The use of hypnosis in the treatment of depression is still a controversial matter. Most of the leading experts in the field of hypnosis have either totally ignored its usefulness in treating depressed patients or directly suggested that hypnosis is contraindicated.This article endeavors to dispel the myth and misconceptions concerning the use of hypnosis in the treatment of depression and details the hypnotic techniques and strategies used in the treatment of depression which can be used in the context of a wide range of therapeutic approaches, be they analytical, behavioral, or cognitive. The article also stresses the importance of using these hypnotic techniques and strategies within a carefully structured, comprehensive therapy program, which is grounded in the scientific understanding of both depression and hypnosis as well as the appreciation of the uniqueness of the individual patient.
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