IntroductionDepression is one of the most frequently diagnosed psychiatric disorders among school-age youth, with high prevalence and considerable 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 may be symptoms of adolescent depression” (Sadock & Sadock, 2003, p. 554). Adolescent depression is often a persistent disorder that predicts continued depression and psychosocial disorders (Kratochvil et. at., 2005). It affects the developmental process, causing difficulty in concentration and motivation, leading to poor academic performance, impaired social functioning, disruption of identity development, and high risk of substance abuse and suicide (Probst , 2008). In this article, I will provide a description of several research studies that explore the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) when working with children and adolescents diagnosed with depression. CBT is derived from cognitive theory and behavioral theory. It focuses on identifying irrational, distorted and/or maladaptive patterns of cognition and belief, replacing them with more realistic thoughts and thereby changing both emotions and behavior (Probst, 2008). The use of CBT with adolescents with depression involved the application of specific, empirically supported strategies focused on depressogenic information processing and behavior (McGinn, 2000). Personally, I believe that CBT is effective when working with children and adolescents diagnosed with depression. However, without research evaluation, it will be difficult to distinguish effectiveness...... middle of article ......J., Simmons, A., Vltiello, B., Walkup, J., Emslie, G., Rosenburg, D., March, J. (2005). A multisite trial of psychotherapy and medication for depressed adolescents: Background and benefits. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 12(2), 159-165McGinn, LK (2000). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for depression: Theory, treatment, and empirical status. American Journal of Psychotherapy, 54(2), 257-262. O'Connor T, G. and Creswell C. (2005). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for children and adolescents. (2nd edition) Cambridge University Press. Probst, B. (2008). Portability issues of evidence-based treatment for adolescent depression. Child & Adolescent Social Work Journal, 25(2), 111-123.Sadock, B.J. & Sadock, VA (2003). Synopsis of Psychiatry: Behavioral Sciences/Clinical Psychiatry (9th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins. (p.544)