Depression can involve low mood, loss of interest, withdrawal from people or activities, harsh self-criticism, reduced energy, hopelessness, or difficulty keeping up with everyday life. These do not always arrive together, and they do not always mean the same thing.
I provide individual psychotherapy for adults and older teens dealing with depression. I do not provide standalone psychological assessments. You do not need a formal diagnosis to work on depressive symptoms in therapy.
How it can take hold
Depression often involves several things reinforcing one another. Low mood and low energy can lead people to withdraw from activities, relationships, and routines. That withdrawal can reduce opportunities for enjoyment, connection, or a sense of accomplishment, which can make it harder to re-engage. Self-criticism and the expectation that nothing will help can make it harder to take even small steps.
Anxiety, ADHD, burnout, grief, health problems, or difficult circumstances can also contribute to depressive symptoms or occur alongside them. Part of therapy is understanding what is actually happening in your case.
What therapy can work on
We may look at what has fallen out of daily life and what you can realistically add back. We may also work on self-criticism, hopeless thinking, withdrawal, or the overlap with anxiety, ADHD, or burnout.
Therapy may be enough for some people. Others also benefit from medication, medical care, or more intensive support. If I think you may need something beyond what I provide, I’ll tell you.
If you need immediate or emergency mental-health support, see Crisis Resources.
Practical information
Adults and older teens, generally age 16 and up. In person in Edmonton and virtually throughout Alberta. 50-minute sessions. $235 per session. Direct billing is available with many extended-health insurance providers depending on your plan.
