Depression Counselling in Surrey

Welcome to Depression Counselling Services in Surrey by Kevin Rymill

Providing Supportive and Integrative Psychotherapy for Depression

If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of depression, I’m glad you’ve found my website. I offer a supportive, caring, and integrative psychotherapy service for depression counseling in Ottershaw, Surrey.

I can help you manage your depression and explore the root causes of your depressive feelings. Below, you’ll find information on the factors that can lead to depression, common symptoms, and how counselling can help you regain control of your life.

Causes of Depression:

Depression can arise from various factors, including:

  • Loss and Bereavement: Experiencing the death of a loved one or a significant loss can trigger depressive feelings.
  • Serious Illness: Long-term conditions like cancer or arthritis may contribute to depression.
  • Stressful Life Events: Events such as losing a job or a relationship can be overwhelming.
  • Chronic Pain: Persistent pain can affect mental well-being.
  • Early Life Experiences: Childhood trauma or having a parent with depression can influence mental health.
  • Difficulties Conceiving or New Parenthood: Both can bring emotional challenges.
  • Prenatal or Postnatal Depression: Hormonal changes can significantly impact mood.
  • Excessive Alcohol Use: Alcohol might seem like a coping mechanism but can worsen depression.
  • Biochemical Imbalances: A lack of serotonin, noradrenaline, and other neurotransmitters may lead to depression.

Clinical Depression: Your GP or mental health professional may diagnose clinical depression if negative feelings severely affect your daily life.

 


Symptoms of Depression:

If you experience four or more of the following symptoms for more than two weeks, you may benefit from depression counselling:

  • Continuous low mood, especially worse in the mornings.
  • Trouble sleeping or waking earlier than usual.
  • Irritability and constant crying.
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities.
  • Appetite changes: poor appetite or overeating.
  • Reduced self-confidence.
  • Lack of energy and motivation.
  • Changes in sex drive.
  • Poor concentration and decision-making difficulties.
  • Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, or guilt.
  • Suicidal thoughts.
  • Unexplained aches and pains.

For a comprehensive list of symptoms, visit Mind’s guide on depression symptoms.

How Can Counselling Help?

Counselling can be an effective way to explore your feelings and life experiences. By working with a sensitive and professionally trained counsellor, you can:

  • Gain Understanding: Make sense of the problems you are experiencing.
  • Explore Emotions: Understand the meaning of your feelings.
  • Regain Joy: Begin to enjoy living your life again.

My Approach: I provide a non-judgmental, caring, and supportive environment where you will be valued and understood. We can explore how to change negative feelings at a comfortable pace, helping you gain control over your mood.

Antidepressant Medication:

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines recommend treating mild to moderate depression with a combination of medication and psychotherapy. For more information, you can read their guidelines on depression in adults.

Many people are prescribed antidepressants as a first course of treatment, but it’s crucial to consider talking therapy alongside medication. Medication can be beneficial in the short term but may have distressing side effects. Always seek your doctor’s advice regarding medication, especially if considering discontinuation.

Supporting You in Coming Off Medication

If you are considering discontinuing antidepressant medication, it is essential to do so slowly and with professional guidance. Abruptly stopping medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms and rebound depression. I am here to support you through this process in a safe and supportive environment.

  • Gradual Tapering: Together with your doctor, I can help you create a personalized plan to reduce your medication gradually, minimizing potential side effects.
  • Therapeutic Support: Throughout the tapering process, counselling can provide emotional support and coping strategies to manage any challenges you may encounter.
  • Empowering You: My goal is to empower you to take control of your mental health journey, whether you choose to continue medication, taper off, or explore other therapeutic options.

Read more about safely coming off antidepressants on the NHS website

Supporting Your Feelings During Medication Changes

Changing or discontinuing medication can bring about a range of emotions and feelings. Here’s how I can support you:

  • Emotional Awareness: We’ll work together to identify and understand the emotions you experience during this time, helping you navigate complex feelings.
  • Safe Expression: Counselling offers a safe space to express any fears, anxieties, or uncertainties you may have about the process.
  • Developing Resilience: We’ll focus on building resilience and coping mechanisms to help you manage emotional fluctuations effectively.
  • Mindfulness Techniques: Incorporating mindfulness practices can help you stay grounded and connected to your emotions, allowing for a more balanced experience.
  • Personalized Support: I tailor our sessions to fit your unique needs, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.


 

Get Help Today

Taking care of yourself and finding the energy to seek help can be challenging when you feel depressed. Whether you are currently on medication or wish to explore therapy, I am here to support you in a safe environment.

Contact Me By:

Location:
Ottershaw is conveniently located near Walton-on-Thames, Weybridge, Woking, Addlestone, Chertsey, West Byfleet, Staines, and is close to the M25 and A3.

Free Initial Consultation:
I offer a free initial consultation to help you decide if counselling is right for you. Please browse this website to learn about me and the services I offer.

Appointment

Book online to make an appointment for the treatment of your choice, or for an initial consultation.

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Click the link below to book online, or alternatively you can contact me directly.


Practice Location

Located in Ottershaw, Surrey, my practice is situated near to the M25, Woking and Weybridge, and is easily accessible to those in the surrounding areas.