Rethinking

I believe that 20+ years ago we saw the approach from Dr. Erickson as so distinctively different that we could not fully conceptualize what we were seeing. Now, I think it is correct to say that the hypnosis is the same. There are techniques of engagement (those aspects of naturalistic induction, etc.) that are definitely "Ericksonian". These do induce trance and other techniques (indirection, metaphors, paradox, etc.) facilitate the process of change as I've detailed in other places (including the Answer Within)....BUT...the hypnosis is all the same. Hypnosis is hypnosis. His manner of achieving it and his approach to change are most certainly distinctive but I think (now) it is not correct to say there is a different sort of hypnosis. The only basis for saying such a thing would be to emphasize his typical non-authoritarian posture during hypnosis. Yet, in this too, I would call that his approach to problem solving and the hypnosis is just hypnosis once the trance is co-created. For me, that helps demystify any component of the hypnosis and focuses the real effect of Erickson's on the approach to problem solving (in or out of trance). Let me know if that is helpful for you as well.

Replies:

Re:Rethinking, by Antonio Bustillo, 01/24/01

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