Misuses of hypnosis: A medical emergency and its treatment

Abstract

Abstract Hypnosis is an intense interpersonal relationship requiring 2-way respect and involvement. Inadequate understanding of this dynamic relationship, and a consequent inability to cope with its potential dangers, may result in posthypnotic trauma. Unless treated carefully by a hypnotherapist who is experienced in both the techniques of dehypnotization and the utilization of psychotherapy, such traumas may persist for a very long time. In this paper, one striking case illustrates mishandling of the hypnotic event and immediate posthypnotic treatment and details the procedure by which successful treatment was eventually determined.