Counselling for Depression in Hackney & Online

Low mood can touch every part of life – sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, relationships… Thoughts, feelings and body sensations feed into one another and can create a loop: feeling flat leads to withdrawing or staying in bed; inactivity increases heaviness and self-criticism; the day feels harder still. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone – and support is available.

I’m Jennifer Bellamy, a BACP-registered counsellor, offering one-to-one depression counselling in Hackney and online. My approach is gentle, down-to-earth and tailored to you. We’ll go at your pace, making space for how things are while also building small, realistic steps that help you feel steadier.

How Depression Can Show Up

Depression looks different for everyone, but common experiences include:

• Persistent low mood, emptiness or tearfulness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities
• Tiredness, “heavy” limbs, sleep difficulties or oversleeping
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Irritability, guilt or harsh self-talk (“I’m failing”, “I’m not good enough”)
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Thoughts about self-harm or not wanting to be here

Some days you might feel almost yourself; other days, everything feels like an effort. Fluctuations are common and don’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.

Why Does Depression Happen?

There isn’t a single cause. Often it’s a mix of factors, such as:

• Isolation or a lack of supportive relationships
• Relationship or family difficulties
• Money or housing stress
• Health changes, long-term conditions or pain
• Bereavement or other losses
• Difficult childhood experiences, trauma or ongoing pressure
• Significant life transitions (retirement, becoming a parent, caring roles)
• Genetics or hormonal shifts (e.g. postnatal changes)
• City stressors – the pace, cost of living and constant demands of London
• Understanding your mix helps us decide where to begin.
• The “vicious circle” – and how we’ll gently break it

Depression often involves patterns that keep themselves going. In therapy, we’ll map your own cycle and use behavioural activation (very small, doable actions) to introduce movement without overwhelm – things like two minutes, a five-minute walk, sending one message, or a simple meal. These aren’t quick fixes; they’re compassionate nudges that gradually reopen life.

How Counselling Can Help

Counselling offers a confidential space to:

• Say how things really are – without pressure to “cheer up”
• Understand the links between mood, thoughts, habits and your nervous system
• Soften harsh inner commentary and build kinder self-talk
• Reconnect with values and motivation, even when energy is low
• Create a realistic routine for sleep, food, connection and rest
• Make sense of past experiences that still affect the present
• Strengthen relationships and ask for support in ways that feel safe

I practice integratively, which means I draw on different therapeutic methods to suit your individual needs rather than a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. The heart of the work is our relationship – warm, steady and non-judgemental.

Counselling and Antidepressants

Many people choose therapy with or without medication. If you’re taking antidepressants, that’s ok. There’s no one ‘right’ route – our focus is on what helps you most.

Working with Adults and Older Adults

I have a particular interest in supporting adults and older adults, including men who might find it hard to ask for help. With 25+ years in person-centred care, I’m familiar with the real-world pressures that can sit alongside depression – caring responsibilities, health changes, work stress and family dynamics.

Practical Details

Location: In-person depression counselling in Hackney, and online across the UK

• Free 30-minute introductory meeting to see how it feels to talk
• Ongoing sessions: £65 for 50 minutes (concessions available)

Short-term or longer-term work, weekly or at a pace that suits you

I’m Here to Help You

You don’t need to have the words worked out. Whether you want to talk, make a plan, or simply not feel so alone with it all, I’m here.
Book a free 30-minute introduction to arrange depression counselling in Hackney or online.