Depression Counselling Melbourne

Find Your Light: Tailored Depression Counselling in Melbourne.

Depression isn’t just a brief period of sadness, it is a serious and debilitating mental health condition that can significantly impact an individual’s behaviour and physical and cognitive abilities.

At Fortitude Wellbeing, we provide comprehensive therapy treating depression at our South Yarra clinic to help support individuals on their journey towards recovery and improved mental well-being.

What is Depression?

It is a part of the human condition to feel down from time to time due to varying life circumstances such as when you are going through a breakup or if you have lost your job. However, when feelings of sadness, misery and/or unhappiness occur for a prolonged period of time, what you could be dealing with is clinical depression.

Depression is a relatively common mental health disorder characterised by feelings of sadness, hopelessness and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. Symptoms of depression go beyond the usual fluctuations in mood that people experience and significantly impacts one’s thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and overall functioning.

It is important to note that not everyone with depression experiences the same symptoms, and often, the severity will differ from person to person. Depression can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, relationships, work or school performance, and overall wellbeing. Therefore, it is crucial to seek professional help if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of major depression.

Embark on a transformative journey with us. Book your consultation now.

Why Choose Fortitude Wellbeing For Depression Treatment in Melbourne?

  • Holistic Healing
Fortitude Wellbeing goes beyond traditional methods, ensuring mental, emotional, and physical aspects are considered in the treatment plan.
  • Trust Foundation

Building rapport and trust with clients is at the forefront of our approach, setting the stage for effective treatment.

  • Melissa's Expertise
With years of experience, Melissa Bell brings a blend of proven techniques and compassionate care to every session.
  • Personalised Care
Every client’s journey with depression is unique, and so is our approach to treatment, ensuring tailored strategies for each individual.
  • Continued Support

Our commitment to your wellbeing extends beyond sessions, offering comprehensive post-treatment guidance.

  • Proven Results

Melissa’s dedication, combined with the clinic’s track record, ensures that clients receive treatments that have been refined over the years for maximum efficacy.

What Symptoms of Depression Look Like

Mental health issues such as depression can manifest differently in each individual, but there are common symptoms that many people with depression may experience. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration from person to person, and it is important to note that not everyone with depression will experience all of them. Here are some of the common symptoms associated with depression:

Cognitive

Individuals who are experiencing depression are most likely to feel:
  • Intense feelings of sadness/ persistent low mood
  • Mood swings
  • Lack of interest or enjoyment
  • Poor concentration
  • Social withdrawal / Isolation
  • Lack of motivation
  • Feeling irritable or intolerant
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Detachment or apathy

Physical

Individuals who have depression are likely to experience:
  • Insomnia or excessive sleeping
  • Fatigue/persistent tiredness
  • Reduced appetite and/or weight changes
  • Little to no libido
  • Headaches and nausea
  • Feeling run down
  • Restlessness
Other factors and/or symptoms
  • Family history of depression
  • Self harm
  • Substance abuse
  • Childhood trauma
  • Anxiety

While experiencing a few of these symptoms may not necessarily indicate major depression, if feeling depressed or other symptoms persist for an extended period, it is essential to seek treatment for a proper diagnosis and psychological treatment using evidence-based approaches.

How Therapy Can Help

For people suffering prolonged depressive symptoms (at least two weeks), seeking help and support is crucial for finding relief and regaining a sense of well-being. In particular, cognitive behavioural therapy, has proven to be a valuable and effective tool for depression treatment. Beyond simply offering a listening ear, cognitive behavioural therapy provides a structured and professional approach to understanding and managing the complexities of depression.

There are several advantages of speaking with a depression psychologist in our Melbourne clinic, including the following.

  • New Perspective

Engaging in conversations with our psychologists can offer you a transformative opportunity to gain new insights and alternative viewpoints and manage depression. These interactions can help you discover that what once seemed impossible may actually have potential solutions. Sometimes, all it takes is a glimmer of fresh insight to start realising that the concerns weighing you down may not be as overwhelming as they initially appear.

  • Early Intervention

Therapy for depression helps identify early signs through open discussions with a psychologist. They observe shifts in mood, behaviour, and thoughts, guiding individuals to recognise potential warning signs like persistent sadness or depressed mood, loss of interest, suicidal thoughts and changes in sleep or appetite. To manage depression, early identification is key as it allows for timely intervention, proactive management, and effective treatment planning.

  • Improved Relationships

Living with depression can strain relationships, affecting connections with friends, loved ones, and colleagues. Experienced psychologists help you work through these challenges, restoring your ability to connect with others. Enhancing communication skills and addressing past conflicts also strengthen bonds. With the counsellor’s support, therapy empowers you to navigate relationships with resilience, fostering understanding and connection in your life.

Fortitude Wellbeing is here to provide the compassionate care and professional expertise you need. Contact Fortitude Wellbeing and take the first step towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Don’t Suffer in Silence

Seeking treatment when you or a loved one is experiencing major depressive disorder can be a transformative step to overcome depression and recover. It is important that if you feel like you or your loved one is going through something, you don’t suffer in silence and instead seek the help of an experienced psychologist who can provide the support and guidance you need.

Our experienced psychologist at Fortitude Wellbeing endeavours to create a calm and relaxing environment where you feel comforted and open to explore with them how you are feeling, and better enable us to help support you in your depression. At our clinic in South Yarra, we are dedicated to offering personalised care, evidence-based therapy, and a compassionate approach to support you towards healing and improved wellbeing.

So, if you or a loved one is struggling with depression, Fortitude Wellbeing is here to provide therapy, compassionate care and professional expertise you need. Contact Fortitude Wellbeing and take the first step towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.

The Treatment Process

Initial Consultation
Your journey starts with an in-depth initial consultation, ensuring we understand your unique challenges and concerns.
Assessment

We thoroughly evaluate the underlying causes and patterns of your depression to tailor the most effective treatment plan.

Therapy
Engage in evidence-based therapeutic sessions, where Melissa employs her unique and compassionate approach, focusing on holistic healing and trust-building.
Feedback
Regular check-ins to assess progress, make necessary adjustments, and ensure you’re continually supported on your path to wellness.
Growth
Incorporating learned tools and strategies into daily life, fortifying resilience and cultivating a more optimistic outlook.
Continued Support
Post-treatment sessions and resources are available, ensuring you have the support to maintain progress and tackle challenges that arise.

Reach Out to Fortitude Wellbeing

Recognising the actual value of your mental wellbeing is an essential step toward a healthier life. At Fortitude Wellbeing, we offer comprehensive depression treatment in Melbourne, delivered by experienced therapists. Our psychologist is here to provide the support and guidance you need to navigate the challenges of depression. By engaging in open and meaningful conversations, we can help alleviate the weight and frustration that often accompanies this condition.

Contact us today to take the first step towards relief and schedule an appointment with a dedicated depression counsellors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is depression treatment just about taking medication?

No, while medication can be a part of some individuals’ treatment plans, Fortitude Wellbeing emphasises holistic approaches including therapy, coping techniques, and lifestyle adjustments.

How long does treatment typically last?

The duration varies for each individual based on their unique needs and challenges. Some might benefit from short-term therapy while others require a more extended approach. Melissa tailors treatments to ensure the best possible outcome.

Can talking about my depression make it worse?

On the contrary, discussing your feelings in a supportive environment, guided by a professional like Melissa, can be therapeutic and a crucial part of the healing process.

How do I know if I need professional treatment or if I'm just feeling 'blue'?

Everyone has occasional down days, but if feelings of sadness persist or interfere with daily life, it might indicate a more profound issue. Booking a consultation is a step towards understanding your feelings and determining the right path forward.

What can a therapist do against depression?

Therapy supports and individual’s feeling depressed to recognise and explore the thoughts, feelings, physical sensations and actions that are contributing to their negative thoughts and feelings and keeping them trapped in a negative cycle. Therapists will integrate a range of evidence based therapies and techniques including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy to help you deal with overwhelming problems in a more positive way by breaking them down into smaller parts and considering alternative and more helpful way to address the matter.

What kind of doctor is best for depression?

Registered psychologists incorporate evidence-based and individualised treatment to support individuals to manage symptoms related to depression. Depending on the duration and severity of your symptoms, a psychologist may recommend you see a GP or psychiatrist for medication to assist your recovery.

Can a Counsellor diagnose you with depression?

Counsellors, who have a completed a master’s degree in counselling or psychotherapy may be qualified to diagnose depression. To meet the AHPRA registration requirement in Australia, registered psychologists are qualified to diagnose major depression.

Book an Appointment

Fill in the form below to inquire about our depression counselling services in Melbourne, or contact us directly at 1300 611 409.