In this article, the results of a meta-analysis determining the effectiveness of Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) and Cognitive Therapy (CT) in the treatment of depression, are described. In order to arrive at evidence based conclusions, the effects of treatment are expressed in aggregated standardscores. The effectiveness of psychotherapy is also related to characteristics such as severity of depression, age and treatment duration, thus making a more specific choice possible. Although most studies were undertaken to determine the effectiveness of CT, it is concluded that either therapy is effective and results in a clinical relevant improvement comparable or superior to antidepressive medication. The results of this meta-analysis are the basis of a guideline supporting the clinical decision-making concerning choices in therapy within our 'program for the treatment of mood disorders' in our institution.