Find a local depression counsellor near you

Common depression treatment methods include cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Dialectical behaviour therapy is also another way to treat depression. 

People with depression may use a blended approach or focus on one type of treatment, depending on their needs. Here’s an overview of counselling and therapy services you may consider for depression treatment.  

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) 

Cognitive behavioural therapy aims to modify distorted and debilitating thought patterns. CBT combines cognitive therapy and behavioural therapy. Cognitive therapy focuses on moods and thoughts, while behavioural therapy targets actions. A CBT specialist would help you identify your negative thought patterns and responses to stressful situations. 

Through CBT, you may learn more balanced and positive ways to respond to stressors. Your therapist may recommend additional activities like journaling, painting, or learning a new skill to support your recovery.

Interpersonal therapy (IPT) 

Interpersonal therapy deals with a patient’s difficulties with their personal relationships. Your therapist may start IPT by conducting an interview wherein you describe your problems. This initial session can help your therapist identify your issues and outline a treatment plan in line with your goals. Typically, an IPT program lasts up to 20 weeks, with each session lasting one hour. IPT may help treat depression relating to significant life changes like a move, job loss, or the end of a marriage.

The goal of IPT is to reduce depression and improve relationships. IPT may teach you ways to communicate better with others, such as a partner or family members. People with social anxiety may also opt to get public speaking lessons to improve their confidence. 

Psychodynamic therapy

Psychodynamic therapy looks into a client’s past to fix their present situation. Usually, this form of treatment explores internal psychological conflicts stemming from childhood. Your therapist works with you to uncover your repressed emotions and deal with unresolved problems. While other therapies like CBT focus on present thought patterns and behaviours, psychodynamic therapy focuses on the past. Specifically, psychodynamic therapy analyses how your past affects your present functioning.

A psychodynamic therapy program may last up to a year – much longer than other forms of therapy. Moreover, psychodynamic therapy sessions are more open-ended to leave space for exploration. People with a life-long history of self-harm or dysfunctional coping mechanisms may benefit from psychodynamic therapy. 

Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) 

Dialectical behaviour therapy is one form of CBT. DBT was designed to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD), but it’s also known as an effective treatment for depression. This form of therapy combines behavioural, cognitive, and acceptance-based therapy. DBT involves highly structured sessions and skills training in individual and group settings. You may also expect homework between sessions to practise the skills. People with depression opt for DBT when other treatments haven’t worked. DBT may help you learn skills, such as managing painful emotions, lessening negative behaviours, and accepting the present through mindfulness.