A 35-year-old patient is diagnosed with a major depressive disorder, reporting persistent low mood, a lack of energy, and an inability to enjoy previously pleasurable activities. The patient also expresses feelings of worthlessness related to a recent job loss. If the goal is to achieve the most effective and durable long-term outcome, which treatment approach should be recommended: medication alone, psychotherapy alone, or a combination of both? Justify your choice by explaining the specific contribution each component of the recommended approach would make to the patient's recovery.