STRATEGIC THERAPY WITH DEPRESSED MARRIED PERSONS: INITIAL AGENDA,THEMES AND INTERVENTIONS*

A strategic approach to depression is outlined. Reasons are given for initially working with each spouse separately. For the purpose of discussion, three interrelated aspects of depressive marital situations are distinguished: the unsatisfying marriage, the distress of the depressed person and the spouse's response. Interventions focus on dampening the marital conflict rather than solving the problems that are presented; reframing depression as an active, dignified practice; and blocking the spouse's tendency to become over-involved in well-meant but unhelpful efforts to assist the depressed person. A case example is provided.