Depression Counselling in Swansea

Photo of Dave Wilde, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Dave Wilde
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Swansea SA1
I also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders and working with trainee counsellors and couples.
I offer both short-term and long-term therapy and I specialise in working with: anxiety; depression; panic disorder; relationship issues; addiction; eating disorders; bereavement; loss; childhood sexual abuse and complex PTSD. I am a fully trained Emotion Focused therapist and I will work with you to change feelings that are painful and overwhelming.
I also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders and working with trainee counsellors and couples.
I offer both short-term and long-term therapy and I specialise in working with: anxiety; depression; panic disorder; relationship issues; addiction; eating disorders; bereavement; loss; childhood sexual abuse and complex PTSD. I am a fully trained Emotion Focused therapist and I will work with you to change feelings that are painful and overwhelming.
01792 720287 View 01792 720287
Photo of Anne Pamela Marvelly, Counsellor, MBACP
Anne Pamela Marvelly
Counsellor, MBACP
Swansea SA3
Since early childhood I had been anxious and depressed and received very little help until I reached 40, was bringing up 4 children and became very concerned about the effect my moods could be having on them.
I studied Transactional Analysis which looks at how our present life -patterns originate in childhood, so , if the client wishes, we look at their childhood to see how it may be affecting their current life, for example in the way they relate to others. The aim is to set people free from anything which may be causing unhappiness or causing low self-esteem.
Since early childhood I had been anxious and depressed and received very little help until I reached 40, was bringing up 4 children and became very concerned about the effect my moods could be having on them.
I studied Transactional Analysis which looks at how our present life -patterns originate in childhood, so , if the client wishes, we look at their childhood to see how it may be affecting their current life, for example in the way they relate to others. The aim is to set people free from anything which may be causing unhappiness or causing low self-esteem.
01962 587343 View 01962 587343
Photo of Lindsey Heathcote-Elliott - Change4Me Counselling Service (MBACP, Accred), Counsellor, MBACP Accred
I work with adults experiencing a range of issues including generalised anxiety, assertiveness issues,panic attacks, depression, PTSD, panic attacks, loss and bereavement.
I draw on a range of approaches which include: Person Centred and cognitive behavioural therapy, transactional analysis, and solution focused therapy. i have completed additional training in narcissistic personality disorder; borderline personality disorder and emotional freedom technique. I have an interest and in working with ADHD/ autism and narcissism.
I work with adults experiencing a range of issues including generalised anxiety, assertiveness issues,panic attacks, depression, PTSD, panic attacks, loss and bereavement.
I draw on a range of approaches which include: Person Centred and cognitive behavioural therapy, transactional analysis, and solution focused therapy. i have completed additional training in narcissistic personality disorder; borderline personality disorder and emotional freedom technique. I have an interest and in working with ADHD/ autism and narcissism.
01656 334088 View 01656 334088
Photo of Elen Thomas, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Elen Thomas
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Swansea SA3
Having worked for more than 20 years in the voluntary sector and education, supporting people with their mental health and wellbeing, I have experience of working with a range of issues, from anxiety and depression to bereavement and trauma.
By learning to understand what drives us, we are able to change and grow.... and most importantly, learn what to do when we get ‘stuck'. I recognise that the first steps in counselling are often not easy, so will make sure we go at a pace that suits you; therapy can be short or long term, we can decide this as we go along. I am a qualified psychotherapist, couple's therapist and fully trained clinical supervisor, offering a private space in my garden studio, where together we can explore whatever brings you to therapy. I trained in Emotion Focussed Therapy which works on the premise that our emotions guide everything we do.
Having worked for more than 20 years in the voluntary sector and education, supporting people with their mental health and wellbeing, I have experience of working with a range of issues, from anxiety and depression to bereavement and trauma.
By learning to understand what drives us, we are able to change and grow.... and most importantly, learn what to do when we get ‘stuck'. I recognise that the first steps in counselling are often not easy, so will make sure we go at a pace that suits you; therapy can be short or long term, we can decide this as we go along. I am a qualified psychotherapist, couple's therapist and fully trained clinical supervisor, offering a private space in my garden studio, where together we can explore whatever brings you to therapy. I trained in Emotion Focussed Therapy which works on the premise that our emotions guide everything we do.
01792 940431 View 01792 940431
Photo of David Lloyd-Brown, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
David Lloyd-Brown
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Swansea SA1
I'm an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and a UCKCP registered counsellor, with over twenty years’ experience of helping my clients overcome issues such as depression and anxiety.
Hello, my name is David and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. The fact that you’re considering seeing a counsellor means that you’re unhappy with a part of your life, whether it be an unfulfilling relationship, an uncertainty about career or lifestyle choices, or thoughts and behaviours that inhibit your ability to lead the life that you once dared to imagine. The pandemic has also forced people to look again at their life and reappraise what they really want from it.
I'm an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and a UCKCP registered counsellor, with over twenty years’ experience of helping my clients overcome issues such as depression and anxiety.
Hello, my name is David and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. The fact that you’re considering seeing a counsellor means that you’re unhappy with a part of your life, whether it be an unfulfilling relationship, an uncertainty about career or lifestyle choices, or thoughts and behaviours that inhibit your ability to lead the life that you once dared to imagine. The pandemic has also forced people to look again at their life and reappraise what they really want from it.
01792 940497 View 01792 940497
Photo of Dr Jack Arnold, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Jack Arnold
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist and have worked in the NHS for almost 10 years, covering a wide range of psychological difficulties such as anxiety and panic, low mood and depression, trauma and PTSD, weight management, health conditions and medical trauma, OCD and more.
I draw from a range of evidence-based psychological therapies including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT). I am also an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapist.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and have worked in the NHS for almost 10 years, covering a wide range of psychological difficulties such as anxiety and panic, low mood and depression, trauma and PTSD, weight management, health conditions and medical trauma, OCD and more.
I draw from a range of evidence-based psychological therapies including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT). I am also an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) therapist.
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Photo of Dr Gareth P Thomas, Psychologist, CPsychol
Dr Gareth P Thomas
Psychologist, CPsychol
Serves Area
, PTSD, depression, stress and much more.
My solution-focused approach to therapy is modern and evidence-based. It actively encourages focus on the positive aspects of life. I am qualified in various treatments including hypnotherapy, solution-focused brief therapy (talk therapy), and brain-working recursive therapy. These approaches improve quality of life and help you to live a fulfilled life.
, PTSD, depression, stress and much more.
My solution-focused approach to therapy is modern and evidence-based. It actively encourages focus on the positive aspects of life. I am qualified in various treatments including hypnotherapy, solution-focused brief therapy (talk therapy), and brain-working recursive therapy. These approaches improve quality of life and help you to live a fulfilled life.
01639 501373 View 01639 501373
Photo of Gareth Dix, Counsellor, MBACP
Gareth Dix
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Any issues can be explored in my sessions but I have the most experience supporting those struggling with anxiety, depression, bullying & neurodiversity.
• Swift Response To Enquiries • Prompt Start • Grounded Approach • Online only • I have 12 years Counselling experience working in school, college, university, prison & NHS environments. I'm qualified as an Integrative Counsellor & can utilise different methods of therapy depending on the client’s individual needs. This is underpinned by my strong Person-Centred approach that results in my appointments being dynamic in nature because everyone is unique with their own problems & worries. I’m unapologetically geeky with interests including AI art, music, video games, memorabilia, science fiction & anything related to Marvel & DC.
Any issues can be explored in my sessions but I have the most experience supporting those struggling with anxiety, depression, bullying & neurodiversity.
• Swift Response To Enquiries • Prompt Start • Grounded Approach • Online only • I have 12 years Counselling experience working in school, college, university, prison & NHS environments. I'm qualified as an Integrative Counsellor & can utilise different methods of therapy depending on the client’s individual needs. This is underpinned by my strong Person-Centred approach that results in my appointments being dynamic in nature because everyone is unique with their own problems & worries. I’m unapologetically geeky with interests including AI art, music, video games, memorabilia, science fiction & anything related to Marvel & DC.
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Photo of Becca Page, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Becca Page
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Online Only
I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stress and burnout, grief and loss, trauma, family difficulties, and narcissistic abuse.
My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental and grounded in curiosity. Together, we can begin to uncover the roots of what you’re carrying and move toward a more connected, empowered way of being.
I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stress and burnout, grief and loss, trauma, family difficulties, and narcissistic abuse.
My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental and grounded in curiosity. Together, we can begin to uncover the roots of what you’re carrying and move toward a more connected, empowered way of being.
01446 501411 View 01446 501411
Photo of Dr Philip Murphy, Clinical Psychologist, PsychD
Dr Philip Murphy
Clinical Psychologist, PsychD
Serves Area
I have extensive experience in working with OCD, depression, anxiety, marital problems, trauma, sleep, and a wide range of other social and emotional difficulties.
Dr Philip Murphy (B.Sc, Ph.D, Dip.Clin.Psy, C.Psychol, M.N.C.P.S. Acc, A.F.B.Ps.S). Consultant Clinical Psychologist. During my 34 year career I have developed experience in many therapeutic approaches. Using this experience, we can work together to help you understand and overcome the social and emotional difficulties in your life. Embarking on personal therapy can sometimes seem daunting, But generally my clients settle comfortably into our pleasant relaxed setting, and usually find it surprisingly easy to share their thoughts.
I have extensive experience in working with OCD, depression, anxiety, marital problems, trauma, sleep, and a wide range of other social and emotional difficulties.
Dr Philip Murphy (B.Sc, Ph.D, Dip.Clin.Psy, C.Psychol, M.N.C.P.S. Acc, A.F.B.Ps.S). Consultant Clinical Psychologist. During my 34 year career I have developed experience in many therapeutic approaches. Using this experience, we can work together to help you understand and overcome the social and emotional difficulties in your life. Embarking on personal therapy can sometimes seem daunting, But generally my clients settle comfortably into our pleasant relaxed setting, and usually find it surprisingly easy to share their thoughts.
01874 640087 View 01874 640087
Photo of Bonita James, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Bonita James
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Swansea SA1
Do you feel stuck, confused, ashamed, alone, depressed or unable to move on?
Hello & welcome. Please email any inquiries. Whatever you or your child are struggling with right now, I would be honoured to support you. I specialise in Children, Adolescents and Young Adults. But I am able to offer sessions to anyone interested. I offer F2F Sessions in a lovely, clean and quiet counselling room in central Swansea. I offer a relaxed, informal, non judgmental & safe place to explore your thoughts, feelings and anxieties. If you're nervous about opening up to friends, family or partners and think that sharing with a trained professional confidentially could help then please drop me an email.
Do you feel stuck, confused, ashamed, alone, depressed or unable to move on?
Hello & welcome. Please email any inquiries. Whatever you or your child are struggling with right now, I would be honoured to support you. I specialise in Children, Adolescents and Young Adults. But I am able to offer sessions to anyone interested. I offer F2F Sessions in a lovely, clean and quiet counselling room in central Swansea. I offer a relaxed, informal, non judgmental & safe place to explore your thoughts, feelings and anxieties. If you're nervous about opening up to friends, family or partners and think that sharing with a trained professional confidentially could help then please drop me an email.
01792 989416 View 01792 989416
Photo of Helen Rees-Morgan, Counsellor, MBACP
Helen Rees-Morgan
Counsellor, MBACP
Swansea SA2
I work with all ages and an extensive list of issues, some common issues I work with are Autism and ADHD symptoms, anxiety, depression, self harm, suicide, stress, family issues, LGBTQ+ issues and Children and young people.
My background is in school based counselling, universities and EAP’s. I have significant experience of working with Children and Young people. I work independently in private practice as well as for local schools, working with families and inclusion services for a systemic approach and I bring a wealth of knowledge to children’s wellbeing.
I work with all ages and an extensive list of issues, some common issues I work with are Autism and ADHD symptoms, anxiety, depression, self harm, suicide, stress, family issues, LGBTQ+ issues and Children and young people.
My background is in school based counselling, universities and EAP’s. I have significant experience of working with Children and Young people. I work independently in private practice as well as for local schools, working with families and inclusion services for a systemic approach and I bring a wealth of knowledge to children’s wellbeing.
01792 966172 View 01792 966172
Photo of Julie Elizabeth Shipton - Growing Wings, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Growing Wings
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Swansea SA4
I work with clients of all ages who may struggle with depression or anxiety, issues of self-esteem, ADHD or school related issues amongst many more.
I'm Julie Shipton MA, BSc (Hons) Psych, GMBPsS, PCBT (Foundation), CTP (Certified Trauma Professional), MNCPS (Acc.), MBACP and I'm a Trauma Psychotherapist and Humanistic Counsellor. My practice is built on a foundation of empathy and professionalism. I offer a range of therapeutic services to individuals of all ages. Whether you're an adult seeking a warm and supportive environment for self-discovery, a parent looking for help for your child, or a young person seeking emotional balance and resilience, I'm here to assist you. I provide both short-term and long-term therapy, tailored to your specific needs.
I work with clients of all ages who may struggle with depression or anxiety, issues of self-esteem, ADHD or school related issues amongst many more.
I'm Julie Shipton MA, BSc (Hons) Psych, GMBPsS, PCBT (Foundation), CTP (Certified Trauma Professional), MNCPS (Acc.), MBACP and I'm a Trauma Psychotherapist and Humanistic Counsellor. My practice is built on a foundation of empathy and professionalism. I offer a range of therapeutic services to individuals of all ages. Whether you're an adult seeking a warm and supportive environment for self-discovery, a parent looking for help for your child, or a young person seeking emotional balance and resilience, I'm here to assist you. I provide both short-term and long-term therapy, tailored to your specific needs.
01792 949728 View 01792 949728
Photo of Annabelle Griffiths, Counsellor, MBACP
Annabelle Griffiths
Counsellor, MBACP
Swansea SA9
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients who have experienced or are experiencing; anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, self identity questions, trauma, bereavement, abuse and addiction.
Who am I? Where do I belong? How do I move forwards? My priority is to offer you a warm, confidential space where we can look at those, or other possible questions. I'm passionate about offering meaningful conversation that helps you to grow in confidence, work through your challenges and be your authentic, ideal self. Together, we will work from a creative and open approach, which focuses on you as a whole person, your views, beliefs, unique experiences, and potential for growth. If you struggle to verbalise your feelings, I offer visualisation, sandtray and imagery work to enable you feel empowered and able to express yourself.
I work with clients who have experienced or are experiencing; anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, self identity questions, trauma, bereavement, abuse and addiction.
Who am I? Where do I belong? How do I move forwards? My priority is to offer you a warm, confidential space where we can look at those, or other possible questions. I'm passionate about offering meaningful conversation that helps you to grow in confidence, work through your challenges and be your authentic, ideal self. Together, we will work from a creative and open approach, which focuses on you as a whole person, your views, beliefs, unique experiences, and potential for growth. If you struggle to verbalise your feelings, I offer visualisation, sandtray and imagery work to enable you feel empowered and able to express yourself.
01639 501304 View 01639 501304
Photo of Victor John Payne, Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Victor John Payne
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Online Only
I have experience of helping people with, trauma effects, borderline personality disorder, dissociation, depression, anxiety and relationship difficulties.
I use the person centred approach to develop a therapeutic relationship with my clients. I also use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, DIalectical Behavioural Therapy and Schema Therapy where they would be helpful for you, the client. I offer online therapy only.
I have experience of helping people with, trauma effects, borderline personality disorder, dissociation, depression, anxiety and relationship difficulties.
I use the person centred approach to develop a therapeutic relationship with my clients. I also use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, DIalectical Behavioural Therapy and Schema Therapy where they would be helpful for you, the client. I offer online therapy only.
01792 739724 View 01792 739724
Photo of Ramona Mihaela Scutea, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Ramona Mihaela Scutea
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Online Only
I am highly experienced in the treatment of a wide variety of mental health difficulties, including depression, anxiety, phobias, personality and dissociative disorders, long-term health conditions, as well as life issue.
Hi, I am a bilingual (English & Romanian) highly skilled Counselling therapist working with NHS and private practice. My clinical work is informed by a range of treatment models, including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing, Motivational interviewing. I offer an integrative approach, adapting therapy according to each client's unique needs, which allows me to provide the best possible therapeutic experience for my clients
I am highly experienced in the treatment of a wide variety of mental health difficulties, including depression, anxiety, phobias, personality and dissociative disorders, long-term health conditions, as well as life issue.
Hi, I am a bilingual (English & Romanian) highly skilled Counselling therapist working with NHS and private practice. My clinical work is informed by a range of treatment models, including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing, Motivational interviewing. I offer an integrative approach, adapting therapy according to each client's unique needs, which allows me to provide the best possible therapeutic experience for my clients
01792 949227 View 01792 949227
Photo of Lynsey Price - Helping Heads Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Helping Heads Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I can help you with many mental health issues including anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, childhood trauma, abuse (including sexual), domestic violence, anger, neurodiversity, stress, relationship worries, carer concerns and responsibilities, overcoming diagnosis, and many more.
Hi name is Lynsey and I am a qualified pluralistic practitioner who is a registered accredited member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and who can walk along side and help you to recover from trauma's and problems in your life. I work empathically with all my clients no matter what their age and provide a safe, supportive, confidential space for us to work through your worries and concerns to help you live your life the way you want to. Even though I am an integrative therapist who is trained in different psychological approaches, I find the best approach is to work directly with you.
I can help you with many mental health issues including anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, childhood trauma, abuse (including sexual), domestic violence, anger, neurodiversity, stress, relationship worries, carer concerns and responsibilities, overcoming diagnosis, and many more.
Hi name is Lynsey and I am a qualified pluralistic practitioner who is a registered accredited member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and who can walk along side and help you to recover from trauma's and problems in your life. I work empathically with all my clients no matter what their age and provide a safe, supportive, confidential space for us to work through your worries and concerns to help you live your life the way you want to. Even though I am an integrative therapist who is trained in different psychological approaches, I find the best approach is to work directly with you.
01792 949056 View 01792 949056
Photo of Mair Llewellyn, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Mair Llewellyn
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Online Only
I work with symptoms of CPTSD including overwhelming anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, panic attacks, self-harm, addictions and suicidal thoughts.
The psychotherapy I offer is Emotion-Focused. Working with the emotions arising from trauma can help you to start making sense of the effect that it is having on your life. As well as talking about how you've been affected emotionally I can work with you on strategies that can help to minimise the anxiety of dealing with life whilst feeling overwhelmed.
I work with symptoms of CPTSD including overwhelming anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, panic attacks, self-harm, addictions and suicidal thoughts.
The psychotherapy I offer is Emotion-Focused. Working with the emotions arising from trauma can help you to start making sense of the effect that it is having on your life. As well as talking about how you've been affected emotionally I can work with you on strategies that can help to minimise the anxiety of dealing with life whilst feeling overwhelmed.
01792 342371 View 01792 342371
Photo of Michael Steven Mainwaring, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Michael Steven Mainwaring
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Swansea SA6
My work covers issues of mental health, anxiety and depression, eating disorders, substance misuse and self-harm and suicide.
I work with children and young people on the things that are important to them. I work in a person centred way. I undertake assessment and create a treatment plan with the client, creating goals the client wants to achieve together. I use art therapy in order to achieve this, whether that be mark making, clay, paint, collage of other materials the client feels comfortable using. Clients can just talk if they want to.
My work covers issues of mental health, anxiety and depression, eating disorders, substance misuse and self-harm and suicide.
I work with children and young people on the things that are important to them. I work in a person centred way. I undertake assessment and create a treatment plan with the client, creating goals the client wants to achieve together. I use art therapy in order to achieve this, whether that be mark making, clay, paint, collage of other materials the client feels comfortable using. Clients can just talk if they want to.
01792 949246 View 01792 949246
Photo of Catherine Thomas, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Catherine Thomas
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Swansea SA2
I have had years of experience offering empathy, support and really useful strategies in managing anxiety, depression, anger and grief.
You may be struggling with life and all it involves, overwhelmed by emotions like anxiety and anger, and desperately trying to manage but constantly losing your grip. Or you may be using coping strategies that used to work - food, alcohol, or other substances - but now don't, or it may be those coping strategies are actually causing you more problems, but you don't know how to change. You may find it difficult to speak to others about your anxieties and difficulties and you feel alone and isolated in your struggle, powerless to make any lasting change.
I have had years of experience offering empathy, support and really useful strategies in managing anxiety, depression, anger and grief.
You may be struggling with life and all it involves, overwhelmed by emotions like anxiety and anger, and desperately trying to manage but constantly losing your grip. Or you may be using coping strategies that used to work - food, alcohol, or other substances - but now don't, or it may be those coping strategies are actually causing you more problems, but you don't know how to change. You may find it difficult to speak to others about your anxieties and difficulties and you feel alone and isolated in your struggle, powerless to make any lasting change.
01792 342359 View 01792 342359

See more therapy options for Swansea

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.