The literature contains several case reports demonstrating the successful use of hypnosis in nonpsychotic, unipolar depression; controlled studies however are lacking. In an attempt to substantiate theoretically the anecdotal literature on hypnotic treatments of depression, we advance the following theory: hypnotic treatment can be viewed as both an antianxiety technique and as a facilitator of restructuring nihilistic cognitions in depression. Hypnosis, both theoretically and anecdotally, appears to facilitate the process of cognitive therapy. The importance of moderate to high hypnotic ability of patients is commented on, and the need for controlled clinical trials is noted.
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