The case for CBT over antidepressants

To the Editor: In her book review,1 Wilhelm fails to comment on the central theme of Paul Biegler's The ethical treatment of depression: autonomy through psychotherapy.2 Biegler argues that clinicians have a moral duty to promote psychological therapies (including cognitive behaviour therapy) to individuals with uncomplicated depression, over and above antidepressant medications (ADMs). He reasons that patient autonomy and empowerment — surely central concerns for every physician — are most likely achieved with talking therapies, rather than drug treatment.