Online Psychologist for Depression | Natasha Kiemel
Written by Natasha Kiemel-Incorvaia, Registered Psychologist | Last updated: December 2025
Low mood impacts everyone at times. However, there are times in which you may find yourself not enjoying moments with friends and family and having trouble finding pleasure in activities you used to love. You may even feel numb. Reaching out for support is hard during these times, however doing what is hard may be exactly what you need.
Depression is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It's a complex condition involving multiple systems in your body, including your brain, stress hormones, and nervous system. Depression can significantly impact your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical health.
Our telehealth psychology service connects you with our experienced psychologists who have extensive experience in depression treatment.
What is Depression?
The primary symptoms of depression you may initially notice are cognitive (thought-based), emotional, physical, and behavioral. These symptoms can significantly impact your daily functioning and quality of life. Through telehealth psychology, we can assess and treat these symptoms effectively, even from a distance.
Cognitive (Mental) Symptoms of Depression
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Memory problems
Negative thinking patterns
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
Thoughts of death or suicide
Emotional Symptoms of Depression
Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
Irritability
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
Physical Symptoms of Depression
Changes in appetite or weight
Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
Fatigue or loss of energy
Unexplained aches and pains
Behavioral Symptoms of Depression
Withdrawal from social activities
Decreased productivity at work or school
Neglect of personal responsibilities
Increased use of alcohol or other substances
Types Of Depressive Disorders
While it is healthy to experience feelings of sadness and even depressed mood, as they are human emotions, there are several diagnosable disorders which depressive mood and sadness are symptoms. It may be helpful to note that while symptoms of depression can feel overwhelming and debilitating, the following depression related disorders can be very treatable with the correct diagnosis and support from a professional.
Major depressive disorder (including major depressive episode)
Persistent depressed mood, loss of interest/pleasure, and other symptoms lasting at least 2 weeks. Most common form of depression.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
Milder but long-lasting depression symptoms (2+ years). Often feels like "background sadness" affecting daily functioning.
Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder
Characterised by severe recurrent temper outbursts and persistently irritable mood in children and adolescents (ages 6-18). Often co-occurs with anxiety or ADHD.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Severe mood changes, anxiety, irritability, and depression that occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and significantly interfere with daily functioning. More severe than standard premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Depression linked to seasonal changes, typically starting in autumn/winter. Responds well to light therapy and psychological treatment.
Substance/medication induced depressive disorder
Depression directly caused by use of substances (alcohol, drugs) or side effects of certain medications (antihypertensives, corticosteroids, some anticonvulsants). Symptoms typically improve when the substance or medication is discontinued or adjusted.
Depressive disorder due to another medical condition
Depression that develops as a direct result of a medical condition such as thyroid disease, neurological conditions, chronic pain, or other health issues. Treatment addresses both the underlying medical condition and depression symptoms.
Other specified depressive disorder
Depressive symptoms that don't fully meet criteria for a specific disorder but still cause significant distress and impairment. Examples include brief depressive episodes or depression with insufficient symptoms for full diagnosis.
Unspecified depressive disorder
Depressive symptoms present but insufficient information available to determine the specific type. Often used when the disorder doesn't clearly fit other categories.
Our telehealth psychologist, Natasha is experienced in diagnosing and treating various types of depressive disorders through online therapy.
Why See a Psychologist for Depression?
Depression affects how you think, feel, and function. But it's highly treatable with the right support. A psychologist can help you understand what's driving your depression and equip you with practical strategies that work.
What you'll gain from working with a psychologist:
Proper Assessment - Understanding whether your depression is situational, linked to trauma, related to ADHD, or connected to other factors helps determine the best approach.
Tailored Treatment - Rather than one-size-fits-all advice, your psychologist will select therapeutic methods that match your specific needs. Whether that's CBT for thought patterns, EMDR for trauma, or sensorimotor work for body-based symptoms.
Skills for Life - Beyond feeling better now, you'll develop tools to manage future low moods and build genuine resilience. Not just temporary relief.
Early Intervention Matters - Getting support early can prevent depression from deepening and affecting your relationships, work, or health. Many people find that acting early makes recovery faster.
Early intervention and professional support can make a significant difference in your recovery. If you're experiencing persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, or difficulty managing daily life, reaching out is an important first step.
Do You Need a Depression Diagnosis to Have Therapy?
The simple answer is no. Many people who seek psychological support for depression may not meet the full criteria for a specific depressive disorder. However, depression can still significantly impact various aspects of your life, including relationships, work performance, and overall well-being. Engaging in early intervention is crucial and can prevent symptoms from worsening. Therapy can provide you with tools to manage symptoms effectively and gain deeper insight into yourself..
Evidence-Based Therapies for Depression
Our telehealth psychology service offers a range of evidence-based treatments for depression delivered by our skilled online psychologist Natasha.
Natasha is trained in various therapeutic approaches and will work with you to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on your individual needs and circumstances. Some of the evidence-based therapies she may use in treating depression include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a widely researched and effective treatment for depression. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to depressive symptoms. CBT is well-suited for telehealth psychology sessions, allowing for effective treatment from the comfort of your home.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
IPT is an evidence-based approach that focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and social functioning. Our telehealth psychologist can effectively deliver IPT through our secure online platform, helping you work on interpersonal skills,
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT helps individuals accept difficult thoughts and feelings while committing to behaviors aligned with personal values. ACT techniques translate well to online therapy, with many exercises that can be practiced independently between telehealth sessions.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness strategies, particularly helpful for individuals dealing with intense emotions. DBT skills can be effectively taught and practiced through telehealth sessions, with ongoing support provided online.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR):
While primarily used for trauma, EMDR has shown promise in treating depression, especially when linked to traumatic experiences. EMDR can be adapted for telehealth delivery, with our psychologist guiding you through the process in a secure online environment.
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
This body-oriented therapy integrates cognitive and emotional processing with physical sensations and movement. It can be particularly helpful for individuals whose depression is linked to physical symptoms or past trauma. Through telehealth, our psychologist can guide you in body awareness exercises and techniques adapted for online delivery.
Our telehealth psychologist Natasha may use one or a combination of these therapies, tailoring the treatment approach to your specific needs and preferences. It's important to note that the effectiveness of therapy can vary from person to person, and our psychologist will work closely with you to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Remember, seeking help is a crucial step towards recovery. Our telehealth services make it convenient for you to access these evidence-based treatments from the comfort of your own home.
Benefits of Telehealth Psychology for Depression Treatment
Increased accessibility, especially for those with mobility issues or in remote areas
Flexible scheduling to fit your lifestyle
Reduced travel time and costs
Comfortable and familiar environment for therapy
Continuity of care, even when you can't attend in-person sessions
Ability to attend therapy when you are struggling to leave your home due to low motivation and withdrawal symptoms
Graciously You gives you access to a telehealth psychologist who is experienced in the treatment of depression.
What to Expect From Your First Session
Your initial appointment focuses on understanding your situation. You'll discuss:
When depression started and what you've noticed
How it's affecting your daily life, relationships, and work
What you hope to achieve from therapy
Which therapeutic approach might suit you best
Many clients find that simply being heard and having a clear plan makes them feel more hopeful immediately.
Depression Treatment Timeline
Your treatment journey typically unfolds across these phases:
Weeks 1-2: Assessment and Building Rapport
Your psychologist conducts a thorough assessment, understands your depression history, and establishes a safe therapeutic relationship. This foundation is crucial for effective treatment.
Weeks 3-8: Active Treatment Focused on Symptom Reduction and Skill-Building
You'll learn evidence-based strategies tailored to your depression type. This phase involves practicing new skills, identifying unhelpful thought patterns, and beginning to notice shifts in mood and functioning.
Week 9+: Consolidation, Deeper Work, and Relapse Prevention
As symptoms improve, you'll consolidate gains, explore deeper issues if relevant, and develop strategies to maintain progress and prevent relapse.
Individual timelines vary based on depression severity, responsiveness to treatment, and personal goals. Your psychologist will discuss realistic expectations in your first session and adjust your plan as needed based on your progress.
Related Mental Health Conditions We Treat
Depression often co-occurs with anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or stress. If you're experiencing multiple concerns, our holistic approach addresses the interconnected nature of mental health. Explore our dedicated pages for:
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Depression Treatment
How effective is online therapy for depression?
Research consistently shows telehealth delivers equivalent outcomes to in-person therapy for depression. Studies published in JAMA Psychiatry and other peer-reviewed journals demonstrate that CBT, EMDR, ACT, and interpersonal therapy are equally effective when delivered via secure video platforms. The key factor isn't the medium, it's the quality of the therapeutic relationship and the evidence-based approach used.
What's the difference between sadness and clinical depression?
Sadness is a normal response to loss, disappointment, or difficult life events. It typically improves over time as you process the situation. Clinical depression involves persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, changes in sleep and appetite, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness lasting at least two weeks. Depression can occur without a clear trigger and significantly impairs your ability to function at work, in relationships, or with daily tasks.
How many sessions will I need for depression?
This depends on your depression type, severity, and treatment approach. Research suggests:
Mild depression: 8-12 sessions with CBT or brief intervention often produces significant improvement
Moderate depression: 12-20 sessions typically needed for meaningful change
Severe or complex depression: Longer-term work (20+ sessions) may be beneficial, especially if trauma or other conditions are involved
Your psychologist will discuss realistic timelines in your first session and monitor progress regularly to adjust your plan as needed.
Can online therapy work if I'm struggling to leave home?
Yes. This is one of telehealth's most significant advantages. Withdrawal and inability to leave home are common depression symptoms, and they often prevent people from accessing help. Telehealth removes this barrier entirely. You attend from your bedroom, living room, or any private space. This accessibility often allows people to start therapy when they might otherwise avoid it altogether.
Do I need a diagnosis from my GP first?
No. You can book directly with our psychologist for assessment. During your first session, we'll conduct a thorough evaluation to understand your symptoms and determine whether they align with a specific depressive disorder (Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder, Seasonal Affective Disorder, etc.). If appropriate, we can coordinate with your GP and provide feedback about our assessment. You don't need a medical diagnosis to access psychology, but if you want Medicare rebates, your GP will need to create a Mental Health Care Plan.
What happens if online therapy doesn't work for me?
If after several sessions you're not seeing improvement, your psychologist will discuss this with you openly. Options include adjusting your current treatment approach, trying a different therapeutic method, exploring whether other factors (sleep, exercise, medication) need addressing, or considering whether other support (GP review, psychiatry consultation) would be helpful. Not every approach works for every person, and good therapy involves flexibility and honest communication about progress.
Can online therapy help if my depression is linked to trauma?
Yes. EMDR and other trauma-focused approaches are particularly effective for depression linked to past trauma, PTSD, or difficult life experiences. In fact, treating the underlying trauma often resolves depression symptoms more effectively than treating depression alone. Many people don't realise their depression is trauma-related until they begin exploring it in therapy.
Is it confidential? Will anyone know I'm in therapy?
Your sessions are completely confidential and secure. We use encrypted video platforms that meet healthcare privacy standards. You control who knows about your therapy. Sessions appear on your private calendar and billing statements only. The only exception is mandatory reporting situations, such as imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, which we're legally required to disclose to emergency services or relevant authorities.
What if I'm also taking antidepressants? Can I do therapy at the same time?
Absolutely. Therapy and medication often work together effectively. If you're on antidepressants, continue taking them as prescribed by your doctor. Psychology complements medication by teaching you skills, addressing thought patterns, and working through underlying issues. Your psychologist can liaise with your GP about how treatment is progressing.
How do I know if I need urgent help versus regular therapy?
If you're having thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or feeling in immediate crisis, this isn't the right service. Please contact:
000 (emergency)
Lifeline: 13 11 14
A more comprehensive list of support services can be found here
Regular telehealth therapy is for managing depression symptoms and working toward recovery when you're safe but struggling.
Can depression be cured, or will I always have it?
Depression is highly treatable. Many people recover fully with therapy and don't experience further episodes. Others experience periods of depression at different life stages but learn to recognise early signs and manage them effectively. The goal of therapy isn't just symptom relief. It's building resilience and skills that help you manage mood challenges long-term, whether depression returns or not.
What's the difference between your online therapy and apps like Headspace or BetterHelp?
Apps offer general mindfulness or self-guided CBT, which can be helpful for mild stress or prevention. However, they lack personalised assessment, professional accountability, and the therapeutic relationship that research shows is crucial for depression treatment. Working with a registered psychologist means you get diagnostic experience, treatment adapted to your specific situation, and someone monitoring your progress and adjusting approach as needed. Think of it as the difference between a fitness app and a personal trainer.
We’ve Made it Simple
You don't have to do this alone
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming. We've designed our process to make it as low-pressure as possible:
Book a session at your own pace, no urgency
Sessions from home
No diagnosis needed to start
You control the pace and approach