Modifying CBT to meet the developmental and clinical needs of adolescents with depression

At least three months of CBT is recommended as a first-line treatment for moderate to severe depression in adolescents in the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guideline – Depression in children and young people: Identification and management that covers the management of depressive disorders among 5-18 year olds.1 It is also recommended for persistent mild depression that is unresponsive to lower intensity treatments (group CBT, non‑directed supported therapy, or guided self-help).