How does deprexis work?

Interactive, Adjunctive CBT:
Methodological Depth Through Adaptive Dialogue Technology

deprexis® s not a static online learning program, but an adjunctive, interactive digital tool that utilizes an empathetic, conversational approach. Within a virtual dialogue, patients are guided through the evidence-based modules of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Rather than merely consuming content passively, users actively interact with the program. By continuously responding to individual inputs, deprexis® adjusts the focus areas in real time, creating a personalized experience that combines scientific rigor with digital flexibility.

The CBT Toolbox:
Variety and Individualization

deprexis is built on the methods of modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Across 10 interactive modules, patients are empowered to better understand their symptoms and actively develop effective coping strategies. Based on user responses, the program dynamically selects the most relevant content.

An Overview of the Core CBT Modules:

  • Psychoeducation:
    In-depth knowledge about the onset, course, and management of depressive symptoms.
  • Behavioral Activation:
    Re-engaging in rewarding activities to help break the cycle of withdrawal and low motivation.
  • Interpersonal & Social Skills:
    Strengthening communication, interaction skills, and self-esteem.


  • Cognitive Restructuring:
    Identifying and modifying unhelpful thought patterns and cognitive distortions.
  • Problem-Solving Strategies: Systematic, actionable approaches to coping with stressful daily situations.
  • Relaxation & Mindfulness:
    Evidence-based techniques for stress regulation and navigating difficult emotions.

Goals & Learning Outcomes

What users learn and practice with deprexis:

1. Cognitive Competence & Pattern Recognition

  • Understanding Connections: Patients learn to identify the interplay between thoughts, emotions, and behavior in daily life.
  • Changing Thought Patterns: Targeted guidance in recognizing and restructuring distressing thought patterns, cognitive distortions, and negative spirals.

2. Self-Management & Problem-Solving

  • Boosting Self-Efficacy: Through practical exercises, users directly experience their ability to actively influence their emotional well-being.
  • Solution-Oriented Action: Developing personal action plans alongside goal-oriented thinking and coping strategies.

3. Values & Core Psychological Needs

  • Need-Oriented Guidance: Exploring core psychological needs (such as autonomy, connection, and self-esteem) to promote psychological balance and resilience.
  • Value-Based Living: Identifying personal values and engaging in meaningful activities that enrich daily life.

4. Stabilization & Quality of Life

  • Targeting Symptom Reduction: Designed to support the management of core symptoms such as low drive, loss of interest, and persistent rumination.
  • Long-Term Sustainability: Building lasting strategies for relapse prevention and sustainable improvements in overall quality of life.

Reasons to recommend deprexis:

  • Immediate Between-Visit Support: Provides patients with instant, evidence-based CBT tools while awaiting or transitioning between clinical appointments.
  • Complements Ongoing Care: Works seamlessly alongside outpatient psychotherapy or pharmacotherapy as an adjunctive digital resource.
  • Relapse Prevention & Long-Term Stabilization: Helps reinforce learned coping strategies and maintain progress following active treatment.

ICD-10:

  • F32.0 / F32.1 / F32.2 Depressive episode
  • F33.0 / F33.1 / F33.2 Recurrent depressive disorder

ICD-11:

  • 6A70 Depressive disorder, single episode
  • 6A71 Recurrent depressive disorder

Contraindications

  • F20 Schizophrenia
  • R45.8 Other symptoms involving mood (e.g., acute suicidality)


  • F23 Acute and transient psychotic disorders
  • F31 Bipolar affective disorder
  • F25 Schizoaffective disorders

Why Is deprexis Effective?
Principles & Research-Backed Design

1. Structured CBT Methodology

deprexis teaches and reinforces core Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) principles, enabling patients to actively build and apply actionable skills in their daily lives..

2. Tailored Dialogue Technology

Unlike static online programs, deprexis utilizes an interactive, dialogue-based format. Through structured questions, multiple-choice options, and a self-paced flow, patients engage with content that dynamically adapts to their individual needs and priorities.

3. Extensively Reviewed Clinical Evidence

The clinical efficacy of deprexis has been rigorously evaluated across multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs), demonstrating consistent symptom reduction and high user engagement in independent clinical research.

4. Seamless Integrated Care

Clinical studies and meta-analyses show that deprexis effectively complements other care modalities (e.g., alongside standard outpatient care, routine psychotherapy), supporting flexible integration into everyday clinical workflows.¹,²,³

Selected Key Citations:

1Berger T, Hämmerli K, Gubser N, Andersson G, Caspar F. Internet-based treatment of depression: a randomized controlled trial comparing guided with unguided self-help. Cogn Behav Ther. 2011;40(4):251-66. doi: 10.1080/16506073.2011.616531. PMID: 22060248.

2Berger T, Krieger T, Sude K, Meyer B, Maercker A. Evaluating an e-mental health program ("deprexis") as adjunctive treatment tool in psychotherapy for depression: Results of a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. J Affect Disord. 2018 Feb;227:455-462. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2017.11.021. Epub 2017 Nov 10. PMID: 29154168.

3Zwerenz R, Becker J, Knickenberg RJ, Siepmann M, Hagen K, Beutel ME. Online Self-Help as an Add-On to Inpatient Psychotherapy: Efficacy of a New Blended Treatment Approach. Psychother Psychosom. 2017;86(6):341-350. doi: 10.1159/000481177. Epub 2017 Nov 3. PMID: 29131090.

View Clinical Studies

Any questions?

Here you can find frequently asked questions about deprexis and their answers.