When hypnosis escapes from stereotyped technique, it frees the imagination in unexpected ways. In these Selected Papers, Stephen Lankton reflects systems theory while also expressing ideas free from restraint. His appreciation of Milton Erickson is impressive and respectful. The illustrative cases offer a comprehensive review of hypnotic ideas. The reader will find the ideas both practical and imaginative, dealing with hypnotic technique as well as such areas as family violence. This is an expansive presentation of papers ranging from the ideology of Erickson to using therapeutic metaphor in social work.

Jay Haley,
author of Uncommon Therapy, Advanced Techniques, Conversations with Milton Erickson and others
 
 

Stephen Lankton's lucid and readable prose puts the principles and applications of Ericksonian Therapy easily within the grasp of his readers. It is a pleasure to share in his insights, analyses, and therapeutic approaches.

Alexander A. Levitan,
M.D., M.P.H., Past President - ASCH, American Board of Medical Hypnosis, Minnesota Society of Clinical Hypnosis.

This collection of excellent papers from Stephen Lankton reveals why he has been at the forefront of the fields of hypnosis and brief, goal-directed psychotherapies for more than two decades. These papers show the path of Lankton's growth and the evolution of his thinking, and they provide readers with an opportunity to share his wisdom. I expect that readers will enjoy and benefit both personally and professionally from Lankton's invaluable contributions. 

Michael D. Yapko, Ph.D.,
Ph.D., author of Trancework and Breaking the Patterns of Depression

This fascinating book is a major contribution to understanding psychotherapy as the art of narrative. The Lanktons' masterful compendium of stories will help therapists move toward more imaginative and creative conversations with their clients (and colleagues).

Bradford P. Keeney, Ph.D.
Dept. of Professional Psychology University of St. Thomas,
Author.

This book can be of benefit to every therapist from beginner to advanced who is interested in a practical, hopeful and realistic approach. The explanations on how to construct and deliver metaphors is one of the emerging approaches that demystifies and clarifies one of the most complex areas of therapy, while also suggestions useful ways for working with families. Ambiguous function assignments is another Ericksonian technique explained in a practical and easily applicable way.

Cloe Madanes.
Co-Director: Family Therapy Institute of Washington, DC.,
Author.

Therapeutic stories have earned respectability due to the pioneering work of Milton Erickson and the Lanktons. The Lanktons are talented therapists and teachers in the Ericksonian tradition. Their perambulation into the therapeutic process will be appreciated by those who value perceptiveness and imagination.

Jeffery K. Zeig, Ph.D.
President, Milton H. Erickson H. Erickson Foundation, Inc.
Organizer, Evolution of Psychotherapy Conferences,
Author, A Teaching Seminar With Milton H. Erickson,

Enchantment and Intervention in Family Therapy is more than a new book on Ericksonian approaches the Lanktons provide a systemic framework for understanding Ericksonian interventions through the entire process of family therapy. This book provides a beautiful balance between generating individuals' emotions and behavioral changes and looking at the larger ecosystem.

Maurizio Andolfi, MD
Director, Family Therapy Institute, Rome,
Author

This volume by the Lanktons expands the boundaries of conventional clinical psychology, incorporating the principles of Ericksonian psychotherapy, and thus presents a remarkably effective therapeutic approach. It is a treasure trove of new leanings and delightful experiences.

Ernest L. Rossi, Ph.D.,
Editor and Author, The Collected Papers of Milton H. Erickson on Hypnosis,
and The Mind Body Connection.

Lankton's work spells out in the most understandable fashion the basic concepts and tools of a model which could offer people a change to reclaim control of their lives.

Daniel Goleman, Ph.D.
Editor, Psychology Today magazine

It is particularly gratifying to know that 'Lankton's magic' and quick, effective interventions are tempered by his fine observations and skills as a psychotherapist.

Eugene Eliasoph, M.S.W.
Past President, American Society of Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama

Can the genius of the late Milton Erickson be taken apart so that a smart therapist can use it to help his or her clients expand their options? In attempting to do just that, Stephen Lankton draws on the words of Erickson, Grinder, and others...it is well worth the trip.

Morris Haimowitz, Ph.D.
Author, Suffering Is Optional

Stephen was clearly one of the most exciting, articulate and well received speakers at the International Congress on Ericksonian Approaches in Phoenix. His direct and imaginative style of translating Erickson's work is unique and refreshing.

Carrell A. Dammann, Ph.D.
Former Director, Atlanta Institute for Family Studies

An accomplished therapist, Stephen Lankton offers a rich comprehensive model. Stephen is a remarkably capable psychotherapist.

John Grinder, Ph.D.
Co-developer, Neuro Linguistic Programming™
Co-author, Patterns of Hypnotic Techniques of Milton H. Erickson, M.D.