Depression is a mental state of low mood and there are several subtypes of depression, but major depressive disorder is the one that's usually intended. It is expected to be the number one cause of disease burden worldwide by 2030. The term major depressive disorder was first used in the 1970s and the disorder was added to the Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Disorders known as the DSM in the 1980s.
Depression can quietly infiltrate every part of your life—dimming your interests, disrupting your emotions, and straining your relationships. Maybe you find yourself crying easily, feeling numb, or getting angry over small things. Perhaps you distance yourself from loved ones, even when you need their support the most. If any of this resonates with you, know that you're not alone. Struggling with depression doesn’t mean something is wrong with you—it simply means you may need support and depression help to start feeling like yourself again.
While some people experience depression after a major life event, like a divorce or the loss of a loved one, others develop symptoms without a clear cause. At Cognizant Psychotherapy, we recognize that depression can stem from a variety of sources—stress, genetics, brain chemistry, medications, or other health issues. Our team is here to guide you with compassionate, personalized therapy for depression tailored to your unique situation, helping you regain control and rediscover hope.
Depression, also called major depressive disorder, is a serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily life. It’s more than just feeling sad or having a rough day—depression lasts longer and can interfere with everyday activities like sleeping, eating, or working.
Depression can affect anyone, regardless of their age, gender, or background. It can develop for different reasons, including a mix of genetics, changes in brain chemistry, stressful life events, or personal health struggles.
Depression isn’t something you can just “snap out of.” It’s a medical condition that needs proper care and support. The good news is, with the right treatment, people with depression can feel better and enjoy life again.
Not everyone experiences depression the same way, but some common signs include:
These symptoms can look different depending on your age or gender. For example, men might seem more angry or take more risks, while women might feel more tired, sad, or withdrawn, especially around major life changes like pregnancy or menopause.
Depression is more than just feeling down for a few days — it's a real health condition that can affect your thoughts, emotions, and day-to-day life. The good news is that it can be treated, and many people start feeling better with the right help.
The first step is to consult with a doctor or mental health professional. They can help figure out if you’re dealing with depression and what kind of support you need. Sometimes, other health issues can cause similar symptoms, so getting a proper check-up is important.
Depression therapy helps people understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and teaches ways to cope and manage stress. One common approach is cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps you change negative thought patterns.
Some people benefit from antidepressant medications. It can take a few weeks to feel the full effects, and your doctor will work with you to find what works best.
If depression doesn’t get better with regular treatment, there are other options. Brain stimulation therapies like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may help in more serious or treatment-resistant cases. These are done under professional care in a medical setting.
Alongside professional help, small daily habits can make a big difference. Try to:
Even small changes can support your recovery and make depression therapy more effective.
Depression can be treated through evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which help you manage negative thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Cognizant Psychotherapy provides accessible support to improve your emotional wellbeing and regain a sense of balance in daily life.
We support many forms of depression, including:
Each person’s experience is different, so we tailor therapy to your needs.
In each session, you’ll talk with a therapist about how you're feeling and what’s been going on. You’ll work together on goals, learn new ways to cope, and build skills to manage your mood. Sessions are private, respectful, and judgement-free.
Yes. All our therapists are certified mental health professionals with training and experience in treating different kinds of depression. Many use approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which is proven to help.
Session prices vary depending on the cases and therapist. We aim to offer options that are affordable and flexible for different budgets.
Yes. All sessions are 100% confidential. We follow Canadian privacy laws and use secure, encrypted platforms to keep your information safe.
Yes. You can book therapy sessions online through video, phone, or chat — whatever works best for you. It's a convenient way to get support from home, especially if you’re in a remote area or prefer privacy.
Yes, the IFHP covers mental health services, including therapy for depression, provided by physicians and licensed allied health professionals such as clinical psychologists, psychotherapists, or counselling therapists.
Taking care of your mental health is important, and it's
never too late to seek support.
Depression can feel isolating and overwhelming, impacting every aspect of your life—from your mood and relationships to your ability to work and engage in everyday activities.
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Anxiety can feel overwhelming, affecting your thoughts, emotions, and daily life. Our specialized anxiety services are designed to help you regain control and find balance.
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Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can have profound effects on an individual’s emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. Whether caused by a single traumatic event, prolonged exposure to distressing situations, or childhood abuse, trauma can disrupt your sense of safety, stability, and trust. Our Trauma and PTSD Services are designed to help individuals process and heal from past experiences, regain control over their lives, and build resilience for the future.
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Navigating life’s challenges can be difficult, and for many men, emotional struggles often go unspoken. Our Men's Issues services are designed to provide a supportive, safe space where men can address personal, relational, and societal challenges without judgment. Whether you're dealing with stress, identity issues, relationship difficulties, or mental health concerns, our services are here to help. We understand that men often face unique pressures, from societal expectations to career and family responsibilities. Our approach is centered around providing the tools and support needed to cope with these pressures, enhance emotional well-being, and foster healthy relationships. We use evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and stress management to help you manage anxiety, depression, anger, and other emotional challenges. Our services also focus on self-empowerment, helping you build resilience and confidence to navigate life’s ups and downs. Together, we’ll explore strategies for improving mental health, cultivating emotional intelligence, and achieving personal growth. No matter what you're going through, we believe that seeking help is a sign of strength. Our goal is to work collaboratively with you to overcome obstacles, reduce feelings of isolation, and build a more fulfilling life. Whether you’re struggling with stress, emotional health, or societal pressure, we’re here to help you thrive. Take the first step toward healing and growth. Contact us today to learn more about how our Men's Issues services can support you.
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Stress is a natural part of life, but when it becomes chronic or overwhelming, it can negatively impact your physical health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. Our Stress Services are designed to help individuals manage and reduce stress, build resilience, and regain control over their lives. We offer a variety of therapeutic approaches to help you identify the sources of your stress and develop effective strategies to cope with it. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based techniques, we work with you to challenge negative thought patterns, manage overwhelming emotions, and develop healthier ways of responding to stress. Our services focus on practical tools such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness, time management, and problem-solving skills to help you reduce stress in your daily life. In addition to individual therapy, we provide guidance on improving work-life balance, setting healthy boundaries, and prioritizing self-care. Whether stress is related to work, family, finances, or personal challenges, we are here to help you navigate these pressures in a way that promotes mental and physical well-being. Our goal is to help you regain balance, reduce feelings of overwhelm, and build the resilience needed to handle life’s challenges with confidence and calmness. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by stress, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how our Stress Services can support you in managing stress and improving your overall well-being.
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Our Family & Couples Therapy Services provide a safe and supportive space for individuals, couples, and families to address and resolve a range of challenges. Whether you are facing family conflict, relationship struggles, or marital and premarital issues, our experienced therapists are here to guide you through the process of healing, communication, and growth. Family conflicts can stem from various sources, including communication breakdowns, differing values, or unresolved past issues. In our family therapy sessions, we help family members understand each other’s perspectives, improve communication, and foster healthier relationships. We focus on addressing the root causes of conflict and facilitating positive change, allowing families to regain harmony and strengthen their emotional bonds. Every relationship experiences challenges, but when conflicts persist, it can affect emotional well-being and connection. Our relationship therapy services aim to help couples navigate difficult times by improving communication, resolving conflicts, and rebuilding trust. We provide tools to enhance understanding, empathy, and intimacy, empowering partners to create a stronger, more resilient relationship. Marriage and premarital therapy address specific challenges couples face, whether they are seeking to strengthen their marriage or prepare for a lifelong commitment. For married couples, we assist in overcoming issues such as financial stress, parenting disagreements, or emotional distance. In premarital counseling, we help couples address key topics like roles, expectations, and future goals, ensuring they are equipped to build a solid foundation for their relationship. With compassionate and individualized care, our Family & Couples Therapy Services aim to foster healthier, more connected relationships. If you are facing challenges in your family or relationship, we are here to support you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you create positive, lasting changes.
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Anger is a natural emotion, but when it's left unchecked, it can negatively impact your relationships, work, and overall well-being. Our Anger Management Services are designed to help you understand the root causes of your anger, manage your emotions effectively, and develop healthier ways of expressing yourself. We offer a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques, that help you identify triggers, reframe negative thinking, and respond to challenging situations with calm and control. Our services focus on building emotional regulation skills, improving communication, and enhancing problem-solving abilities, empowering you to handle frustration in constructive ways. Together, we create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore the underlying factors contributing to your anger, such as stress, past trauma, or unresolved issues. Our goal is to help you gain deeper self-awareness and develop coping strategies that promote emotional balance, conflict resolution, and healthier relationships. In addition to therapy, we provide workshops and support groups where you can connect with others facing similar challenges. These sessions offer a sense of community and shared learning, reinforcing the idea that you don’t have to face anger management alone. Our Anger Management Services are tailored to meet your individual needs, whether you’re struggling with occasional outbursts or more persistent patterns of anger. By learning to manage your emotions effectively, you can lead a more peaceful, fulfilling life. Take the first step toward transforming your relationship with anger. Contact us today to learn more about how our services can help you regain control and improve your emotional well-being.
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Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex condition characterized by intense emotions, unstable relationships, and difficulty managing self-image. Our BPD Services are designed to provide compassionate, expert support to help individuals navigate the challenges of this disorder and develop healthier coping strategies. We offer evidence-based therapies such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which has been shown to be highly effective in treating BPD. DBT focuses on helping individuals regulate their emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, and develop mindfulness skills to better manage distressing feelings. Additionally, we offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns and improve emotional regulation. Our services are tailored to help you understand the underlying causes of your emotional struggles and offering practical tools to cope with triggers. We also focus on helping you improve your overall well- being by addressing aspects such as self-care, stress management, and lifestyle adjustments. Our goal is to empower you to lead a fulfilling life, free from the intense emotional cycles that come with BPD. If you or someone you know is struggling with BPD, we are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how our services can help manage symptoms and promote lasting emotional balance.
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Bipolar disorder is a complex condition that affects mood, energy levels, and daily functioning. Our Bipolar Disorder Services are designed to help you manage the ups and downs of this condition, providing personalized support and treatment to improve stability and overall quality of life. We offer evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), to help you understand the patterns of your mood swings and develop healthier coping strategies. These therapies focus on managing both manic and depressive episodes, enhancing emotional regulation, and improving interpersonal skills. We take a holistic approach to treatment, which may include medication management, lifestyle changes, and support groups. Medication can play a vital role in stabilizing mood, and we work closely with you to ensure the right treatment plan is in place. Additionally, we help you build routines that promote mental and physical well-being, such as improving sleep, nutrition, and stress management techniques. Our services also emphasize education and self- awareness, helping you recognize early warning signs and triggers for mood episodes. This empowers you to take proactive steps to manage your condition and maintain stability. Whether you’re dealing with manic highs or depressive lows, our goal is to provide you with the tools and support needed to lead a balanced, fulfilling life. If you or a loved one is struggling with bipolar disorder, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how our Bipolar Disorder Services can assist in managing symptoms and fostering long-term wellness.
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As we age, physical, emotional, and cognitive changes can present unique challenges. Mental health of seniors often does not get the attention it deserves. Our Geriatric and Senior Services are designed to support older adults in maintaining their independence, improving their quality of life, estate planning and managing the transitions that come with aging. We offer a wide range of services tailored to the specific needs of seniors, ensuring they receive comprehensive care and attention. We offer personalized care plans that may include therapy for depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as strategies for managing cognitive decline. Our services aim to help seniors navigate the aging process with dignity, comfort, and a sense of purpose. We specialize in offering counseling and individual therapy to address issues such as isolation, grief, and family dynamics. We also provide resources and guidance for caregivers, helping them manage the unique challenges they face while ensuring their loved ones receive the best possible care. Our goal is to help seniors maintain a fulfilling and meaningful life, regardless of the obstacles they may face. Whether you or a loved one needs support with chronic conditions, emotional well-being, or simply navigating the complexities of aging, we are here to help. Reach out today to learn more about our Geriatric and Senior Services and how we can support you or your loved one in maintaining health, independence, and happiness.
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Grief is a deeply personal experience that can feel overwhelming, especially after the loss of a loved one. Our Grief Services are designed to provide compassionate support during this difficult time, offering a safe space to process emotions, find healing, and navigate the complex journey of loss. We offer counseling and therapy that are tailored to help you cope with the emotional, physical, and psychological effects of grief. We will help you understand and manage the intense emotions associated with loss, including sadness, anger, guilt, and confusion. We recognize that grief is a unique experience for each person, and we offer flexible, personalized care to address your specific needs. Whether you are dealing with recent loss or unresolved grief from the past, our goal is to help you heal at your own pace, while offering tools to manage the emotional impact of loss and rebuild your life. Through our Grief Services, we aim to help you honor your loved one’s memory, navigate the pain of loss, and find a path toward healing and emotional well-being. Reach out today to learn more about how we can support you during this challenging time.
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Life coaching is a powerful tool designed to help you achieve personal growth, set meaningful goals, and overcome obstacles that may be holding you back. Our Life Coaching Services are tailored to support individuals in discovering their true potential, creating a vision for their future, and taking actionable steps toward creating the life they desire. Whether you're looking to improve your career, relationships, health, or personal development, our certified life coaches work with you to identify your values, strengths, and passions. Through one-on-one coaching sessions, we help you clarify your goals, develop a strategic action plan, and build the confidence and motivation needed to achieve lasting success. Our coaching approach is focused on empowering you to make positive changes, enhance self- awareness, and adopt a proactive mindset. We use a variety of methods, including goal-setting techniques, mindset shifting, and accountability strategies, to help you stay on track and overcome challenges along the way. Our coaches provide support and guidance to help you stay focused, motivated, and on your path to success. Life coaching is for anyone who wants to enhance their life, move past limiting beliefs, and take actionable steps toward their dreams. Whether you're ready to make a career change, improve your confidence, or create a more fulfilling life, we are here to help you every step of the way. Take the first step toward a more empowered, purposeful life. Reach out today to learn more about how our Life Coaching Services can support you in achieving your personal and professional goals.
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Self-esteem is the foundation of mental well-being, affecting how we see ourselves, how we interact with others, and how we approach challenges. Low self-esteem can lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and a lack of confidence, which can negatively impact many areas of life. Our Self-Esteem Services are designed to help individuals build a healthier, more positive self- image and develop the confidence needed to live a fulfilling life. We offer personalized therapy and coaching to address the root causes of low self- esteem and support individuals in cultivating self-worth. Through evidence- based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), we work with you to identify negative thought patterns, challenge limiting beliefs, and replace them with more empowering, realistic perspectives. Our services focus on building self-awareness, self-compassion, and emotional resilience. We help you understand and appreciate your strengths, acknowledge your achievements, and learn to treat yourself with kindness and respect. We also work on improving body image, handling criticism, and setting healthy boundaries with others. Whether you're struggling with self-doubt, negative self-talk, or a lack of confidence, our Self-Esteem Services are designed to empower you to embrace your true worth and unlock your full potential. Take the first step toward a stronger, more confident you. Contact us today to learn more about how our Self-Esteem Services can support you in building a positive self-image and living a life of confidence and fulfillment.
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Life transitions, whether positive or challenging, can bring about significant change, uncertainty, and emotional upheaval. Our Life Transitions Services are designed to help you navigate these changes with confidence, clarity, and resilience. Whether you're facing career shifts, relocating, adjusting to a new phase in life, or managing personal changes such as divorce or retirement, our services offer the support you need to thrive during these transitions. We provide personalized coaching and counseling to help you understand the emotional impact of transition, identify your goals, and adapt to new circumstances. Our trained professionals use evidence-based approaches to help you manage stress, build coping strategies, and establish a sense of stability during times of change. Through one-on-one sessions, we guide you through each step of your transition, helping you gain perspective, redefine your purpose, and take actionable steps toward creating a fulfilling new chapter in your life. We offer support in areas such as career development, relationship adjustments, self-discovery, and goal setting. Life transitions are an opportunity for growth, and our goal is to help you embrace change as a positive force in your life. Whether you’re making a major life decision or adjusting to a new phase, we’re here to help you navigate these changes with confidence and clarity. Contact us today to learn more about how our Life Transitions Services can support you through this transformative journey. groups provide a safe and supportive environment for sharing experiences, gaining insight, and learning from others on the path to recovery. We also focus on building long-term strategies for maintaining progress and preventing relapse, including stress management, mindfulness practices, and self-care routines. If you or someone you know is struggling with an impulse control disorder, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how our Impulse Control Disorders Services can support you in regaining control and living a healthier, more balanced life.
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Adjusting to a new country and culture can be an overwhelming experience, especially for refugees who have faced trauma, displacement, and uncertainty. Our Refugee Services are dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of resettlement, heal from past experiences, and build a new life in a safe and supportive environment. We work closely with refugees to help them understand and navigate the systems and resources available in their new community, ensuring they have the tools and support needed to thrive. In addition to practical support, we offer counseling and mental health services to help refugees address the emotional and psychological effects of displacement, trauma, and loss. Our mental health professionals are trained to work with individuals who have experienced significant trauma, including those who may be dealing with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or grief. We offer culturally sensitive therapy, using approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Therapy, and other evidence-based methods to help refugees process their experiences, build resilience, and establish coping strategies for their new life. We have been supporting people seeking refugee status through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). If you or someone you know is a refugee in need of support, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how our Refugee Services can assist in navigating the challenges of resettlement, healing from trauma, and building a brighter future.
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If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, we’re here to help. Our addiction therapy services are designed to support you in overcoming both substance abuse and behavioral addictions. We understand that addiction is complex, impacting every aspect of your life, and recovery can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer a comprehensive, personalized approach to therapy that addresses not just the symptoms of addiction, but its underlying causes.
We use evidence-based treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help you build healthier coping strategies, manage triggers, and make lasting changes in your life. Our therapists work with you one-on-one, providing the guidance and support you need to stay on track.
Take the first step toward recovery today—reach out to us for compassionate, expert support. You don’t have to do it alone. Together, we’ll work to break free from the cycle of addiction and help you build a brighter, healthier future.
