Therapy for Depression in London
Compassionate, humanistic therapy that addresses the underlying causes of depression and supports your journey back to meaning, connection, and wellbeing.
If you're experiencing depression, you might feel stuck in a fog—disconnected from yourself, others, and life itself. Simple tasks feel overwhelming. Nothing brings joy or meaning. You might struggle with low energy, hopelessness, or the sense that things will never get better.
You're not alone, and there is hope. Depression is one of the most common reasons people seek therapy, and therapy is highly effective in treating it. As a BACP registered humanistic therapist, I offer a warm, accepting space where you can explore what's contributing to your depression and find a path forward.
My approach is different from quick-fix solutions. Rather than just managing symptoms, we explore the deeper causes—loss, trauma, difficult life transitions, relationship difficulties, or a loss of meaning. Together, we work towards lasting change.
Understanding Depression
Depression is more than just feeling sad. It affects your mood, thoughts, body, and behaviour. Common symptoms include:
If you're experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please reach out for immediate support: Call 999, go to A&E, or contact Samaritans on 116 123 (24/7, free to call).
The Humanistic Approach to Depression
While CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) focuses on changing negative thought patterns, and medication addresses chemical imbalances, humanistic therapy takes a different approach:
We explore the whole person—your experiences, relationships, losses, values, and sense of meaning. Depression often arises when we feel disconnected from ourselves, trapped in unfulfilling situations, or unable to express our authentic needs and feelings.
Rather than seeing depression as simply a "disorder" to be fixed, humanistic therapy recognises it as a meaningful (though painful) signal that something in your life needs attention. Together, we explore:
Underlying Causes
What's contributing to your depression? Loss, trauma, difficult relationships, life transitions, lack of meaning, or unprocessed emotions?
Your Relationship with Yourself
How do you treat yourself? Do you carry shame, self-criticism, or feelings of unworthiness? We work to develop self-compassion and acceptance.
Meaning and Purpose
Depression often involves a loss of meaning. We explore what gives your life purpose, what you value, and how to reconnect with what matters to you.
Relationships and Connection
Isolation worsens depression. We explore your relationships, loneliness, and how to build genuine connections with others.
Self-Actualisation
Depression can be a sign that you're not living authentically or reaching your potential. We explore barriers to growth and how to move towards a fuller, more authentic life.
What to Expect in Depression Therapy
Therapy for depression is a collaborative process. Here's what you can expect:
A Safe, Non-Judgmental Space
Many people with depression feel ashamed or worried about being a burden. In therapy, you're met with unconditional acceptance. Your feelings are valid, and you won't be judged.
Working at Your Pace
Depression can make everything feel effortful. Therapy respects your energy levels. Some days we might go deep, other days we might just sit with how hard things are. That's okay.
Exploring, Not Just Coping
While we'll develop coping strategies, the focus is on understanding and addressing the root causes of your depression—not just managing symptoms.
The Therapeutic Relationship
Research shows that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in treating depression. Feeling genuinely understood, accepted, and cared for is healing in itself.
Realistic Expectations
Healing from depression takes time. You might not feel better immediately, but with consistent work, most people experience significant improvement. Change is possible.
Timeline and Outcomes
How long does depression therapy take? This varies. Some people find relief in a few months, while others benefit from longer-term work (6 months to a year or more). Factors include:
- •The severity and duration of your depression
- •Underlying causes (e.g., recent loss vs. long-standing patterns)
- •Your support system and life circumstances
- •Whether you're also using medication or other support
Realistic outcomes: Therapy can help you:
- •Reduce symptoms and improve mood
- •Understand and address underlying causes
- •Develop healthier coping strategies
- •Rebuild self-worth and self-compassion
- •Reconnect with meaning and purpose
- •Improve relationships and reduce isolation
- •Prevent future episodes
Frequently Asked Questions
Take the First Step
If you're struggling with depression, reaching out takes courage. Book a free 15-minute consultation to discuss how therapy can help you.