Demons on the Couch: Spirit Possession, Exorcisms and the DSM-5 by Michael Sersch
Journal of Scientific Exploration June 7, 2020 Todd Hayen
Demonic possession has held cultural fascination for over two millennia, and clinicians can successfully and ethically treat patients who believe they are possessed by integrating the patient's spiritual worldview into clinical practice. The book examines possession and exorcism through modern psychotherapy and the DSM-5, dividing the topic into three sections: the history of spirit possession and exorcism, clinical diagnoses such as Dissociative Identity Disorder, and practical suggestions for clinicians. The author does not attempt to prove or disprove possession, but advocates incorporating patients' spirituality and faith practices to improve treatment outcomes.