Probable iatrogenic illness

• Ego State Therapy: A Spiritual Crisis by David Renouf. M.Ed., CMHC, 7/21/98
  
  

As I read this account, it is seems to be an example of an iatrogenic outcome. The paradigm, not the mode of communication (hypnosis), and not religion, should be questioned. Erickson pointed out that hypnosis does not hurt people, people hurt people. I agree. This example underscores just what the metaphor of the Procrustean bed means in the context of intervention. It is certainly a complex story with many parts missing. Nevertheless, making the client fit a preconceived model usually leaves them no better off than they were before therapy. She used the imposed model to outsmart both the therapist and herself, unfortunately. To avoid such outcomes it is preferable to speak the client's language (and not teach one of our own making). This is an instructive example and I thank you for posting it.

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