The purpose of this study is to compare 2 forms of interventions for senior center clients over 60 experiencing symptoms of depression. 

Some participants enrolled in the study will receive 9 weeks of a type of psychotherapy called “Behavioral Activation” as delivered by a Master’s level mental health clinician. “Behavioral Activation” is a psychotherapy aimed at re-engaging participants in activities they once found rewarding and enjoyed but have abandoned after they developed depression.

Other participants will receive 9 weeks of a program called “Do More, Feel Better” as delivered by a trained non-professional volunteer. Do More, Feel Better” is a program also aimed at re-engaging participants in activities they once found rewarding and enjoyed but have abandoned after they developed depression. 

Participants will be assigned randomly (like the flip of a coin) to the intervention delivered by either a Master’s level mental health clinician or a trained volunteer.

Participants will participate in follow-up interview assessments via phone or video teleconferencing throughout the study. These interviews will take approximately 1 hour. Compensation is available for eligible participants who complete the follow-up assessments. 

Total study participation over the course of the study is approximately 14 hours over the course of 36 weeks.