Autohypnotic Experiences of of Milton H. Erickson

Abstract

An overview of some of the early memories and autohypnotic experiences of Milton H. Erickson is presented to illustrate how spontaneous and carefully cultivated autohypnotic states can make a contribution to personal and professional development. The process of discovery by which he learned to use autohypnosis provides many hints about how others can learn to enhance their own efforts in this area. Erickson's views on the nature of autohypnosis and its relation to trance and new learnings is clarified together with suggestions for further research.