How Counselling Can Support You Through Depression

Depression can feel like you're stuck in a fog that won't lift. Simple tasks become overwhelming, relationships feel distant, and the things that once brought you joy seem out of reach. If you're reading this, you might be wondering whether counselling could help—and the answer is yes, it absolutely can.

As a counsellor working with people across Bayside, Kingston, and Melbourne, I've walked alongside countless individuals as they've navigated their way through depression. What I've learned is that whilst depression affects everyone differently, the right support can make all the difference.

What Is Counselling and How Does It Support Depression Recovery?

Counselling for depression is about creating a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with someone who truly understands. It's not about having someone fix you—because you're not broken. Instead, it's about having a qualified professional help you develop the tools, insights, and strategies you need to navigate through this challenging time.

Think of it like having a skilled guide when you're hiking through unfamiliar terrain. The guide doesn't carry you to your destination, but they help you find the path, avoid the pitfalls, and build the confidence to keep moving forward.

Depression often makes us feel isolated and misunderstood. Counselling breaks through that isolation by providing a space where your experiences are validated, your feelings are heard, and your struggles are met with compassion rather than judgement.

Counselling vs Therapy: What's the Difference?

You might hear the terms "counselling" and "therapy" used interchangeably—and in many ways, they are. Both involve working with a trained professional to address mental health challenges. The main difference is often in approach and duration.

Counselling tends to be more focussed on specific issues and practical problem-solving. It's often shorter-term and centres around developing coping strategies for particular challenges you're facing right now.

Therapy can be broader and more exploratory, sometimes delving deeper into long-standing patterns or past experiences that might be contributing to your current struggles.

For depression, both approaches can be incredibly effective. What matters most is finding the right fit for you—someone who understands your unique situation and can meet you where you are.

What Actually Happens in a Depression Counselling Session?

I get this question a lot, and it makes complete sense. Walking into your first counselling session can feel daunting, especially when depression has already made you feel vulnerable.

Here's what you can expect when we meet:

The first session is about getting to know each other. We'll talk about what's brought you to counselling, what you're experiencing, and what you're hoping to achieve. There's no pressure to share everything at once—we go at your pace.

In ongoing sessions, we might explore the thoughts and feelings that are contributing to your depression. We'll work on identifying patterns, developing coping strategies, and building practical skills you can use in your daily life.

My approach is active and flexible. If sitting in a traditional office feels uncomfortable, we can meet somewhere else—maybe walking in a park, at your home, or even on a golf course. Sometimes the best conversations happen when we're moving and in a space where you feel at ease.

Each session is tailored to you. Some days we might focus on immediate coping strategies for a tough week. Other times, we might explore deeper patterns or work on building long-term resilience.

The Real Benefits of Counselling for Depression

The benefits of counselling extend far beyond the hour you spend in session. Here's what many of my clients experience:

Emotional Benefits:

• Feeling heard and understood without judgement

• Learning to be kinder to yourself

• Developing healthier ways to process difficult emotions

• Rebuilding a sense of hope and purpose

• Feeling less alone in your struggles

Practical Benefits:

• Developing concrete coping strategies for tough days

• Learning to recognise early warning signs

• Building better communication skills for relationships

• Creating structure and routine that supports your wellbeing

• Gaining tools you can use long after counselling ends

Real-World Impact: What I find most rewarding is seeing how these benefits show up in everyday life. Clients tell me about having better conversations with their partners, feeling more confident at work, or simply enjoying small moments again—like actually tasting their morning coffee or laughing at something funny.

Why Location and Approach Matter

Depression can make even small tasks feel insurmountable. That's why I offer mobile counselling throughout Bayside, Kingston, and surrounding Melbourne areas. I can meet you at home, in a park, or wherever you feel most comfortable.

There's something powerful about getting out of traditional clinical settings. When we're walking or engaged in gentle activity, conversations often flow more naturally. It removes some of the pressure and creates space for genuine connection.

For some clients, this might mean shooting hoops whilst we talk. For others, it's walking along the beach or sitting in their backyard. The environment isn't what matters most—it's finding the setting where you feel safe to be open and honest.

Taking the Next Step

If you're considering counselling for depression, that's already a courageous step. Reaching out when you're struggling takes strength, even when it doesn't feel that way.

Depression can make everything feel harder, including asking for help. But you don't have to navigate this alone. Counselling provides a space where you can process what you're experiencing, develop practical strategies, and work towards feeling like yourself again.

The path through depression isn't always linear, and that's okay. What matters is having the right support along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Counselling for Depression

How does counselling help with depression?

Counselling helps with depression by providing a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, developing practical coping strategies, and breaking the isolation that often comes with depression. It helps you understand patterns in your thinking and behaviour whilst building resilience and hope for the future.

What happens in a depression counselling session?

In a depression counselling session, you'll talk openly about your experiences in a non-judgemental environment. Sessions are tailored to your needs and might include exploring current challenges, developing coping strategies, practising new skills, or working through underlying issues contributing to your depression. Sessions can happen in traditional settings or more active environments like walking outdoors.

Do I need a GP referral for counselling?

No, you don't need a GP referral to book counselling sessions directly. However, if you want to access Medicare rebates through a Mental Health Care Plan, you will need a referral from your GP. This can make counselling more affordable, with Medicare covering a portion of the cost for up to 10 sessions per year.

How often should I see a counsellor for depression?

Most people benefit from weekly or fortnightly sessions, especially when starting counselling. As you develop coping strategies and start feeling better, sessions might become less frequent. The frequency depends on your individual needs, the severity of your depression, and your personal circumstances. Your counsellor will work with you to find the right rhythm.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Depression doesn't have to define your story. If you're ready to explore how counselling might support you, I'd love to have a conversation about how we can work together.

Start with a free 15-minute consultation where we can get to know each other and see if we'd make a good team. There's no pressure—just an opportunity to ask questions and see if this feels like the right fit for you.

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Lukas Winward is a qualified counsellor registered with the Australian Counselling Association, providing mobile counselling services across Bayside, Kingston, and Melbourne. Specialising in active, flexible approaches to mental health support.