Depression & Low Mood

Understanding the depression cycle

We map how depression maintains itself, the withdrawal, the low energy, the lost motivation. Understanding the cycle is the first step to breaking it.

In practice: Drawing out the withdrawal-low energy-lost motivation loop on paper, then identifying which point in the cycle is most accessible to interrupt.

Behavioural activation

Small actions that gradually rebuild momentum and reconnect you with things you value, without forcing yourself to feel happy.

In practice: Choosing three small activities for the week, one social, one physical, one pleasurable, and rating mood before and after each one.

Addressing negative thought patterns

Depression distorts thinking, everything feels hopeless, worthless, pointless. We work to challenge these distortions with evidence and reframing.

In practice: Taking a thought like "nothing will get better" and examining the evidence for and against it, then writing a more balanced version.

Energy & routine rebuilding

Depression wrecks sleep, eating, and basic structure. We work on small sustainable routines, just enough to create stability.

In practice: Starting with one anchor point in the day, like a consistent wake-up time, and building the rest of the routine around it week by week.

Values & meaning

Sometimes depression cuts us off from what matters most. We help you reconnect with your values and find purpose again.

In practice: Using a values card sort to rediscover what matters, then choosing one small action that reconnects you to one of those values this week.

Managing alongside NDIS / disability

For many of our clients, depression co-exists with disability, chronic illness, or neurodivergence. We understand these intersections and work with them directly.

In practice: Mapping the overlap between disability-related fatigue and depression symptoms, then adjusting the approach to account for both.

What it costs

Sessions for depression and low mood follow the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits, with the cost depending on the type of session and whether it's a weekday, evening, or weekend appointment. You can also access this support privately, without NDIS funding, or through other schemes. Whatever the funding path, cost is always confirmed in writing before anything starts.

Am I eligible?

Support for low mood usually sits under Capacity Building, Improved Daily Living. If your NDIS plan includes that funding, this work is something you can use it for. A support coordinator or plan manager can help confirm what's in your plan. No relevant NDIS funding? Private, self-funded sessions are available too, and you don't need a diagnosis to reach out.

Where we work

We're based in Thomastown and work across Greater Melbourne, including the northern, western, and eastern suburbs. Online telehealth sessions are available too, and some of our support extends into regional Victoria. We'll figure out what's practical for you.

How to start

Get in touch by phone, our contact form, or email. The first conversation is about what's going on for you, and you share as much as you want to. From there, we match you with a counsellor who suits you and aim to have a first session booked within a few business days.