Child Depression & Low Mood Therapy in Limassol, Cyprus
Evidence-based support for children aged 2–18
Depression Low mood Withdrawal Loss of interest Persistent sadness Irritability
What is Depression & Low Mood?
Depression and persistent low mood in children are serious but highly treatable conditions. At Empathic Psychologist in Limassol, we provide evidence-based assessment and therapy for childhood depression — helping children reconnect with joy, motivation and confidence. Sessions in English and Greek, in person in Limassol and online across Cyprus.
Childhood depression is more than temporary sadness — it is a persistent condition that significantly affects a child's mood, thinking, energy and daily functioning. Unlike adult depression, it often presents differently in children, with irritability, physical complaints and social withdrawal being more prominent than sadness alone.
Depression in children and young people includes several recognised presentations:
Major Depressive Disorder — episodes of significant low mood lasting two weeks or more
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) — a chronic, lower-level depression lasting over a year
Seasonal Affective Disorder — low mood linked to seasonal changes in light
Depression affects approximately 2% of children and 4–8% of adolescents and without appropriate support, significantly increases the risk of recurrence in adulthood. Early intervention leads to meaningfully better outcomes.
Signs your child may need support
Persistent sadness, tearfulness or uncharacteristic irritability lasting more than two weeks
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities, hobbies or friendships they previously enjoyed
Low energy, fatigue or slowed movement and speech
Negative thinking about themselves, the world or the future ('I'm worthless', 'Nothing will ever get better')
Difficulty concentrating, making decisions or completing schoolwork
Changes in sleep — sleeping too much or too little
Changes in appetite and weight — eating significantly more or less than usual
Social withdrawal — spending more time alone and avoiding family and friends
Feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt or shame
In adolescents: expressions of hopelessness, self-harm or thoughts about death (seek immediate support if present)
If you are unsure whether what your child is experiencing is depression — a free 15-minute consultation with Dr George Efraem can help clarify what support may be needed.
When to seek urgent support
If your child expresses thoughts of self-harm, not wanting to be alive or hopelessness about the future — please seek professional support immediately. Contact your GP or in an emergency call 112. You may also find additional Emergency Contacts in out dedicated page. You do not need to wait for a scheduled appointment.
How Dr George Efraem helps: our therapeutic approach
Our approach is grounded in established evidence-based practice and draws on multiple therapeutic frameworks, tailored to each child's individual profile, age and developmental stage.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with Behavioural Activation
This is the first-line psychological treatment for mild-to-moderate depression in children. Our CBT work targets the negative thought patterns, behavioural withdrawal and low activity levels that maintain depression. The element of behavioural activation is a core component supported by strong evidence in adolescent depression. It involves gradually re-engaging children in meaningful, rewarding activities to break the cycle of withdrawal and low mood.
Person-Centred / Child-Centred Therapy
This approach ensures the child experiences unconditional positive regard, empathy and authentic understanding — the three core conditions identified as necessary for therapeutic growth and the restoration of self-worth.
Creative Multimedia and Play Therapy
For younger children — providing a safe, expressive space to process difficult emotions through play and creative activities.
Psychodynamic Therapy
This modality offers a deeper exploration of the underlying emotional conflicts, losses and relational patterns that contribute to depressive states. This helps understand the inner emotional world of the child and develop the capacity to understand their own and others' mental states.
Attachment-based Approaches
This approach strengthens the parent-child relationship as a key protective factor — secure attachment buffers against depression in childhood.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT-A)
Focuses on improving relationships and communication — particularly effective for adolescent depression linked to social difficulties or bereavement.
Therapy Programmes for Child Depression
Child Therapy Programme (Ages 2–12)
For children aged 2–12 experiencing depression or persistent low mood, therapy is delivered through our Child Therapy Programme — using play therapy, behavioural activation and person-centred approaches to help younger children reconnect with joy, energy and meaningful activity.
Adolescent Therapy Programme (Ages 12–18)
For young people aged 12–18 experiencing depression, therapy is delivered through our Adolescent Therapy Programme — using CBT, IPT-A and mindfulness-based approaches to challenge negative thinking, rebuild motivation and develop lasting emotional resilience.
Parent-Child Empathy Programme
⭐Recommended for enhanced outcomes ⭐
Parents of children experiencing depression may also be recommended to attend our Parent-Child Empathy Programme — building understanding of childhood depression and developing practical strategies to support their child's recovery within the family context.
*Available standalone or alongside child therapy
What to expect
Assessment at Empathic Psychologist begins with a thorough understanding of the child and family context — not just the presenting behaviour. Dr George Efraem takes time to understand the child's full developmental history, current stressors and the settings in which difficulties occur before formulating a clinical picture.
Following an initial free 15-minute consultation, Dr George Efraem conducts a comprehensive assessment (typically 2 sessions) using clinical interview, validated psychometric scales and collaborative feedback from parents and school where appropriate.
A personalised therapy plan is developed and shared with the family. Therapy typically runs 12–24 weekly sessions of 50 minutes, with regular progress reviews.
*Most families receive their first appointment within one week of getting in touch.
Free 15-min consultation
Discuss your child's needs with Dr George Efraem — no commitment
Comprehensive assessment
2 sessions using validated psychometric measures
Personalised therapy plan
Goals, approach and duration shared clearly with the family
Therapy — 12 to 24 sessions
Weekly 50-minute sessions with regular progress reviews
**Content is grounded in peer-reviewed research and evidence-based clinical guidelines. Sources available on request.
Ready to take the first step?
Call Now for a free 15-minute consultation with Dr George E. Agathokleous — most families receive an assessment appointment within one week.