Treating depression through the therapeutic nurse-client relationship

This article provides a blueprint to guide the nurse's work with the client whose depression interferes with his or her health. It is based on an expanded version of Peplau's interpersonal theory and illustrates systematic assessment and intervention through the therapeutic nurse-client relationship. Differentiation of depression from related health problems and criteria for referral to a mental health professional such as a psychiatric-mental health advanced practice nurse are outlined. Practical interventions through the therapeutic relationship are illustrated to guide the nurse in working directly with the depressed client.