[Hypnosis in psychosomatic medicine]

Hypnosis is a form of psychotherapy open to any physician who has been suitably trained. Its diffusion is to be hoped for, especially since all doctors today consider that they should handle their patients from the psychological side as well, in keeping with the dictates of modern psychosomatology. Reference is made to the main indications for hypnosis and its contraindications, the optimum technique according to Spiegel, the desirability of resolving symptoms without excessive concern for that which they hide, symbolise, or defend, and the way in which hypnosis can be inserted at both the diagnostic and therapeutic level within the present stage of the history of psychosomatic medicine.