Depression Expressive Arts Therapies

Depression

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.

Expressive Arts Therapies, Play Therapy

Expressive Arts Therapies use digital media or traditional arts and crafts materials to help clients express themselves more effectively. Therapists use art therapies in conjunction with traditional psychotherapy in clinical settings for clients of all ages to promote mental health.

Writing, movement, drama, music and other forms of art is used as part of several integrative mental health interventions and complementary practices. The logic behind expressive art therapy is that people often find it easier to express themselves in symbols, pictures and movement. By allowing this artistic expression, clients can express their thoughts and emotions easily, while finding the path to transformation, recovery and wellness.

If you are looking for a therapist who offers Expressive Arts Therapies, please browse our list of practitioners below..

Play therapy uses the client's internal self-healing mechanisms to access unconscious and conscious experiences. The therapist forms a relationship with the client and encourages him or her to explore life events that affect his or her current life experience.

During play therapy, the therapist works at the client's pace. Talking is secondary to play in this form of therapy, and as such the client is encouraged to play while the therapist observes.

Play Therapy is suitable for adults too, as it helps them to relearn self-exploration, which enhances physical and cognitive behaviours. Play therapy gives children and adults freedom, increased creativity and life experience.

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

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

Janet Walker

M.A., RCC
    • Online booking
Janet Walker, MA, RCC, ExAT, BCRPT, CPRT Level 1 Me as a Therapist The three foci of therapy, education, and the arts have been important for me throughout my life. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor, a... Read more

Gillian Tuyp

MCP, RCC
**Immediate Availability for In-person and Virtual Counselling Spring 2024** Gillian brings over 10 years of experience supporting children, youth, and families into her practice as a clinical counsellor. At the core... Read more
    • Online booking
Vernon Playroom Now Open! At Pathways Play Therapy Services, my mission is to support children’s mental and emotional wellbeing, strengthen their attachments, and increase their connection to self. As a play... Read more

Michelle Mann

Ph.D., RCC
Michelle Mann (PhD RCC) is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a therapist providing counselling, therapy and coaching to children, youth, adults and families. Trust, respect, warmth and empathy are key... Read more

Tricia Antoniuk

M.S.W., RSW
Imagine finding Hope & Passion in your Life... If you feel stuck or frustrated, in emotional pain or a struggling relationship, counselling can help. With respect and patience we will discover how you can meet... Read more

Elizabeth Medina

MCP, RCC
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Medina, I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC, and I hold a master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. I am currently working at Skylark Counselling Clinic in Downtown... Read more

Joan Dosso

M.Couns., RCC
    • Online booking
Everyone is unique in how they process life challenges and make meaning of them. Talk therapy is great for some people and issues, but I also offer play therapy, sand tray, clay work, art and writing to clients of all... Read more

ivania Redpath

M.A., RCC
    • Online booking
My clients come from diverse backgrounds and live with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loss, and attachment dysregulation. I offer virtual counselling and in person counselling for adults and children, in addition... Read more

Johanna Simmons

M.A., RCC
I believe that families are the foundation of any society. As parents you create the future through your children. Occasionally we encounter challenges and need some encouragement to overcome these. I can provide... Read more

Giulia Santaca

M.A., RCC
    • Online booking
My name is Giulia (Julia) Santaca and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in British Columbia. I have always been motivated to work with children, adolescents, couples and families to help them positively deal with... Read more

Ann Holroyd

Ph.D., RCC
Introduction People seek counselling for a wide variety of reasons. Sometimes a crisis has arisen in your life that feels unresolvable without professional help; Or it maybe a significant events that has long since... Read more