What is the primary goal of therapy during the continuation phase for a client with depression?

The primary goal of therapy during the continuation phase for a client with depression is to prevent relapse into distressing emotional stress. During this phase, which typically follows the acute treatment phase where symptoms have stabilized, the focus shifts to maintaining the gains achieved and ensuring that the client does not fall back into a depressive episode.

In preventing relapse, therapists employ various strategies, such as reinforcing coping mechanisms, encouraging the continuation of therapeutic practices, and monitoring symptoms closely. This proactive approach is essential because individuals with a history of depression are at increased risk for future episodes. By emphasizing relapse prevention, therapy aims to solidify the client's progress and support their ongoing recovery, ultimately improving long-term outcomes.

While emotional independence, enhancing social skills, and facilitating medication compliance can be important aspects of a comprehensive treatment plan, they serve more as supportive measures rather than the primary objective during the continuation phase. The main focus remains on stabilization and preventing a return to distress, which underscores the necessity of continuous support and therapeutic engagement during this critical stage.