Depression Counselling in Shawnigan Lake, BC.

Feeling sad or low is something everyone goes through at times. But when those feelings don’t go away, begin to worsen, or start interfering with daily life, they may be a sign of depression. Depression can feel very isolating—you may worry that no one understands, or that things will never get better. In a safe and supportive environment, Laurie helps clients explore what may be contributing to their depression and find research-based strategies that can ease symptoms and support lasting change.

In depression counseling, I work collaboratively with you to understand what's contributing to your depression—whether life circumstances, relationship patterns, past experiences, or feeling disconnected from what matters. Depression often involves losing touch with meaning and purpose, so together we'll explore what gives your life significance and how to reconnect with those things. We develop a practical, step-by-step plan tailored to your situation. This might involve challenging thoughts that keep you stuck, processing difficult emotions, or rediscovering activities that once brought satisfaction. Our therapeutic relationship provides steady support as you navigate this. Clients report gradually regaining energy, hope, and a sense that life feels worthwhile again

Using Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Shelley helps clients with depression explore their distorted thinking that leads to feeling hopeless and defeated. By reframing their negative thoughts clients can begin to see their world in a more positive and empowered perpective. Shelley helps clients to embrace themselves in a compassionate and empathic way, and to explore what they can learn, or change in their life that might come from this difficult time. The concept Pain in the Service of Growth helps clients to understand that their negative feelings might be an indication that something needs to change and to feel supported in making those changes, with Shelley's guidance and encouragement.

Depression is usually marked by a change in eating habits, sleep, and energy levels. The person may suffer from isolation and a sense of worthlessness. I work to draw out my clients' concerns and deeper thoughts as well as their doubtful concerns. Every person has the potential of drifting into a depressed states, and some people live here a lot. But sharing one's personal thoughts and unmet needs is a powerful way to draw a person out of their depression. I also focus on some of their past successes, even in situations that appear to be futile. We all have the power to survive and overcome, even when things seem hopeless. Bearing witness to the moments of success, contribute to forward moti

When Things Have Quietly Gone Flat Depression often doesn't announce itself. It shows up as fatigue, as flatness, as the slow drift away from things you used to care about. Many of my clients arrive saying they're not sure what's wrong, only that something is. Our work uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to move toward what matters before motivation returns and to work with the thought patterns keeping you stuck. Action comes first. The feelings often follow. You don't have to wait until you feel better to start.