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Person-Centred Experiential Counselling for Depression (PCE-CfD)

What is PCE-CfD?

Person-Centred Experiential Counselling for Depression (PCE-CfD) is a short-term talking therapy for depression. It provides a safe, supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences at your own pace.

This approach is based on the understanding that depression can sometimes develop when people feel disconnected from who they truly are, their emotions, or what matters most to them. Through a trusting therapeutic relationship, you can gain a greater understanding of yourself, develop self-acceptance, and find new ways of moving forward.

Who is PCE-CfD for?

PCE-CfD may be helpful if you:

  • Are experiencing depression
  • Want time and space to talk openly about your experiences
  • Want to explore your emotions
  • Would like to develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your emotional wellbeing

PCE-CfD may not be helpful if you:

  • Want your therapist to take the lead in the therapy
  • Want strategies or advice on how to manage depression

What happens in PCE CfD?

PCE CfD sessions are generally 50 minutes long. PCE-CfD is built on the belief that a warm, trusting relationship with your therapist can support recovery from depression. By feeling heard, understood and accepted, many people find they are better able to connect with their emotions, understand themselves more deeply, and move towards a more fulfilling life.

Every person's experience of counselling is unique, but PCE-CfD usually follows three stages:

  • Getting started - You and your therapist will begin building a trusting relationship and explore what has brought you to counselling.
  • Working together - Together, you will explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences, helping you develop greater self-understanding and self-acceptance.
  • Looking ahead - You will reflect on the progress you have made and think about how to maintain positive changes beyond therapy.

Accessing this treatment

To access this therapy, you will need to complete an assessment with NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire Talking Therapies and be offered this treatment by one of our therapists. You may be offered a different treatment if we believe another therapy or service may be better suited to your needs.