Freud considered it the most important book he had ever written. Dreams were to be examined “in the present” and not judged morally, politically, socially, or legally. Freud was a firm believer in this “talking cure” or catharsis because he soon discovered that actual hypnotism was not necessary for most patients. He developed his own distinctive approach and invented a “therapeutic couch,” a comfortable bed-like piece of furniture where the patient could lie down and deeply relax. The therapist sat nearby to chat and take notes. Furthermore, he developed the now famous technique of "free association", encouraging the patient to speak aloud about the first thoughts or images that came to him.