Depression Counselling in London and Online

One in five people feel stuck in a loop of sadness, hopelessness and helplessness. When we feel like this, it is normal to become more withdrawn. For example, rejecting invitations, spending hours in bed and feeling lonely. Similarly, wondering whether we’re good enough or if we will ever feel happy again. We do this because we feel vulnerable. If this is what you are experiencing, and it has lasted for several weeks, it might be important to seek depression counselling. In turn, with the help of a depression therapist using CBT Therapy for sadness or other psychotherapy approaches for depression and low mood, you have a chance to beat the blues, break negative patterns of thinking and behaving and rediscover the beauty in your everyday life. Beat depression with Therapy Central in London starting today.

Work with our qualified Depression therapists today.

 Contact us for a free 15 min consultation  

Depression therapy in London and online

Discover Depression Counselling

What is Depression? What are the Symptoms?

Depression is one of the most common psychological difficulties affecting around one in five people, and it’s one of the main reasons people ask for help from Therapy Central. It is characterised by low mood and sadness. In addition, other feelings that some people experience are loneliness, numbness, irritability and anger. Depression can affect the way people think. It can contribute to self-critical thoughts (negative thoughts about oneself e.g. “I’m worthless”, “I’m not good enough”, “I’m a failure”), lack of confidence in oneself, lack of assertiveness, hopelessness,  thinking the worst case scenario in situations, lack of concentration and poor memory.

Some people may experience suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harming themselves. People with depression can also experience unpleasant physical symptoms, such as headaches, tiredness, lethargy, poor sleep and appetite can increase or decrease. Motivation to engage in activities often reduces and people with depression can have a tendency to isolate themselves. On the one hand this may provide temporary relief by not having to face situations that one does not have energy for. However, individuals then miss out on engaging in activities that may bring a sense of enjoyment, achievement and closeness to others that could instead help to lift mood. In turn this can lead to a less fulfilling life which can further lower mood. Depression counselling can help reverse this negative trend.

People Experience Depression in Different Ways

We experience the above to varying degrees and they can last for a short  or a long period of time. People may have a single depressive episode or it can be recurrent, meaning people experience several depressive episodes over time. Moreover, many people who experience depression and low mood also experience anxiety. Anxiety and depression are often two sides of the same coin. For example, people with obsessive-compulsive tendencies (OCD), which is an anxiety-based issue, may often feel very low and develop depressive symptoms as a consequence of often feeling anxious; the same can happen to people who are struggling with an eating disorder. Work stress and relationship problems may also arise for people suffering from depression. Psychotherapy and counselling for depression may involve dealing also with these parallel issues. 

Why do we Feel Depressed?

There are many reasons that lead to depression. Life can be difficult at times and it may not go exactly how we had planned. For instance, we can face challenges big and small such as bereavement, loss of a job, financial problems, relationship difficulties, work stressors and poor health. However, there is not one single cause of depression for everyone. And the reason for developing it can differ from person to person. It may be the result of one single stressor or difficulty or deriving from a combination of these. Moreover, it is believed that difficult childhood experiences can contribute to someone being vulnerable to developing depression in later life. Therapy and counselling for depression very often involve looking at the factors that allowed it to emerge in the first place.

Does Depression Counselling Work? How?

Yes, depression counselling does work. Systematic reviews [1] provided a large amount of evidence that psychological therapies, including CBT and counselling are very effective for depression. The elective treatment for low mood are talking therapies, such as psychotherapy and counselling (there are many types of therapy approaches,  read more about How do Counselling, Psychotherapy and CBT Therapy work ), and sometimes antidepressant medications (which should always be discussed with your medical doctor for benefits and side effects). Low mood therapy can involve working together with your therapist (often a psychologist) to understand what unique factors have contributed to its development.

In your therapy sessions for depression, your therapist can also work with you to explore the vicious cycles you may be currently experiencing and help you find ways to break out of these cycles this is often the case with CBT Therapy. See an example of a CBT vicious Cycle of depression below). For example, some people may find it helpful to be supported to gradually become more active and to address unpleasant thinking patterns. Rather than focus on strategies, it may be beneficial for you to have depression counselling to have an in-depth exploration of the current challenges you face. These are likely to be lowering your mood.

Depression & low mood counselling CBT Vicious Cycle

When Should I Get Counselling for Depression?

If you are struggling with low mood, sadness or depression (whether it is mild, moderate or severe), it is having a significant impact upon your life and you feel stuck, now is the time to receive therapy for depression. As much as you do not want to feel this way it can be difficult to change on your own. It can help to have a warm and safe space to explore and address your problem with depression to fight off those demons. Alternative therapies, including for example the use of turmeric have been recently shown to have a positive effect on depression and anxiety.

If you are look for depression counselling in Central London, contact us for a free 15 min consultation where one of our experienced therapists can help.

What are the Benefits of Depression Counselling?

It can be easier to speak with a trained depression therapist as opposed to a friend or relative. At Therapy Central we have experienced counsellors, psychologists and therapists specialised in treating depression and low mood who will actively listen to you, they will provide a comfortable, warm and non-judgmental space for you to explore and manage your depression. They will help you to find answers to your problems.

There can be many benefits of receiving counselling for depression, including:

  • Help you to gain a more thorough understanding of your depression, its causes and what maintains it. This provides good insight into how to manage it and prevent it from occurring in the future. This can be empowering.
  • Help you to learn coping strategies to combat depression
  • Develop more self-compassion
  • Improve your quality of life
  • Reduce medication use
  • Improve mood, sleep, energy, concentration and motivation levels
  • Makes it easier to speak about your problems to others
  • Reduces stress and anxiety
  • Gain a different and healthier perspective on situations
  • Improve relationships

Our therapists specialised in Depression

All of our therapists are qualified psychologists, psychotherapists or counsellors registered with several professional bodies. These include the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the British Psychological Society (BPS), as well as, BACP, UKCP and BABCP.

Our therapists use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), psychodynamic, humanistic and integrative approaches tailored around your needs to help you deal with your unique challenges and reach your goals.

Dr. Raffaello Antonino

Clinical Director, Counselling Psychologist

Dr. Sheetal Dandgey

Clinical Director, Counselling Psychologist

Dr. Amy Smith

Clinical Director, Counselling Psychologist

Dr. Anna Hovris

Counselling Psychologist

Dr. Samantha Harris

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Alana Whitlock

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Yasmeen Jaina

Counselling Psychologist

Dr Gail Freedman

Counselling Psychologist

Ben Dustin

Psychotherapist

Maryam Keshavarz

Psychotherapist

Stacie Hill

CBT Psychotherapist

Dr Joanne Warren

Clinical Psychologist

Dr Nicholas Sarantakis

Counselling Psychologist

Anita Sommers

Psychotherapist

Imogen Hg-Johnson

Psychotherapist

Anna Orlowska

Counselling Psychologist

Joanne Videtzky

Clinical Psychologist

Dr Lara Lopes de Jesus

Counselling Psychologist

The british psychological society
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Logo BACP
logo UKCP

Testimonials

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The Therapist l had was absolutely brilliant with me. He had patience with me and bit by bit l gained a little of confidence to try and get out and go on the buses.

He deserves an award and if l could l would in the beginning l thought how is this person going to get me back on public transport but he did he gave me the confidence l lost and now have back.

I will never forget him and what he has done for me. I wish him nothing but the best in his life.

(Patricia)

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My therapist was excellent. I highly recommend her and I am truly thankful for my sessions, I left feeling confident and positive.

The mental tools, systems and approaches I have been able to develop with her and use in my life have been hugely beneficial.

Thank you to all at Therapy Central.

(John)

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The Therapist really gave me the space to talk and express my feelings and fears in a very comforting environment.

She was there not only to listen, but challenge my thinking, guide me during the uncertainty I was experiencing and give me useful and practical tips to improve my mental health and wellbeing. Highly recommended!

(George)

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Working with the therapist has been a life-changing experience. Each session has been invaluable, helping me gain a good understanding of CBT methodology enabling me to incorporate ways to combat stress and anxiety in my daily life.

The Therapist shows that she really cares and has the ability to make you feel calm whilst discussing any personal issue. 

(Richard)

Fees & Insurances

Therapy, Counselling and CBT sessions are 50 minutes long and are usually held at regular weekly time slots.

Free
15 Minute Initial
Phone Consultation

£80 - £125
Psychological Therapy/
Counselling (Self-funded)

£115 - £150
Couples Therapy/
Family Therapy

Covered by
Your Private Healthcare Insurance Provider

Our therapists are registered with several insurance providers, such as AXAPPP, Simplyhealth, Bupa, Aviva, Cigna (UK/US), and WPA. If you wish to use your personal or employee private healthcare insurance to cover your sessions, please highlight this in your contact form below.

Depression Counselling in Central London & Online

If you are looking for depression therapy in London, at Therapy Central we can help you learn the strategies you need to start beating the blues and understand the causes of your low mood. As a result, you’ll be enabled to make the crucial changes to bring balance and fulfilment back into your life. No one should face depression alone.

Get professional help with Depression in London today. Contact us for a free 15 min consultation with a Depression Therapist to see if our help would fit your needs. You can also get in touch via email at info@therapy-central.com or call us at (+44) 020 348 82797.

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    FAQ

    What happens after I make an enquiry?

    After receiving your enquiry we’ll contact you to organise a FREE phone consultation. You will be able to tell us more about your specific circumstances and needs and ask any questions you have. Then, if you want to proceed with therapy or counselling, we’ll match you with the therapist(s) with the best expertise to help you with your challenges and send you a list of their available appointment slots. If you’re satisfied with one of these, we can then go ahead and book your first appointment. You can also request to work with a specific practitioner and, depending on availability we’ll try accomodate this.

    What happens at my first appointment with the therapist?

    Your first session will likely be different than future appointments. You and your therapist will get to know each other and will begin to build a working alliance. It will be a chance to have the confidential space to express your circumstances, feelings and thoughts and being listened to with depth, attention, empathy and without judgement . Your therapist will likely ask you more about your reasons for seeking therapy, and any symptoms you’re experiencing. You may also be asked questions about your past and the history of your issues, as well as how they currently impact your life in the present. Finally, your first session may be a powerful place to discuss what you would like to achieve with therapy and agree on the length, methods and approaches of treatment.

    Is online therapy effective?

    If you choose online over in-person therapy rest assured that this has been proven to be just as effective as regular face to face therapy, and in some cases even more effective. In addition, choosing online therapy brings additional benefits, for example avoiding longer waiting times, greater flexibility with appointments and you won’t need to travel to our practice. You can enjoy online therapy from the comfort of your home.

    How long the Therapy/counselling sessions last?

    Therapy/counselling sessions last 50 minutes and are held at regular weekly time slots. On occasions we are able to allow some flexibility. This can be discussed with your therapist.

    Do you offer reduced rates/concessions?

    We offer low-cost rates to people with a low income, unemployed or students. Please let us know in your enquiry if you would like a concession rate and how you qualify for this. Depending on the availability of our therapists, we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.

    Do you have a cancellation policy?

    We have a 48 hours no-fee cancellation policy. However you will be charged for sessions missed without giving the full notice.

    Our Practice in Central London

    Our comfortable and confidential therapy rooms are conveniently located 3 min walk from Oxford Circus station, in Central London (see map below). Change starts with Talking!

    Authors:

    Dr Amy Smith, Counselling Psychologist

    Dr Raffaello Antonino, Counselling Psychologist

     

    Learn more:

    Other issues we work with at Therapy Central

    What is anxiety?

    Mind (UK Mental Health charity) 

    NHS general info

    Rethink

    Mental Health UK

    Looking after yourself

    Learn more about CBT  Therapy

     

    References:

    [1] Linde K, Sigterman K, Kriston L, et al. Effectiveness of psychological treatment for depressive disorders in primary care: systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Fam Med. 2014;12(6):56-68

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    We're registered with AXA Health, AXA therapists, AXA counselling, Aviva, Vitality, Cigna, BPS, HCPC, BABCP
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