A common treatment approach for clients with severe depression often includes which of the following?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely accepted and effective treatment for severe depression. This therapeutic approach focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to and exacerbate depressive symptoms. CBT helps clients to challenge their irrational beliefs, develop coping strategies, and improve problem-solving skills, ultimately leading to a decrease in depressive symptoms and an enhancement in overall functioning.

Research has shown that CBT can be as effective as medication for some individuals with depression, and it also provides clients with tools they can use long after therapy has ended. The structured nature of CBT allows for a goal-oriented process, which can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing severe depressive episodes.

While other treatment options may have their place in managing depression, such as pharmacological interventions or lifestyle changes, CBT stands out as a first-line psychological treatment due to its evidence-based efficacy and focus on the cognitive and behavioral aspects of the disorder.