Depression

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According to the NHS, depression is more than simply feeling unhappy or fed up for a few days.

Most people go through periods of feeling down, but when you’re depressed you feel persistently sad for weeks or months, rather than just a few days.

Some people think depression is trivial and not a genuine health condition. They’re wrong – it is a real illness with real symptoms. Depression is not a sign of weakness or something you can “snap out of” by “pulling yourself together”.

As they also say there is good news.

With the right treatment and support, most people with depression can go on to make a full recovery.

Find out more about depression on the NHS websiteNHSFind out more about depression on Mayo ClinicMayo Clinic

How to choose a therapist for depression

When mood is low, even searching for a therapist can feel exhausting. Start small: pick two or three profiles that feel readable and human, rather than trying to compare everyone on the site.

Therapists who work with depression often draw on approaches such as CBT, psychodynamic therapy, or humanistic counselling. What tends to matter most early on is whether you feel met with warmth rather than pressure to “fix” yourself quickly.

Ask directly about fees, waiting times, and whether they offer a free initial conversation. Depression can make decisions feel heavier — clear information reduces that load.

  • Choose profiles that explain fees and session length plainly.
  • Look for language that feels respectful, not cheerleading — you do not need toxic positivity.
  • If energy is very low, online sessions can be easier to start with than travelling.
  • If the first therapist is not the right fit after a few sessions, trying another is a sensible next step, not a failure.

New to therapy? Read our gentle introduction. Browse therapists who work with depression.

More specific areas of Depression

Therapists who work with Depression