[Psychotherapy for depression].

Abstract

This article aims at introducing recent psychotherapies for depression that have been developed mainly in the U.S.A., as well as delineating practical points of an integrated psychotherapy for depressive patients. First, cognitive therapy (Beck), problem-solving therapy, and interpersonal psychotherapy are reviewed. The author also briefly refers to psychodynamic psychotherapies and family therapies for depression. Second, the actual aspects of an integrated psychotherapy for depressive patients are delineated, according to the course of recovery. In addition, some treatment strategies for refractory depression are proposed. Finally, it is concluded that psychotherapy for depression requires both integrative and selective viewpoints, for application to each individual.