FEELING STUCK, SAD OR WORN DOWN?
Depression Therapy
in Toronto
Depression can show up as low mood, exhaustion or a loss of interest in things that used to matter. Learn what depression can look like, how our therapists treat it, and what to expect when you get started.
What Depression Can Feel Like
Depression isn't always sadness. Often it feels more like flatness, exhaustion or a sense that things have stopped mattering. Some signs people describe:
-
Things you used to enjoy feel like a chore, or nothing at all
-
You're tired no matter how much you sleep, or you can't sleep
-
Getting through the workday takes everything you have
-
You pull away from friends and let messages go unanswered
-
Small tasks, like replying to an email or making a meal, feel huge
-
You're harder on yourself than usual, or feel guilty without a clear reason
-
Your appetite, focus or motivation has changed
-
You keep telling yourself you should just push through
If this has lasted more than a couple of weeks, or it's affecting your work, studies or relationships, it's worth talking to a psychologist.
​
We see teens and adults in person near Yonge and Eglinton, and virtually across Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
MOOD DISORDERS
What We Help With:
Major Depression
A low mood or loss of interest that affects most areas of life for weeks at a time
Persistent Low Mood
A quieter, long-lasting depression that can feel like "just how I am"
Burnout
Exhaustion tied to job stress, including support for time off and return to work
Depression After Loss
Grief, breakups, moves, career shifts and other transitions
How We Treat Depression
Our clinicians use evidence-based approaches, use evidence-based approaches, adapted to you and what's been weighing on you.
-
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): one of the most studied treatments for depression. You learn to spot the thought patterns that keep low mood going and practise responding to them differently.
-
Behavioural activation: small, planned steps back toward the activities and people that matter to you, which helps rebuild energy and motivation.
-
Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT): practical skills for managing intense emotions, coping with distress and being kinder to yourself, especially helpful when depression comes with overwhelm or harsh self-criticism.
-
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): skills for living according to your values, even when your mood isn't cooperating.
​
Your first sessions focus on understanding your history, what's going on now and what you'd like to be different. Together you'll agree on goals and check in on progress along the way. If medication might help, your clinician can talk that through with you and coordinate with your family doctor.
MOOD DISORDERS
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How do I know if it's depression or just a rough patch? Everyone has low periods. If the low mood, tiredness or loss of interest has lasted more than two weeks, or it's making work, school or relationships harder, it's worth getting it looked at. A psychologist can help you sort out what's going on.
-
What's the difference between depression and burnout? They overlap a lot. Burnout is usually tied to work and eases with rest and change, while depression tends to affect most areas of life and doesn't lift with time off. Read more in Am I Depressed or Just Burnt Out?
-
How long does therapy for depression take? It varies. Many people notice meaningful change within 12 to 20 sessions, and some choose longer-term support. Your therapist will review progress with you regularly.
-
Do I need a referral from my doctor? No. You can book directly. Some benefit plans ask for a referral before they reimburse, so check your plan.
-
Is therapy for depression covered by OHIP? No. Therapy with a psychologist in private practice isn't covered by OHIP, but it's covered by many workplace and extended health benefit plans.
-
Can a psychologist diagnose depression? Yes. In Ontario, registered psychologists can assess and diagnose depression. A diagnosis isn't needed to start therapy, but it can help with work leave, school accommodations or insurance claims.
-
What if I need help right away? One Psychology Clinic is not a crisis service. If you're thinking about suicide or are worried about your safety, call or text 9-8-8 (Suicide Crisis Helpline), call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
In-Person, Video, or Phone Sessions - Whatever Works Best For You
We provide in-person services in Toronto and virtual assessment services across Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. Appointments are available by secure video, telephone, or in person, allowing you to access mental health care in the format that works best for you.
THE INTAKE PROCESS
How it works
