Most of us will experience periods of feeling down for short amounts of time at some point in our lives.  Depression, however, is more serious and lasts for a longer time.  It may impair work productivity, one’s ability to enjoy life, or function as a parent or marital partner. It may even effect sleep, appetite and concentration.

There are many different factors that may contribute to depression.  Depression appears to be related to genetics, brain chemistry, learned responses and distressing life events.  Depression may run in families, however anyone can develop it.  It may be precipitated by negative life experiences, physical changes (such as illness or adolescence), substance abuse, chronic stress, or it may even occur without a clear reason.

Counselling can be very helpful in treating depression.  In fact, people who use only medication to treat depression, and do not participate in  counselling, have significantly higher relapse rates. Further, counselling has been found to be as effective as antidepressant medication. Both Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Insight Oriented Therapy are very effective approaches to treating depression.   Counselling may be helpful in learning to deal with negative thoughts and feelings in a positive way, and to identify new goals and resources for change. Frances Miller provides you with the chance to explore thoughts and feelings which may be impacting your moods or behaviour, within an experienced, respectful therapeutic relationship.