Clinical Psychology in Surry Hills, Sydney
Depression Therapy in Sydney
Depression isn't always tears and despair. Sometimes it's the slow drain of motivation, the things you used to love feeling flat, or a quiet sense that nothing really matters. Whatever shape it takes for you, depression is one of the most treatable conditions we work with.
You may recognise some of these
Common ways depression shows up. You don't need to tick every box for therapy to help.
- Persistent low mood or numbness
- Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
- Low energy, even after rest
- Trouble sleeping — or sleeping too much
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Harsh, self-critical thinking
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feeling hopeless, stuck, or disconnected
Evidence-based approaches we use
Therapy tailored to your situation — drawing on what the research says works, and what fits you.
Evidence-based
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
A first-line, evidence-based treatment for depression. We work with the thinking patterns and behaviours that keep low mood in place, building small experiments that rebuild momentum.
Evidence-based
Behavioural Activation
When depression has shrunk your world, this approach helps you re-engage with the activities and people that lift mood — step by step, at a pace that's realistic.
Evidence-based
Schema Therapy
For depression with long roots — when there are old patterns of self-criticism, emotional deprivation, or feeling defective driving the low mood.
Evidence-based
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Helps you reconnect with what matters to you and build a meaningful life — even when depression makes that feel out of reach.
What working together looks like
A clear, paced approach — no jargon, no rigid template.
- 1
Understanding
We start by getting a clear picture — when depression started, what makes it better or worse, and the patterns keeping you stuck. Just being heard often shifts something.
- 2
Strategies
We build practical tools — for the harsh self-talk, the hard mornings, the withdrawal from people and activities. Small, doable steps that compound.
- 3
Consolidation
We work on the deeper drivers — the meaning-making, the long-running patterns — so that recovery doesn't depend on therapy continuing forever.
Practical details
Medicare rebates, telehealth, and Surry Hills sessions
With a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates on up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year. We offer both in-person sessions at our Surry Hills rooms (Level 1/17 Randle St) and secure telehealth across NSW — many clients move between the two depending on the week.
Depression — frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often.
Many people notice meaningful change within 8–16 sessions. Longer-standing or recurrent depression may benefit from more sustained work. We review progress regularly and shape the plan around what's actually working for you.
Yes. A Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP gives you access to a Medicare rebate on up to 10 individual sessions per calendar year. Depression is one of the most common conditions covered.
Yes — and the combination of therapy and medication is often more effective than either alone for moderate to severe depression. We're happy to collaborate with your GP or psychiatrist on a coordinated plan.
That's often part of the picture, and we plan for it. Telehealth removes a huge barrier — you can do a session from your couch. The early work is often as much about getting through the door as anything else, and we'll meet you where you are.
Sadness is an emotion that usually has a cause and passes. Depression is a persistent state that affects mood, energy, motivation, thinking, and physical functioning — usually for two weeks or more. If you're unsure, a single session can help clarify what's going on.
No. We look at your history when it's useful for understanding patterns, but most of the work is forward-focused — what's happening now, what you want to change, and the practical steps to get there.
Related areas we work with
Many people come to therapy with more than one of these at the same time.
We're here when you take the first step
Reaching out can feel daunting, especially when things have been building for a while. Wherever you are — considering therapy for the first time, or returning after a break — we'll meet you there. Send a message when you feel ready, and we'll find a time to talk.
Prefer to call? 0422 918 631