Hypnosis with Psychotic Patients: A Review of the Literature and Presentation of a Theoretical Framework

Abstract

This article addresses the issues and controversy concerning the use of hypnosis in psychotherapy with a psychotic population. The author summarizes the four issues of dispute historically surrounding the use of hypnosis with psychotics. The literature in this area is then reviewed and summarized and the conclusion presented supporting hypnosis as both viable and safe for psychotics. A theoretical framework is then presented, integrating the data evolving from the use of hypnosis with a psychotic population and the concepts of ego psychology.