title: Relevance of Ericksonian psychotherapy to the treatment of chemical dependency.
abstract: Dr. Milton Erickson is credited with having developed many unique and effective approaches to the problem of resistance in therapy. Clinicians treating patients with alcohol and other drug abuse problems often face significant resistance from clients. This article focuses on a number of ideas associated with Dr. Erickson's work and their relevance to the treatment of chemical dependency with a particular focus on the issue of resistance. One note of caution is in order in reference to the paradoxical interventions alluded to in the paper. These interventions are not appropriate or acceptable for all substance abusers. A therapist should have significant experience and support from co-therapist and supervisors before attempting such interventions.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003071:Cognition; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D011613:Psychotherapy; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D014473:Unconscious, Psychology