Depression Counselling in Pudsey

Photo of Dr Palvinder Rao, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Palvinder Rao
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
I always aim to understand people and their challenges and difficulties within the context of their unique lived experiences, culture, race, beliefs and values.
Hello, my name is Pav. I am a registered and chartered clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in helping people with a range of problems including: depression, anxiety disorders, low self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, complex PTSD, self-harm, addictions, eating disorders, physical illness, ASD, ADHD, personality difficulties, adjustment disorders and bipolar. I also have experience of supporting those who are experiencing neurological injury, illness or disease.
I always aim to understand people and their challenges and difficulties within the context of their unique lived experiences, culture, race, beliefs and values.
Hello, my name is Pav. I am a registered and chartered clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in helping people with a range of problems including: depression, anxiety disorders, low self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, complex PTSD, self-harm, addictions, eating disorders, physical illness, ASD, ADHD, personality difficulties, adjustment disorders and bipolar. I also have experience of supporting those who are experiencing neurological injury, illness or disease.
0113 519 5687 View 0113 519 5687
Photo of Debbie Frost - Debbie Frost Counselling & Hypnotherapy, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Debbie Frost Counselling & Hypnotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
You may come to counselling because of a relationship breakdown, bereavement or redundancy.
I am a counsellor and hypnotherapist, working  with adults and teenagers, I work with issues such as adult survivors of sexual abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, suicide,confidence building, pain relief, depression, low self esteem, regression work, anger, domestic violence, sexual abuse, bereavement, trauma, bullying, self harm, phobia's, insomnia, weight loss, stopping smoking and other issues I am a qualified and experienced counsellor and hypnotherapist, I am a member of BACP. I have worked with DISC a drugs rehabilitation unit in Leeds and I also volunteered for BARCA Reaching out Counselling & psychotherapy services
You may come to counselling because of a relationship breakdown, bereavement or redundancy.
I am a counsellor and hypnotherapist, working  with adults and teenagers, I work with issues such as adult survivors of sexual abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, suicide,confidence building, pain relief, depression, low self esteem, regression work, anger, domestic violence, sexual abuse, bereavement, trauma, bullying, self harm, phobia's, insomnia, weight loss, stopping smoking and other issues I am a qualified and experienced counsellor and hypnotherapist, I am a member of BACP. I have worked with DISC a drugs rehabilitation unit in Leeds and I also volunteered for BARCA Reaching out Counselling & psychotherapy services
01274 288625 View 01274 288625
Photo of Sophie Bell, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sophie Bell
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pudsey LS28
I support a variety of clients and I am passionate about supporting those who identify as ADHD and LGBTQ+.
Choosing a therapist is a very personal decision and finding someone that you feel comfortable with is an important part of your process. I am relational, collaborative and holistic, placing value and importance in you, your story and your challenges and successes. You might be struggling with anxiety, anger or depression? Perhaps issues from your past keep resurfacing and you're looking for a way to move forward? Maybe you have noticed you feel different to the people around you? Or you might like to process an event in a safe environment with a professional?
I support a variety of clients and I am passionate about supporting those who identify as ADHD and LGBTQ+.
Choosing a therapist is a very personal decision and finding someone that you feel comfortable with is an important part of your process. I am relational, collaborative and holistic, placing value and importance in you, your story and your challenges and successes. You might be struggling with anxiety, anger or depression? Perhaps issues from your past keep resurfacing and you're looking for a way to move forward? Maybe you have noticed you feel different to the people around you? Or you might like to process an event in a safe environment with a professional?
01274 015925 View 01274 015925
Photo of Susannah Christine Barnes - With The Seasons - Counselling & Trauma Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
With The Seasons - Counselling & Trauma Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
I won't tell you what you should be doing.
Are you feeling out of sync with the world and other people? You may be going through a bereavement or significant life changes, feeling anxious, depressed, lonely, confused, misunderstood or be living with Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD) or Long Covid. I can help you reconnect to yourself and others. I can support you with the things that are holding you back as well as help you make more sense of the new world around you. I help you work with the body and mind together - a more effective way to stabilise and rebuild after a traumatic time as well as enable new insights and change - than bringing your pain up over and over again.
I won't tell you what you should be doing.
Are you feeling out of sync with the world and other people? You may be going through a bereavement or significant life changes, feeling anxious, depressed, lonely, confused, misunderstood or be living with Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD) or Long Covid. I can help you reconnect to yourself and others. I can support you with the things that are holding you back as well as help you make more sense of the new world around you. I help you work with the body and mind together - a more effective way to stabilise and rebuild after a traumatic time as well as enable new insights and change - than bringing your pain up over and over again.
01274 015886 View 01274 015886
Photo of Dr Rebecca Szlachcic, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rebecca Szlachcic
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
Being able to trust someone and discuss your thoughts, feelings and experiences can be challenging and I aim to provide a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space so that we can work together to address your difficulties.
I am an experienced HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in the private sector. I am a trauma informed therapist, recognising that many people are trying their best to cope and live with the difficult life experiences they have been through. I understand the importance of the therapeutic relationship in finding a ‘good fit’ with a therapist. I enjoy working collaboratively and creatively with individuals and have experience in working with people with mild to severe mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis and personality difficulties.
Being able to trust someone and discuss your thoughts, feelings and experiences can be challenging and I aim to provide a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space so that we can work together to address your difficulties.
I am an experienced HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in the private sector. I am a trauma informed therapist, recognising that many people are trying their best to cope and live with the difficult life experiences they have been through. I understand the importance of the therapeutic relationship in finding a ‘good fit’ with a therapist. I enjoy working collaboratively and creatively with individuals and have experience in working with people with mild to severe mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis and personality difficulties.
0113 467 9507 View 0113 467 9507
Photo of Liz Parry, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Liz Parry
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
I offer both short and long term therapy.
Do you feel overwhelmed and experience anxiety, depression, sadness, loneliness or feelings of not being good enough? Are you experiencing relationship difficulties? Do you worry about what other people think of you? I provide a calm, warm, confidential and non-judgemental space. I will work with you at your pace to help you explore and make sense of your inner thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Understanding yourself more deeply means you can recognise how and why you respond to life's challenges, this then gives you the chance to learn new and effective ways to respond. This can help you make significant and lasting change.
I offer both short and long term therapy.
Do you feel overwhelmed and experience anxiety, depression, sadness, loneliness or feelings of not being good enough? Are you experiencing relationship difficulties? Do you worry about what other people think of you? I provide a calm, warm, confidential and non-judgemental space. I will work with you at your pace to help you explore and make sense of your inner thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Understanding yourself more deeply means you can recognise how and why you respond to life's challenges, this then gives you the chance to learn new and effective ways to respond. This can help you make significant and lasting change.
01274 288130 View 01274 288130
Photo of Shabana Shafiq - New Dawn Psychological Therapies, PhD, GMBPsS, Psychologist
New Dawn Psychological Therapies
Psychologist, PhD, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28  (Online Only)
I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous and vulnerable step, and I commend you for taking it! Whatever challenges you're facing, I am committed to helping you tap into your inner strength and wisdom as you work toward healing and wholeness.
Thank you for visiting New Dawn Psychological Therapies profile. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to manage stress, anxiety, depression or cope with past trauma? You're not alone. If you feel like you're barely keeping your head above water, I'm here to help. As a psychologist and counsellor therapist, I recognise that life is not linear. We are all on a journey towards realising our full potential however, this journey can often be hindered by negative life experiences outside of our control. But please know, you are a unique individual of worth, and it is possible to heal, energise, and become aware of your inner strengths.
I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous and vulnerable step, and I commend you for taking it! Whatever challenges you're facing, I am committed to helping you tap into your inner strength and wisdom as you work toward healing and wholeness.
Thank you for visiting New Dawn Psychological Therapies profile. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Struggling to manage stress, anxiety, depression or cope with past trauma? You're not alone. If you feel like you're barely keeping your head above water, I'm here to help. As a psychologist and counsellor therapist, I recognise that life is not linear. We are all on a journey towards realising our full potential however, this journey can often be hindered by negative life experiences outside of our control. But please know, you are a unique individual of worth, and it is possible to heal, energise, and become aware of your inner strengths.
0113 519 1877 View 0113 519 1877
Photo of Tamara Hoyton, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Tamara Hoyton
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
Change happens in many ways.
Hello, and a warm welcome to my website. I am a very experienced Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor who specialises in Anxiety, Depression, Sexual Issues, Relationship Problems and work related stress. I am a highly qualified practioner offering Individual Psychotherapy, Counselling, Psychosexual Therapy and Couples Therapy in the Leeds and Bradford area. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Life success indicators show increased relational satisfaction as key to personal happiness and good therapy can improve this. I am proud to have over 20 years of being in practice.
Change happens in many ways.
Hello, and a warm welcome to my website. I am a very experienced Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor who specialises in Anxiety, Depression, Sexual Issues, Relationship Problems and work related stress. I am a highly qualified practioner offering Individual Psychotherapy, Counselling, Psychosexual Therapy and Couples Therapy in the Leeds and Bradford area. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Life success indicators show increased relational satisfaction as key to personal happiness and good therapy can improve this. I am proud to have over 20 years of being in practice.
0113 467 8104 View 0113 467 8104
Photo of Gemma Lyness, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Gemma Lyness
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pudsey LS28
As you gain clarity, emotional strength and confidence you will be able to make choices and see the way forward.
Perhaps you are going through something that feels too overwhelming to tackle alone. People seek counselling for many reasons; a life crisis, relationship issues, a bereavement, work-related stress, lacking confidence, difficulty moving on from painful childhood experiences, a lack of purpose and meaning. Whatever your reasons, talking about your difficulties with someone who truly listens is the first step towards making them manageable. A strong therapeutic relationship can bring relief, support when it is most needed and transformative change.
As you gain clarity, emotional strength and confidence you will be able to make choices and see the way forward.
Perhaps you are going through something that feels too overwhelming to tackle alone. People seek counselling for many reasons; a life crisis, relationship issues, a bereavement, work-related stress, lacking confidence, difficulty moving on from painful childhood experiences, a lack of purpose and meaning. Whatever your reasons, talking about your difficulties with someone who truly listens is the first step towards making them manageable. A strong therapeutic relationship can bring relief, support when it is most needed and transformative change.
0113 519 0163 View 0113 519 0163
Photo of Alexander Church, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Alexander Church
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
I offer a free initial consultation and assessment of your need to see if I am the right person to help you.
I trained as a therapist to support people live happy and healthy lives and not to feel shackled by experiences and situations that can prevent them from enjoying the here and now and looking forwards to a happy future. We live for an average of 3 billion seconds, I would like to support everyone I work with use that time in the best possible way.
I offer a free initial consultation and assessment of your need to see if I am the right person to help you.
I trained as a therapist to support people live happy and healthy lives and not to feel shackled by experiences and situations that can prevent them from enjoying the here and now and looking forwards to a happy future. We live for an average of 3 billion seconds, I would like to support everyone I work with use that time in the best possible way.
0113 519 0525 View 0113 519 0525
Photo of Cat Brown, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Cat Brown
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
Taking that first step in reaching out to a counsellor can be difficult but I offer a friendly welcome where you can expect to be heard and understood.
When it’s not always possible to chat to a friend or loved one about personal issues counselling can be really helpful. Using a warm and down to earth style my sessions will use techniques to help discover the underlying symptoms, using a non direct approach. This will allow us to explore any issues you have, develop ways to overcome them, and move forward positively at a pace that feels right for you. As a fully qualified therapist, I offer help if you suffer emotional from problems with low self esteem, relationships, work related stress, abuse, child related issues, abandonment, drug abuse and addiction, amongst many others.
Taking that first step in reaching out to a counsellor can be difficult but I offer a friendly welcome where you can expect to be heard and understood.
When it’s not always possible to chat to a friend or loved one about personal issues counselling can be really helpful. Using a warm and down to earth style my sessions will use techniques to help discover the underlying symptoms, using a non direct approach. This will allow us to explore any issues you have, develop ways to overcome them, and move forward positively at a pace that feels right for you. As a fully qualified therapist, I offer help if you suffer emotional from problems with low self esteem, relationships, work related stress, abuse, child related issues, abandonment, drug abuse and addiction, amongst many others.
0113 487 2776 View 0113 487 2776
Photo of Paulina Cravo, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Paulina Cravo
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have worked with people from diverse range of backgrounds, cultures and experiences.
Maybe you are a parent and wanting to know how your own attachment affects the way you relate and bond with your child/children/partner. Or perhaps you would like to learn more about yourself, gain more resilience and empower yourself. I won’t give you advice but I will offer a space that is safe, non judgemental and filled with humour at times.
Throughout my career, I have worked with people from diverse range of backgrounds, cultures and experiences.
Maybe you are a parent and wanting to know how your own attachment affects the way you relate and bond with your child/children/partner. Or perhaps you would like to learn more about yourself, gain more resilience and empower yourself. I won’t give you advice but I will offer a space that is safe, non judgemental and filled with humour at times.
0113 519 9759 View 0113 519 9759
Photo of Ashleigh Gardner, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Ashleigh Gardner
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
My sessions are tailored to each client, this means that they look different for everyone.
Making the first step and looking for a counsellor to work with can feel scary and overwhelming. It’s hard to know what to say or what to expect, especially if you have not had counselling before. Building a safe and trusting relationship with your counsellor is important. It can take time to do this, but it is important that you feel comfortable enough with them in the beginning to start on that journey. I offer a safe space, where you will be truly listened to without expectation or judgement. This allows my clients to feel comfortable in being open and honest so that they can get the most out of their sessions.
My sessions are tailored to each client, this means that they look different for everyone.
Making the first step and looking for a counsellor to work with can feel scary and overwhelming. It’s hard to know what to say or what to expect, especially if you have not had counselling before. Building a safe and trusting relationship with your counsellor is important. It can take time to do this, but it is important that you feel comfortable enough with them in the beginning to start on that journey. I offer a safe space, where you will be truly listened to without expectation or judgement. This allows my clients to feel comfortable in being open and honest so that they can get the most out of their sessions.
0113 519 8625 View 0113 519 8625
Photo of Paul Walton - Kaleidoscope Psychology and Psychotherapy, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Kaleidoscope Psychology and Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
Making that decision to seek help is a courageous and important step.
My name is Dr Paul Walton and I am the Director of Kaleidoscope Psychology and Psychotherapy. I am a Clinical Psychologist and Systemic Family Psychotherapist and I have worked in the NHS, charity, and private sector over the last 12 years. Kaleidoscope formed from a desire to create a therapeutic service which privileges the lived experience of people and champions their strength and ability to overcome emotional distress. My ethos is based on the belief that emotional and psychological problems are understandable responses to the things that happen to us in our lives. My role is to help you take your life back from such problems.
Making that decision to seek help is a courageous and important step.
My name is Dr Paul Walton and I am the Director of Kaleidoscope Psychology and Psychotherapy. I am a Clinical Psychologist and Systemic Family Psychotherapist and I have worked in the NHS, charity, and private sector over the last 12 years. Kaleidoscope formed from a desire to create a therapeutic service which privileges the lived experience of people and champions their strength and ability to overcome emotional distress. My ethos is based on the belief that emotional and psychological problems are understandable responses to the things that happen to us in our lives. My role is to help you take your life back from such problems.
0113 519 0363 View 0113 519 0363
Photo of Janine Ellis, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Janine Ellis
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pudsey LS28
You've probably arrived at this page because you're at a difficult point in your life.
My practice is anti-racist, LGBTQ+ aware/inclusive. As well as my private practice, I also work as a relationship counsellor for Relate Bradford & Leeds. Before re-training, I worked in the music industry for twenty years at various cult independent record labels in London. Therefore, as well as working with a wide range of people, cultures and experiences, I also provide specialist counselling to musicians and music industry workers, as I understand the unique nature and distinct needs of the music community.
You've probably arrived at this page because you're at a difficult point in your life.
My practice is anti-racist, LGBTQ+ aware/inclusive. As well as my private practice, I also work as a relationship counsellor for Relate Bradford & Leeds. Before re-training, I worked in the music industry for twenty years at various cult independent record labels in London. Therefore, as well as working with a wide range of people, cultures and experiences, I also provide specialist counselling to musicians and music industry workers, as I understand the unique nature and distinct needs of the music community.
0113 519 8691 View 0113 519 8691
Photo of Paulina Rybak - Lighthouse Therapy, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lighthouse Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I am here to guide you through any obstacles you may face.
I provide a wide range of psychological services that are catered to suit my clients’ needs. I am person centred, relational, integrative and creative practitioner- meaning that I am prepared to use a number of therapeutical approaches to meet your needs. Psychoeducation is deeply embedded in my practice, especially that teaching forms the foundation of my professional origin. I am continuously striving to learn new things and explore new ideas and approaches, always with my clients’ wellbeing and development in mind.
Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I am here to guide you through any obstacles you may face.
I provide a wide range of psychological services that are catered to suit my clients’ needs. I am person centred, relational, integrative and creative practitioner- meaning that I am prepared to use a number of therapeutical approaches to meet your needs. Psychoeducation is deeply embedded in my practice, especially that teaching forms the foundation of my professional origin. I am continuously striving to learn new things and explore new ideas and approaches, always with my clients’ wellbeing and development in mind.
0113 519 0459 View 0113 519 0459
Photo of Amandeep Kumar
Amandeep Kumar
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pudsey LS28
I have experience working with all age groups.
My name is Amandeep Kumar. I am Registered Mental Health Nurse. I am an EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and completed specialist training in Child & Adolescent EMDR. I have over 20 years experience working within the NHS. I am completely fascinated by how the mind and body create physical symptoms in the body and this is what can make us feel stuck or have an emotional response to the symptoms. Self-healing and alternative therapies are very close to my heart. I am a Reiki Practitioner and have skills and knowledge in alternative therapies.
I have experience working with all age groups.
My name is Amandeep Kumar. I am Registered Mental Health Nurse. I am an EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and completed specialist training in Child & Adolescent EMDR. I have over 20 years experience working within the NHS. I am completely fascinated by how the mind and body create physical symptoms in the body and this is what can make us feel stuck or have an emotional response to the symptoms. Self-healing and alternative therapies are very close to my heart. I am a Reiki Practitioner and have skills and knowledge in alternative therapies.
0113 519 1996 View 0113 519 1996
Photo of Sammi Ryan, BACP, Counsellor
Sammi Ryan
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pudsey LS28
I will listen deeply, sharing what I`m hearing, sensing and seeing.
I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for Survivors of Childhood Sexual abuse and Survivors of Domestic Abuse. I am passionate about empowering you to heal from traumatic experiences and grow in any way that works for you and your life. Experienced in working with Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Domestic abuse, I know I can be with you every step of the way, being with you during the darker times to help you process your thoughts and feelings, and being with you to celebrate your breakthroughs and growth and healing!
I will listen deeply, sharing what I`m hearing, sensing and seeing.
I offer a safe, non-judgemental space for Survivors of Childhood Sexual abuse and Survivors of Domestic Abuse. I am passionate about empowering you to heal from traumatic experiences and grow in any way that works for you and your life. Experienced in working with Survivors of Sexual Abuse and Domestic abuse, I know I can be with you every step of the way, being with you during the darker times to help you process your thoughts and feelings, and being with you to celebrate your breakthroughs and growth and healing!
0113 519 4526 View 0113 519 4526
Photo of Millie McLean, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Millie McLean
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
I offer a free 15-minute telephone call - this gives you an opportunity to ask me any questions you may have.
I understand that the decision to start therapy is rarely made lightly, and taking that first step can feel overwhelming. You may be feeling apprehensive, anxious, and sceptical about sharing your innermost thoughts and emotions with a stranger. It takes immense courage to be vulnerable and talk about the difficulties you are experiencing, and I want you to know that I fully appreciate and respect your decision to seek help. You might be facing a specific problem that you want to address, such as relationship issues, anxiety. Alternatively, you may have a sense that something in your life is not quite right, but cannot identify it.
I offer a free 15-minute telephone call - this gives you an opportunity to ask me any questions you may have.
I understand that the decision to start therapy is rarely made lightly, and taking that first step can feel overwhelming. You may be feeling apprehensive, anxious, and sceptical about sharing your innermost thoughts and emotions with a stranger. It takes immense courage to be vulnerable and talk about the difficulties you are experiencing, and I want you to know that I fully appreciate and respect your decision to seek help. You might be facing a specific problem that you want to address, such as relationship issues, anxiety. Alternatively, you may have a sense that something in your life is not quite right, but cannot identify it.
01943 661329 View 01943 661329
Photo of Andy Williams, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Andy Williams
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
Not accepting new clients
I suspect that all therapist have their own specific history that draws them towards the role.
As a psychotherapist, counsellor, supervisor and trainer, I am passionate about emancipation and freedom. My practice is characterised by offering you a space - online or face-to-face - where you can discover your identity and regain a sense of autonomy and connectedness. I seek to support my clients to move from a place of feeling perhaps lost and alienated to a position where they feel connected to themselves, to others and to the ground upon which they walk. As a client, you may be seeking to manage a significant and sudden change in your life. I would like to work shoulder-to-shoulder with you to address these difficulties.
I suspect that all therapist have their own specific history that draws them towards the role.
As a psychotherapist, counsellor, supervisor and trainer, I am passionate about emancipation and freedom. My practice is characterised by offering you a space - online or face-to-face - where you can discover your identity and regain a sense of autonomy and connectedness. I seek to support my clients to move from a place of feeling perhaps lost and alienated to a position where they feel connected to themselves, to others and to the ground upon which they walk. As a client, you may be seeking to manage a significant and sudden change in your life. I would like to work shoulder-to-shoulder with you to address these difficulties.
0113 519 4703 View 0113 519 4703

See more therapy options for Pudsey

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.