Supporting an Adult Experiencing Anxiety and Depression

Jessica sought counselling after experiencing persistent symptoms of anxiety and depression that were beginning to impact multiple areas of her life.

Service

Counselling

Setting

Clinic

Approach

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)-based Individual Counselling

Background

Jessica sought counselling after experiencing persistent symptoms of anxiety and depression that were beginning to impact multiple areas of her life. She reported feeling overwhelmed by daily responsibilities, struggling with low motivation, and experiencing frequent worry that was difficult to control.

Jessica described feeling emotionally exhausted, disconnected from activities she once enjoyed, and increasingly isolated from friends and family. At work, she found it difficult to concentrate and often doubted her abilities despite positive feedback from colleagues.

Her goal was to better understand her symptoms, develop coping strategies, and improve her overall mental health and quality of life.

Assessment

A counsellor completed a comprehensive assessment that included:

What the assessment included

Exploration of current symptoms and their impact on daily functioning
Review of personal history, stressors, and support systems
Assessment of coping strategies and emotional regulation skills
Identification of strengths, goals, and barriers to well-being

What We learned

The assessment revealed symptoms consistent with anxiety and depression, including excessive worry, negative self-talk, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and reduced participation in meaningful activities. Jessica also reported a tendency to avoid situations that increased her anxiety, which contributed to feelings of isolation and low mood.

Intervention Plan

A personalized counselling plan was developed to address Jessica’s symptoms and support her mental health goals.
Building Emotional Awareness
  • Identifying thoughts, emotions, and behavioural patterns contributing to anxiety and depression
  • Increasing awareness of triggers and early warning signs of distress
  • Developing strategies to recognize and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns
Cognitive and Behavioural Strategies
  • Learning techniques to manage excessive worry and self-criticism
  • Practicing realistic and balanced thinking
  • Gradually increasing participation in meaningful and rewarding activities
Coping and Emotional Regulation Skills
  • Developing stress management techniques
  • Practicing grounding exercises and relaxation strategies
  • Building healthy routines to support emotional well-being
Strengthening Self-Compassion and Resilience
  • Exploring personal strengths and values
  • Addressing perfectionism and unrealistic expectations
  • Developing healthier responses to setbacks and challenges
Enhancing Social Support and Connection
  • Identifying supportive relationships
  • Encouraging gradual re-engagement in social and recreational activities
  • Building confidence in communicating needs and seeking support

We offer flexible support options to meet you and your family's individual needs

Results

Following support of her counsellor:
Jessica reported a significant reduction in feelings of anxiety and overwhelm
Symptoms of low mood became less frequent and less intense
She developed effective strategies for managing worry and challenging negative thought patterns
Participation in social, recreational, and work-related activities increased
Confidence and self-esteem improved
Jessica reported feeling more hopeful, engaged, and capable of managing life's challenges
She shared that counselling helped her feel more in control of her emotions and better equipped to navigate stressors as they arose.

Conclusion

Counselling can provide individuals experiencing anxiety and depression with practical tools, emotional support, and evidence-based strategies to improve their mental health and overall quality of life. Through a collaborative and individualized approach, clients can build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and regain confidence in their ability to manage challenges and pursue meaningful goals.

Visit Us

Empowering
lives
across Nova Scotia

Halifax

Suite 343, 7071 Bayers Road, Halifax, NS B3L 2C2

Our clinic at the Bayers Road Centre features welcoming therapy and counselling spaces, a sensory gym for children, and convenient free parking.

Bedford

Suite 420, 1600 Bedford Hwy, Bedford, NS B4A 1E8

A bright and welcoming clinic that is popular with families, offering free parking, step free access, and therapy services for children, youth, and adults.

Annapolis, Queens & Tri-County

Mobile + partner clinics

We come to you through home visits, school visits, and appointments at community locations in Yarmouth, Digby, Shelburne, and Liverpool.

Kentville

Mobile + partner clinics

We come to you through home visits, school visits, and appointments at community locations in Kentville, Greenwood, Berwick, New Minas, and Wolfville.