Depression Counselling in North Vancouver

Are you struggling with low mood, motivation or self-worth? Depression counselling may help.

The symptoms of depression can manifest in different ways from person to person. Depression can feel like somewhat of an emotional flu.

One of the hallmark symptoms of depression is a persistent feeling of low energy levels and a lack of motivation. Everyday tasks that were once effortless can suddenly become difficult and draining. Due to low energy levels, you may have lost interest in activities you once enjoyed, causing you to have a sense of detachment and disengagement from life.

Causes of depression can dampen your enthusiasm for previously enjoyed hobbies, social activities, and even spending time with loved ones. A person may withdraw from social engagements, isolate themselves, and experience a diminished capacity for pleasure, further exacerbating feelings of loneliness and sadness.

This lack of motivation and energy, or propensity to put on a good show, can make you feel not like yourself. It is common for individuals with depression to experience a sense of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness. This distorted thinking pattern often manifests as recurring thoughts of “What’s the point? Life sucks,” creating a cycle of negativity that can feel difficult to break. An emotional fog can build and overshadow your personality and make you feel disconnected from your true self.

Although it may not feel like it when you are in the depths of depression, there is a path forward. Counselling for depression may be helpful. With the right support and treatment plan, you can recover and regain the quality of life you once had.

Contributing factors and causes of Depression

Burnout from trying to meet the needs of the world

In a fast-paced and demanding world, the pressure to meet the needs and expectations of others can become overwhelming. Constantly striving to fulfill external demands without taking time for self-care can lead to burnout. The weight of these expectations and the feeling of never being enough can contribute to the development of depression. Recognizing the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care is crucial for maintaining mental health.

Underdeveloped coping mechanisms leading to exhaustion

Life can be overwhelming at times, and when we lack the necessary coping mechanisms to navigate lifes challenges, it can lead to mental, physical, and psychological exhaustion. Without healthy ways to manage stress and adversity, we can easily become overwhelmed and emotionally drained. This constant state of exhaustion takes a toll on our mental health and can contribute to the causes of depression.

Emotional flu and the need for time to recuperate

Just like our bodies can experience the flu, our emotions can also overwhelm our bodies to the point where we just need a break. When we face intense emotional experiences or go through a series of challenging events, our emotional well-being can suffer. We need time to recuperate, to process, and heal from these experiences. Without adequate time and support to recover, our emotions can become unbalanced, leading to causes of depression.

Inability to be oneself and meet personal needs

Being able to authentically express ourselves and meet our personal needs is essential for our well-being. When we feel restricted or unable to be our true selves, it creates a sense of inner conflict and dissatisfaction. If we constantly neglect our own needs and prioritize the expectations of others, it can lead to a sense of emptiness and contribute to the development of causes of depression.

Imbalances in body chemistry and brain growth

Our body chemistry and brain development are crucial to our mental health. When imbalances occur, it disrupt the delicate equilibrium for optimal functioning. Chemical imbalances in the brain can lead to depressive symptoms, affecting our mood, energy levels, and overall sense of well-being. Understanding and addressing these imbalances is essential in finding effective treatment and support.

Feeling unheard or unseen during childhood

Our childhood experiences shape who we are as individuals, and feeling unheard or unseen during that crucial time can have a profound impact on our mental health. When we don’t receive the validation and understanding we need during our formative years, it can create feelings of isolation and contribute to the development of depression. The longing to be seen and heard becomes an important part of our journey toward healing and finding our authentic selves.

Remember, you are not alone in facing these contributing factors to depression. You can search “counselling for depression near me”. With the right support, understanding, and treatment plan you can regain your balance, heal, and thrive.

Counselling for Depression

You may be wondering, is there depression counselling near me. When it comes to treating depression there are multiple routes someone can take. The most important part is finding a counselor you are comfortable with to discuss these options with. Once you find a counselor you feel you can open up to, they can then advise you on what might be the best path for you. The type of therapy that will work best will often depend on the root cause of your depression, how you best communicate, and what makes you feel the most comfortable.

ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

It is an undeniable part of life that we will go through hard times and suffering. It is our instinct to control and avoid pain, but sometimes, this instinct can lead us down a path of further struggle. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) offers a profound approach to navigating life’s challenges by embracing acceptance and fostering personal growth. Rather than attempting to eliminate or suppress difficult thoughts and emotions, ACT encourages individuals to embrace and accept these feelings so we can move forward from them in a meaningful way.

Somatic Experiencing

Somatic Experiencing focuses on relieving the physical symptoms of depression and other mental health struggles through healing the nervous system. These physical symptoms people experience will differ depending on what they are struggling with, but they could include feelings such as muscle tension, stomach pain, shallow breathing, etc. The treatment helps improve the mind-body connection so that we can understand the physical symptoms we experience and actively work to reduce them when they arise.

EDMR Therapy

EMDR therapy is a powerful tool used for transforming our experiences of trauma and unlocking the potential for healing. Throughout life, we may encounter events that leave deep imprints on our minds and bodies that can lead to emotional wounds. EDMR works by stimulating eye movements in a specific way to help your brain properly process past traumas. The ultimate goal of the treatment is to make the emotions you feel towards the traumatic event feel less intense and upsetting. It is great for those who struggle with or prefer not to express their emotions verbally.

Breathwork

Breathwork therapy has both mental and physical health benefits. This treatment focuses on changing our breathing patterns to help our bodies become more relaxed and present in the moment. When we intentionally focus on our breath we can help control various physical symptoms that come with various mental health disorders and quiet our minds.

Play Therapy

If your child is struggling with depression or mental health, play therapy can be a transformative path toward healing and development. Children, by nature, engage in play as their primary mode of communication. Just as adults benefit from counseling or therapy, play therapy serves as a bridge to understanding and healing for children. Through play, they can express their deepest feelings, thoughts, and struggles, often without needing to rely solely on words.

DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy)

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy is a type of cognitive therapy that helps us develop skills to regulate difficult emotions. Through learning and practicing concepts such as mindfullness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, etc. we can deal with the difficult hurdles in life in a more positive and effective way.

There are many other forms of therapeutic treatment that can be beneficial in treating depression. However, it is important to remember that the relationship you have with your counselor will be the most beneficial aspect of your healing journey.

The Boomerang approach

We see you. We hear you. We understand you.

We all have times when we need some support. You are not alone. Our team understands the difficulties that come with the everyday battle of fighting depression. We are here to listen and let you know that it is okay and that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Our main goal is to create an environment for depression counselling that is supportive and non-judgemental. We want to create a comfortable space for you to explore yourself without the fear of judgment or analysis. Through creating this space we hope individuals feel free to be themselves so that they can grow, build healthy coping mechanisms, and get on the path to living a fulfilling life.

Taking the first steps

When someone is struggling with depression, seeking out help can seem like a daunting task. This is a normal feeling.

The first step toward treating depression is finding a counsellor you feel comfortable with by finding depression counselling near you. This might take a couple of tries and is also completely normal so don’t feel discouraged if you don’t feel you can open up to the first person you speak with. Research shows that the therapist-client connection is more important than specific modalities. When trying to find a counsellor, a good way to relieve stress is to find someone who can provide a free consultation.

In terms of choosing what type of counselling you want to do, whether that be EDMR, somatic experiencing, traditional talk therapy, etc., you can always ask for help with that. Our counsellors are here to help you throughout the entire journey. If you are unsure what type of therapy might work best for you, call us; we will be happy to help. Or, you can search counselling for depression near me. If you decide you don’t feel comfortable with the type of therapy you chose, you can always change your mind, and we can try a new path.

What to expect in your first session

When it comes to your first therapy session, everyone’s experience is unique. Some individuals might be ready to dive right into discussing their thoughts and emotions, while others may need a little more time to open up.

At Boomerang Counselling Center, we understand that opening up and sharing your innermost feelings Our compassionate therapists are here to support you through depression counselling every step of the way, no matter how quickly or gradually you feel comfortable revealing your thoughts and experiences.

We’re here to listen with open ears and an open heart. We’ll create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can freely express yourself. Our goal is to make you feel heard, seen and understood.

On the other hand, if you need time to build trust and establish a connection before delving into deeper discussions, that’s perfectly fine too. We understand that trust takes time to develop, and we respect your need to establish a foundation of comfort and safety. Our therapists will meet you where you’re at and provide a supportive environment where you can gradually open up at your own pace.

During your first session, we’ll take the time to get to know you and understand your unique journey. Our therapist’s main goal with your first session is to create a warm and inviting atmosphere where you feel at ease, then, we will work together to create a plan to meet your needs and goals.

You can feel better about yourself

Living with depression does not have to be hopeless. If constant negative self-thoughts, exhaustion, and lack of motivation prevent you from living the way you desire, depression counselling with Boomerang Counselling Center offers you the opportunity to explore and uncover your particular challenges and causes of depression to support you in managing your depression symptoms effectively.

To get started, please book a free, 20-minute consultation or call us at (778) 836-4772 for more details.

Therapists specializing in Depression

mental health counselor near me

Brandys Evans, MA, RCC-ACS

REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR

Cristina Higgins, MEd, RCC

REGISTERED CLINICAL COUNSELLOR

Alexa Dunbar

MASTER OF COUNSELLING Intern Counsellor

Specialties

We specialize in a variety of neurodiversity, behavioural, anxiety, attention, learning, social, and emotional problems. We also provide family support through parent coaching, counselling, and reunification.