Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Counselling in Westmount

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression related to seasonal changes, typically beginning in fall and continuing through winter. It can drain your energy, disrupt your mood, and make activities you normally enjoy feel pointless.

Common Signs of SAD

• Difficulty waking up in the morning during winter months
• Persistent low mood or irritability as days grow shorter
• Increased cravings for carbohydrates
• Loss of motivation and reduced interest in usual activities
• Fatigue and difficulty maintaining routines
• Social withdrawal during fall and winter

These symptoms typically improve with the return of longer days and warmer weather, but therapy can help you manage them more effectively during difficult months.

SAD vs Depression: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between SAD and other forms of depression is timing. People with SAD usually feel well throughout most of the year but experience depressive symptoms when seasons change, particularly when days grow shorter and colder. While SAD shares symptoms with clinical depression, the seasonal pattern is distinct.

Therapy for SAD

Counselling for SAD helps you identify triggers and thought patterns that contribute to low mood during difficult months. Therapy focuses on building resilience, maintaining routines, and developing practical strategies to manage symptoms before they escalate.

In our work together, you will learn to recognize early warning signs and implement effective responses that reduce the impact of seasonal changes on your daily life.

Schedule a Free 10-Minute Phone Consultation

Professional Background

Academic qualifications and professional memberships:

• Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy
• Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy
• Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association

Learn more about my background and qualifications.

Counselling That Fits in With Your Schedule

I’m available for appointments Monday to Friday from 8 am to 8 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, either in-person at my office in Westmount, or online for your convenience.

You don’t need a referral to make an appointment. You can contact me directly by phone, email, or book a session through the website.

If you're not quite ready to book but would like to learn more or get a sense of how I work, I offer a free 10-minute consultation by phone.

Your First Appointment

In our first session, we’ll talk through the following:

• Your main concerns and what has brought you to therapy
• How these concerns are impacting your day-to-day life and relationships
• Your expectations, goals, and hopes for the work ahead

This initial session is also an opportunity for you to get a sense of how I work and to ask any questions you may have.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, most commonly emerging in fall or winter and easing in spring or summer.

How do I know if my symptoms are seasonal or general depression?
Seasonal symptoms tend to occur at the same time each year and improve with increased daylight. Therapy helps clarify patterns and determine the most appropriate approach.

How many sessions will I need?
We’ll start with weekly or bi-weekly sessions to build momentum and stabilize symptoms. Frequency can be adjusted over time based on progress and goals.

Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes. I offer both in-person sessions at my office in Westmount and secure virtual sessions for clients who prefer remote therapy.

Do you issue insurance receipts?
Yes. I provide receipts that can be submitted to your insurance provider. It is best to confirm directly with them whether counselling services from a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) are covered under your plan.

Schedule a Free 10-Minute Phone Consultation