Hypnosis of Erikson in psychotherapy

In the eighties of the last century, the deserved recognition of psychotherapists around the world received the hypnosis of Erickson, created by the American hypnotherapy specialist Milton Erickson. Deprived of an areole of mysticism, his innovative approach proved very effective in short-term strategic psychotherapy. Techniques and methods of hypnosis significantly increased the possibilities of professional tactics of the doctor, which is especially important when dealing with people for whom traditional methods of influence have proved ineffective.

In his studies, Erikson relied exclusively on practice, his approach to the patient was pragmatic and was not based on theoretical calculations. There is no specific theory describing Erickson's hypnosis, but numerous therapist's students have created a classification of his method of therapy based on lectures, audio recordings and transcripts, as well as joint work. Later they published books written in co-authorship with Erickson, which reflected the main positions in the development of a new approach to hypnotherapeutic practice.

The therapist perceived the hypnotic trance as a kind of altered state of consciousness, which leads the relationship between the doctor and the patient to a qualitatively new level. In this case, the subconscious of the patient is released and begins to act independently of consciousness, and the hypnotherapist adapts to this state and uses it to guide the patient further. Interaction at the level of internal sensations supports trance, helping the deeper perception of each other's parties.

Erickson's hypnosis was often based on the method of surprise, which literally pulled people out of the habitual environment, giving the opportunity to manifest unconscious creativity and hidden abilities of patients. The introduction of confusion was also one of the most effective techniques of immersion in trance, which Erickson applied. Hypnosis in this case was achieved by allegedly accidental interference in the standard situation, creating uncertainty and changing stereotypes. The patient responded to the impact to resolve an embarrassing situation, falling into a trance state as a result.

One of the most important psychotherapeutic methods used by Erickson was a hypnotic projection into a successful future and an analysis of the reactions that caused such a result. The next post-hypnotic suggestion led the patient to the realization of the given goal. Deepening into past traumatic events also actively uses Erickson's hypnosis. The detached perception of a painful once-off situation allows for a more constructive assessment of it at the present time and facilitates a person's condition.

Widely used by Erickson metaphorical stories, allowing direct interaction with the right hemisphere of the brain, responsible for the work of the subconscious. Touching the patient's problems in a latent form, metaphors gave the subconscious a way to resolve the internal conflict.

The main result from the use of hypnosis in practice is undoubtedly the emergence of qualitative changes aimed at personal growth and self-realization of patients. Erikson's methods continue to develop and improve, giving a basis for creating new techniques for hypnotherapy.