Hypnosis itself is the state of trance, as previously discussed. But there are different ways of inducing hypnosis (called an induction) and different tools to use when the person is in trance, to accomplish the goal.

 

Different Types of Hypnosis

 

• Direct Suggestion

The National Guild of Hypnotist’s teachings follow the method of direct suggestion – sometimes as short as an affirmation “Every day in every respect I get better and better” or a longer script which is crafted specifically for the client and the goal they want to achieve. Both the script and the affirmation are given while the client is in hypnosis, so that it goes directly into the subconscious mind, to change the ‘blueprint’. Direct suggestion hypnosis usually involves repetition of the suggestion, through self hypnosis and a post hypnotic suggestion to compound the message to the subconscious mind in different forms. This makes it much more effective.

 

• Ericksonian

Ericksonian hypnosis is the style developed by Dr. Milton Erickson who used indirect suggestions and metaphors to address change for the subconscious mind. The Ericksonian method includes indirect suggestion, which is said to have a greater impact, as the conscious mind doesn’t interfere with the process.

  

• Clinical Hypnosis

Clinical hypnosis is purely the practice of hypnosis in a clinical setting. It is more personal and more effective for change than group, stage or self hypnosis. The hypnotist is focused on the client and the issue to be changed. The client feels more in control, and the confidentiality and privacy in the clinic allow the client to look at the issue more deeply.

 

• Regression Therapy

Regression therapy is used in hypnotherapy sessions to assist the client in finding the root cause of many of their behavioral patterns and habits. Regression therapy is also used to help recover memories of places, people and events we may have difficulty recalling. It is a powerful tool when used ethically and professionally because it allows us to access memories we may have pushed aside to bring greater understanding in helping to resolve certain issues. Regression therapy includes regression to earlier times in the life as well as Past Life therapy. Often clients find themselves “slipping” into what is call “Past Life” when we are regressing to cause. For this reason the NGH highly recommends that all hypnotherapist have some kind of formal Past Life training which follows the standard Code Of Ethics.

 

• Transpersonal Hypnotherapy

Transpersonal therapy focuses on our “essential self ” or soul. It is a truly holistic form of therapy which encompasses all aspects of the human experience. It utilizes the mind – body – spirit connection to foster healing, growth and personal development. The use of hypnosis in transpersonal therapy is a logical choice since the whole basis for hypnosis is using the mind to affect change in the body and in the “self ”. Hypnosis is one of the best tools that we can use to establish and maintain the connection of mind – body – spirit. Transpersonal therapy also allows us to establish contact with our ancestors by use of spiritual and/or DNA regression and this provides a powerful and profound means of healing and personal growth.

 

• Stage Hypnosis

In stage hypnosis the “facilitator” encourages a much deeper state of trance to produce the results for the show they are staging. Everyone up on stage is a volunteer, and they are aware at all times what is happening. They know they will be asked to ‘perform’ for the audience, and at any time can opt out of the show. Stage hypnosis can be a fun and entertaining experience if done correctly and with integrity.

 

• Self Hypnosis

In the clinic, I encourage clients to maintain the progress made during the session by practicing self hypnosis at home. Self hypnosis can be thought of as a guided meditation with an objective in mind. We are all able to induce a hypnotic trance on ourselves and we can use that to continue the suggestions given to us by the hypnotherapist. This compounds the suggestion in our subconscious mind making the effect stronger and more permanent..

 

Uses of Hypnosis

Hypnosis can be used to help with a great many issues, all of which have a basis stored in the subconscious mind. As a certified clinical Hypnotherapist, I apply the theory and techniques taught at NGH (National Guild of Hypnotists)