Dr. Erickson demonstrates both an indirect obtuse style of communication which is respectful and protective of his patients as well as sometimes shockingly frank, which in some cases liberates his patients from inhibited rigidity.
Jay Haley studied with Dr. Erickson for 17 years. He is a major editor of Erickson's works and has authored many books about him. Mr. Haley has been professor at Stanford University, Howard University, the University of Maryland, and is currently professor at the California School of Professional Psychology. Madeleine Richeport-Haley is a noted anthropologist film-maker who studied with Erickson.