David Spiegel

David Spiegel is a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine, where he serves as Associate Chair of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and Director of the Center on Stress and Health. He is recognized as one of the leading experts in clinical hypnosis, psychosocial oncology, and trauma/stress-related disorders. Throughout his career, Spiegel has conducted groundbreaking research on the relationships between mind and body, particularly in the areas of pain control, dissociation, and the effects of psychosocial treatment for cancer patients. His landmark 1989 study published in The Lancet demonstrated improved survival time for women with metastatic breast cancer who participated in supportive-expressive group therapy. Spiegel has authored numerous influential books including "Living Beyond Limits" and "Trance and Treatment: Clinical Uses of Hypnosis." His work has been published in over 400 scientific journal articles and he has appeared in major media outlets discussing topics related to hypnosis, stress management, and integrative medicine. He currently leads research projects examining the neurophysiological mechanisms of hypnosis, the effects of stress on medical conditions, and psychosocial interventions for cancer patients. Spiegel's contributions have helped establish hypnosis as a scientifically-validated clinical tool and advanced understanding of mind-body connections in health and healing.

Readers appreciate Spiegel's clear explanations of complex medical concepts and practical applications of hypnosis in clinical settings. His book "Trance and Treatment" receives specific praise from medical professionals for its detailed protocols and evidence-based approach. Readers like: - Step-by-step clinical guidance - Research citations and scientific rigor - Case examples that illustrate concepts - Balance of theory and practical application Common criticisms: - Technical writing style can be dense for non-medical readers - Some find the books dated (particularly older editions) - Limited discussion of newer research in reprinted editions Ratings across platforms: Amazon: "Trance and Treatment" - 4.5/5 (47 reviews) Goodreads: "Living Beyond Limits" - 3.8/5 (24 reviews) One medical student reviewer noted: "Essential reference for anyone practicing clinical hypnosis, but expect a textbook-like reading experience." A cancer survivor wrote that "Living Beyond Limits" offered "practical tools for coping, backed by science rather than just feel-good advice."

Living Beyond Limits (1993) A guide to understanding the role of emotional support in managing serious illness and maintaining quality of life.

Group Therapy for Cancer Patients (2000) A clinical manual outlining therapeutic approaches and interventions for facilitating group therapy sessions with cancer patients.

Trance and Treatment: Clinical Uses of Hypnosis (2004) A technical examination of hypnosis in clinical practice, including assessment methods and therapeutic applications.

The Mind Prepared: 8 Skills for Life (2022) An exploration of cognitive techniques for managing stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges in daily life.

Daniel Siegel writes about neuroscience, mindfulness and trauma healing based on clinical research. His work on interpersonal neurobiology parallels Spiegel's focus on mind-body connections and therapeutic approaches.

Bessel van der Kolk specializes in trauma research and treatment through a body-focused lens. His research on PTSD and dissociation aligns with Spiegel's work on hypnosis and trauma recovery.

Herbert Benson studies the physiological effects of meditation and relaxation responses in clinical settings. His research on mind-body medicine complements Spiegel's investigations into hypnosis and stress management.

Jon Kabat-Zinn focuses on mindfulness-based stress reduction in medical contexts. His integration of meditation practices into healthcare settings shares common ground with Spiegel's work on psychological interventions for physical conditions.

Peter Levine developed methods for treating trauma through somatic experiencing. His emphasis on body-based approaches to healing trauma connects with Spiegel's research on dissociation and mind-body interventions.