in hypnosis

As an experienced hypnotherapist, I view the process of induction not as “doing something to” a client, but rather as guiding them into a state where their conscious mind creates space for their subconscious to become receptive. It is a collaborative dance of communication, observation, and trust.

Here is the structured process we generally follow to facilitate a deep, therapeutic trance state.

1. The Pre-Talk (The Foundation)

Before any formal induction begins, the “Pre-Talk” is essential. This is where 90% of the success lies.

  • Demystification: We address fears and misconceptions (e.g., “Will I lose control?” or “Will I get stuck?”). I explain that hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention, similar to getting lost in a good book.

  • Building Rapport: Establishing safety and trust is paramount. If the client feels unsafe, their “Critical Faculty” (the guard at the gate between the conscious and subconscious) will remain on high alert.

  • Setting Expectations: I explain that they will hear my voice, they might drift, and that is all perfectly normal.

2. The Induction (Bypassing the Critical Faculty)

The induction is the ritual used to transition the client from a normal waking state (Beta waves) into a relaxed trance state (Alpha or Theta waves). There are several methods I might choose based on the client’s personality:

  • Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR): The most common for beginners. I guide the client to relax their body group by group—from the scalp down to the toes. It is slow, soothing, and very effective for analytical clients.

  • Eye Fixation: Asking the client to stare at a specific spot (often above eye level to tire the eyelids) while I suggest heaviness and blinking.

  • Rapid/Shock Inductions: Used more in street hypnosis or with very receptive clients. This involves a sudden jolt (like a handshake interrupt) followed immediately by the command “Sleep!” to create a momentary window of suggestibility.

3. Deepening (The Staircase)

Once the eyes are closed and the client is relaxed, they are in a light trance. To do therapeutic work, we often need to go deeper (somnambulism).

  • Counting Down: “I am going to count from 10 down to 1, and with every number, you will double your relaxation.”

  • Visualization: I might ask them to imagine walking down a beautiful staircase or an elevator, sinking deeper into comfort with every step.

  • Fractionation: A powerful technique where I have the client open their eyes briefly and then close them again. Each time they close their eyes, they drop into a trance state twice as deep as before.

4. Testing (Calibration)

An experienced therapist constantly checks the depth of the trance without breaking it.

  • Eye Catalepsy: I might suggest that their eyelids are so heavy they are “glued shut” and ask them to try to open them. When they find they cannot, it confirms the Critical Faculty has been bypassed.

  • Arm Drop: I might lift their wrist; if it falls like a wet dishcloth, they are physically relaxed enough for the work to proceed.

5. The Utilization (The Work)

This is where the therapy happens. Now that the subconscious is accessible, we can introduce scripts, metaphors, or regression techniques to address the issue (anxiety, smoking, phobias, etc.).

6. The Deduction (Bringing Them Back)

We never just stop; we carefully bring the client back to full wakefulness.

  • The Count Up: “I will count from 1 to 5. At 5, you will be fully wide awake, feeling refreshed and energized.”

  • Reorientation: I suggest that they will carry the positive changes with them into their waking life.