Handbook of Ericksonian Psychotherapy

Kudos and Questions:

First, kudos to editors Brent Geary and Jeffrey Zeig as well as all the authors of the various chapters. This is one of the few recent Ericksonian books I have read that actually made me stop dead in my reading tracks and think "wow" or "hmm".

I am intrigued by William Matthews chapter on Social Influence, Expectancy Theory, and Hypnosis, and specifically his sub-section on Indirection. He cites Matthews and Langdells clinical study using hypnosis and multiple embedded metaphors, as well as post treatment recall of the metaphors by 5 of 6 clients.

My understanding of the chapter conclusion is that there is little research support for increased effectiveness of indirect suggestions compared with direction suggestions, but there is support for indirect techniques such as stories, metaphors, etc.

The main question I am left with is how to effectively interpret and use clinical studies within an Ericksonian utilization framework. It seams that clinical studies by nature are standardized so variables can be measured. However, if an Ericksonian approach involves utilization, then clinical results would be skewed by absence of an ability to use utilization.

In the example of the metaphors, Erickson was a natural story-teller. Often, clients would not be aware Erickson was telling a therapeutic metaphor and clients would wonder when therapy was beginning. Or Erickson would create a profound amnesia (for example as in the February Man). I do not get a sense that this degree of amnesia or naturalistic approach was created in the clinical studies mentioned.

This is not to discourage research, but rather how to successful create research which adequately reflects the uniqueness of the Ericksonian approach, while providing results which can be useful for creating more effective therpay for clients.

Again, the Handbook of Ericksonian Psychotherapy is wonderful and thanks to all involved.

Now, any feedback or comments on the questions I raised above?

Replies:

Re:Handbook of Ericksonian Psychotherapy, by Jeffrey K. Zeig, 04/01/02

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