Using homework in therapy for depression.

There is a growing body of research evidence that demonstrates that completion of homework assignments is significantly correlated with outcome in cognitive therapy. The cognitive model of depression sees homework as an intrinsic aspect of the therapy process. Homework serves a number of purposes, including generalizing learning from the session into everyday life and fostering the independent practice of skills acquired during treatment. We review a number of commonly occurring problems that arise when seeking to engage the client in homework. The negotiation and implementation of homework assignments is a core clinical skill, and we present a range of strategies the clinician can use to optimize its effectiveness. It is vital that practitioners have an awareness of their own role and expectations in developing homework assignments.