Therapy for Depression

Depression is one of the most common reasons people see a psychologist — and it is treatable. South Yarra Psychology's clinical and counselling psychologists provide evidence-based therapy for depression and persistent low mood, in person in South Yarra and via telehealth. Medicare rebates are available with a GP referral, and no referral is needed to book.

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If you're having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, support is available right now: call 000 if you're unsafe, or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

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What depression can look like

 

Depression is more than sadness — and for many people, sadness isn't even the main feature. It can feel like flatness or numbness, everything requiring enormous effort, or losing interest in things that used to matter. The experience differs from person to person; you may recognise some of the following, not all:

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• A persistently low, flat or irritable mood

• Losing interest or pleasure in things you usually enjoy

• Heaviness and fatigue in the body — everything feels effortful

• Sleep or appetite changes, in either direction

• Difficulty concentrating, deciding or remembering

• Withdrawing from people

• Harsh self-criticism, guilt, or a sense of being a burden

• Hopelessness about things improving

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Depression commonly travels with anxiety, burnout, grief, self-criticism or long periods of stress — understanding what is showing up for you is often part of the early work.

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How therapy helps 

 

Depression usually develops through a combination of factors, and is typically affected by our circumstances and life experience — including experiences we may not immediately connect to how we feel now. In the shorter term, therapy targets the patterns that keep depression going: withdrawal and inactivity that shrink life further, rumination that deepens the low, and the self-critical voice that interprets everything harshly. Re-engaging with activity and connection — gradually and realistically — is a key step to help improve mood. Where it's useful, therapy also works at the deeper level: understanding and resolving what may underpin the depression, rather than only focussing on managing the symptoms.​

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Approaches we use 

 

Our psychologists draw on a range of evidence-based approaches and tailor them to you. Clinical guidelines recommend psychological therapy for depression, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and behavioural activation, which target the cycles that maintain low mood. Because real-world depression often coexists with other difficulties or has deeper roots, our psychologists also draw on Schema Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), tailored to your situation, history and preferences.

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Our psychologists who work with depression 

 

Depression is core work for our whole team — all of our psychologists provide therapy for depression. Meet our psychologists, or book a free 10-minute matching call to help you find the right fit.

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Fees & Medicare rebates

 

With a GP referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan, Medicare rebates of $101.55–$149.05 apply per session. Private health rebates may also be available. You don't need a referral to book. View fees & rebates. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

Do I need a referral to see a psychologist for depression? No — you can book directly at any time. A GP referral with a Mental Health Treatment Plan is only needed if you want to claim Medicare rebates.

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Do I need medication or is therapy enough? Psychologists provide non-medication treatment, and clinical guidelines support psychological therapy for depression. Some people also use antidepressants prescribed by their GP or a psychiatrist — therapy and medication can work alongside each other, and your psychologist can liaise with your GP if helpful.

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How long does therapy for depression take? It varies with how long the depression has been present, what sits underneath it, and your specific goals. Your psychologist will discuss what to expect and review progress with you regularly.

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Can I do online therapy for depression? Yes — we offer telehealth appointments Australia-wide, which are Medicare-rebatable if you're eligible. Some clients combine in-person and online sessions.

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Ready to take the first step?

 

Book online any time, or start with a free 10-minute psychologist matching call — you're welcome to book directly without one. Prefer to talk? Call reception on 03 9804 5448 (Mon–Fri, 8.45am–5.15pm)

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If you're unsafe, call 000. If you're in crisis, call Lifeline 13 11 14.