Depression Counselling

Depression Treatment Oakville

Mild to moderately severe depression is highly treatable, often without medication, but for many people, the most effective treatment for depression is a combination of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and medication.

Dealing with Depression

When feeling depressed, people are more likely to think negatively about themselves (e.g., ‘I’m a failure.’ ‘No one loves me.’), the world (e.g., ‘There’s nothing good out there.’ ‘You can’t trust anyone.’) and the future (e.g., ‘My life will never get any better.’). While life can sometimes be quite difficult, depression can make it look that way even when things are going well. Research shows that we think differently when we feeling depressed. Those distorted thoughts move us to change behaviours in ways that can make depression even worse, for instance, by withdrawing from relationships and activities that feel good.

At Shift Cognitive Therapy we use CBT and other therapies to help people deal with depression, especially to become aware of and challenge distorted thoughts, and to change behaviours that make symptoms worse. For more information about dealing with depression, you can read our guide.

Cognitive behaviour therapy as a method for depression counselling in Oakville

CBT for depression is a special form of depression counselling that is an active, ‘doing’ therapy, and not just a talking therapy. It is a collaborative process where the client and psychologist work together to identify strategies that will be effective for that specific person. CBT has a long history of research-based support showing that it is effective as a treatment and flexible enough to adapt to any person’s particular situation and needs.

CBT treatment as depression counselling is usually short-term, typically lasting between 10 and 20, one-hour sessions and focuses on finding effective ways to cope right now. We teach skills to help patients reduce the severity of depression symptoms and minimize the chances of relapse. Homework and practice outside of depression counselling sessions are key components of treatment that really build that learning and help people to manage future episodes.

Psychological services are covered by most extended health benefit plans and are tax deductible.