I agree. I think a placebo might give a person a sense of hope of getting relief. I know for me, just a sense of hope is enough to make things more tolerable. But, I wouldn't think it would help as much. I have read the statements that some studies found anti-depressants to be no more effective than an active placebo (one that has side effects.) However, I doubt that the result has been repeated enough to really know for sure. The person whose book I read it in (Dr David Burns' The Feeling Good Handbook) did recommend anti-depressants to some patients. So he supports the use ADs in conjuction with therapy. I think the act of dishonesty would severely hurt the client's ability to trust any doctor or mental health professional. Hence, I feel that it is counter to the ethical guidelines of the profession.