Depression Counselling in Reigate

Photo of Ashley Lowings, MBACP, Counsellor
Ashley Lowings
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
I understand that taking that first step towards receiving help can often be daunting and difficult.
'Counselling, a step in the right direction' Are you experiencing difficulties In your life and need someone to talk to about how you are feeling? Needing help and support through challenging times? I am a qualified, experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist with experience in a wide range of issues from depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem, anger and bereavement.
I understand that taking that first step towards receiving help can often be daunting and difficult.
'Counselling, a step in the right direction' Are you experiencing difficulties In your life and need someone to talk to about how you are feeling? Needing help and support through challenging times? I am a qualified, experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist with experience in a wide range of issues from depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem, anger and bereavement.
01737 924974 View 01737 924974
Photo of Sharon Tomlin, MBACP, Counsellor
Sharon Tomlin
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
Choosing the right counsellor for you is the most important part to enable you to build trust and feel comfortable.
I will work with you to build a confidential, trusting relationship where we can explore and deepen your understanding of any issues you are currently facing. I will support you in navigating your way through life's challenges and together we can find a way forward. I work as an Integrative Counsellor which allows me to tailor the therapeutic process for you by drawing from different theories to meet your needs. I specialise in short-term focused sessions for anxiety and depression, working with adults and young people aged 14+. I also offer longer term work for a wide range of issues.
Choosing the right counsellor for you is the most important part to enable you to build trust and feel comfortable.
I will work with you to build a confidential, trusting relationship where we can explore and deepen your understanding of any issues you are currently facing. I will support you in navigating your way through life's challenges and together we can find a way forward. I work as an Integrative Counsellor which allows me to tailor the therapeutic process for you by drawing from different theories to meet your needs. I specialise in short-term focused sessions for anxiety and depression, working with adults and young people aged 14+. I also offer longer term work for a wide range of issues.
01737 926997 View 01737 926997
Photo of Karolina Meyer, MA, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Karolina Meyer
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
Choosing a therapist can be daunting.
I am a fully accredited CBT Therapist . Have you been struggling with low mood, depression, anxiety, stress, burn out? Do you feel exhausted of the constant worry and overwhelming emotions? Do you have unwanted thoughts or feeling stuck in repeated patterns of thoughts or behaviours? Do not struggle on your own. Understand yourself better, learn new copying techniques, reconnect with your values, reclaim your life back. I have been privileged seeing people change and grow even in the midst of the most challenging life experiences or events.
Choosing a therapist can be daunting.
I am a fully accredited CBT Therapist . Have you been struggling with low mood, depression, anxiety, stress, burn out? Do you feel exhausted of the constant worry and overwhelming emotions? Do you have unwanted thoughts or feeling stuck in repeated patterns of thoughts or behaviours? Do not struggle on your own. Understand yourself better, learn new copying techniques, reconnect with your values, reclaim your life back. I have been privileged seeing people change and grow even in the midst of the most challenging life experiences or events.
01737 301457 View 01737 301457
Photo of Christina Usher - Christina Usher at Walled Garden Counselling , DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Christina Usher at Walled Garden Counselling
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
Waitlist for new clients
If your situation seems impossible, you feel despairing and you have nowhere to turn - I'm here to listen and support you.
I offer caring, non-judgmental counselling in a safe and confidential setting. You'll find a peaceful room where you can talk about your concerns and fears with a trusted professional. Counselling gives you a chance to explore what is happening and why, guiding you along a new path to self-recovery and resilience. I support individuals from the age of 16 years, who are experiencing a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, separation, low self-esteem, anger and bereavement. When life becomes difficult, we all need someone to talk to and that someone can’t always be a family member or a friend.
If your situation seems impossible, you feel despairing and you have nowhere to turn - I'm here to listen and support you.
I offer caring, non-judgmental counselling in a safe and confidential setting. You'll find a peaceful room where you can talk about your concerns and fears with a trusted professional. Counselling gives you a chance to explore what is happening and why, guiding you along a new path to self-recovery and resilience. I support individuals from the age of 16 years, who are experiencing a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, separation, low self-esteem, anger and bereavement. When life becomes difficult, we all need someone to talk to and that someone can’t always be a family member or a friend.
01737 306804 View 01737 306804
Photo of Hannah Downing, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Hannah Downing
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reigate RH2
It can be difficult to take the step to begin seeing a new therapist.
There are many reasons why we find ourselves in search of a therapist. You might have come to a point in life where you are in search of answers that you would like to explore together in therapy. Perhaps you have noticed patterns over time that you would like to understand better. It could be that you have come to a realisation that something just needs to change or that things just aren't working anymore in the way that they used to.
It can be difficult to take the step to begin seeing a new therapist.
There are many reasons why we find ourselves in search of a therapist. You might have come to a point in life where you are in search of answers that you would like to explore together in therapy. Perhaps you have noticed patterns over time that you would like to understand better. It could be that you have come to a realisation that something just needs to change or that things just aren't working anymore in the way that they used to.
01883 779276 View 01883 779276
Photo of Anna Scott, MBACP, Counsellor
Anna Scott
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
Before counselling sessions begin I will invite you for an initial consultation.
Counselling for Couples & Individuals. As a psychodynamic counsellor, I work with both couples and individuals who want to understand how early experiences may be shaping current patterns of thinking, beliefs, and behaviours. For couples, I offer support in navigating relational challenges such as rebuilding trust after an affair, overcoming communication breakdowns, reigniting intimacy, and managing parenting disagreements. Together, we can create a space for each partner to better understand themselves and each other, working towards stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
Before counselling sessions begin I will invite you for an initial consultation.
Counselling for Couples & Individuals. As a psychodynamic counsellor, I work with both couples and individuals who want to understand how early experiences may be shaping current patterns of thinking, beliefs, and behaviours. For couples, I offer support in navigating relational challenges such as rebuilding trust after an affair, overcoming communication breakdowns, reigniting intimacy, and managing parenting disagreements. Together, we can create a space for each partner to better understand themselves and each other, working towards stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
01306 772208 View 01306 772208
Photo of Catherine Frisby, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Catherine Frisby
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
I appreciate that finding the right counsellor is important.
Coming to counselling for the first time can be daunting and may take some courage. I would like to offer you a safe, confidential, non-judgemental, neutral space to work through difficult feelings, gain insights and help you move forward. It may be separation or loss that has brought you to this point. Perhaps you are suffering from depression, anxiety or relationship difficulties. It may be past traumas that are affecting you. It could be a vague sense of dissatisfaction and a search for a greater sense of meaning that is the source of your discomfort. Whatever the issue, counselling with a skilled counsellor can guide you through
I appreciate that finding the right counsellor is important.
Coming to counselling for the first time can be daunting and may take some courage. I would like to offer you a safe, confidential, non-judgemental, neutral space to work through difficult feelings, gain insights and help you move forward. It may be separation or loss that has brought you to this point. Perhaps you are suffering from depression, anxiety or relationship difficulties. It may be past traumas that are affecting you. It could be a vague sense of dissatisfaction and a search for a greater sense of meaning that is the source of your discomfort. Whatever the issue, counselling with a skilled counsellor can guide you through
01737 949543 View 01737 949543
Photo of Maria Harding - Psychotherapy Surrey Hills, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Psychotherapy Surrey Hills
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
I offer therapy according to your specific needs and in the context of your life as a whole.
We seek psychological help for many reasons. Not only can psychological therapy help when life feels intolerably difficult, but it can also make an “ok” life more fulfilling. Therapy can help to reduce emotional suffering, support change, and promote personal growth. It is a collaborative process and the insight gained can help us look at life from a different perspective and enable us to respond differently to life’s challenges. People often seek support when they are facing life transitions or feel stuck in their lives.
I offer therapy according to your specific needs and in the context of your life as a whole.
We seek psychological help for many reasons. Not only can psychological therapy help when life feels intolerably difficult, but it can also make an “ok” life more fulfilling. Therapy can help to reduce emotional suffering, support change, and promote personal growth. It is a collaborative process and the insight gained can help us look at life from a different perspective and enable us to respond differently to life’s challenges. People often seek support when they are facing life transitions or feel stuck in their lives.
01737 924407 View 01737 924407
Photo of Jazz Vienna Coe - Jazz Vienna Counselling, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Jazz Vienna Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
You are warmly invited to contact me using WhatsApp, or email for an initial conversation, or to book a session.
Hello, and a very warm welcome to you. Making the decision to start therapy can be a difficult step, but a positive and rewarding one for many. I am a warm and compassionate integrative therapist offering indoor face to face counselling, online sessions, and outdoors walk and talk therapy. You as a person are at the centre of my approach. When life becomes overwhelming, it can be surprisingly helpful to speak to someone who really listens, with warmth, understanding, and without judgment. My aim is to provide a welcoming, safe, and confidential space for us to explore the challenging issues that may have brought you here today.
You are warmly invited to contact me using WhatsApp, or email for an initial conversation, or to book a session.
Hello, and a very warm welcome to you. Making the decision to start therapy can be a difficult step, but a positive and rewarding one for many. I am a warm and compassionate integrative therapist offering indoor face to face counselling, online sessions, and outdoors walk and talk therapy. You as a person are at the centre of my approach. When life becomes overwhelming, it can be surprisingly helpful to speak to someone who really listens, with warmth, understanding, and without judgment. My aim is to provide a welcoming, safe, and confidential space for us to explore the challenging issues that may have brought you here today.
020 4538 5685 View 020 4538 5685
Photo of Susanna Taggart, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Susanna Taggart
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
Thank you for reading my profile.
I believe psychology can improve everyone's quality of life. ​ My aim is to work in a collaborative, compassionate way to help reduce distress, develop your ability to manage any ongoing difficulties and help you develop a more meaningful and valued life. As a Clinical Psychologist, I use evidence-based treatments and draw on the recommendations of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE guidelines). Put simply our sessions will aim to reduce unhappiness or dysfunction, and increase your ability to cope and sense of fulfilment. ​
Thank you for reading my profile.
I believe psychology can improve everyone's quality of life. ​ My aim is to work in a collaborative, compassionate way to help reduce distress, develop your ability to manage any ongoing difficulties and help you develop a more meaningful and valued life. As a Clinical Psychologist, I use evidence-based treatments and draw on the recommendations of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE guidelines). Put simply our sessions will aim to reduce unhappiness or dysfunction, and increase your ability to cope and sense of fulfilment. ​
01306 775897 View 01306 775897
Photo of Louise Hudspith, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Louise Hudspith
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
Why choose me? My extensive experience spans across clients of all ages, including young people, I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for exploration and growth.
The therapeutic relationship between counsellor and client plays a pivotal role in influencing the success of therapy. This hinges on personal preference and a genuine connection. Often you will intuitively sense whether the therapist is the right match, even from the first contact. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Seeking therapy is a courageous and brave step, whether it’s for bereavement, grief & loss, or other life difficulties such as anxiety or depression. Please get in touch for a 15 minute discovery session.
Why choose me? My extensive experience spans across clients of all ages, including young people, I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for exploration and growth.
The therapeutic relationship between counsellor and client plays a pivotal role in influencing the success of therapy. This hinges on personal preference and a genuine connection. Often you will intuitively sense whether the therapist is the right match, even from the first contact. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Seeking therapy is a courageous and brave step, whether it’s for bereavement, grief & loss, or other life difficulties such as anxiety or depression. Please get in touch for a 15 minute discovery session.
01293 376074 View 01293 376074
Photo of Charlotte Musgrove, MBACP, Counsellor
Charlotte Musgrove
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reigate RH2
So many things, experiences, relationships, questions, transitions, can bring us into therapy.
I welcome your needs, be that uncovering the source of your anxiety, beginning to work with your depression, reflecting on relationships and your own patterns of relating, or together voyaging into what is your extrinsic meaning, who and how am I in this world? The therapeutic space I offer is yours to focus on any aspect of life. I am a committed, genuine, caring therapist, that is invested in developing our therapeutic relationship. Together, every step of the way and in your own time, we can explore your life experience and discover where emotions may have got stuck and are now impacting your present.
So many things, experiences, relationships, questions, transitions, can bring us into therapy.
I welcome your needs, be that uncovering the source of your anxiety, beginning to work with your depression, reflecting on relationships and your own patterns of relating, or together voyaging into what is your extrinsic meaning, who and how am I in this world? The therapeutic space I offer is yours to focus on any aspect of life. I am a committed, genuine, caring therapist, that is invested in developing our therapeutic relationship. Together, every step of the way and in your own time, we can explore your life experience and discover where emotions may have got stuck and are now impacting your present.
01483 968825 View 01483 968825
Photo of Dr Reena Amin, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Reena Amin
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
Dr Amin is committed to provide a professional service and work collaboratively with clients to develop a shared understanding of the difficulties, enabling a tailored approach to meet individual needs.
Dr Amin is an experienced Chartered Clinical Psychologist and an Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. In addition to her private practice, Dr Amin is currently working within the NHS with adults with complex and enduring mental health difficulties and works as a Lecturer and Clinical Tutor at University College London offering teaching, training and supervision. Dr Amin specialises in working with adult mental health and works with a range of difficulties such as trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, generalised anxiety, phobias, eating disorders and personality disorders.
Dr Amin is committed to provide a professional service and work collaboratively with clients to develop a shared understanding of the difficulties, enabling a tailored approach to meet individual needs.
Dr Amin is an experienced Chartered Clinical Psychologist and an Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. In addition to her private practice, Dr Amin is currently working within the NHS with adults with complex and enduring mental health difficulties and works as a Lecturer and Clinical Tutor at University College London offering teaching, training and supervision. Dr Amin specialises in working with adult mental health and works with a range of difficulties such as trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, generalised anxiety, phobias, eating disorders and personality disorders.
020 8103 5986 View 020 8103 5986
Photo of Emma Rowley, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Emma Rowley
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
I offer a warm, collaborative approach, using evidence-based, NICE approved models of therapy, including Cognitive Behavioural and Compassion-Focused approaches.
Hello, my name is Emma and I'm an HCPC registered clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience working with women, birthing couples and families as they navigate the transformational journey through pregnancy and childbirth to parenthood. I have worked extensively in the NHS and in Private Practice within Women’s Health, Maternal and Perinatal Wellbeing Services, supporting adults with a full range of clinical presentations, including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma and post-traumatic stress, bereavement and loss, attachment and relationship difficulties, parenting, anger and self-esteem issues.
I offer a warm, collaborative approach, using evidence-based, NICE approved models of therapy, including Cognitive Behavioural and Compassion-Focused approaches.
Hello, my name is Emma and I'm an HCPC registered clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience working with women, birthing couples and families as they navigate the transformational journey through pregnancy and childbirth to parenthood. I have worked extensively in the NHS and in Private Practice within Women’s Health, Maternal and Perinatal Wellbeing Services, supporting adults with a full range of clinical presentations, including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma and post-traumatic stress, bereavement and loss, attachment and relationship difficulties, parenting, anger and self-esteem issues.
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Photo of Andrew Darnley, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Andrew Darnley
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
I offer non-judgemental counselling irrespective of your age, gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation, in a safe, private and confidential setting in Reigate, Surrey.
I have been a psychotherapist and counsellor for 17 years, working in the NHS, in Reigate, with extensive experience helping individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-worth, relational issues, and personal conflicts. I am committed to providing a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment for us to explore what is troubling you and to hopefully enable you to find a way to change how you feel about yourself and the world around you. Gaining a greater self-understanding, to begin to live more fully in the present, and to face the future with strength and hope.
I offer non-judgemental counselling irrespective of your age, gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation, in a safe, private and confidential setting in Reigate, Surrey.
I have been a psychotherapist and counsellor for 17 years, working in the NHS, in Reigate, with extensive experience helping individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-worth, relational issues, and personal conflicts. I am committed to providing a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment for us to explore what is troubling you and to hopefully enable you to find a way to change how you feel about yourself and the world around you. Gaining a greater self-understanding, to begin to live more fully in the present, and to face the future with strength and hope.
01737 924408 View 01737 924408
Photo of Vivienne Gordon-Graham, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Vivienne Gordon-Graham
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
With an MA in Psychotherapy & Counselling, PG Dip in CBT, PG Dip in Couples Counselling & Psychotherapy, Dip in PTSD, EMDR, Cert Mediation, and having lived in different countries I also have an understanding of diverse cultures.
Are you facing challenges in your personal or work life or issues over which you have no control such as loss, health, or any crisis, (big or small)? Are you looking for a therapist who offers respect, understanding, validation of you and your unique circumstances and who provides an environment of trust where you can both work collaboratively to explore your way of 'being in the world' and where you will gain and develop your inner resources and resilience and where together you will discuss different perspectives and choices to make to improve your quality of life? Your therapeutic journey is an opportunity for transformation!
With an MA in Psychotherapy & Counselling, PG Dip in CBT, PG Dip in Couples Counselling & Psychotherapy, Dip in PTSD, EMDR, Cert Mediation, and having lived in different countries I also have an understanding of diverse cultures.
Are you facing challenges in your personal or work life or issues over which you have no control such as loss, health, or any crisis, (big or small)? Are you looking for a therapist who offers respect, understanding, validation of you and your unique circumstances and who provides an environment of trust where you can both work collaboratively to explore your way of 'being in the world' and where you will gain and develop your inner resources and resilience and where together you will discuss different perspectives and choices to make to improve your quality of life? Your therapeutic journey is an opportunity for transformation!
01737 926555 View 01737 926555
Photo of Pj Sangalang, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Pj Sangalang
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
I believe a good relationship with a counsellor helps, and I can provide a safe, boundaried space for you to help explore yourself.
If you currently dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem and confidence, every day problems in life or just wanting to learn more about yourself, please get in touch. I will listen to your individual story and your very individual challenges, and your very individual perception of them. I aim to provide a safe environment that encourages and challenges as appropriate, just for you. I am also a member of the BAME community and an immigrant from Canada, and I have worked with a variety of clients across different gender and age groups, as well as ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.
I believe a good relationship with a counsellor helps, and I can provide a safe, boundaried space for you to help explore yourself.
If you currently dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem and confidence, every day problems in life or just wanting to learn more about yourself, please get in touch. I will listen to your individual story and your very individual challenges, and your very individual perception of them. I aim to provide a safe environment that encourages and challenges as appropriate, just for you. I am also a member of the BAME community and an immigrant from Canada, and I have worked with a variety of clients across different gender and age groups, as well as ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.
01737 948394 View 01737 948394
Photo of Jude Craig, MBACP, Counsellor
Jude Craig
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
It can be a daunting prospect chosing a counsellor, and as such I welcome a call or an email, to see if I might be the right therapist to help you.
People seek counselling for many different reasons. You may have experienced changes in your life such as; a physical illness or chronic diagnosis, relationship difficulties, divorce or bereavement. You may be depressed or anxious for reasons you can't explain. All of these things can be difficult to deal with alone.
It can be a daunting prospect chosing a counsellor, and as such I welcome a call or an email, to see if I might be the right therapist to help you.
People seek counselling for many different reasons. You may have experienced changes in your life such as; a physical illness or chronic diagnosis, relationship difficulties, divorce or bereavement. You may be depressed or anxious for reasons you can't explain. All of these things can be difficult to deal with alone.
01737 948424 View 01737 948424
Photo of Charlotte Crompton - CBT with Charlotte , MBABCP, Psychotherapist
CBT with Charlotte
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
The therapeutic relationship is so important.
Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, low mood, depression? Or perhaps you are struggling to adjust following a traumatic life event? These are all things that I can help you with. If you are looking to work together with a therapist to understand yourself, your thinking and behavioural patterns better in order to make meaningful change to your wellbeing, then I would love to work with you. I also have a special interest in supporting new parents with adjusting to their new role as a parent, whilst maintaining a sense of themselves.
The therapeutic relationship is so important.
Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, low mood, depression? Or perhaps you are struggling to adjust following a traumatic life event? These are all things that I can help you with. If you are looking to work together with a therapist to understand yourself, your thinking and behavioural patterns better in order to make meaningful change to your wellbeing, then I would love to work with you. I also have a special interest in supporting new parents with adjusting to their new role as a parent, whilst maintaining a sense of themselves.
01306 773103 View 01306 773103
Photo of Dr Rosie Odhuba, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rosie Odhuba
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Reigate RH2
It's a brave step to seek therapy, recognising that you need a helping hand to make changes in your life, allowing you to break unhelpful patterns and instead live the way you want, according to what is important to you.
I provide assessment and treatment for adults and teenagers for a wide range of emotional issues. You can expect professional, clinically effective & evidence-based input from an experienced (over 20 years in NHS & then private practise), well-qualified Clinical Psychologist, providing sensitive, collaborative and thoughtful therapy. All input is in line with The National Institute for Clinical Excellence, (NICE) guidelines, utilising well researched established psychotherapeutic methods. Main modalities used are EMDR (particularly effective for trauma), CBT and ACT (particularly effective for long term health issues).
It's a brave step to seek therapy, recognising that you need a helping hand to make changes in your life, allowing you to break unhelpful patterns and instead live the way you want, according to what is important to you.
I provide assessment and treatment for adults and teenagers for a wide range of emotional issues. You can expect professional, clinically effective & evidence-based input from an experienced (over 20 years in NHS & then private practise), well-qualified Clinical Psychologist, providing sensitive, collaborative and thoughtful therapy. All input is in line with The National Institute for Clinical Excellence, (NICE) guidelines, utilising well researched established psychotherapeutic methods. Main modalities used are EMDR (particularly effective for trauma), CBT and ACT (particularly effective for long term health issues).
01737 924956 View 01737 924956
1

See more therapy options for Reigate

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.