Well hello there 
I just had to say that to see you respond with "a tiny it of positivity" is music to all our ears I'm sure.
Once again may be someone on in the forum could answer this question. In Canada a licenced psychiatrist is usually covered by the government whereas, therapists are not. I am going to put this out there because of some of the horrible things I've witnessed over the years working in clinics or - with patients dealing with depression and not feeling they were getting the assistance they had hoped for.
First, personally I really believe that it is in anyone's best interest to see a licenced psychiatrist rather than a therapist - perhaps as they begin to feel better, a therapist would be better at that point. If a patient sees a therapist that cannot prescribe any medications, then they are required to send the patient back to either their pg or a psychiatrist who can write a prescription.
Here's the short version (and I'd be happy to give anyone detailed information if you would like).
Psychology is the study of people: how we think, how we act, react and interact. Psychology is concerned with all aspects of behaviour and the thoughts, feelings and motivation underlying such behaviour.
Psychotherapy involves the treatment of a client's mental health problems by talking with a psychiatrist, psychologist, licensed clinical social worker or other mental health provider. Psychotherapy is usually meant to help the client learn about their moods, feelings, thoughts and behaviors and how to better respond to life's challenges. Psychotherapy may also be performed by practitioners with different qualifications, including psychiatry, psychology, social work.
The practice of most psychiatrists in Ontario for example is focused on prescribing medications and consulting with family physicians, psychologists and other health professionals. Psychiatrist's tend to focus on the biological aspects of mental health while psychologists tend to focus on the cognitive, emotional and behavioural. Psychiatrists are licensed by the Government to prescribe medication as I mentioned.
If you think about it, they are better qualified especially in the initial stages of treatment because they also have the medical background and can assess, and determine what medication is best suitable for you. Sessions are covered by the government, here anyway - and yet, many opt to go the total opposite way. I bring this point out for the simple fact that it appears one would rather pay for a session so they don't have to think to themselves that they are seeing a psychiatrist. They fear that they would be looked at as "crazy". Another very big reason to educate people about depression and get the word out there anyway we can.
Hope this helps.
To you mum? Way to go! You keep fighting the fight and get yourself better - and if you need someone to hold your hand or vent? I'd say coming here to the forum seems to be a great place - there's quite a few of us here that would be more than happy to help out 
Sincerely with a smile, and big hugs coming your way, H.