The amobarbital sodium interview in conversion disorders: use of video feedback in therapy

The prognosis in treating acute conversion disorder is good, but it demands considerable time in the form of an intensive, and often extensive, hospital stay. With the increasing trend to limiting hospital stays, the family practitioner working with a psychiatrist in the hospital setting is pressured to find new approaches in order to limit the use of inpatient units. The authors describe a case of classic conversion disorder and outline a successful approach that uses a video recording of the interview, during which the patient is under the influence of amobarbital sodium. The videotape then provides valuable feedback during future therapy sessions in the treatment of this persistent disorder.