Members,

Psychotherapy for depression works. Psychotherapy for depression works at least as well as medication and may be better than medication at preventing recurrence. There is now also an effective psychotherapy for those with chronic depression that has lasted for years. A combination of medication and psychotherapy may be the most effective treatment for many people.  

Self-Help and Support Groups
Self-help and support groups are the least expensive approach to managing depression, and are very helpful for some people. A group of about 5 to 10 people meet weekly and share their experiences, encouraging each other to cope effectively with their depression. Group members are in charge of the sessions. Often family members are invited to attend these groups, and at times a therapist or other depression expert may be brought in to share insights with group members.

Psychotherapies for Major Depressive Disorder
A lot of evidence shows the effectiveness of two types of short-term (10 to 20 weeks) psychotherapy. More specifically, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) have been found helpful for major depression. More recently, Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP) has emerged as an effective treatment for chronic depression and dysthymia.  

Cognitive Behavioral Therapists focus on changing behavior, thinking, and mood. According to CBT theory, our thoughts, moods and behaviors are all closely related. Put simply, how we think and what we do effects how we feel. CBT therapists help patients to change the negative styles of thinking and behaving often associated with depression.

Interpersonal Therapists focus on relationships. According to IPT theory, regardless of what causes depression, depression is associated with loss, life changes and lack of close and supportive social relationships. The focus of therapy is to improve the patient's personal relationships by changing the patterns of behavior in those relationships.  

Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP) is a research-based psychotherapy that combines Cognitive and Interpersonal principles. CBASP was designed to help motivate patients to change their behavior and achieve their desired outcome in life. The emphasis in therapy is on helping people build new problem-solving and relationship skills. Research has shown CBASP to be just as effective as medication treatment in a large sample of chronically depressed patients. Even more impressive is that in that study 85% of chronically depressed people who received a combination of CBASP and medication therapies responded to treatment and some of those who responded had been depressed for over 20 years!

What has your experience with psychotherapy been like?