Depression Counselling in Oakham

Photo of Samantha Suzy Crowson, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Samantha Suzy Crowson
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
I believe you are the expert on your own life, even if right now you're not feeling that way.
Life can be difficult and stressful, and navigating its challenges can become hard. Perhaps you're feeling overwhelmed, getting out of bed in the morning is hard, maybe relationships are difficult, you have worries about the future or the past is looming heavily in your thoughts.
I believe you are the expert on your own life, even if right now you're not feeling that way.
Life can be difficult and stressful, and navigating its challenges can become hard. Perhaps you're feeling overwhelmed, getting out of bed in the morning is hard, maybe relationships are difficult, you have worries about the future or the past is looming heavily in your thoughts.
01773 307457 View 01773 307457
Photo of Rose McDonald, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Rose McDonald
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
Whether you choose in person or online counselling, I will offer emotional support whilst helping you work through potentially overwhelming thoughts and feelings.
Hello, I'm Rose. Well done for taking a courageous first step in seeking help for what's troubling you right now. Let me reassure you that I will help you to ease into your counselling journey by offering an empathic, welcoming, confidential, non-judgemental and safe space. The goal during our time together is to help reduce your distress by understanding what's happening and why you are feeling the way you do. We'll collaborate to find the root cause of your emotions and feelings. This will involve some exploration of experiences and emotions and time for self reflection and self care.
Whether you choose in person or online counselling, I will offer emotional support whilst helping you work through potentially overwhelming thoughts and feelings.
Hello, I'm Rose. Well done for taking a courageous first step in seeking help for what's troubling you right now. Let me reassure you that I will help you to ease into your counselling journey by offering an empathic, welcoming, confidential, non-judgemental and safe space. The goal during our time together is to help reduce your distress by understanding what's happening and why you are feeling the way you do. We'll collaborate to find the root cause of your emotions and feelings. This will involve some exploration of experiences and emotions and time for self reflection and self care.
01572 498977 View 01572 498977
Photo of Joanna Pearson, ACC Reg, Counsellor
Joanna Pearson
Counsellor, ACC Reg
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
Counselling is not about the counsellor telling you what to do - it supports you to explore your thoughts, feelings and reactions and find answers to fit your unique situation.
Whether you come with anxiety, trauma, depression, work problems or other concerns, my starting point is to provide a safe and confidential space where we can explore whatever arises. I offer respectful listening whatever your problems, beliefs, background, identity or age (18 yrs and above).
Counselling is not about the counsellor telling you what to do - it supports you to explore your thoughts, feelings and reactions and find answers to fit your unique situation.
Whether you come with anxiety, trauma, depression, work problems or other concerns, my starting point is to provide a safe and confidential space where we can explore whatever arises. I offer respectful listening whatever your problems, beliefs, background, identity or age (18 yrs and above).
01572 498970 View 01572 498970
Photo of Joan Elizabeth Carter, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Joan Elizabeth Carter
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
Waitlist for new clients
As an integrative therapist, I tailor the way I work to suit the issue you are bringing.
I am an experienced Registered and Senior Accredited counsellor/psychotherapist I have 32 years experience and over 20,000 hours client sessions. I offer individual and couples counselling. I have extensive experience working for the NHS, heading up a therapy service in one of the largest GP Medical Practices in the UK. I now work from my home near OAKHAM. The first step is to meet me for an initial assessment session so that you ca decide if I am the right therapist for you and if so, we can consider how best to address the issues you are facing. I believe that the relationship is central to our work together.
As an integrative therapist, I tailor the way I work to suit the issue you are bringing.
I am an experienced Registered and Senior Accredited counsellor/psychotherapist I have 32 years experience and over 20,000 hours client sessions. I offer individual and couples counselling. I have extensive experience working for the NHS, heading up a therapy service in one of the largest GP Medical Practices in the UK. I now work from my home near OAKHAM. The first step is to meet me for an initial assessment session so that you ca decide if I am the right therapist for you and if so, we can consider how best to address the issues you are facing. I believe that the relationship is central to our work together.
01572 492166 View 01572 492166
Photo of Rachel Georgina Webb - Mindmattersltd, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Mindmattersltd
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
I believe the therapist-client relationship is a collaborative partnership that is constantly evolving, and to which we both contribute.
I am a qualified Integrative Psychotherapist. I have over 15 years’ experience working within a mental health and social care settings, working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-worth, loneliness, relationship issues, loss and bereavement. Also working within the rehabilitation sector part of the NHS helping people to understand and cope with their behavior whilst exploring deep rooted feelings and belief systems. I hold a particular interest along with experience of working with survivors of domestic abuse and violence and the long term impact this can have on mental and physical health
I believe the therapist-client relationship is a collaborative partnership that is constantly evolving, and to which we both contribute.
I am a qualified Integrative Psychotherapist. I have over 15 years’ experience working within a mental health and social care settings, working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-worth, loneliness, relationship issues, loss and bereavement. Also working within the rehabilitation sector part of the NHS helping people to understand and cope with their behavior whilst exploring deep rooted feelings and belief systems. I hold a particular interest along with experience of working with survivors of domestic abuse and violence and the long term impact this can have on mental and physical health
01858 455550 View 01858 455550
Photo of Kim Thomas, PsychD, MHGI, Psychotherapist
Kim Thomas
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MHGI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakham LE15
Please feel free to message me for an informal chat, often a small chat can develop into a life-changing conversation.
As a Menopause Matters therapist I am trained in the most up-to-date evidence-based approach to counselling and psychotherapy. Human Givens therapy is a safe, fast and a highly effective way to make positive changes in life. With years of experience supporting countless clients I provide reliable practical help for a variety of Issues including • Depression/low mood •Panic attacks •Phobias •Low self-esteem •Self-harming •Eating disorders •Poor concentration •Anxiety and Stress •Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) •Addictions (all kinds) •Obsessions (OCD) • Poor Sleep
Please feel free to message me for an informal chat, often a small chat can develop into a life-changing conversation.
As a Menopause Matters therapist I am trained in the most up-to-date evidence-based approach to counselling and psychotherapy. Human Givens therapy is a safe, fast and a highly effective way to make positive changes in life. With years of experience supporting countless clients I provide reliable practical help for a variety of Issues including • Depression/low mood •Panic attacks •Phobias •Low self-esteem •Self-harming •Eating disorders •Poor concentration •Anxiety and Stress •Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) •Addictions (all kinds) •Obsessions (OCD) • Poor Sleep
01664 494374 View 01664 494374
Photo of Gemma Pettit - Gemma Pettit Psychotherapy & Consulting, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Gemma Pettit Psychotherapy & Consulting
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
Please email me directly or visit my website www.
I am a friendly, experienced psychotherapist & counsellor working to support clients with a range of mental health presentations. These include: Addiction, anxiety, body image issues, bereavement, codependency, depression, gender & identity issues, personality disorders, relationship difficulties, survivors of sexual assault, survivors of emotional or physical abuse and trauma. Your safety and confidentiality are the centre of my work at all times. My ethos is that our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and we should feel comfortable accessing help and support without stigma or prejudice for doing so.
Please email me directly or visit my website www.
I am a friendly, experienced psychotherapist & counsellor working to support clients with a range of mental health presentations. These include: Addiction, anxiety, body image issues, bereavement, codependency, depression, gender & identity issues, personality disorders, relationship difficulties, survivors of sexual assault, survivors of emotional or physical abuse and trauma. Your safety and confidentiality are the centre of my work at all times. My ethos is that our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and we should feel comfortable accessing help and support without stigma or prejudice for doing so.
01780 430879 View 01780 430879
Photo of James Palfreyman, MBACP, Psychotherapist
James Palfreyman
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
It isn't always easy to acknowledge that we might need a little extra support in life; especially reaching out to someone that we don't know yet.
Do you ever feel like a spectator in your own life? Maybe you feel stuck in a pattern of behaviour and don't know how to change it? Do you feel less deserving of the life you desire than everybody else? If this sounds like you and you are ready to explore it further, then get in touch. I have a keen interest in identity, how we see ourselves, and how we see ourselves in relation to others. I provide a safe, non-judgemental environment where we can work through your issues or concerns at your own pace, focussing on your own personal goals. This is your time!
It isn't always easy to acknowledge that we might need a little extra support in life; especially reaching out to someone that we don't know yet.
Do you ever feel like a spectator in your own life? Maybe you feel stuck in a pattern of behaviour and don't know how to change it? Do you feel less deserving of the life you desire than everybody else? If this sounds like you and you are ready to explore it further, then get in touch. I have a keen interest in identity, how we see ourselves, and how we see ourselves in relation to others. I provide a safe, non-judgemental environment where we can work through your issues or concerns at your own pace, focussing on your own personal goals. This is your time!
01773 305002 View 01773 305002
Photo of Jen Holland, MA, Psychotherapist
Jen Holland
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
The person centred approach is one that fosters psychological growth at it's core.
Psychological pain is one of the most difficult things to overcome, often it consumes you, and you lose yourself. Therapy is about unfolding this, within a safe therapeutic relationship, where you are free to be yourself and find a way through, with me at your side. A key part of my practice, is working with you, rather than the diagnosis or label that you may have acquired. I help clients to disentangle and be free of the things that are holding them back, to become more authentic.
The person centred approach is one that fosters psychological growth at it's core.
Psychological pain is one of the most difficult things to overcome, often it consumes you, and you lose yourself. Therapy is about unfolding this, within a safe therapeutic relationship, where you are free to be yourself and find a way through, with me at your side. A key part of my practice, is working with you, rather than the diagnosis or label that you may have acquired. I help clients to disentangle and be free of the things that are holding them back, to become more authentic.
01780 437415 View 01780 437415
Photo of Alexandra Dent, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Alexandra Dent
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakham LE15
I have a non-judgmental, compassionate and empathic manner which encourages the development of strong and effective therapeutic relationships, allowing individuals to explore the nature of the difficulties they are experiencing.
I am an experienced Registered and Chartered Clinical Psychologist, EMDR Europe Accredited Consultant and Training Facilitator and published author, working with children & adolescents, adults & families. I have over 25 years clinical experience. I developed Heart Led Psychotherapy (HLP) in 2018 to facilitate individuals to live a more heart-led and authentic life as she felt this was missing in many traditional psychotherapies. I offer HLP as part of my treatment package (including in combination with EMDR) for individuals who are keen to find more authenticity in different areas of their lives. Website: www.alexandradent.co.uk
I have a non-judgmental, compassionate and empathic manner which encourages the development of strong and effective therapeutic relationships, allowing individuals to explore the nature of the difficulties they are experiencing.
I am an experienced Registered and Chartered Clinical Psychologist, EMDR Europe Accredited Consultant and Training Facilitator and published author, working with children & adolescents, adults & families. I have over 25 years clinical experience. I developed Heart Led Psychotherapy (HLP) in 2018 to facilitate individuals to live a more heart-led and authentic life as she felt this was missing in many traditional psychotherapies. I offer HLP as part of my treatment package (including in combination with EMDR) for individuals who are keen to find more authenticity in different areas of their lives. Website: www.alexandradent.co.uk
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Photo of Katie Louise Walker - Kate Walker Psychotherapy, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Kate Walker Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakham LE15
There’s absolutely no such thing as a silly question, so if there’s anything you’d like to know about the process of therapy or the way I work then please do ask! I will answer clearly, and we can work together to find language that you feel comfortable with so that you feel armed with as much information as you need before deciding to proceed with therapy.
Have you suffered through trauma? Are you neurodivergent or questioning whether you might be? Are you generally struggling in life? Feeling unsupported? Or maybe you just want to get to know yourself better? If any of this sounds like you then I could be the therapist for you.
There’s absolutely no such thing as a silly question, so if there’s anything you’d like to know about the process of therapy or the way I work then please do ask! I will answer clearly, and we can work together to find language that you feel comfortable with so that you feel armed with as much information as you need before deciding to proceed with therapy.
Have you suffered through trauma? Are you neurodivergent or questioning whether you might be? Are you generally struggling in life? Feeling unsupported? Or maybe you just want to get to know yourself better? If any of this sounds like you then I could be the therapist for you.
01572 494627 View 01572 494627
Photo of Julie Griffin - Specialist Counselling Psychotherapy Young People, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Specialist Counselling Psychotherapy Young People
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15  (Online Only)
Taking the first step can be hard to do.
'Helping Young People realise their full potential' and with the pandemic still affecting educational, social and family dynamics, 'Helping Young People adapt positively to change' With over 15 years experience counselling young people in private practice, schools and colleges. I have successfully worked on anxiety prevention, family dynamics, dyspraxia, autism, self harming behaviours, sexuality and gender, exam pressure, bullying, OCD and many more. I consider that, at times, young people need additional emotional support outside of their family and friends network in order that they can achieve their full potential.
Taking the first step can be hard to do.
'Helping Young People realise their full potential' and with the pandemic still affecting educational, social and family dynamics, 'Helping Young People adapt positively to change' With over 15 years experience counselling young people in private practice, schools and colleges. I have successfully worked on anxiety prevention, family dynamics, dyspraxia, autism, self harming behaviours, sexuality and gender, exam pressure, bullying, OCD and many more. I consider that, at times, young people need additional emotional support outside of their family and friends network in order that they can achieve their full potential.
07565 207955 View 07565 207955
Photo of Leanne Jones, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Leanne Jones
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
Waitlist for new clients
I have particular interests in anxiety, relationship and self-esteem issues, childhood trauma, bereavement, self-harm in its many forms, and the root causes and impact of chronic illness upon mental health.
Struggling to cope and feeling overwhelmed? I am a BACP registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist, who is dedicated to helping you work through whatever brings you here today. I am an integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist, having trained in several theoretical approaches. I also have a Pluralistic outlook to therapy, meaning that I consider no two people or their circumstances as the same, and you, as an individual as totally unique. In our work together, I will draw upon my broad skillset and experience for whatever you and your situation need.
I have particular interests in anxiety, relationship and self-esteem issues, childhood trauma, bereavement, self-harm in its many forms, and the root causes and impact of chronic illness upon mental health.
Struggling to cope and feeling overwhelmed? I am a BACP registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist, who is dedicated to helping you work through whatever brings you here today. I am an integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist, having trained in several theoretical approaches. I also have a Pluralistic outlook to therapy, meaning that I consider no two people or their circumstances as the same, and you, as an individual as totally unique. In our work together, I will draw upon my broad skillset and experience for whatever you and your situation need.
01780 437859 View 01780 437859
NW Counselling Services
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakham LE15
I provide telephone and face-to-face counselling bespoke to your specific needs.
Are you struggling to cope, have you recently experienced a traumatic event, are you in need of emotional support or are you simply looking to make some significant life changes? Life can throw unexpected challenges at you; short term or long term difficulties and experiences can have an adverse impact on your well-being causing any number of emotional disruptions. Asking for help is the first big step towards recovering and finding the right support for your individual needs is instrumental in working through and alleviating these challenges.
I provide telephone and face-to-face counselling bespoke to your specific needs.
Are you struggling to cope, have you recently experienced a traumatic event, are you in need of emotional support or are you simply looking to make some significant life changes? Life can throw unexpected challenges at you; short term or long term difficulties and experiences can have an adverse impact on your well-being causing any number of emotional disruptions. Asking for help is the first big step towards recovering and finding the right support for your individual needs is instrumental in working through and alleviating these challenges.
01572 494626 View 01572 494626
Photo of Lindy Carter, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Lindy Carter
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
I offer a confidential service where young people can be heard and not feel judged.
Is your child having issues at school and at home? School life can be stressful for young people today and even a bright student can struggle at some point in their school career. Slipping grades and behavioral issues may be indicators that your child is facing some social and emotional challenges. Some of these outward and internal personal struggles are a normal part of growing up, especially during adolescence. Sometimes children need some strategies to cope and build self confidence, and an impartial listener who is neither a parent or a teacher!
I offer a confidential service where young people can be heard and not feel judged.
Is your child having issues at school and at home? School life can be stressful for young people today and even a bright student can struggle at some point in their school career. Slipping grades and behavioral issues may be indicators that your child is facing some social and emotional challenges. Some of these outward and internal personal struggles are a normal part of growing up, especially during adolescence. Sometimes children need some strategies to cope and build self confidence, and an impartial listener who is neither a parent or a teacher!
01572 498974 View 01572 498974
Photo of Sharon Palmer - Sharon Palmer Counselling Services, MBACP, Counsellor
Sharon Palmer Counselling Services
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
I offer an initial 1 hour assessment session during which we explore your reasons for coming to counselling.
I am one of the few Psychodynamic counsellor's practicing in the area which means among other things I work with past relationships and how they impact an individuals current life. We all need emotional support from time to time, many of us find parts of our lives difficult and we can't always turn to family and friends. It can be helpful to talk to someone in confidence who is impartial and non-judgemental. Some of the issues people come to counselling for include feelings of loss, low mood or worry, others may be having difficulty handling bereavement, separation and relationships at home and work.
I offer an initial 1 hour assessment session during which we explore your reasons for coming to counselling.
I am one of the few Psychodynamic counsellor's practicing in the area which means among other things I work with past relationships and how they impact an individuals current life. We all need emotional support from time to time, many of us find parts of our lives difficult and we can't always turn to family and friends. It can be helpful to talk to someone in confidence who is impartial and non-judgemental. Some of the issues people come to counselling for include feelings of loss, low mood or worry, others may be having difficulty handling bereavement, separation and relationships at home and work.
01664 498785 View 01664 498785
Photo of Karen Arnell, MBACP, Counsellor
Karen Arnell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
Sometimes it is hard to make sense of our struggles, past and present, but you don't have to face them on your own.
I have over 35 years experience in school settings, as an educator and a counsellor, and I have volunteered in bereavement support for many years as well as having worked with male survivors of sexual abuse. I am a Person Centred therapist, so your needs and goals are placed at the heart of our work together. I have experience of working with teenagers and adults covering a wide range of topics and can support you with issues such anxiety, stress, loss, low mood, self- esteem and relationships. You will be accepted as you are, without judgment, and given a safe space where you will be listened to and heard.
Sometimes it is hard to make sense of our struggles, past and present, but you don't have to face them on your own.
I have over 35 years experience in school settings, as an educator and a counsellor, and I have volunteered in bereavement support for many years as well as having worked with male survivors of sexual abuse. I am a Person Centred therapist, so your needs and goals are placed at the heart of our work together. I have experience of working with teenagers and adults covering a wide range of topics and can support you with issues such anxiety, stress, loss, low mood, self- esteem and relationships. You will be accepted as you are, without judgment, and given a safe space where you will be listened to and heard.
01644 717388 View 01644 717388
Photo of Kim Fry - The Barefoot Counsellor, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
The Barefoot Counsellor
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
I'm passionate about the power of human connection—how being fully seen and heard, without judgment, can create real change.
Hi, I’m Kim, also known as the Barefoot Counsellor. I’m really glad you found your way here—looking for a therapist is a brave first step, and I’m honored you’re considering me. So, let me share a bit about myself to help you decide if we’re the right fit. The name might make you think I’m all about the feet, but being barefoot is more about how I express my true self and stay grounded in the present. It’s part of my journey, though there’s no expectation for you to follow that in therapy.
I'm passionate about the power of human connection—how being fully seen and heard, without judgment, can create real change.
Hi, I’m Kim, also known as the Barefoot Counsellor. I’m really glad you found your way here—looking for a therapist is a brave first step, and I’m honored you’re considering me. So, let me share a bit about myself to help you decide if we’re the right fit. The name might make you think I’m all about the feet, but being barefoot is more about how I express my true self and stay grounded in the present. It’s part of my journey, though there’s no expectation for you to follow that in therapy.
01832 771073 View 01832 771073
Photo of Helen Johnson - Helen Johnson Counselling and Psychotherapy, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Helen Johnson Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
Sometimes sharing your feelings with someone outside of the situation may feel more comfortable than with someone who is close to you.
Throughout our lives we are faced with many challenges, experiences and emotions which might lead us to seek counselling. Feelings of confusion, fear, loss, sadness, anger, despair, anxiety, low self-esteem, frustration can sometimes become overwhelming; as can the complexities of family life, work and relationships. I provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples and have significant experience working therapeutically with children, young people and their families. I work in comfortable and safe surroundings where clients can relax and focus on their feelings.
Sometimes sharing your feelings with someone outside of the situation may feel more comfortable than with someone who is close to you.
Throughout our lives we are faced with many challenges, experiences and emotions which might lead us to seek counselling. Feelings of confusion, fear, loss, sadness, anger, despair, anxiety, low self-esteem, frustration can sometimes become overwhelming; as can the complexities of family life, work and relationships. I provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples and have significant experience working therapeutically with children, young people and their families. I work in comfortable and safe surroundings where clients can relax and focus on their feelings.
01691 888102 View 01691 888102
Photo of Louise Elizabeth Ravenscroft - Louise Elizabeth Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Louise Elizabeth Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oakham LE15
No issue, concern or problem is ever too small or seemingly too big.
Are you struggling with Anxiety, Bereavement, Burnout, Trauma or feeling stuck and unsure how to get help? I am able to assist children, adolescents and adults. I am a person-centred counsellor and hold a current Enhanced DBS certificate for work with children and adults. I am committed to doing my absolute best and you will be welcomed into a relaxed and non judgemental environment to explore your individual needs.​ I am based in Stamford, Lincolnshire and Cople, Bedfordshire. My main areas of work are Bereavement and Trauma however also cover other areas of work and enquiries are welcome. I am currently taking on new clients.
No issue, concern or problem is ever too small or seemingly too big.
Are you struggling with Anxiety, Bereavement, Burnout, Trauma or feeling stuck and unsure how to get help? I am able to assist children, adolescents and adults. I am a person-centred counsellor and hold a current Enhanced DBS certificate for work with children and adults. I am committed to doing my absolute best and you will be welcomed into a relaxed and non judgemental environment to explore your individual needs.​ I am based in Stamford, Lincolnshire and Cople, Bedfordshire. My main areas of work are Bereavement and Trauma however also cover other areas of work and enquiries are welcome. I am currently taking on new clients.
01778 301159 View 01778 301159
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See more therapy options for Oakham

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.