Depression Support Groups in British Columbia

We are a group of 10 counsellors with diverse specialties who are working together from an office in downtown Abbotsford.
Hosted by Dan Bue
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC-ACS, Rev
Verified Verified
Group meets in Abbotsford, BC V2S
I have encountered a lot of clients suffering from Depression, Anxiety and Anger Management and have had great success in bringing them to a much healthier place in their lives.
A registered counsellor since 1994, I have worked with a wide array of clients. I have done much work with marriages and relationships and have developed a system that generally makes a significant difference within 6 sessions. For six years, I worked as an elementary school counsellor, working with over 450 children for a wide variety of needs. For 20 years, I worked extensively with Level 3 foster children, mostly teens. I also served as a prison chaplain so am familiar with criminal justice issues and addictions. Because of the diversity of my experience, I can generally relate to most clients.
(855) 219-4397 View (855) 219-4397
Matty Devenish Therapy is offering a group for those who are interested in understanding and resisting the influence of Depression. Many people have consulted with me about their struggles with Depression. They've shared feeling consumed by: negative, hate-filled thoughts about themselves, feeling full of despair and hopelessness, suicidal thinking, intense shame and a sense of worthlessness. My experience has shown that group counselling can interrupt this story. It provides an opportunity to share one's own experience and also an opportunity to share strategies to finding freedom from Depression.
Hosted by Matty Devenish
Counsellor, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Vancouver, BC V6J
I also specialize in working with parents and families who are struggling with youth/young adults who are caught in addiction.
Throughout my work I have supported many people who are struggling with: depression, anxiety, negative thoughts about oneself, addiction, dis-ordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thinking, sexuality, gender identity, sexual orientation, issues related to racism, sexism, homophobia and transphobia, grief and loss, men's issues, anger and frustration. I encourage you to contact me if you are experiencing any of these struggles. Exploration with another person can help us to re-author our relationship to problems and begin to move towards our preferred ways of being in the world.
(855) 733-8099 View (855) 733-8099
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses the creative process of making art as a therapeutic technique to improve a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It is based on the belief that the creative process involved in artistic self-expression helps people to resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight. Hannah is a trained professional with a background in both art and counselling. She will guide clients through activities such as drawing, painting, sculpting, or collage.
Hosted by Innerverse Therapy
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Vancouver, BC V6Z
We aim to provide comprehensive support and assistance in addressing various aspects of personal growth, well-being, and self-discovery.
We work with individuals, couples, and families to address a wide variety of concerns. Areas of focus may include: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Marital issues, Separation, Divorce, Parenting, Relationship problems, Addictions, Low self-esteem, Assertiveness, Anger, Communication, Career issues, Grief, Aging, Health issues.
(506) 497-6457 View (506) 497-6457
This 2.5 day group workshop is for you if you don't know what you want from life, or what life wants from you. Perhaps your life is in transition and you are looking for inspiration for a new path, or you are wanting to rekindle joy and enthusiasm for the life you have. Calibrating True North is rooted in existentialism; the perfect remedy to a concerning and chaotic world. When you know what you value, and what gives your life meaning, it creates a solid anchor for remaining true to yourself while the storm swirls. Oct 21-23.
Hosted by Kristina Campbell
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Courtenay, BC V9N
Often our biggest misconception is that we are alone in our difficulties.
Do you find yourself wishing that the world would just slow down for a few moments, let you catch your breath and get your feet back underneath you? Are you wondering how things got so overwhelming and out of control? In times of transition, whether by choice or demand, we often find ourselves needing new skills to cope with our changing circumstances. Our relationships are deeply impacted by our ability to communicate our needs, desires, and boundaries, and yet we are taught so few of these skills.
(506) 308-1517 View (506) 308-1517
Accessing non-ordinary states in controlled therapeutic settings through means such as cannabis-assisted breathwork has shown to mitigate symptoms of post-traumatic stress & increase overall well-being. For more information on our Cannabis Therapy please see our website. In the week prior to the in-person cannabis-assisted breathwork circle, you will attend a virtual group preparation meeting. Discussion will include risks & benefits, what to expect, self-care leading up to the intervention, confidentiality, intention setting, & any questions that you might have. The cannabis-assisted breathwork circle in office session lasts about 4 hours.
Hosted by Strength in Heart Counselling
Treatment Centre, RCC, RSW, CCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8V
Our research based, results-driven methods will save you time & lead you to live a more satisfying life.
We are a team of compassionate & experienced counsellors who will support you to discover your inner resilience, empowerment & self-confidence. We support anyone dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, stress, grief & more. Individuals seeking personal growth & healing, couples striving for stronger, more connected relationships, families longing for more connection & improved communication.
(506) 788-6728 View (506) 788-6728
MBSR is an 8 week program that was developed at the University of Massachusetts Medical School in 1979. Helpful for: ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, STRESS, CHRONIC HEALHT CONDITIONS. You will learn how to reduce negative or anxious thinking, manage and reduce pain, depression, interpersonal problems, lack of confidence, and stress. "Life changing"
Hosted by Erika Horwitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Burnaby, BC V3N
I also teach Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction classes, which are transformational.
CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, eating issues, relationships, stress and coping, chronic pain? I have over 25 years experience in helping people with a range of struggles. You can expect to feel heard and understood and not only gain insight into your issues but also learn tools that will help you begin to feel better right after the first session. Because I believe in the amazing capacity of human beings to transform, I help to instil hope because of my passion and belief in the process of transformation.
(778) 760-1596 View (778) 760-1596
Mid 20's to mid 30's is a time of transition for women - moving from the defined roles of student and adolescent, to the complicated role of adult. Women experience increased pressure to answer life's big questions - what do I value? how do I create healthy relationships? what are my priorities? what is my purpose? who am I? If these questions are poignant and compelling to you, you are invited to join a group of like-minded young women working to author conscious, meaningful answers. The group will incorporate modalities including conversation, art, writing, visualization.
Hosted by Cathy Trudeau
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Burnaby, BC V5A
My approach is grounded in Relational Theory which assumes that we are profoundly influenced and shaped by relationships, both past and present.
Life is a journey in which we all encounter unexpected twists and turns, detours and obstacles... The journey can also be full of possibility, discovery and joy. Counselling can provide support and strategies to help you navigate the challenges with greater ease, and enhance the positive experiences with a sense of meaning and purpose. My goal in counselling is to foster an environment in which you may achieve greater understanding and compassion for yourself, find ways to ease distress, and create more clarity, peace and stability in your life.
(604) 812-5711 View (604) 812-5711
As we take on the voices of our caregivers from childhood, we become our own harshest critics. This weekend is designed to help us identify and let go of the guilt that weighs us down like an anchor as well as to let go of any grievances we carry that keep us from thriving. This is a residential weekend workshop at beautiful Ravenstone Retreat Centre. Dates TBD once social distancing measures are complete.
Hosted by Ravenstone Counselling
Counsellor, RTC, MTC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Hope, BC V0X
We all re-live trauma to varying degrees.
I believe every person is the expert of their life. I provide a safe environment where people can process and gain the insights and awareness they are seeking. Many of us feel trapped in shame, guilt, fear, loneliness, anger, and hurt and we become our own harshest critic. These feelings are often unconscious, deep-rooted and have not been recognized, acknowledged and shared with someone non-judgmental. Well-intentioned family members, friends and co-workers offer advice and support in ways that can inhibit our healing process. As we share our life stories with someone objective we are able to heal ourselves.
(855) 982-1271 View (855) 982-1271
Developing the Psychological Wisdom of Our Lives: This is an 8 week online psychotherapy group for individuals interested in evolving a deeper, more meaningful experience of both themselves and their relationships. The group is for people who want to examine their style of relating to self and others; explore new ways of relating, deepening their relationships, while transforming struggles such as depression, anxiety and grief into insight, joy and freedom. You will learn techniques to enhance self-acceptance and compassion for self and others, while practicing mindfulness of thought, feelings and communication.
Hosted by Dr. Jeannine Davies Wellness Services
Counsellor, PhD, RCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Vancouver, BC V6K
I have published my work in various psychological publications as well as created transformational learning programs, led groups and retreats.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families to heal from the personal and interpersonal obstacles that are preventing them from actualizing their unique potentials and experiencing a fulfilling, dynamic life. My areas of specialization include relationship and intimacy issues, anxiety, stress, loss and grief, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and addictions. I work collaboratively, focusing on the unique needs of each client, to identify your personal goals for change. Insight, awareness, acceptance and strengths building are some of the approaches I use to help transform maladaptive thinking patterns, destructive behaviors, and move toward a more balanced and connected life.
(855) 640-7243 View (855) 640-7243
Psychodynamic therapy groups are recommended for people interested in creating deeper changes within themselves and their relationships. They are similar to support groups, in which members are encouraged to connect and share their personal lives and mental health/relational challenges. The groups also involve members sharing how they experience each other, along with any emotions that may arise. The Wednesday group starts at 5:30pm PST / 8:30pm EST and runs for 80 minutes each week - please see ninajankovic.com for more information.
Hosted by Nina Jankovic
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Vancouver, BC V5Z
You may contact me via email for a free initial intake session to see whether you would be a good fit for a group.
I offer psychodynamic group therapy, which is highly recommended for those who have grown up in invalidating/harmful environments in which they were not heard, and rarely attuned to. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, attachment injuries, heightened shame, existential questions, and have a desire to develop a better relationship with yourself along with others. Prospective group members have largely moved beyond immediate trauma responses and are looking to explore more deeply.
View
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is proven evidence based therapy to treat very complex mental health behaviours and conditions. Explore Wellness is pleased to offer this valuable training to the local counsellors engaged in providing mental health counselling to clients in our local community. When equipped with sound DBT knowledge, you will be able to treat your clients to optimize on their chances for recovery and enjoy life to their full potential. This is our way of sharing our expertise and make difference to the community we live, play and thrive in. Don’t wait and book your place today..
Hosted by Explore wellness Inc. www.explorewellness.ca
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Abbotsford, BC V3G
You can rest assured that when you approach Explore Wellness, you will be treated with dignity, respect and warmth.
As a therapist, I understand that everyone experiences stress and challenging emotions from time to time whether it's overwhelming feelings, trauma, competing demands, losses, or unexpected life events. These struggles can sometimes lead to anxiety, depression, feelings of hopelessness or helplessness, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, mood swings, and difficulties in regulating emotions. Such experiences can impact various aspects of life, including personal relationships, work, and academic pursuits. I take a completely non-judgmental approach with a strong focus on your wellness. I am here to listen and provide a safe, support
(249) 490-5967 View (249) 490-5967
In the coming months, I'll be hosting a series of webinars focused on various mental health topics, including strategies for managing anxiety, coping with grief, navigating social media's impact on our well-being, and much more. These sessions are designed not only for individuals seeking therapeutic guidance and support for their personal journeys but also for those looking to help loved ones navigate these challenges. The webinars will be live, on a Friday from 12pm-1:30pm PST. And the last half and hour is for questions and guidance. Please email for sign up link.
Hosted by Trixie Hennessey Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Kelowna, BC V1Y
Trixie holds a core belief in the power of relationships to heal and transform.
Trixie Hennessey has extensive experience supporting clients and their families with complex issues such as eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions, grief/loss, trauma, and self-harm. Trixie helps clients examine their interpersonal relationships and their use of maladaptive coping skills. Trixie would welcome the chance to schedule a free consultation with you in order to help you decide if working together will meet your needs. Trixie is works in person and remotely at this time.
(249) 444-2032 View (249) 444-2032
This 2 hour workshop is offered Sundays from 11-1pm and supports deeper connection to self through promoting the mind/body balance
Hosted by Colleen Vantol
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Abbotsford, BC V2S
You are not alone, every journey starts with a single step.
At times, we all wonder if our present day realities are aligned with our intended paths. Was it the right time? The right job? The right relationship? Is this as good as it gets? Am I happy? Am I fulfilled? If you experience anxiety, depression, confusion or simply feel alone, counselling can offer opportunities for a deeper sense of connection to yourself, your relationships and your life. I am here to walk alongside of you, to listen to your goals, desires and needs. Whether it is sharing long kept secrets, traumas or personal revelations I am here to connect with you.
(587) 809-2820 View (587) 809-2820
Our DBT Youth Group is aimed to support youth between the ages of 12-18. The group runs over 4 60-minute virtual sessions, with each session focused on one of the four pillars of DBT: mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. Youth have the opportunity to stay connected between sessions through a youth chat with the clinician.
Hosted by Apricot Integrated Wellness
Counsellor, B Ed, MA , RCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Langley, BC V2Y
There is a lot going on in the world right now, so you are not alone if you are feeling anxious, depressed, or having difficulty navigating your emotions.
Hi, I'm Lauren. I am a registered clinical counsellor with experience working with both youth and adults with a variety of different strengths and abilities. I work often with individuals facing anxiety, depression, body image dysmorphia, interpersonal conflict, and other related concerns. I am passionate about supporting others to build the skills necessary for the life they want. Perhaps you are facing a specific problem in your life; or, maybe you are feeling ready to work through something that has been weighing heavy for a while. If you are ready to be heard in a safe and non-judgmental space, I am here to listen.
(647) 363-7880 View (647) 363-7880
Learn more about this transformative series of workshops where we delve into a variety of arts mediums, including clay, creative writing, journaling, visual arts and fun games that challenge the imagination and foster a sense of creativity. Join me as we investigating the depths of the subconscious and discover our inner wisdom through integrative healing and arts exploration. Trauma-informed and body-centered.
Hosted by Tracey Gramm - Inner Wisdom Counselling
Counsellor, BA, RTC, EXat, CDP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Surrey, BC V3S
You deserve to be heard, understood and healed.
Hello! Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, stress, burn out, depression, grief/loss, self -esteem or life transitions? I offer talk, somatic and expressive arts therapy for adults, seniors, children and teens. Focusing on the mind-body-heart connection, I take an integrative approach that is trauma-informed and fosters greater self-awareness through curiosity, acceptance and self-expression. Tuning into your intuition to discover more of who you authentically are… feeling more present, grounded and centered. I offer a safe supportive space to help you move past life challenges with greater purpose, direction and clarity.
(604) 210-7104 View (604) 210-7104
Accessing non-ordinary states in controlled therapeutic settings through means such as cannabis-assisted breathwork has shown to mitigate symptoms of post-traumatic stress & increase overall well-being. In the week prior to the in-person cannabis-assisted breathwork circle, you will attend a virtual group preparation meeting. Discussion will include risks & benefits, what to expect, self-care leading up to the intervention, confidentiality, intention setting, & any questions that you might have. The in office session will last about 4 hours & will follow the format as outlined on our website.
Hosted by Carla Mae Leuschen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8V
Depression & anxiety are isolating.
I work with clients whom wish to push the boundaries of “normal” to uncover & deconstruct the root causes of their suffering. Many of the people that I work with are dealing with major depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and overall frustration with the current state of society and the environment. The clients that I see often present to me with symptoms such as feeling blocked, overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, alone, and powerless in their life. I support clients to transform their pain into strength so that they can live a more fulfilled life.
(778) 743-5005 View (778) 743-5005
In a nutshell, Breathwork offers the transformative experience of coming home to yourself. By exploring and expanding your relationship with your breath, you'll discover ways to release tension and emotional blocks, while getting out of your head and diving into the deeper truth of who you really are.
Hosted by Rachel Helland
Counsellor, RPC-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Kelowna, BC V1Y
I take a holistic and practical approach to your emotional healing and well-being, that is always adapted to your unique needs and goals.
Feeling the call to cultivate a deeper connection with yourself, rediscover your strengths and learn tools to live life more intentionally? Whether you're navigating anxiety, battling your inner critic, or feeling inundated by life's complexities, I’m here to help. My role is to guide, empower, and equip you with insights and practical strategies to facilitate meaningful change to the painful parts of life. I can help with developing coping skills to manage anxiety and depression effectively while overcoming shame, inadequacy and self esteem issues.
(343) 338-3382 View (343) 338-3382
ANGER IS YOUR FRIEND, NOT YOUR ENEMY In this workshop, you will get the experience you need to use your anger in a productive way. (Two groups start in October 2013: in Victoria, BC. and in Esquimalt, BC.) $195. for 8 weeks, $80. for second person To register : Contact: GINA KEEGAN, Registered Clinical Counsellor www.ginakeegan.com g.lodro@yahoo.com 778-265-8800
Hosted by Gina Keegan
Counsellor, RCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8X
When I was young and confused.
I work with the following diagnosis; GAD, PTSD, Panic attacks, Grief, Trauma, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Do you feel frozen, anxious, only working at half capacity? Or....are you usually frustrated, angry, sad, confused? Or...are you mad at many people and situations, including your personal relationships? I use cognitive, emotive and somatic (body) approaches. My extensive experience has shown me that counseling with the SOMATIC aspect included usually gets the DEEPEST AND QUICKEST RESULTS. I am an SEP., Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, from Peter Levine's trauma work.
(782) 222-6387 View (782) 222-6387
This group is intended to provide support for women who are trying to cope with the overwhelming emotions caused by infertility, pregnancy loss and grief. The intention of this circle of support is to provide a safe space to be human, to feel less alone and more understood and supported. The participants are encouraged to share as much or as little of their story as they wish, offer support and perspective to one another, create authentic connections, and even friendships. Check https://www.elliedobreva.com/ for more details.
Hosted by Ellie Dobreva
Licensed Professional Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Vancouver, BC V6B
I respect your boundaries, I respect your personal and cultural values.
Having experienced trauma, loss, and infertility grief in my personal life, I know what it feels like to feel stuck, helpless, and worst of all, hopeless. I strive to promote the importance of good mental health and how it can positively impact our daily functioning and quality of life. I specialize in helping people who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, infertility and pregnancy loss, family dynamics, relationships and life transitions, marriage and communication challenges. I offer patience, compassion and transparency.
(604) 771-0962 View (604) 771-0962
Group coaching sessions via zoom with registered counsellor / certified life coach - PDF lessons, access to private facebook group. You will gain tools / skills for understanding and overcoming depression / anxiety. This program focuses on gaining tools to challenge limiting thoughts, beliefs, behaviors. Sessions are built on each other as you learn strategies and techniques to help you overcome depression and anxiety. Take steps towards the life that you desire and are so deserving of, become empowered to live life fully alive. If you are struggling with depression and anxiety, you don’t want to miss this group. Online Group
Hosted by Inspired Counselling & Coaching
Counsellor, RPC, CLC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Kelowna, BC V1V
Providing a safe space and support for each client to face what is holding them back, gain the confidence to be an overcomer and take bold steps towards the future.
Ellen is a Registered Professional Counsellor, and Certified Life Coach, a mom to 4 men and a woman with a desire to see others live life with purpose and zeal, confident in knowing who they are designed to be. My passion is to empower and equip individuals in overcoming obstacles, discovering who they are, and reaching their goals and dreams while living uninhibited with boldness.
(778) 400-7903 View (778) 400-7903
1

See more therapy options for British Columbia

Depression Support Groups

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.