Decoding mystifying signals: translating symbolic communications of elusive ego states

Traditionally, Ego-state Therapy has been conducted with parts of the personality that have been activated hypnotically and that present themselves for verbal interaction. This paper presents two cases in which ego states communicate through symbolic and sensory signals at significant points in therapy. Recognition of the meaning and usefulness of these phenomena allows otherwise enigmatic material to provide crucial information about the patient's deepest struggles. Failure to identify this material can often precipitate therapeutic stalemates when the patient's most creative expressions go unnoticed. Effective utilization of these states can often bring about dramatic resolution of inner conflict and achieve symptom relief.