MDD
MDD (Major Depressive Disorder) is one of the most common mental health conditions that mental health professionals work with. It's what most people think of as clinical depression. When this term appears in job descriptions or resumes, it indicates experience in diagnosing, treating, or working with clients who have serious depression that significantly affects their daily life. This is different from temporary feelings of sadness and requires specific therapeutic approaches and treatment plans.
Examples in Resumes
Provided therapeutic support for clients with MDD, Major Depressive Disorder, and anxiety disorders
Developed treatment plans for individuals diagnosed with MDD using evidence-based practices
Conducted assessments and interventions for patients with Major Depressive Disorder in outpatient setting
Typical job title: "Mental Health Counselors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Mental Health Counselors
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you approach treatment-resistant MDD cases?
Expected Answer: A senior clinician should discuss multiple therapeutic approaches, medication collaboration with psychiatrists, and the importance of comprehensive treatment plans that might include both individual and group therapy options.
Q: How do you train junior staff in recognizing and treating MDD?
Expected Answer: Should explain their mentoring approach, emphasis on assessment skills, risk management, and how they help junior staff develop treatment planning abilities while maintaining proper clinical supervision.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What assessment tools do you use for MDD, and why?
Expected Answer: Should be familiar with common depression screening tools like PHQ-9, Beck Depression Inventory, and explain how they use these in conjunction with clinical interviews.
Q: How do you differentiate MDD from other mood disorders?
Expected Answer: Should explain the key differences between major depression and other conditions like bipolar disorder or adjustment disorder, focusing on symptoms and duration.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic symptoms of MDD?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list core symptoms like persistent sad mood, loss of interest in activities, sleep changes, and explain how these affect daily functioning.
Q: How do you assess suicide risk in MDD clients?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic risk assessment protocols, warning signs, and when to seek supervision or emergency intervention.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of depression symptoms
- Using standard assessment tools
- Following treatment plans
- Basic counseling techniques
Mid (2-5 years)
- Developing comprehensive treatment plans
- Crisis intervention
- Group therapy facilitation
- Case management
Senior (5+ years)
- Clinical supervision
- Complex case management
- Program development
- Training and mentoring
Red Flags to Watch For
- Inability to recognize suicide risk factors
- Lack of knowledge about basic depression symptoms
- No experience with standard assessment tools
- Poor understanding of professional boundaries
- Unfamiliarity with crisis intervention protocols
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace: A Guide for Forward-Thinking Leaders
Unlocking Team Potential: Personality Mapping for Dynamic Management
The $100M Mistake: Hidden Costs of Rushed Leadership Hires (Data Study)
