Depression Counselling in Victoria BC

If you're feeling down and can't shake it, you’re not alone. Depression can make everything feel heavy. You might find it hard to get out of bed, enjoy the things you used to love, or even see the point of trying. It can affect your energy, your focus, and your relationships.

At Harbour Family Counselling, we offer a calm, caring space where you can show up just as you are. You don’t have to pretend or explain everything. We’re here to walk beside you, gently and at your pace.

What is Depression?

Depression is more than sadness. It’s a real and common mental health challenge that can show up in many ways. You might feel emotionally flat, irritable, or overwhelmed. You may notice changes in your sleep, appetite, or interest in daily life.

Common signs of depression:

• Feeling hopeless or disconnected

• Low energy or constant tiredness

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Withdrawing from friends or activities

• Increased self-criticism or guilt

Depression can affect anyone, at any age or stage of life. And it is treatable.

How Counselling Can Help

Therapy helps you reconnect with your inner strengths and find steadier ground. Together, we explore what’s been weighing you down and what supports your healing. You don’t need to carry it all alone.

Many people say that counselling gives them new perspective, more self-compassion, and a sense of possibility. We’ll move at a pace that feels right for you.

Therapies We Use for Depression

We draw on thoughtful, research-backed approaches including:

CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) To identify unhelpful thoughts and shift into more balanced patterns.

IFS (Internal Family Systems) To gently explore parts of you that feel stuck, numb, or self-critical.

Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques To reconnect with the present moment and manage emotional overwhelm.

Compassion-Focused Therapy To build a kinder inner relationship and reduce shame or self-blame.

Narrative Therapy To help you reshape your story and reconnect with strength and meaning.

Counsellors Who Work with Depression

Maria Butler, RCC Maria supports adults and students navigating depression, burnout, and transitions using a blend of CBT, IFS, and career-focused strategies.

Darcy Harbour, RCC Darcy creates a steady, welcoming space to work through emotional pain and rediscover purpose using IFS and compassion-based work.

Talita Nell, RCC Talita offers gentle support for young adults facing emotional overwhelm and isolation, using mindfulness and emotion-focused therapy.

What Counselling Looks Like

Sessions are 50 minutes, held in our quiet office near UVic and Camosun or online anywhere in BC. You can speak openly without fear of judgment. Whether you’re ready to talk or just beginning to find the words, we’ll meet you where you are.

Book a Free 20-Minute Consultation

If you’re wondering whether counselling might help, we invite you to book a free 20-minute consult. You can meet a counsellor, ask questions, and see if it feels like a good fit.