IntroductionDepression is one of the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorders among school-aged youth, with a high prevalence and far-reaching consequences (Probst, 2008). “School phobia and excessive attachment to parents can be symptoms of depression in children. Poor academic performance, substance abuse, antisocial behavior, sexual promiscuity, truancy, and running away can be symptoms of depression in adolescents” (Sadock & Sadock, 2003, p. 554). Depression in adolescents is often a persistent disorder that heralds persistent depression and psychosocial deterioration (Kratochvil et. at., 2005). It affects the developmental process, resulting in difficulties with concentration and motivation, leading to poor academic performance, impaired social functioning, disrupted identity development, and high risk of both substance abuse and suicide (Probst, 2008). In this article I will describe several research studies that explore the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) when working with children and adolescents diagnosed with depression. CBT derives from cognitive theory and behavioral theory. It focuses on identifying irrational, distorted and/or maladaptive cognitive and belief patterns, replacing them with more realistic thoughts and thus changing both emotions and behavior (Probst, 2008). The use of CBT with adolescents suffering from depression involved the application of specific, empirically supported strategies focused on information processing and depressogenic behavior (McGinn, 2000). Personally, I believe CBT is effective when working with children and adolescents diagnosed with depression. However, without research evaluation it will be difficult to distinguish effectiveness...... half of article ......J., Simmons, A., Vltiello, B., Walkup, J., Emslie, G ., Rosenburg, D., March, J. (2005). A multisite trial of psychotherapy and medications for depressed adolescents: Context and benefits. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 12(2), 159-165McGinn, L.K. (2000). Cognitive behavioral therapy of depression: Theory, treatment, and empirical status. American Journal of Psychotherapy, 54(2), 257-262. O'Connor T, G. & Creswell C. (2005). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for children and adolescents. (2nd edition) Cambridge University Press.Probst, B. (2008). Issues in portability of evidence-based treatment for adolescent depression.Child & Adolescent Social Work Journal, 25(2), 111-123.Sadock, B.J. & Sadock, V.A. (2003). Synopsis of Psychiatry: Behavioral Sciences/Clinical Psychiatry (9th Edition). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins. (p.544)