Is it permissible, from a Sharia perspective, for a therapist to use stratagem and imagination in treating delusional cases, such as deluding a patient that there is witchcraft and destroying it? And is this considered part of the imaginative therapy mentioned by Imam Ibn al-Qayyim? And is it permissible to use suggestive hypnosis in such cases?

Ibn Al-Qayyim mentioned that a skilled physician utilizes natural and divine treatment, as well as treatment through imagination—which refers to suggestion, psychological guidance, and reinforcing positive behavior—due to its role in bringing tranquility and serenity to the patient. He stated that this falls under what is known as psychotherapy. It has previously been permissible to treat with suggestion and hypnosis if used for good. However, what the questioner mentioned regarding a method that relies on lying and deception is not permissible.