Depression Counselling in Ammanford

Photo of Michele Gray - TALK Therapies and Lifestyle Counselling, MSc, CPsychol, Psychologist
TALK Therapies and Lifestyle Counselling
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Ammanford SA18
Please visit my website for more details.
I’m a Chartered Health Psychologist, EMDR therapist and Medical Hypnotherapist. Prior to opening my own practice I worked for the NHS within medical hospital settings. I am a member of the British Psychological Society and HCPC registered.
Please visit my website for more details.
I’m a Chartered Health Psychologist, EMDR therapist and Medical Hypnotherapist. Prior to opening my own practice I worked for the NHS within medical hospital settings. I am a member of the British Psychological Society and HCPC registered.
01269 502028 View 01269 502028
Photo of Claire Young, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Claire Young
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Ammanford SA18
I have a collaborative and goal oriented approach.
My name is Claire Young and I am a qualified and accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist & EMDR Therapist. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 15 years as a registered mental health nurse within the NHS. I currently continue to practice within the NHS as a Psychotherapist in addition to my private practice.
I have a collaborative and goal oriented approach.
My name is Claire Young and I am a qualified and accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist & EMDR Therapist. I have been working in the field of mental health for over 15 years as a registered mental health nurse within the NHS. I currently continue to practice within the NHS as a Psychotherapist in addition to my private practice.
01267 611599 View 01267 611599
Photo of Gareth Huw Jones, MBACP, Counsellor
Gareth Huw Jones
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ammanford SA18
Life is challenging.
Hello! I am a Professional Integrative counsellor and I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). There is a strong person centred element to the way i work, but I also combine different modalities, according to the need of the individual. I believe everyone has the resources within them to grow and become more fulfilled. My focus is developing an atmosphere of trust, where self-acceptance and psychological healing can take place. We will work together in an environment free from negativity and judgement, where you can safely explore your issues and emotions.
Life is challenging.
Hello! I am a Professional Integrative counsellor and I am a registered member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). There is a strong person centred element to the way i work, but I also combine different modalities, according to the need of the individual. I believe everyone has the resources within them to grow and become more fulfilled. My focus is developing an atmosphere of trust, where self-acceptance and psychological healing can take place. We will work together in an environment free from negativity and judgement, where you can safely explore your issues and emotions.
01269 505812 View 01269 505812
Photo of Aileen Patricia Brindley - Counselling with Aileen, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Counselling with Aileen
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ammanford SA18
Counselling is a partnership and the most important factor in ensuring counselling makes a positive difference is that both feel they can trust each other, regardless of age.
I specialise in working with children and teens, as well as adults. I can help you explore your difficulties and p find out what can deepen your self - understanding, increase your confidence and reduce your distress, so that you can find an acceptable resolution to your problems. You may be an adult, a parent, a teenager or a child. I will work quickly to find solutions with you. Over the years I have gained a significant amount of experience in alleviating distress, through my individual work in private practice and in GP surgeries within the NHS. I am also very experienced in working with neurodiverse clients of all ages.
Counselling is a partnership and the most important factor in ensuring counselling makes a positive difference is that both feel they can trust each other, regardless of age.
I specialise in working with children and teens, as well as adults. I can help you explore your difficulties and p find out what can deepen your self - understanding, increase your confidence and reduce your distress, so that you can find an acceptable resolution to your problems. You may be an adult, a parent, a teenager or a child. I will work quickly to find solutions with you. Over the years I have gained a significant amount of experience in alleviating distress, through my individual work in private practice and in GP surgeries within the NHS. I am also very experienced in working with neurodiverse clients of all ages.
01269 503832 View 01269 503832
Photo of John Dray, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
John Dray
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ammanford SA18
I will listen to what matters most to you and honour it.
Are you feeling stuck or disconnected, as if something is holding you back from fully engaging with life? You might be feeling uncertain about your identity or overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or past trauma. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and I am here to help. I specialise in working with LGBTQ+ individuals who are navigating these challenges and exploring their sense of self. Together, we’ll create a safe and supportive space where you can better understand your experiences, discover new ways to relate to yourself and others, and move towards a more authentic and fulfilling life.
I will listen to what matters most to you and honour it.
Are you feeling stuck or disconnected, as if something is holding you back from fully engaging with life? You might be feeling uncertain about your identity or overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or past trauma. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and I am here to help. I specialise in working with LGBTQ+ individuals who are navigating these challenges and exploring their sense of self. Together, we’ll create a safe and supportive space where you can better understand your experiences, discover new ways to relate to yourself and others, and move towards a more authentic and fulfilling life.
01269 508064 View 01269 508064
Photo of Ella Beatrice George, MBACP, Counsellor
Ella Beatrice George
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ammanford SA18
Counselling for Couples & Individuals - I am deeply committed to therapy and its transformative potential in helping individuals navigate through challenging life experiences such as abuse, neglect, trauma, and loss. These encounters often shape one's perception of the world and impact relationships profoundly. In my practice, I provide a secure, non-judgmental environment where you can freely explore your struggles and cultivate fresh perspectives. With extensive experience, I specialise in assisting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, as well as relationship and trust issues.
Counselling for Couples & Individuals - I am deeply committed to therapy and its transformative potential in helping individuals navigate through challenging life experiences such as abuse, neglect, trauma, and loss. These encounters often shape one's perception of the world and impact relationships profoundly. In my practice, I provide a secure, non-judgmental environment where you can freely explore your struggles and cultivate fresh perspectives. With extensive experience, I specialise in assisting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, as well as relationship and trust issues.
01792 949451 View 01792 949451
Photo of Julie Gravelle, MBACP, Counsellor
Julie Gravelle
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ammanford SA18
I started Counselling in my local Doctors Surgery 15 years ago.
I have 15 years of experience as a Counsellor and Hypnotherapist and I know that the reason you are even reading this is because you or someone you know needs help. How do we start? A simple chat, either over the phone or online. We will discuss your worries or issues and together work out the best way forward. This may be just one method or a combination of therapies. You will be in control of this and it can be changed as we progress, I offer this in a safe, confidential and non judgemental environment. Many of my clients choose to split sessions into 1/2hr Counselling and 1/2hr Hypnotherapy.
I started Counselling in my local Doctors Surgery 15 years ago.
I have 15 years of experience as a Counsellor and Hypnotherapist and I know that the reason you are even reading this is because you or someone you know needs help. How do we start? A simple chat, either over the phone or online. We will discuss your worries or issues and together work out the best way forward. This may be just one method or a combination of therapies. You will be in control of this and it can be changed as we progress, I offer this in a safe, confidential and non judgemental environment. Many of my clients choose to split sessions into 1/2hr Counselling and 1/2hr Hypnotherapy.
01792 989364 View 01792 989364
Photo of Tammy Allen, MBACP, Counsellor
Tammy Allen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ammanford SA18
I believe that all human beings are experts on themselves.
Hi I'm Tam. Firstly, I would like to say well done on finding the courage, and starting the process in searching and asking for help, this can at times be the most difficult part. The foundations of my work are built on the Person-Centred Approach and I aim to work and walk alongside you as we explore your problems, distresses or difficult situations you are experiencing. We will work together, to gain a better understanding of the difficulties that can present themselves regarding trauma and loss, self-identity, low self-esteem, anxiety, and making sense of the purpose of life ahead.
I believe that all human beings are experts on themselves.
Hi I'm Tam. Firstly, I would like to say well done on finding the courage, and starting the process in searching and asking for help, this can at times be the most difficult part. The foundations of my work are built on the Person-Centred Approach and I aim to work and walk alongside you as we explore your problems, distresses or difficult situations you are experiencing. We will work together, to gain a better understanding of the difficulties that can present themselves regarding trauma and loss, self-identity, low self-esteem, anxiety, and making sense of the purpose of life ahead.
01639 505117 View 01639 505117
Photo of Henk Smit, MBACP, Counsellor
Henk Smit
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ammanford SA18
It's important to find the right therapist for you.
Hello, my name is Henk. I provide individual and couples counselling. As a fully qualified Person-Centred Counsellor, I offer non-judgmental acceptance, empathic understanding and sincerity. This helps build a trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable exploring anything that is on your mind, but also helps you find your own answers by helping you get a deeper understanding of what is going on for you. You may feel low, anxious, worthless, lost, easily overwhelmed, not knowing which direction to take, or how to cope with what life has thrown your way.
It's important to find the right therapist for you.
Hello, my name is Henk. I provide individual and couples counselling. As a fully qualified Person-Centred Counsellor, I offer non-judgmental acceptance, empathic understanding and sincerity. This helps build a trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable exploring anything that is on your mind, but also helps you find your own answers by helping you get a deeper understanding of what is going on for you. You may feel low, anxious, worthless, lost, easily overwhelmed, not knowing which direction to take, or how to cope with what life has thrown your way.
01550 912280 View 01550 912280
Photo of Heather Eileen DEWELL - Clear Conscience Counselling Ltd, MBACP, Counsellor
Clear Conscience Counselling Ltd
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ammanford SA18
I embody warmth and empathy, and harmonise with you as we navigate through your distress.
I'm a certified and registered counsellor/psychotherapist (holding FDA in counselling and Dip. psysextherapy) affiliated with BACP accredited with the NCPS and a member of SFTR and HPAI. My approach is integrative, designed to empower clients to identify, comprehend, and navigate their challenges. This, coupled with psychoeducation, fosters profound self-awareness and healing. Together, we'll unearth strategies to conquer the demands of today's world, delve into intimate concerns, and enhance your communication prowess. I blend conventional and holistic counselling methods to create a safe, confidential, and welcoming space.
I embody warmth and empathy, and harmonise with you as we navigate through your distress.
I'm a certified and registered counsellor/psychotherapist (holding FDA in counselling and Dip. psysextherapy) affiliated with BACP accredited with the NCPS and a member of SFTR and HPAI. My approach is integrative, designed to empower clients to identify, comprehend, and navigate their challenges. This, coupled with psychoeducation, fosters profound self-awareness and healing. Together, we'll unearth strategies to conquer the demands of today's world, delve into intimate concerns, and enhance your communication prowess. I blend conventional and holistic counselling methods to create a safe, confidential, and welcoming space.
01269 505889 View 01269 505889
Photo of Jonathan Butterworth - Ready to Listen, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Ready to Listen
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ammanford SA18
You are not your condition.
Hi, I’m Jonathan. When you feel like you’ve got no one to talk to, I’m ready to listen. Whether it’s a recent change in your life or something that’s been bubbling under the surface for years, counselling and psychotherapy in a caring, compassionate setting will help you cope.. You might be looking for counselling to help you deal with a recent life change such as moving house or changing jobs, or perhaps you’re looking for tools to help you cope with an anxiety disorder such as social anxiety, or more general worries.
You are not your condition.
Hi, I’m Jonathan. When you feel like you’ve got no one to talk to, I’m ready to listen. Whether it’s a recent change in your life or something that’s been bubbling under the surface for years, counselling and psychotherapy in a caring, compassionate setting will help you cope.. You might be looking for counselling to help you deal with a recent life change such as moving house or changing jobs, or perhaps you’re looking for tools to help you cope with an anxiety disorder such as social anxiety, or more general worries.
01267 611620 View 01267 611620

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anne Pamela Marvelly, MBACP, Counsellor
Anne Pamela Marvelly
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Llanelli SA14
Many people feel the need for counselling at some point in their lives.
I'm passionate about counselling because it has been both life-saving and life-changing for me. Since early childhood I had been anxious and depressed and received very little help until I reached 40, was bringing up 4 children and became very concerned about the effect my moods could be having on them. In counselling I began to experience hope, and was gradually shown how to observe my thought patterns, to look at how my childhood had affected me, and how to recover and change. I'm a different person now, as my husband and friends would tell you. Now I love to help others recover from depression and anxiety in particular.
Many people feel the need for counselling at some point in their lives.
I'm passionate about counselling because it has been both life-saving and life-changing for me. Since early childhood I had been anxious and depressed and received very little help until I reached 40, was bringing up 4 children and became very concerned about the effect my moods could be having on them. In counselling I began to experience hope, and was gradually shown how to observe my thought patterns, to look at how my childhood had affected me, and how to recover and change. I'm a different person now, as my husband and friends would tell you. Now I love to help others recover from depression and anxiety in particular.
01962 587343 View 01962 587343
Photo of Karen Rowe, MBACP, Counsellor
Karen Rowe
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Llanelli SA15
Counselling is your journey and if you choose to work with me, and I do hope you will, we can follow a way of working that reflects your individuality.
I offer a safe, caring and supportive space where, working at a pace set by you and using a variety of tools and approaches that reflect you as a unique individual, I will work along side you in exploring and understanding the difficulties that may have brought you to seek therapy and helping you towards any changes you would like to make. I believe that you are the expert on you and so our sessions are guided by what you bring to each meeting, I will give you time to be heard, perhaps making observations and reflections or sharing tools or techniques that I feel may bring understanding or support you in moving forward.
Counselling is your journey and if you choose to work with me, and I do hope you will, we can follow a way of working that reflects your individuality.
I offer a safe, caring and supportive space where, working at a pace set by you and using a variety of tools and approaches that reflect you as a unique individual, I will work along side you in exploring and understanding the difficulties that may have brought you to seek therapy and helping you towards any changes you would like to make. I believe that you are the expert on you and so our sessions are guided by what you bring to each meeting, I will give you time to be heard, perhaps making observations and reflections or sharing tools or techniques that I feel may bring understanding or support you in moving forward.
01267 611587 View 01267 611587
Photo of David Lloyd-Brown, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
David Lloyd-Brown
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Llanelli SA14
I strive to provide a safe, non-judgemental, and confidential space in which you can feel free to explore your thoughts and emotions.
Hello, my name is David and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. The fact that you’re considering seeing a counsellor means that you’re unhappy with a part of your life, whether it be an unfulfilling relationship, an uncertainty about career or lifestyle choices, or thoughts and behaviours that inhibit your ability to lead the life that you once dared to imagine. The pandemic has also forced people to look again at their life and reappraise what they really want from it.
I strive to provide a safe, non-judgemental, and confidential space in which you can feel free to explore your thoughts and emotions.
Hello, my name is David and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. The fact that you’re considering seeing a counsellor means that you’re unhappy with a part of your life, whether it be an unfulfilling relationship, an uncertainty about career or lifestyle choices, or thoughts and behaviours that inhibit your ability to lead the life that you once dared to imagine. The pandemic has also forced people to look again at their life and reappraise what they really want from it.
01792 940497 View 01792 940497
Photo of Martin Stevenson, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Martin Stevenson
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Swansea SA4
Choosing a therapist can be a daunting prospect, but I'd like to offer the opportunity to get in touch.
My name is Martin. I have worked in the field of mental health for several years, and I want to use my knowledge, skills and experience to help you take this step to improve your mental well-being. I have worked in a range of settings, including NHS, EAP and emergency services, where I have worked with a wide range of problems. These have included depression, OCD, worry, PTSD and trauma, difficulties in managing emotions and phobias. Through using CBT, we'll work together to understand the thoughts, feelings and behaviours that you feel may holding you back, and explore ways of reaching where you want to be.
Choosing a therapist can be a daunting prospect, but I'd like to offer the opportunity to get in touch.
My name is Martin. I have worked in the field of mental health for several years, and I want to use my knowledge, skills and experience to help you take this step to improve your mental well-being. I have worked in a range of settings, including NHS, EAP and emergency services, where I have worked with a wide range of problems. These have included depression, OCD, worry, PTSD and trauma, difficulties in managing emotions and phobias. Through using CBT, we'll work together to understand the thoughts, feelings and behaviours that you feel may holding you back, and explore ways of reaching where you want to be.
01792 949080 View 01792 949080
Photo of Dave Wilde, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Dave Wilde
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Plasmarl SA6
I have a non- judgemental approach and I have had a lot of success in working with people who are struggling with anxiety, depression and panic disorder and I will work with you to alleviate the symptoms and to identify and deal with the underlying causes that are making you feel unable to cope or to enjoy life.
I specialise in complex PTSD, including sexual, emotional and physical abuse. I also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders and working with trainee counsellors and couples. I will work with you to explore your issues, and help you understand what changes you can make to feel better about yourself and your relationships. My background of working in the public and voluntary sectors, as well as teaching and student support in further and higher education, has given me over 20 years' experience of working with people who need help with with a range of mental health issues.
I have a non- judgemental approach and I have had a lot of success in working with people who are struggling with anxiety, depression and panic disorder and I will work with you to alleviate the symptoms and to identify and deal with the underlying causes that are making you feel unable to cope or to enjoy life.
I specialise in complex PTSD, including sexual, emotional and physical abuse. I also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders and working with trainee counsellors and couples. I will work with you to explore your issues, and help you understand what changes you can make to feel better about yourself and your relationships. My background of working in the public and voluntary sectors, as well as teaching and student support in further and higher education, has given me over 20 years' experience of working with people who need help with with a range of mental health issues.
01792 720287 View 01792 720287
Photo of Martin Bramidge, MBACP, Counsellor
Martin Bramidge
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Llanelli SA15  (Online Only)
I am a qualified counsellor with a wealth of life experience.
As a qualified Counsellor I am able to help with issues such as anxiety, depression, bereavement and addictions amongst others. However, my Person-Centred approach does not exclude other problems or issues which may affect us at some time in our lives and I work with each individual to deal with the issues affecting them. I am trained in an “Integrative” style which means I can choose from a range of ways of working. This could include, for example, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Gestalt, using elements of creative therapies or Transactional Analysis (TA). We can decide between us which approach works best for you.
I am a qualified counsellor with a wealth of life experience.
As a qualified Counsellor I am able to help with issues such as anxiety, depression, bereavement and addictions amongst others. However, my Person-Centred approach does not exclude other problems or issues which may affect us at some time in our lives and I work with each individual to deal with the issues affecting them. I am trained in an “Integrative” style which means I can choose from a range of ways of working. This could include, for example, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Gestalt, using elements of creative therapies or Transactional Analysis (TA). We can decide between us which approach works best for you.
01554 701047 View 01554 701047
Photo of Georgina Gray, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Georgina Gray
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Swansea SA4
Partaking in counselling or treatment for trauma and PTSD, is a very individual, personal and private journey which can at times be painful.
The reasons that people may seek therapy are very individual and personal - it may be due to emotional problems, anxiety, depression, substance use, early life experiences, trauma, or because of a feeling that life has somehow lost its balance. Yet many issues and problems are embedded within our wider social and cultural context. Adverse childhood experiences and other difficult or traumatic experiences later in life can have a profound effect on how we view ourselves, our relationship with others and the wider world, usually leading to a mixture of vulnerability as well as resilience. Therapies such as EMDR or CBT can help.
Partaking in counselling or treatment for trauma and PTSD, is a very individual, personal and private journey which can at times be painful.
The reasons that people may seek therapy are very individual and personal - it may be due to emotional problems, anxiety, depression, substance use, early life experiences, trauma, or because of a feeling that life has somehow lost its balance. Yet many issues and problems are embedded within our wider social and cultural context. Adverse childhood experiences and other difficult or traumatic experiences later in life can have a profound effect on how we view ourselves, our relationship with others and the wider world, usually leading to a mixture of vulnerability as well as resilience. Therapies such as EMDR or CBT can help.
01570 940257 View 01570 940257
Photo of Caroline Thomas - Insideout Psychotherapy, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Insideout Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Llanelli SA14
Acceptance of oneself as we really are is one of the most powerful approaches to healing as beyond the conditioned and constant chatter of our mind lies a truer experience of ourselves.
Coming to therapy can seem like a big step. But in my experience with clients, it is usually the beginning of a liberating time when past and present concerns can be expressed and understood with emotions examined and transmuted. Learning how to accept and navigate difficult life situations can be really beneficial, as you discover what choices are available to you in how to handle difficult emotions and thought patterns. Many of our core beliefs were formed when we were young and not fully conscious of the choices we were making about our world. Therapy gives you the chance to look at yourself and your issues in new ways.
Acceptance of oneself as we really are is one of the most powerful approaches to healing as beyond the conditioned and constant chatter of our mind lies a truer experience of ourselves.
Coming to therapy can seem like a big step. But in my experience with clients, it is usually the beginning of a liberating time when past and present concerns can be expressed and understood with emotions examined and transmuted. Learning how to accept and navigate difficult life situations can be really beneficial, as you discover what choices are available to you in how to handle difficult emotions and thought patterns. Many of our core beliefs were formed when we were young and not fully conscious of the choices we were making about our world. Therapy gives you the chance to look at yourself and your issues in new ways.
01962 676199 View 01962 676199
Photo of Philip Braham, MBACP, Counsellor
Philip Braham
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Llandeilo SA19
As an integrative therapist I draw upon a variety of theoretical basis and use them to formulate a bespoke approach to fit the needs of the client.
As a relational humanistic counsellor, I believe that the relationship between you and I is integral to our work together. My approach is empathic and explorative, looking back at your past to understand who you are and why you are where you are. In this awareness, my hope is that you will become free to make the changes that you want to in life and to accept all parts of yourself. The work is yours, and my job is to sit alongside you using my skills, knowledge and experience to support you. It is my belief that the right therapist can provide invaluable assistance to your wellbeing, and guide you to use the resources you have.
As an integrative therapist I draw upon a variety of theoretical basis and use them to formulate a bespoke approach to fit the needs of the client.
As a relational humanistic counsellor, I believe that the relationship between you and I is integral to our work together. My approach is empathic and explorative, looking back at your past to understand who you are and why you are where you are. In this awareness, my hope is that you will become free to make the changes that you want to in life and to accept all parts of yourself. The work is yours, and my job is to sit alongside you using my skills, knowledge and experience to support you. It is my belief that the right therapist can provide invaluable assistance to your wellbeing, and guide you to use the resources you have.
01550 912266 View 01550 912266

See more therapy options for Ammanford

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.