You've been suffering a very long time with depression, and not it's gotten serious. I wholeheartedly agree that seeing a therapist is a good idea. Obviously, you won't get better overnight as you didn't get this "sick" overnight either.

It may take some time, but you'll make progress soon.
I'm sure your doctor can refer you to a good therapist -- he will know who is the best to go to. And he can perhaps get you in sooner than you could by yourself.
I've been thru therapy, and it was the best give I've ever given myself. I'm so glad I went thru therapy as we discovered issues that were bothering me that I wasn't even aware of. I wish you the very best -- I hope you'll keep us informed as to your progress! And keep posting here too -- this is a great place to vent while in therapy. God bless and please take care. Hugs, Lee