Depression is a debilitating human condition and a common cause of suffering worldwide. There is an urgent need for mental health professionals to meet this challenge and develop effective methods of treating depression. Hypnosis plays a vital role in that treatment and in the efficacy of psychotherapy in general. "Treating Depression with Hypnosis" focuses on the structuring and delivering of hypnotic interventions for major depression, with a substantial use of concepts and techniques from cognitive-behavioural and strategic approaches as a foundation. Research on depression is used to augment the existing body of knowledge on the condition. Hypnosis has shown itself to be effective in not only reducing symptoms, but in teaching the skills (such as rational thinking, effective problem-solving and coping strategies, and positive relationship skills) that can prevent recurrences. Mental health professionals will find the detailed examples of hypnotic strategies invaluable to their own practice and application of hypnosis in the treatment of depression.

Table of Contents

Part I: Conceptual Framework. Paving the Therapy Road with Good Intentions. Applying Hypnosis in Psychotherapy. Practical Considerations in Hypnotic Treatment Design. Part II: Clinical Applications. Ambiguity and the Vulnerability of Believing. Focusing on the Future. Clearly You Can/Can't Have it All. Coping Style and the Right to Choose... Wisely. The Case of Mike: Breaking Patterns of Depression. Hypnosis and Suggestions for Prevention. References. Appendices.