Therapy for Depression in Varsity Lakes

By David Hennessy, Clinical Psychologist

Understanding Depression

Depression affects how we feel, think, and engage in daily life. It may emerge gradually or during times of stress or loss. It is more than just a low mood. Common signs include:

• Persistent sadness or emptiness
• Loss of interest in usual activities
• Changes in appetite or sleep
• Low energy or fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Evidence-Based Psychological Therapies

At Hennessy Clinical Psychology, I draw on current, evidence-supported therapies tailored to each person’s needs.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps identify and modify unhelpful thoughts and behaviours that contribute to low mood. It is one of the most researched therapies for depression^[1].

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT promotes psychological flexibility—encouraging people to relate differently to difficult thoughts and to take values-guided action^[2].

Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)

CFT supports the development of self-kindness and reduces shame and self-criticism, which often accompany depression^[3].

Mindfulness-Based Approaches

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) helps reduce relapse in recurrent depression by cultivating present-moment awareness and disengaging from ruminative thought cycles^[4].

What to Expect from Therapy

In therapy, we work together to increase awareness of the patterns that shape your thoughts, mood, and behaviour, and to develop practical strategies for moving through distress in a more workable way. Sessions often include learning to recognise self-critical or repetitive thought patterns, exploring emotional responses with openness, and practising tools that help you respond rather than react. We may focus on gently re-engaging with meaningful activities, developing a more compassionate inner stance, and building awareness of the present moment. The process is not about perfection or fixing everything, but rather about noticing what is happening, understanding how it affects you, and finding small, steady steps toward a life that feels more liveable and aligned with your values.

A Supportive Setting in Varsity Lakes

Sessions are available at a calm and private clinic in Varsity Lakes or online via telehealth. Some clients also opt for walk-and-talk therapy by the lake.

Enquiries / Appointments

Click here to make an enquiry or request an appointment.

References

1. Cuijpers, P., et al. (2020). The effects of psychotherapies for major depression. The Lancet Psychiatry.
2. A-Tjak, J.G.L., et al. (2015). A meta-analysis of the efficacy of ACT. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
3. Leaviss, J., & Uttley, L. (2015). Compassion-focused therapy: A systematic review. Clinical Psychology.
4. Goldberg, S.B., et al. (2019). Mindfulness-based interventions. World Psychiatry.