Depression Counselling in Burlington, ON.

In working with individuals who struggle with depression, I primarily use a cognitive behavioural therapeutic (CBT) approach. The principal aim of this approach is to increase awareness that thoughts and behaviours drive emotion. In addition, the goal is to increase consciousness of distorted perceptions. That is, often individuals who struggle with depression do not think accurately, and if their thoughts are not accurate, than they cannot be trusted. The purpose of CBT is to bring awareness to cognitive distortions and then teach individuals how to rebalance their thoughts to be more accurate.

Depression can be one of the most difficult experiences a person can experience! It affects one in five of us. It travels in families. It feels like you are living under an ominous dark cloud. While it can make life difficult, it also can effect our concentration, our physical health, our relationships, our career and our self-esteem. Like cancer the early detection and treatment is in direct correlation to successful treatment. . I have journeyed with hundreds over the years. I am happy to help you through this!

While we all have days where we feel sad and 'depressed', if it goes on day after day so that negative thoughts make us feel exhausted, powerless, empty, discouraged and hopeless, then we need help. Leaving depression untreated can lead to several physical and mental complications and even suicide. Fortunately, trained counsellors can assist us in retraining our mind and teach us new skills to challenge depressive thinking so that we can lead a confidently depression free life.

Depression is the most frequent reason that people seek help through psychotherapy. It is estimated that 30% of people will have one episode of clinical depression in their lifetime. Many people don’t realize that depression has many faces. It’s certainly not just “feeling down” for a few days. It doesn’t always involve crying a lot – sometimes it’s more like feeling numb. It might look like not sleeping and feeling agitated and anxious and angry. It might look like just not wanting to do anything anymore and sleeping and eating too much. It might look like fatigue and body aches. Clinical depression is a real illness that effects so many facets of your life – physically, mentally,

Depression is often associated with symptoms such as fatigue, loss of motivation, loss of pleasure, withdrawal, and feelings of sadness. Often, when individuals feel depressed, they stop engaging in activities they enjoy which can perpetuate depressive symptoms. There are a variety of evidence-based approaches to explore depression. Together, we will decide which approach is best for you. Please contact me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to determine if we are a good fit.

Depression can leave you feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or like you're simply getting through each day. You don't have to face that alone. I provide a compassionate space where we can gently explore the experiences and emotions contributing to how you're feeling. Using a trauma-informed, attachment-based approach grounded in Narrative Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy, I'll help you reconnect with your strengths, develop greater self-understanding, and begin moving toward a life that feels more hopeful, balanced, and fulfilling.

Depression is a change in mood that can lead to loss of concentration, increased reactivity, feelings of sadness, and a loss of interest in everyday activities. Depression usually develops over time, so we are unaware it is present. It will surface when we are under stress, grieving a loss, or facing life changes we did not choose, like a marital break-up, a pregnancy loss, or being laid off from work. A major depression or clinical depression can also occur due to a chemical imbalance in the brain. In these situations, we need medical assistance to move forward from a depressive event. However, most people find talk therapy improves their mood. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation today

Depression presents in various forms and has many different features. When working with me, you will find that space is created to explore the experience of depression, its influence on different aspects of your life, and how you can work through these challenges as they arise. If you are hoping to find solace in your experience, I invite you to contact me for a free consultation to see if we would be a good fit.

The term depression has become a quite “popular” in the lexicon of people, almost synonymous to being “moody”. However, depression should be taken seriously because it can have dire consequences and can indeed kill. It kills your joy, your interests, your energy, your workability, your relationship and possibly literally you. If you have been moody for weeks, do not delay in seeking care and get professional help. Depression is not easy to treat. It is difficult to overcome on your own, but together we can find your way out of it and resources to get better over time.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach to depression. CBT elects not to focus much on the past and instead focuses on identifying negative thoughts and recognizing healthier and more realistic ones. When a change in attitude occurs, it leads to a change in behavior. As we identify these negative thoughts, we will work together to create treatment goals such as a change to negative behaviors. When we identify these negative thoughts and behaviors, we will practice techniques in a safe, controlled environment that will help you to respond successfully in situations where these become present.

My approach includes using empathy and being non-judgmental during interactions with clients, in addition to meeting the client where they are at in their journey. Clients will benefit from depression counselling as they will have a safe environment to share and will be reminded that that with ongoing support they will be able to feel better because they are deserving of living a happy and healthy life.

I have seen many clients who have either given up or whom are on the verge giving up on, what many claim is ‘everything’…. Nothing seems to be of interest to them. Nothing really is happening in life that they want to talk about. But the persistent sadness and lack of personal drive becomes a constant burden and the constant persistence of everyone telling them to get out of their ‘funk’ is starting to take its toll. Using Dialectic Behavioural Therapy, guided meditation, mindfulness, and other strategies we work to successfully get clients “out of this rutt” and truly realize their potential.

Depression can be debiltating often affecting many aspects of ones life. Individuals can feel hopeless, helpless and even emotionally paralysed. Fortunately due to the prevelence of depression in North America, there have been a number of strategies to help individuals regain their emotional strength and find their way back. Cognitive Behavioural and Dialectical Behavioural Therapies provide individuals with a number of tools to turn life around and regain control.

Are feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or exhaustion weighing you down? I’m Simona Ilieva, a Registered Psychotherapist specializing in depression therapy. Together, we’ll explore the underlying causes of your depression and work to develop strategies that empower you to regain a sense of hope and purpose. Whether you're dealing with chronic depression or a recent emotional struggle, I’m here to support you. You don’t have to face this alone; healing is possible. With the right support, you can reclaim joy and start building a brighter, more fulfilling future. Let’s take that first step together. Book a free consultation today.