Therapy for Depression
Welcome to book a consultation where we can discuss what you need help with. I am a licensed psychologist and meet clients for talk therapy. I offer in-depth conversations (individual therapy) where you gain more understanding of yourself, perspective, and change. You can get help with depression and other challenges. Appointments can be scheduled at the practice in Östermalm, Stockholm, or online.
Understanding Depression
Depression is often characterized by low mood, lack of motivation, and diminished self-esteem. It can lead to fatigue and a wish to withdraw from others. Some people experience a more activated form, staying busy in order to fend off low mood and underlying anxiety and worry.
Depression is a common reason for seeking therapy. Symptoms may have appeared recently or recurred over a longer period.
How Depression Is Explored in Therapy
In our sessions, we look at what kind of depression you are experiencing – whether it is linked to grief, prolonged stress, or trauma – and whether it is temporary or recurring. Together, we examine patterns and causes behind the symptoms.
We also talk about what tends to trigger low mood, what brings calm or a sense of vitality, and how depressive reactions differ from genuine emotions, needs, and self-criticism. The aim is to rediscover presence, meaning, and direction in relationships, everyday life, and work.
When Depression Persists Over Time
Long-term depression can affect both psychological and physical well-being, draining energy and engagement. It may lead to isolation from relationships, leisure, and work – despite a longing for connection and meaning. Memory, concentration, and motivation also tend to decline.
Anxiety and worry are often intertwined with depression and can intensify self-critical thoughts. Recognizing these effects helps to understand when professional support may be needed.
How Therapy Can Help with Depression
The purpose of therapy is to restore meaning, warmth, and presence – supporting you in moving toward life rather than away from it. It aims to ease the inner pain and loneliness that depression often brings.
As change begins, the contrast between suffering and well-being becomes clearer. Self-criticism softens, and moments of peace, contentment, and freedom emerge.
Read more about therapy and with me.
Working with Emotions in Therapy
When depression begins to lift, new possibilities open up:
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A renewed sense of joy and meaning
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Energy for relationships
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Improved physical health
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Greater creativity and productivity
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Increased trust in yourself
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Initiative and problem-solving ability
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The courage to live more fully
Working with Emotions
In affect-focused therapy, we talk about what you wish to change while paying attention to feelings of confusion, hopelessness, and emotional avoidance. We differentiate depressive symptoms – such as emptiness and loss of meaning – from true emotions that clarify direction and bring calm.
As you connect more fully with your emotions, depressive symptoms often ease, and a stronger sense of meaning and presence emerges. Read more about therapy.
What Depression Can Feel Like
Depression is often marked by sadness, emptiness, and a loss of pleasure in daily life. Self-critical thoughts are common – feelings of inadequacy, guilt, or shame for perceived failures or others’ reactions.
This can lead to withdrawal from relationships and the outside world. Some people find themselves caught in persistent thoughts such as “I’ve failed,” “it will never get better,” or “I don’t know what to do,” often in solitude, which can lead to indecision and low self-esteem.
Depression – Speaking with a Psychologist
I am a lic. psychologist with extensive experience, offering therapy at my private practice in Östermalm, central Stockholm, as well as online.
In therapy, we explore your experiences and needs at a pace that feels right for you, and consider together what kind of support may be most helpful.
Maria Sandgren
Licensed Psychologist
PhD in Psychology