Milton H. Erickson (1901-1980) was an American psychiatrist and psychologist who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the field of psychotherapy. He is best known for his pioneering work in hypnosis and his development of the field of Ericksonian hypnotherapy.
Erickson’s approach to psychotherapy was highly innovative and integrative, drawing from a range of different theoretical and practical perspectives. He emphasized the importance of individualizing treatment to the needs and characteristics of each client, and he placed a strong emphasis on the therapeutic relationship and the power of language and communication in promoting healing and change.
Erickson is also known for his use of indirect suggestion and metaphors in his therapeutic work, as well as his ability to use language in creative and flexible ways to elicit unconscious resources and promote positive change. His work has had a profound impact on the field of psychotherapy and continues to influence practitioners to this day.
“My Voice Will Go With You” is a book that presents a collection of therapeutic tales and anecdotes by the legendary psychotherapist, Milton H. Erickson. The book was compiled by his colleague, Sidney Rosen, and published posthumously in 1982.
The book is organized into 25 chapters, each containing one or more stories that Erickson used in his therapy sessions to help his clients overcome various psychological problems. The stories are often presented in a metaphorical or allegorical way, and they are designed to bypass the conscious mind and communicate directly with the unconscious.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including anxiety, depression, addiction, phobias, and relationship issues. The stories are told in a simple and accessible way, making them easy to understand and relate to.
One of the key themes of the book is the power of the unconscious mind and its ability to facilitate healing and change. Erickson believed that the unconscious was a vast and powerful resource that could be accessed and utilized through the use of language and storytelling.
There are several reasons why someone might want to read “My Voice Will Go With You” by Milton H. Erickson. Here are a few:
- Insight into Erickson’s therapeutic approach: The book provides a unique and fascinating look into the mind and techniques of one of the most innovative and influential psychotherapists of the 20th century. By reading the therapeutic tales and anecdotes presented in the book, you can gain a deeper understanding of Erickson’s approach to psychotherapy and the techniques he used to help his clients.
- Inspiration for personal growth: Many of the stories in the book are designed to bypass the conscious mind and communicate directly with the unconscious, making them a powerful tool for personal growth and self-discovery. By reading and reflecting on these stories, you may gain insights into your own life and be inspired to make positive changes.
- Practical application: The stories in the book are not only inspiring and thought-provoking but also offer practical insights and techniques that can be applied by therapists and laypeople alike. By learning from Erickson’s approach, you may be able to apply some of these techniques in your own life or in your work as a therapist.
- Engaging and enjoyable reading: The stories in the book are presented in a simple and accessible way, making them easy to understand and relate to. The book is also well-written and engaging, making it an enjoyable read for anyone interested in psychotherapy, personal growth, or storytelling.
Overall, “My Voice Will Go With You” is a fascinating and insightful book that provides a unique glimpse into the mind and techniques of one of the most innovative and influential psychotherapists of the 20th century. The therapeutic tales and anecdotes presented in the book are not only inspiring and thought-provoking but also offer practical insights and techniques that can be applied by therapists and laypeople alike.