ABSTRACT
M a n y of you know that Erickson gave us access to tools from the oral tradition with a variety that no other c l in i c i an has done. He prov ided us with an understanding of the use of paradox, suggestions, binds, oxymoron , interspersal, confus ion, and so on . But these are all techniques; these are all mechan ica l . There is something else that he prov ided that we must insist be remembered. Erickson gave us a nontangible qual i ty we cal l enchantment. Enchantment is a qual i ty of del ivery, l ike fascinat ion, that has a relationship to his techniques as empathy does to reflective feedback, and has as much to do with therapy as other terms like l istening with a third ear, understanding, genuineness, and care. It is a part of Erickson's work that is not easily taught and may be as elusive as an attitude toward clients and problems. However , it's every bit as cruc ia l to the therapeutic formula and needs to be placed in the list of Ericksonian Techniques lest it be forgotten.
