Depression Treatment in Coimbra
Evidence-based psychotherapy for depression — in-person at Santa Clara or online. Personalised plan, no referral needed.
Signs that may indicate depression
If several of these signs persist for more than two weeks and affect daily life, it is worth seeking a psychological assessment.
How the process works
The first session is an assessment: we understand the history of symptoms, context and impact on daily life. We then build a personalised intervention plan with clear goals.
Typical frequency: weekly sessions in the initial phase, gradually reducing as improvement consolidates. The final sessions focus on relapse prevention.
Available in-person at Santa Clara (Coimbra) or online. No referral needed — you can book directly.
- Santa Clara, Coimbra
- In-person & online
- From 55€ per session
- No referral needed
- Full confidentiality
Therapeutic approaches
Identifies and modifies negative thought patterns and behaviours that maintain depression. Most evidence-based approach.
Gradually reintroduces activities with value and meaning, breaking the inactivity-depression cycle.
Works on interpersonal relationships and life transitions contributing to the depressive episode.
Especially effective in relapse prevention for recurrent depression.
If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please contact the National Health Line (808 24 24 24) or the SOS Voz Amiga line (213 544 545 / 912 802 669). You can also request an urgent appointment at Psibilitar.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between normal sadness and depression?
Sadness is a normal, temporary emotion, usually linked to a specific event. Depression is a persistent mood disorder (typically more than 2 weeks) that includes depressed mood most of the day, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, sleep and appetite changes, fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and in more severe cases, thoughts of death. A psychological assessment distinguishes the two.
Does psychotherapy work for depression?
Yes. Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Behavioural Activation Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy have robust scientific evidence for moderate to severe depression. In many cases they are as effective as medication, and the combination of both is often most effective.
How long does depression treatment take?
A moderate depressive episode typically responds in 12 to 20 CBT sessions. Recurrent depression or cases with comorbidities may require longer support. The usual frequency is weekly in the first weeks, gradually reducing.
Can depression come back after treatment?
Yes, depression tends to recur. That is why treatment always includes a relapse prevention phase — developing early detection strategies and an action plan. Psychotherapy significantly reduces the risk of recurrence compared to medication alone.
Can sessions be online?
Yes. Psibilitar offers online sessions via video call with the same quality and confidentiality as in-person sessions in Santa Clara, Coimbra.
Ready to start?
Book your first session today — in-person or online.
