Abstract

Discusses similarities and differences between psychic healing and psychotherapy. The psychic or paranormal components of psychic healing usually can be explained in terms of such variables as sensory cues, placebo effect, and psychosomatic reactions. A small percentage of these healings may contain a paranormal component. When these healers engage in psychotherapy, they tend to behave in a way similar to orthodox psychotherapists: They name the ailment, mobilize patient expectations, utilize specific procedures that are often effective, and attain success conditional to some extent on their personal qualities and the rapport attained with the patient. The techniques they use that do not typify most orthodox therapies include consideration of discarnate entities and supernatural intervention. There is a movement among some orthodox practitioners to work with psychic healers and even, in some cases, to incorporate some of their techniques into their own psychotherapeutic practices. (44 ref)