Depression and Treatment: What’s Working Now and What’s on the Horizon

By Kelly M. Heitkamp, LISW-S

 

As someone who sits on both sides of the therapy couch – borrowing that perfect phrase from my colleague Dr. Laurie Bruce’s enlightening podcast “From Both Sides of the Couch” I’ve developed a unique perspective on depression treatment. Let me share what I’m seeing in the field today, both as a clinical social worker and as someone who’s personally navigated the winding path of mental health care. Let me share what I’m seeing in the field today, both as a clinical social worker and as someone who’s personally navigated the winding path of mental health care.

The Tried and True (But Sometimes Not Enough)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) remains one of the most effective approaches for treating depression. This structured therapy helps identify and change thought patterns that contribute to depressive symptoms. Along with other evidence-based approaches like Interpersonal Therapy and Mindfulness-based techniques.

Then there’s medication – those SSRIs and SNRIs that many people have complicated relationships with. Many find life-changing relief, while others struggle with side effects or minimal benefits. When therapy and standard medications work, they really work. But let’s be honest – for about a third of people with depression, these approaches aren’t enough, which is why I’m so excited about what’s emerging.

New Kids on the Treatment Block

Ketamine therapy has gained significant attention. Many patients report experiencing relief within hours rather than the weeks or months typical medications require. The treatment seems to work by creating new neural pathways, helping the brain “reset” established patterns associated with depression.

Right here in our region, the Lindner Center of Hope offers innovative ketamine treatment options. Patients undergo thorough evaluations before treatment helping you and your provider decide if the treatment is right for you. When you are receiving treatment the Center’s medical team carefully monitors each session.

Another exciting treatment offered at the LCOH is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This non-invasive procedure uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain and has shown promising results for those who haven’t responded to traditional treatments.

Tech Meets Therapy

The digital mental health space is also exploding. As someone who was initially skeptical about app-based therapy (can an app really replace human connection?), I’ve been surprised by the research showing legitimate benefits from some digital interventions. These tools can be particularly helpful for people who live in areas with therapist shortages or who cannot afford traditional therapy.

Evidence-based apps can serve as supplements to therapy – kind of like “homework” between sessions. They are not replacements for human connection, but they can be valuable additions to your treatment.

What This Means for You (or Someone You Care About)

If you’re struggling with depression, or supporting someone who is, know that the treatment landscape is more promising than ever. The stigma is slowly lifting, and our understanding of what works is expanding rapidly.

What I’ve learned both personally and professionally is that depression treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. Sometimes it takes trying different approaches or combinations before finding what works. And that’s okay.

The most important thing is to keep going. Whether it’s traditional therapy, medication, newer treatments like ketamine, or some combination that ultimately helps – there are more pathways to healing than ever before.

And as someone who’s been on both sides of this journey, I can tell you that finding your way through is absolutely worth it – even when the path isn’t straightforward.