Depression, Sexuality Somatic Approaches

Depression, Sexuality

Depression is the most common psychological condition, and most people experience it at one point or another in their lives.

Symptoms of depression include lethargy, low self esteem, a feeling of sadness, helplessness, hopelessness, anxiety, dysphoric mood and even suicidal thoughts. People who are depressed usually feel a lack of energy and a lack of pleasure and they may be agitated or irritable.

Since there are so many causes to depression, which boils down to a natural response to life experiences (a defence mechanism), each situation warrants a thorough investigation into the exact catalyst. Depending on what causes a specific incidence of depression, a treatment plan can be developed to help the individual deal with his or her emotions.

Some people are predisposed to depression in that it can run in the family. In many cases, it is learned when someone is constantly exposed to it.

Counselling can help a person to adapt to life changes that are causing grief, particularly with bereavement or marital issues. Systemic therapy is helpful in family therapy, where the efforts of the whole family can help the individual. Psychodynamic therapy helps a person to find the hidden psychological defences that cause problems to manifest. Cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on the problem at hand, providing solutions to day-to-day issues and finding ways to restructure negative thought patterns.

If you are looking for a counsellor or psychologist who has training and experience in depression counselling you may want to search the directory to find a professional whose approach will suit you best.

Sexuality is an important part of society and relationships in particular. Issues with sexuality are usually an indication of more serious relationship problems. Sex should be a natural and healthy part of a committed relationship, but problems can crop up at any time.

One partner might use the frequency of sex as an indication of their value in the relationship and a measurement as to how much he or she is loved, while the other person values intimacy. Unsatisfactory sex might reveal the partners' deeper levels of control, love and trust, and highlight issues that need further exploration.

Many issues can cause unnecessary stress in a relationship, such as negative childhood attitudes to sexuality. Cultural pressures can also place undue demands on a couple. Traumatic sexual experiences can also emerge at any time.

A therapist can help a couple deal with sexuality issues, helping them to make their own rules regarding sex. They can explore issues with sexuality, such as cultural taboos and family myths,  in a safe environment that is free from judgment.

Relationship counselling can help sexuality issues by helping the couple explore physical communication and allowing both partners to understand the meaning of sex within the bounds of the relationships. Power and control are two of the biggest issues with sexuality in a relationship, while sexual withdrawal is a way for one partner to express disappointment and anger, which are forbidden outside the bedroom.

These are just some of the myriad sexuality related issues that may cause problems in relationships, with which therapists could assist. Sexual dysfunction can be assisted through psychosexual therapy.

If you are looking for a counsellor or psychologist who offers sexual counselling and other sexuality issues you may want to search the directory to find a professional whose approach will suit you best.

Somatic Approaches

Somatic approaches to therapy recognize the mind-body connection and focus on addressing psychological issues through bodily experiences. By incorporating techniques such as body awareness, breathwork, and sometines movement, these approaches help individuals access and process stored emotions and trauma. This value lies in their ability to foster self-awareness, emotional regulation, and healing.  Some therapies like "somatic experiencing" require specialized training and certification.  Please ask your therapist whether he/she has sprecialize training and in which approaches.

If you are looking for a therapist who offers Somatic Approaches, please browse our list of practitioners below..

Note: You may narrow your search by selecting more than one filter below.

Grant McMahon

M.C., RCC
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC # 11135) and psychotherapist working in Vancouver.  I can help you if you are struggling with low mood, depression, anxiety/panic, or problems in your marriage or intimate... Read more

Emma Ellison

MCP, RCC
Transpersonal Psychotherapist Doula & Traditional Birth Attendant Birth Integration & Spiritual Care Practitioner My approach Just as a seed will grow into a plant, and a plant will seek water and... Read more

Lindi Dale

M.A., CCC
    • Online booking
As a therapist, I strive for you to feel held: to feel cared for and understood, with the assurance that I am fiercely present and always in your corner. Above all, my goal is for you to cultivate a grounding sense of... Read more

Cookie Bain

M.C., RCC
What I most love in this world is to see people thriving as they live their most authentic life. I understand that may of us us have grown up in a way hasn't supported us to be our authentic self.... Read more

Lillian Kelly

M.A., RCC
I see clients online. from anywhere Frustrated? Unhappy with your relationship? Are you repeating painful patterns in your relationship, and in your life? I can help you create the changes that you long for! You... Read more

Shelley Gordon

M.S.W., RCC
    • Article(s) on profile
Shelley Gordon has been an Imago Relationship Therapist since 1996, and a Therapist since 1983. She has over 25 years of experience, and is an advanced clinician with Imago Relationships International. Shelley is... Read more

Bruce Avery

MCP, RCC
    • Online booking
My name is Bruce Avery, I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor and I’m the founder of Avery Therapy Centre. I work with a wide range of people who may seek increased perspective, self-understanding, and... Read more

Danielle Bowersock

M.A., RCC
    • Blog on profile
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I can help if you are stressed, anxious or depressed. At their extreme, anxiety and depression can be crippling, making you feel hopeless. Life becomes a struggle and your... Read more

Zoe Nichele

M.C., RCC
    • Online booking
Welcome, I’m Zoe! I work with people seeking freer self-expression, deeper authenticity, and calmer presence in life. The people I work with are often struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or life... Read more

Jordan Smail

M.A., RCC
If you here are looking for a therapist chances are you feel there are aspects of your life that are not as they should be. Perhaps you are in a cycle where your efforts are not producing the change you want, or maybe... Read more
    • Online booking
Through an inclusive, collaborative and trauma-informed lens, Shauna has a vested interest in helping clients learn about stress and related disorders, trauma, and healthy sexuality during various adult life stages so... Read more

Ishtar Beck

M.A., RCC
    • Video on profile
I believe that healing is possible. In the therapeutic space, I aim to provide a supportive space for you to grow as an individual and in your relationships. You will be attentively listened to. You will find... Read more

Veronika Tkacova

M.C., RCC
    • Online booking
I believe that therapy can be a safe space for healing and self-discovery, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to support others throughout this process.  I have experience working with various forms of... Read more