The Family Drawing Depression Scale (FDDS) was created by Wright and McIntyre to provide a clear and reliable scoring method for the Kinetic Family Drawing as a procedure for detecting depression. A study was conducted to confirm the value of the FDDS as a systematic tool for interpreting family drawings with populations of depressed individuals. The FDDS was administered pre- and post-treatment to patients (N=19) at a multimodal, multidisciplinary spinal pain clinic. Family drawings were scored by two doctoral students in psychology and by a master's degree level registered art therapist. The results revealed that 11 of the 15 items of the FDDS significantly differentiated between depressed and nondepressed patients. Ten subjects received FDDS ratings strongly suggestive of depression; nine subjects received ratings not suggestive of depression. These diagnostic placements were consistent with clinical impressions made by pain clinic staff members. Scores on 8 of the 15 items significantly improved in the depressed group at completion of treatment. Post-treatment results were remarkably similar to those recorded in a study of depressed subjects at a private psychiatric clinic. These findings have implications for art therapy. (Author/NB)