Participating in the Culture of Cancer: A Demilitarized Approach to Treatment

This case study describes the use of hypnosis with an anthropologist diagnosed with breast cancer. The therapist utilized the client's sense of identity as a qualitative researcher, as well as her knowledge of and respect for indigenous cultures, to help her actively engage in her chemotherapy treatment and to help her better tolerate the side-effects of the medication. He also used hypnosis to attempt to improve the functioning of her immune system, employing, at her request, an alternative approach to standard military-based images. Considering immunity to be a cognitive process, the therapist designed metaphors that focused on improving the immune system's ability to perceive, learn, and achieve balance.