ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the treatment of “Maricela,” a 13-year-old girl with major depressive disorder and a history of self-harming behaviors (cutting and overdose attempts). Her treatment progression during a course of intensive family-focused therapy (IFFT) and clinical outcomes are outlined in detail, as well as the clinical attention given to the most important situational and contextual variables that were negatively impacting her emotional well-being. These variables were identified by the clinical team at the outset of treatment and discussed in detail. Each was successfully mitigated over the course of several months, resulting in a dramatic improvement in Maricela's behavior and her relationship with family members.
