Depression Counselling in Heanor

Photo of Jayne Daniels - Jayne Daniels Counselling & Supervision Services, MBACP, Counsellor
Jayne Daniels Counselling & Supervision Services
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Heanor DE75
You will not be told how to think, feel or what to do, you will be helped and supported in finding your own answers.
ARE YOU SUFFERING WITH ANXIETY, DEPRESSED, WORTHLESS, IN CRISIS, UNABLE TO COPE BUT DON'T KNOW WHY? DO YOU NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO AND LISTEN TO YOU? I CAN HELP. CONTACT ME NOW FOR A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION. My name is Jayne Daniels; I am an experienced, qualified integrative counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. I offer different ways of working to suit your individual needs, including CBT, person centered and psycho dynamic. Counselling can help you make sense of what is happening in your life, support you through difficult and traumatic times and help you to live a happy and fulfilling life.
You will not be told how to think, feel or what to do, you will be helped and supported in finding your own answers.
ARE YOU SUFFERING WITH ANXIETY, DEPRESSED, WORTHLESS, IN CRISIS, UNABLE TO COPE BUT DON'T KNOW WHY? DO YOU NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO AND LISTEN TO YOU? I CAN HELP. CONTACT ME NOW FOR A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION. My name is Jayne Daniels; I am an experienced, qualified integrative counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. I offer different ways of working to suit your individual needs, including CBT, person centered and psycho dynamic. Counselling can help you make sense of what is happening in your life, support you through difficult and traumatic times and help you to live a happy and fulfilling life.
07480 786480 View 07480 786480
Photo of Tricia Staley, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Tricia Staley
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Heanor DE75  (Online Only)
You’ve taken a big step by searching for a therapist and I respect the courage you have shown.
Are you feeling low, depressed and lost? Are you looking to improve your relationship with yourself and with others? Have you noticed a pattern in your life where somehow your relationships feel unsatisfying? I can help. By exploring current and past relationships we well work together towards understanding the repeated patterns and you will learn ways of managing them to improve how you relate to yourself and others. You will begin to notice an improvement in your mood and recognise triggers that impact your well being. The outcome will be a happier and more content version of yourself.
You’ve taken a big step by searching for a therapist and I respect the courage you have shown.
Are you feeling low, depressed and lost? Are you looking to improve your relationship with yourself and with others? Have you noticed a pattern in your life where somehow your relationships feel unsatisfying? I can help. By exploring current and past relationships we well work together towards understanding the repeated patterns and you will learn ways of managing them to improve how you relate to yourself and others. You will begin to notice an improvement in your mood and recognise triggers that impact your well being. The outcome will be a happier and more content version of yourself.
01773 307929 View 01773 307929
Photo of Ranjana Mitra, MBACP, Counsellor
Ranjana Mitra
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Heanor DE75
I understand how hard it is to take the first step to seek professional help for an issue that you feel sad or angry about, or perhaps embarrassed to discuss.
Are you living with feelings of self- doubt, blame, anger or shame? Do you need help to cope with depression or anxiety? Maybe you have suffered loss, and doubt your ability to sustain meaningful relationships with family and friends. Perhaps you are in a relationship that is stuck in the rut, or mired in hopelessness, negativity, and mistrust. It may be that your relationship has changed from a loving one to one of repeated misunderstandings, heated arguments or frosty silence. Stressful life events can bring about such difficulties, or sometimes disappointments simply accumulate over time.
I understand how hard it is to take the first step to seek professional help for an issue that you feel sad or angry about, or perhaps embarrassed to discuss.
Are you living with feelings of self- doubt, blame, anger or shame? Do you need help to cope with depression or anxiety? Maybe you have suffered loss, and doubt your ability to sustain meaningful relationships with family and friends. Perhaps you are in a relationship that is stuck in the rut, or mired in hopelessness, negativity, and mistrust. It may be that your relationship has changed from a loving one to one of repeated misunderstandings, heated arguments or frosty silence. Stressful life events can bring about such difficulties, or sometimes disappointments simply accumulate over time.
01773 307077 View 01773 307077
Photo of Jeanette Barratt, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Jeanette Barratt
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Heanor DE75  (Online Only)
I am a caring, compassionate listener and I will endeavour to work deeply to understand you; in turn helping you to explore, identify and understand your thoughts, feelings, behaviours and experiences.
If you have found your way here I appreciate you are reaching out for support. Taking the first step to reaching out to someone; especially a stranger takes courage. Maybe you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, experiencing a life transition: divorce, grief, becoming a parent, children leaving home. Unable to find the strength to cope with change and difficult decisions. Counselling can be a life changing experience; our present struggles and feelings can be a turning point towards a new direction. Counselling is a collaborative task and it is my endeavour to travel alongside you on your journey as you discover new ways to move forward
I am a caring, compassionate listener and I will endeavour to work deeply to understand you; in turn helping you to explore, identify and understand your thoughts, feelings, behaviours and experiences.
If you have found your way here I appreciate you are reaching out for support. Taking the first step to reaching out to someone; especially a stranger takes courage. Maybe you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, experiencing a life transition: divorce, grief, becoming a parent, children leaving home. Unable to find the strength to cope with change and difficult decisions. Counselling can be a life changing experience; our present struggles and feelings can be a turning point towards a new direction. Counselling is a collaborative task and it is my endeavour to travel alongside you on your journey as you discover new ways to move forward
01332 215070 View 01332 215070
Photo of Susan Faulkner, MBACP, Counsellor
Susan Faulkner
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Heanor DE75
My practice offers a comfortable environment where we will aim to build a confidential & trusting therapeutic relationship, working through whatever life's challenges you wish to explore, at a pace which feels safe and comfortable for you.
I am a qualified Counselling Therapist based in Kimberley, Nottinghamshire, and a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP).  I work within the Person Centred Modality, which is a talking therapy, geared towards supporting clients in making considered and autonomous decisions.  I work in an empathic and non-judgemental manner in order to create a safe space for clients to explore and grow their sense of self by gaining a better understanding of their personal thoughts, feelings and values related to their core challenges and life setbacks.
My practice offers a comfortable environment where we will aim to build a confidential & trusting therapeutic relationship, working through whatever life's challenges you wish to explore, at a pace which feels safe and comfortable for you.
I am a qualified Counselling Therapist based in Kimberley, Nottinghamshire, and a Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP).  I work within the Person Centred Modality, which is a talking therapy, geared towards supporting clients in making considered and autonomous decisions.  I work in an empathic and non-judgemental manner in order to create a safe space for clients to explore and grow their sense of self by gaining a better understanding of their personal thoughts, feelings and values related to their core challenges and life setbacks.
0115 647 7388 View 0115 647 7388
Photo of Sandra Grieve, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Sandra Grieve
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Heanor DE75
Sometimes it's hard to know where to start, what to share, who to trust.
Sometimes it’s hard to know where to turn, life can feel very overwhelming and exhausting. It can be lots of wee things or a big life change and sometimes we just can’t put our finger on it. What we do know is that we’ve had enough, we want to enjoy life and relationships and bring more lightness and laughter into the everyday. Maybe work is getting us down or family and relationships. How good would it be to feel more at ease? In therapy we can explore together to find a way through the fog.
Sometimes it's hard to know where to start, what to share, who to trust.
Sometimes it’s hard to know where to turn, life can feel very overwhelming and exhausting. It can be lots of wee things or a big life change and sometimes we just can’t put our finger on it. What we do know is that we’ve had enough, we want to enjoy life and relationships and bring more lightness and laughter into the everyday. Maybe work is getting us down or family and relationships. How good would it be to feel more at ease? In therapy we can explore together to find a way through the fog.
07476 549763 View 07476 549763

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jonathan Stone - Jonathan Stone - Discover U, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Jonathan Stone - Discover U
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Derby DE1
I offer a safe and confidential ‘space’ where individuals can feel free to explore their personal experiences without feeling judged.
I am an experienced qualified Integrative Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Supervisor, working in Private practice and within the NHS for over 13 years. I work with individuals, couples, EAP services, and provide clinical supervision. I have significant experience of working with a wide range of clients. Ages range from teens to older adults. I work with people experiencing a range of issues - Relationship issues; anxiety including panic disorders and depression; post natal depression; work problems; stress; loss, I am trained and have considerable experience in working with psychiatric diagnosis.
I offer a safe and confidential ‘space’ where individuals can feel free to explore their personal experiences without feeling judged.
I am an experienced qualified Integrative Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Supervisor, working in Private practice and within the NHS for over 13 years. I work with individuals, couples, EAP services, and provide clinical supervision. I have significant experience of working with a wide range of clients. Ages range from teens to older adults. I work with people experiencing a range of issues - Relationship issues; anxiety including panic disorders and depression; post natal depression; work problems; stress; loss, I am trained and have considerable experience in working with psychiatric diagnosis.
01332 650348 View 01332 650348
Photo of Paul Robert Brown, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Paul Robert Brown
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG8
I once was broken.
If you are reading this, then you have already taken the first step, well done you. My goal is always to understand you and to know how it feels to walk in your shoes. Using a dynamic approach, tailored to you and your needs, we will explore your experience together. I practice how I live, authentically and with honesty. My approach to therapy is relational. Healing occurs within the therapeutic relationship and through effective strategies that address whatever is holding you back.
I once was broken.
If you are reading this, then you have already taken the first step, well done you. My goal is always to understand you and to know how it feels to walk in your shoes. Using a dynamic approach, tailored to you and your needs, we will explore your experience together. I practice how I live, authentically and with honesty. My approach to therapy is relational. Healing occurs within the therapeutic relationship and through effective strategies that address whatever is holding you back.
01777 801280 View 01777 801280
Photo of Theresa Eadson, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Theresa Eadson
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sutton-in-Ashfield NG17
In addition I have lived experience of dementia and neuro-diversity.
Hello, how are you? If you’re looking for counselling it’s likely that you’re experiencing something in your life that’s overwhelming or distressing, or maybe you want things to be different and you’re not sure how to make changes. Life can throw us all sorts of challenges, and sometimes these can lead us to feel anxious, upset or really down about things. Experiences and relationships from the past can also be troubling and stir up uncomfortable emotions. I can offer you the opportunity to explore your thoughts and feelings in a confidential space where you won’t be judged.
In addition I have lived experience of dementia and neuro-diversity.
Hello, how are you? If you’re looking for counselling it’s likely that you’re experiencing something in your life that’s overwhelming or distressing, or maybe you want things to be different and you’re not sure how to make changes. Life can throw us all sorts of challenges, and sometimes these can lead us to feel anxious, upset or really down about things. Experiences and relationships from the past can also be troubling and stir up uncomfortable emotions. I can offer you the opportunity to explore your thoughts and feelings in a confidential space where you won’t be judged.
01623 572819 View 01623 572819
Photo of Gemma Thorley, MA, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Gemma Thorley
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG15
Because your difficulties do not always fit neatly in to a box and life is fluid, I aim to build clients an individualised treatment plan drawing on my Counselling and CBT qualifications, so that you receive the treatment you need.
With 1 in 4 people experiencing mental health difficulties such as depression and anxiety there is more and more need for people to find support and help when they need it. I believe that therapy is journey that we will travel together, working as a team to overcome your difficulties.
Because your difficulties do not always fit neatly in to a box and life is fluid, I aim to build clients an individualised treatment plan drawing on my Counselling and CBT qualifications, so that you receive the treatment you need.
With 1 in 4 people experiencing mental health difficulties such as depression and anxiety there is more and more need for people to find support and help when they need it. I believe that therapy is journey that we will travel together, working as a team to overcome your difficulties.
01623 392895 View 01623 392895
Photo of Heidi Francis, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Heidi Francis
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Derby DE1  (Online Only)
I believe we are all individuals and as such our journey in therapy will be most beneficial if it specifically meets our individual needs.
Taking that first step to seek support from a therapist can be a daunting experience and many people can feel anxious discussing their struggles. Experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, sadness, anger and stress or suffering from a constant low mood, can often lead to feeling bewildered and alone. So my aim is to provide a safe, warm and caring space in which together we can explore your struggles and you can gain a better understanding of yourself and your feelings, Together we can discover a way forward to a happier, calmer place, enabling you to build new beginnings.
I believe we are all individuals and as such our journey in therapy will be most beneficial if it specifically meets our individual needs.
Taking that first step to seek support from a therapist can be a daunting experience and many people can feel anxious discussing their struggles. Experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, sadness, anger and stress or suffering from a constant low mood, can often lead to feeling bewildered and alone. So my aim is to provide a safe, warm and caring space in which together we can explore your struggles and you can gain a better understanding of yourself and your feelings, Together we can discover a way forward to a happier, calmer place, enabling you to build new beginnings.
01536 609380 View 01536 609380
Photo of Helen Bailey, PhD, MBACP, Counsellor
Helen Bailey
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nottingham NG9
Choosing a therapist can be confusing and overwhelming.
In a world where people seem more connected to their phones than each other, it's rare to find someone who has dedicated time and space just for you. Someone willing to walk alongside you for as long as you need to figure things out, digest what has happened, and help you learn about yourself in the process. Perhaps you’ve reached a crisis point in your life, and don’t know where else to turn? Maybe you’ve been out-of-sorts for a while, and need some help to figure out what is going on? Or perhaps you're here because you want to understand yourself better and how you relate to others?
Choosing a therapist can be confusing and overwhelming.
In a world where people seem more connected to their phones than each other, it's rare to find someone who has dedicated time and space just for you. Someone willing to walk alongside you for as long as you need to figure things out, digest what has happened, and help you learn about yourself in the process. Perhaps you’ve reached a crisis point in your life, and don’t know where else to turn? Maybe you’ve been out-of-sorts for a while, and need some help to figure out what is going on? Or perhaps you're here because you want to understand yourself better and how you relate to others?
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Photo of Andrea Barratt, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Andrea Barratt
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Derby DE22
Feel free to phone or email me if you think I can help or you have any questions.
People seek counselling for aspects of life which are troubling them. It might be because of depression, anxiety, low mood, a lack of confidence or feeling overwhelmed. Perhaps you are wishing to recover from past traumas or you're feeling stuck. Seeking help is a positive and courageous step. Choosing a counsellor that you can trust and feel comfortable with is important. For this reason I offer a free, no obligation, 30 minute telephone consultation. My practice is based near the centre of Derby. I provide therapy for adults from 18 years upwards.
Feel free to phone or email me if you think I can help or you have any questions.
People seek counselling for aspects of life which are troubling them. It might be because of depression, anxiety, low mood, a lack of confidence or feeling overwhelmed. Perhaps you are wishing to recover from past traumas or you're feeling stuck. Seeking help is a positive and courageous step. Choosing a counsellor that you can trust and feel comfortable with is important. For this reason I offer a free, no obligation, 30 minute telephone consultation. My practice is based near the centre of Derby. I provide therapy for adults from 18 years upwards.
01332 982239 View 01332 982239
Photo of Dr Nazia Taj, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Nazia Taj
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
I take a collaborative and integrative approach to therapy, drawing from various modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Welcome, I'm Dr Nazia Taj, a Clinical Psychologist (registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and the British Psychological Society), dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy for adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, low self-confidence and trauma. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions and experiences without judgement.
I take a collaborative and integrative approach to therapy, drawing from various modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Welcome, I'm Dr Nazia Taj, a Clinical Psychologist (registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and the British Psychological Society), dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy for adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, low self-confidence and trauma. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions and experiences without judgement.
01332 982255 View 01332 982255
Photo of David Everett, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
David Everett
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Derby DE1
I have worked with clients with a wide range of difficulties including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD, domestic abuse and low self-esteem.
If you, or someone you care about, is experiencing difficulties in life, it can be helpful to talk with a highly-skilled and experienced professional who can help to navigate through these moments. As a psychotherapist registered with the BACP, I provide a compassionate and safe space for you to explore these issues in a non-judgmental manner, and can work with both individuals and couples.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of difficulties including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD, domestic abuse and low self-esteem.
If you, or someone you care about, is experiencing difficulties in life, it can be helpful to talk with a highly-skilled and experienced professional who can help to navigate through these moments. As a psychotherapist registered with the BACP, I provide a compassionate and safe space for you to explore these issues in a non-judgmental manner, and can work with both individuals and couples.
07891 391351 View 07891 391351
Photo of Emma Spencer - Emma Spencer - Interpersonal Therapist
Emma Spencer - Interpersonal Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
I work with clients going through challenging times, often experiencing symptoms of low mood and anxiety.
Are you looking for a therapy that helps you gain self-awareness and better understand your relationships and mental health? I offer support for those feeling trapped, alone, or stuck in life’s circumstances. I’m a dedicated and compassionate Interpersonal Psychotherapist. With over 16 years of experience in the NHS and a passion for understanding the complexities of human relationships, I provide a safe and supportive space for my clients. Whether you’re navigating life’s challenges or seeking clarity in your relationships, I’m here to guide you towards a more fulfilling and authentic life.
I work with clients going through challenging times, often experiencing symptoms of low mood and anxiety.
Are you looking for a therapy that helps you gain self-awareness and better understand your relationships and mental health? I offer support for those feeling trapped, alone, or stuck in life’s circumstances. I’m a dedicated and compassionate Interpersonal Psychotherapist. With over 16 years of experience in the NHS and a passion for understanding the complexities of human relationships, I provide a safe and supportive space for my clients. Whether you’re navigating life’s challenges or seeking clarity in your relationships, I’m here to guide you towards a more fulfilling and authentic life.
0115 647 7236 View 0115 647 7236
Photo of Martin James Smith, PhD, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Martin James Smith
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG10
I am able to do appointment times to suit including evenings and weekends to fit around your work and family needs.
I have been in private practice for over 20 years specialising in anxiety issues as well as helping people with depression, sleep and stress related issues. My approach is a solution focused one which looks at how to help you move on quickly and effectively. I utilise a range of techniques with the focus on looking at things that work for you and help you feel better as quickly and effectively as possible.
I am able to do appointment times to suit including evenings and weekends to fit around your work and family needs.
I have been in private practice for over 20 years specialising in anxiety issues as well as helping people with depression, sleep and stress related issues. My approach is a solution focused one which looks at how to help you move on quickly and effectively. I utilise a range of techniques with the focus on looking at things that work for you and help you feel better as quickly and effectively as possible.
0115 697 1197 View 0115 697 1197
Photo of Szabolcs Gálvölgyi, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Szabolcs Gálvölgyi
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG10
I would recommend anyone who is seeking professional support to choose a practitioner they feel comfortable with.
Welcome to my page! My name is Szabolcs - I acknowledge that it is a difficult name; do not worry if you do not know how to pronounce it. I am a fully qualified practitioner and I provide psychological therapy to adults and adolesents. I completed a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology, a Master of Science degree in counselling psychology, and I also regularly attend further training. I offer my therapeutic services to women as well as to men, and in addition to working with the below difficulties, I am also open to hear about what you are seeking support for. You can book in for a FREE initial consultation as well.
I would recommend anyone who is seeking professional support to choose a practitioner they feel comfortable with.
Welcome to my page! My name is Szabolcs - I acknowledge that it is a difficult name; do not worry if you do not know how to pronounce it. I am a fully qualified practitioner and I provide psychological therapy to adults and adolesents. I completed a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology, a Master of Science degree in counselling psychology, and I also regularly attend further training. I offer my therapeutic services to women as well as to men, and in addition to working with the below difficulties, I am also open to hear about what you are seeking support for. You can book in for a FREE initial consultation as well.
01296 323423 View 01296 323423
Photo of Jayne Davies, BACP, Counsellor
Jayne Davies
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Derby DE24  (Online Only)
Starting therapy and finding the right therapist can be scary.
Hi my name is Jayne. I have over 18 years’ experience working within a custodial setting and have worked in a therapeutic capacity offering psychosocial support. This includes substance misuse addiction and the subsequent impact on family members and friends. I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy. I have also work as a counsellor for a women's charity providing holistic support for women with complex needs. I offer a non-judgmental safe space online and via telephone for your exploration of self. You only get one you! Let’s look after YOU!
Starting therapy and finding the right therapist can be scary.
Hi my name is Jayne. I have over 18 years’ experience working within a custodial setting and have worked in a therapeutic capacity offering psychosocial support. This includes substance misuse addiction and the subsequent impact on family members and friends. I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy. I have also work as a counsellor for a women's charity providing holistic support for women with complex needs. I offer a non-judgmental safe space online and via telephone for your exploration of self. You only get one you! Let’s look after YOU!
01246 607041 View 01246 607041
Photo of Alison Watson, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Alison Watson
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Derby DE72
Whatever the issue(s) you are currently struggling with, do get in contact, by phone or email.
Sometimes the daily stresses in life can build to to a point where it impacts on your daily life and you feel unable to cope anymore. This can affect your relationship with those closest to you, as well as your enjoyment in life generally. You may be feeling anxious about little things and/or feeling down (even thoughts of suicide or self-harm) and unable to get motivated. Maybe you have been dealing with difficult traumas from the past, affecting your self-confidence and belief in yourself. Perhaps you've been drinking more than usual, sleeping less, spending more and have realised you need support to make changes in your life.
Whatever the issue(s) you are currently struggling with, do get in contact, by phone or email.
Sometimes the daily stresses in life can build to to a point where it impacts on your daily life and you feel unable to cope anymore. This can affect your relationship with those closest to you, as well as your enjoyment in life generally. You may be feeling anxious about little things and/or feeling down (even thoughts of suicide or self-harm) and unable to get motivated. Maybe you have been dealing with difficult traumas from the past, affecting your self-confidence and belief in yourself. Perhaps you've been drinking more than usual, sleeping less, spending more and have realised you need support to make changes in your life.
01332 215190 View 01332 215190

See more therapy options for Heanor

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.