Yeah I think that is especially true for case studies. The person and their struggles seem very real but where it enters fairy tale territory is when the 'case study' gets to the part where the psychologist cured the lepers, made the blind see and the lame walk.
The case studies I read follow the story arc of problem, treatment and happy ever after.
Delusional, the whole profession!! At least with missionaries or other religious fanatics you know what beast you're dealing with.