Hypnotherapeutic approaches in helping physically disabled patients cope with stress and plan further goals during the rehabilitation period are discussed. Several techniques possible in a rehabilitation setting are presented, including integration of ego strengthening and self-esteem building. It is noted that, in rehabilitation, a major goal of hypnotherapy is to help patients restore or rebuild an adequate sense of identity and formulate worthwhile, realistic life style plans. Accomplishing this through encouraging the patient to take a realistic, positive view of his or her potential is explained. The final therapeutic outcome is presented as enhancement of the individual's self-worth through use of the authors' map for therapy in a rehabilitation setting. A theoretical framework underlying hypnotherapy during rehabilitation is presented. It is concluded that well-designed studies are needed to document the various aspects of treatment effectiveness and that advances in conceptualization of the hypnotic process and in evaluation methodology are essential. (Author/NB)