The use of hypnosis with dissociative disorders

The dissociative disorders are characterized by difficulties in the integration of memory and/or identity. Typically this is manifested by amnesia and either the development of alternate identities or an estrangement from one's own identity. Spontaneous and self-generated dissociative states and phenomena sharing much in common with those that can be induced with hypnosis are thought to play a major role in their development, symptomatology, and perpetuation. Medical heterohypnosis offers a powerful tool to reestablish a functional continuity of memory and identity in many such cases. The application of hypnotic interventions in the treatment of such conditions will be discussed, explored, and illustrated with clinical vignettes.