. Difficulties like anxiety or low mood don’t have to rule you—you can gain more understanding and control. We’ll focus on building self-awareness, as gaining insight into your needs, patterns, and emotions is a powerful first step toward gaining control and creating meaningful change. That journey can begin with a conversation.
I’m an integrative CBT therapist specialising in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step—but you don’t have to do it alone. In our first session, we’ll explore what’s brought you here and how your challenges are affecting your life. Difficulties like anxiety or low mood don’t have to rule you—you can gain more understanding and control. We’ll focus on building self-awareness, as gaining insight into your needs, patterns, and emotions is a powerful first step toward gaining control and creating meaningful change. That journey can begin with a conversation.
01764 915872 View 01764 915872
Photo of Russell Malgorzata, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Russell Malgorzata
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Whether you're going through separation and divorce, experiencing abuse, depression, trauma, generally feeling sad or struggling with other emotional issues, I can help.
I offer a non-judgemental, safe, confidential space where we can explore and gain insights into your painful experiences to empower you to consider the options ahead. I also offer on-line therapy or mix of both. There is also an option of short sessions therapy 25- 30min for £30 fee.
Whether you're going through separation and divorce, experiencing abuse, depression, trauma, generally feeling sad or struggling with other emotional issues, I can help.
I offer a non-judgemental, safe, confidential space where we can explore and gain insights into your painful experiences to empower you to consider the options ahead. I also offer on-line therapy or mix of both. There is also an option of short sessions therapy 25- 30min for £30 fee.
0131 357 6150 View 0131 357 6150
Photo of Dr Catriona Jack, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Catriona Jack
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
My specialities lie in working with longstanding trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD and children and family work.
Do you feel a bit lost, frustrated, down or hopeless and unsure of how to make changes? Perhaps you feel like you are repeating the same life patterns. You may feel like you have tried everything and are on your last attempt. Well done for taking this step as I understand how daunting it can be, having done so myself. Lots of people are unsure of what to expect, fear being judged, or have difficulty opening up. I believe we could all benefit from therapy at times. How often do you have someone listen entirely to you in life? Choosing the right therapist can be overwhelming and its important we connect first in a free 15 minute call.
My specialities lie in working with longstanding trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD and children and family work.
Do you feel a bit lost, frustrated, down or hopeless and unsure of how to make changes? Perhaps you feel like you are repeating the same life patterns. You may feel like you have tried everything and are on your last attempt. Well done for taking this step as I understand how daunting it can be, having done so myself. Lots of people are unsure of what to expect, fear being judged, or have difficulty opening up. I believe we could all benefit from therapy at times. How often do you have someone listen entirely to you in life? Choosing the right therapist can be overwhelming and its important we connect first in a free 15 minute call.
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Photo of Susanna Holland, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Susanna Holland
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Edinburgh EH10
I practice Gestalt therapy it’s a holistic and creative therapy that has many tools to support the process of overcoming trauma and deal with anxiety and depression.
Are you struggling? Perhaps you feel you’re stuck and fear your're going round in circles. Sometimes we need support to make sense of our lives, find our way back, forward or sideways. Sometimes, we need someone else to hear, understand us and be alongside us on our journey, to help us see the broader view. Perhaps you’ve had or are having a hard time but don’t know how to change or even if that’s possible. But you hope for something different, for growth as all living creatures do, in the same way new growth reaches for the light. Whatever it is, life is inevitable and change is possible even if it doesn’t feel that way just now.
I practice Gestalt therapy it’s a holistic and creative therapy that has many tools to support the process of overcoming trauma and deal with anxiety and depression.
Are you struggling? Perhaps you feel you’re stuck and fear your're going round in circles. Sometimes we need support to make sense of our lives, find our way back, forward or sideways. Sometimes, we need someone else to hear, understand us and be alongside us on our journey, to help us see the broader view. Perhaps you’ve had or are having a hard time but don’t know how to change or even if that’s possible. But you hope for something different, for growth as all living creatures do, in the same way new growth reaches for the light. Whatever it is, life is inevitable and change is possible even if it doesn’t feel that way just now.
0131 357 6217 View 0131 357 6217
Photo of Aisan Ghaemian - The Feel Better Psychological Services , Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
The Feel Better Psychological Services
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
We are specialized in psychological treatments for Depression Anxiety Aggression Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Anxiety Disorders such as OCD, General Anxiety Disorder, Health Anxiety Social Phobia, Panic & Agoraphobia, Body Dysmorphic Disorder Eating problems such as binge eating
At The Feel Better Psychological Services we provide psychological therapy to adults and their families. All of our clinicians are accredited members of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) in the United Kingdom.
We are specialized in psychological treatments for Depression Anxiety Aggression Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Anxiety Disorders such as OCD, General Anxiety Disorder, Health Anxiety Social Phobia, Panic & Agoraphobia, Body Dysmorphic Disorder Eating problems such as binge eating
At The Feel Better Psychological Services we provide psychological therapy to adults and their families. All of our clinicians are accredited members of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) in the United Kingdom.
0800 669 6281 View 0800 669 6281
Photo of Azima Ryan, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Azima Ryan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
You might have been putting on a 'mask' to go out to work and function in the world, but underneath are living with pain in various forms: depression, anxiety, grief or anger.
Each person is unique, and I will listen carefully to the 'music beneath the words' before tailoring my integrative approach to fit you. This may include asking how your early relationships have fixed 'ways of being' that are hard to shake. Other times, we might look together at how your body is expressing, or holding onto, your emotional experiences.
You might have been putting on a 'mask' to go out to work and function in the world, but underneath are living with pain in various forms: depression, anxiety, grief or anger.
Each person is unique, and I will listen carefully to the 'music beneath the words' before tailoring my integrative approach to fit you. This may include asking how your early relationships have fixed 'ways of being' that are hard to shake. Other times, we might look together at how your body is expressing, or holding onto, your emotional experiences.
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Photo of Susan Chan - SC Bilingual Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
SC Bilingual Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH12
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health symptoms.
Have you ever felt stuck but unsure of the reasons? Do you feel that you're unable to see the lights at the end of the tunnel? ​​Maybe you want to press the 'Reset' button, declutter your mind, and put life into perspectives but not sure how and where to start?​ Or perhaps you want to talk to a counselling professional who could support your wellbeing recovery journey in an unbiased, safe, confidential, empathetic, and non-judgemental space?
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health symptoms.
Have you ever felt stuck but unsure of the reasons? Do you feel that you're unable to see the lights at the end of the tunnel? ​​Maybe you want to press the 'Reset' button, declutter your mind, and put life into perspectives but not sure how and where to start?​ Or perhaps you want to talk to a counselling professional who could support your wellbeing recovery journey in an unbiased, safe, confidential, empathetic, and non-judgemental space?
0131 381 6223 View 0131 381 6223

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.