Unlike other "healing" professions. Erickson, more than others perhaps, acted as shaman have over the years. That is, he provided experiences (such as assignements and ordeals) that would require the client to adjust attitudes or behavior. These adjustments did not supply the "cure" per se. They put the recipient in better alignment with the way the world works (the universe works?) and that, in turn, was what helped the healing or cure happen.