There are various forms of depression that can vary in severity. Providers can establish patients’ initial level of current depressive symptoms by having them complete a screening tool like the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), which can be found here: https://screening.mentalhealthamerica.net/screening-tools/depression?ipiden=581526c43f0e916002a0d6f64c422fd9&ref=http%3A//www.mentalhealthamerica.net/&show=1. Depending on the findings of this screener, current symptom severity, and longitudinal presentation, a provider can establish an appropriate plan of care. APA has established evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to which clinicians can refer in treatment planning. An example for treating depression is found here: http://psychiatryonline.org/pb/assets/raw/sitewide/practice_guidelines/guidelines/mdd-guide.pdf