Milton Erickson - A Short History

Milton H. Erickson, M.D. (1901–1980), was a pioneering psychiatrist and psychotherapist best known for transforming the practice of hypnosis and redefining how therapists understand human motivation and change. A survivor of polio, colorblindness, and dyslexia, Erickson developed an extraordinary sensitivity to nonverbal cues and human behavior. These challenges, far from limiting him, sharpened his observational powers and empathy—traits that became central to his groundbreaking work. He developed his skills over many years working in hospitals in the American Southwest before his remarkable skills and results became well known.

Erickson revolutionized hypnotherapy by shifting it away from rigid authoritarian commands toward a more permissive, conversational, and client-centered approach. He believed that each person already possessed the inner resources needed for change, and he used metaphor, storytelling, and indirect suggestion to activate those resources. He saw the unconscious not as a source of pathology, but as a wellspring of creativity and solution-oriented intelligence.

Erickson's Legacy & Influence

Erickson's influence on psychotherapy has been profound. Erickson inspired the development of Brief Therapy, Strategic Therapy, and Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP), and his ideas continue to shape modern coaching, trauma therapy, and even medical communication. His methods emphasize respect for the individual’s unique experience, a deep trust in the unconscious mind, and the power of strategic, often subtle, intervention.

Today, his legacy is growing. With the release of *The Erickson Tapes* and *The Genius of Milton Erickson*—curated from over 35 hours of original seminar footage—therapists, coaches, and seekers of all kinds can witness firsthand the subtle brilliance of his teaching. In a world overwhelmed by noise and self-promotion, Erickson remains a model of quiet, effective transformation: a master of change who used nothing but presence, language, and attention to open new possibilities in the human mind.

The Genius of Milton Erickson 

A rich and illuminating 2-hour 40-minute collection of exclusive video excerpts, hand-picked from Erickson’s “In The Room” seminars. This remarkable footage captures Erickson at the very peak of his therapeutic powers, offering you the best and clearest insight into his groundbreaking techniques and timeless wisdom.

In The Room With Milton Erickson MD

The original, minimally edited video recordings of this remarkable 1979 Erickson seminar. 35 hours on 18 DVDs, with hard cover verbatim transcripts (sold separately). Available to professionals only.