Depression Counselling Calgary
Every person struggles with ups and downs throughout their life, but many people also deal with prolonged periods of feeling down, depressed, and/or hopeless. Unfortunately, depression has been stigmatized and widely misunderstood in our society today.
Depression is real and your feelings are valid. In fact, depression affects millions of people worldwide and according to the Canadian Mental Health Association, depression affects 1 in 8 Canadians. It can be difficult to manage since it affects every aspect of your life including socializing, activities of daily living, your ability to go to work, maintain healthy habits, and more.
Here at Clearview Counselling, we provide expert guidance and professional counselling in a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can explore your feelings, gain helpful insights, and develop effective coping strategies.
Our registered, certified Calgary therapists are trained and equipped to partner with you and help you manage your symptoms and achieve your mental health goals.
Understanding Depression
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) defines depression as, “a complex mood disorder caused by various factors, including genetic predisposition, personality, stress and brain chemistry.” Depression affects all aspects of a person’s life including your emotional, physical, and mental wellbeing.
Common symptoms of depression include:
– Feelings of low mood, sadness, and/or hopelessness
– Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
– Fatigue
– Changes in appetite, weight loss or weight gain
– Difficulty concentrating
Some of the common types of depression include:
– Major Depressive Disorder
– Seasonal Affective Disorder
– Postpartum Depression
– Persistent Depressive Disorder
– Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
– Bipolar Disorder
There is no single cause for depression. It can be triggered by a difficult experience or event such as a life transition, the loss of someone or something (such as a job), illness, divorce, stress, relationship challenges, financial status, and more. In some cases, it is difficult to identify the trigger of depression, as it varies from person to person.
Depression may occur as a single, short-term experience, in recurring episodes, or as a chronic, long-lasting mental health condition. Depression can also be a symptom of other mental health conditions such as Bipolar Disorder or PTSD.
Seeking Depression Counselling in Calgary
As a leading mental health practice in Calgary, Clearview Counselling provides comprehensive counselling services for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression.
Depression is a prevalent issue that affects individuals from all walks of life. Seeking timely help is crucial for managing symptoms effectively and improving your overall well-being. Clearview Counselling understands the impact depression can have on your life and we are dedicated to providing the support you need.
Therapists in Calgary You Can Trust
Finding a therapist in Calgary you can trust can be a difficult task. Clearview Counselling boasts a team of experienced and qualified counsellors who have additional training in depression counselling. Our counsellors have a deep understanding of the complexities of depression and are skilled in providing compassionate and effective support. They are committed to creating a genuine connection with you and facilitating a healing process that promotes growth and resilience.
We believe in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship, and our counsellors work collaboratively with clients to develop a deep level of trust and understanding. This collaborative approach ensures that you actively participate in your healing journey and feel empowered to make positive changes in your life.
We pride ourselves on giving personalized care, and using evidence-based and evidence-informed approaches. We understand that addressing depression requires a unique and individualized approach, and our counsellors are trained to tailor treatment plans to meet your specific needs and goals.
Our Approach to Depression Counselling
It is important to remember that you are not alone in your struggle with depression. At Clearview Counselling, we utilize a range of evidence-based and evidence-informed therapeutic approaches to help individuals struggling with depression.
Our therapists are skilled in a variety of techniques that have been demonstrated effective in treating depression.
These methods include the following:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy is a common therapeutic, evidence-based approach that focuses on identifying and challenging our negative thought patterns and behaviors and working with a counsellor to reverse and restructure these patterns over time. CBT has shown to be effective in helping with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and other mental health concerns.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a form of talk therapy that helps you develop skills to manage depression in a self-supportive way. DBT is particularly helpful for those who experience their emotions intensely.
According to The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, “Dialectical means ‘the existence of opposites.’ In DBT, people are taught two seemingly opposite strategies: acceptance (i.e., that their experiences and behaviours are valid), and change (i.e., that they have to make positive changes to manage emotions and move forward).”
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy was originally developed to address depression but can help with other mental health concerns as well. MBCT integrates mindfulness methods such as meditation, yoga practices, breathing, self awareness, and more. It helps individuals develop self-compassion and reduce the risk of future depressive episodes.
Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
According to the IFS Institute, Internal Family Systems Therapy is “frequently used as an evidence-based psychotherapy, helping people heal by accessing and healing their protective and wounded inner parts. IFS creates inner and outer connectedness by helping people first access their Self and, from that core, come to understand and heal their parts.”
It incorporates interpersonal therapy, improving relationship skills and communication patterns to decrease the impact of relationship difficulties on mood; and more.
Personalized Treatment Plans
At Clearview Counselling, we recognize that every individual’s experience with depression is unique and we take into account your specific concerns, goals, and preferences. Our approach is holistic and integrative, addressing not only the symptoms of depression but also exploring underlying factors contributing to your mental health difficulties.
Throughout your counselling journey, our therapists will listen to your needs, provide guidance, and equip you with tools and strategies to manage your depression. We are dedicated to supporting you through each step of the process, helping you emerge stronger and more resilient. At Clearview Counselling, we have helped numerous individuals in Calgary overcome their depression and regain control of their lives. Our clients have experienced significant improvements in their mental health and overall well-being through our dedicated counselling services.
Getting Started
We are glad you’re here and would love to help you take your first step in your journey towards healing. To schedule an appointment or seek in-person depression counselling at Clearview Counselling in Calgary, please contact us at 403-232-6068 or send us an email at
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Most of us experience periods of low mood on occasion. Feeling down, sad, unenergetic, unmotivated, and worried is a natural response to many of the challenges and changes of life. Usually, low mood naturally lifts after a few hours, days, or weeks. Depression, on the other hand, it a persistent low mood that lasts for more than two weeks and has a significant impact on day-to-day living.
Depression counselling is a professional therapeutic service that focuses on helping individuals who are struggling with symptoms of depression. It involves working with a trained counsellor to explore and address the underlying causes of depression, develop coping strategies, and create a personalized treatment plan to manage and alleviate depressive symptoms.
Depression counselling can provide you with a safe and non-judgmental space to express your feelings, gain insights into the root causes of your depression, and learn effective coping skills. Counselling can help you develop a better understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, empowering you to make positive changes and regain control over your life.
The duration of depression counselling can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their depression. It can range from a few sessions to several months or longer. The frequency and length of counselling sessions are typically determined based on your specific needs and treatment goals.
If you have been experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, low energy, difficulty concentrating, or have thoughts of self-harm, it may be beneficial to seek depression counselling. A qualified counsellor can help you determine if counselling is appropriate based on your symptoms and individual circumstances.
Yes, depression counselling is confidential. Professional counsellors adhere to strict ethical guidelines that ensure your privacy and confidentiality. Information disclosed during counselling sessions is kept confidential, with some exceptions outlined by law, such as situations involving imminent harm to yourself or others. Your privacy and trust are of the utmost importance to us.
Many insurance plans offer coverage for mental health services, including depression counselling. It is advisable to verify the details of your insurance coverage with your provider to determine the extent of your coverage for counselling services. At Clearview Counselling, we can provide you with the necessary documentation to submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement, if applicable.
Absolutely. Depression counselling can be a valuable addition to medication treatment for depression. Counselling helps address the underlying issues contributing to your depression, develop coping strategies, and provide ongoing support. Combining counselling with medication can lead to more effective symptom management and improved overall well-being.
Choosing the right depression counsellor is essential for your therapy to be effective. Consider their qualifications, experience, and areas of specialization. Look for a counsellor with whom you feel comfortable and can establish a trusting and genuine connection. It can be helpful to schedule an initial meet and greet session to determine if you have good rapport and feel confident in their ability to support you.
Not necessarily. Though having a major depressive episode increases one’s risk for future episodes of depression, many people experience depression only once.
Yes, depression counselling can help prevent future episodes of depression. Through counselling, you can develop effective coping skills, gain insights into the triggers and underlying factors contributing to your depression, and learn strategies to manage stress and negative emotions. Counselling equips you with tools to recognize and address early warning signs, reducing the risk of future depressive episodes.
If you are unsure if you have depression or if counselling is the right choice for you, we encourage you to reach out for a consultation. Our experienced counsellors can provide a thorough assessment and help you determine the best course of action. They will listen to your concerns and guide you towards the most appropriate support and treatment options for your unique situation.
Yes. Though depression occurs less frequently in young children, children can experience depression in response to difficult life events or environmental factors. If you are concerned about your child’s mood, it may be helpful to talk with a children’s therapist.
People dealing with depression are at a higher risk of thinking about and attempting suicide. If you or a loved one have struggled with suicide thoughts, whether connected to depression or not, counselling can be an important element of a prevention plan.
If you are experiencing a suicide crisis and need immediate support, please contact your nearest emergency services or call:
AHS Mental Health Help Line 1-877-303-2642
Suicide Crisis Helpline
Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868
Calgary Distress Centre at 403-266-4357 (call or text)
Connect Teen 403-264-TEEN (403-263-8336) or text 587-333-2724 or chat www.CalgaryConnecTeen.com