The Art of Hypnotherapy E-Book

C Roy Hunter

• Herausgeber: Crown House Publishing
• Kategorie: Fachliteratur
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2010

Seitenzahl: 529

Beschreibung

Now in it's fourth edition, this classic text presents a comprehensive overview of client-centred hypnosis based on the teachings of Charles Tebbetts. Since the person undergoing hypnosis is the one with the power to change him/herself, the hypnotherapist acts as the facilitator, tailoring the hypnosis session to the client. All of the techniques found in The Art of Hypnotherapy, including regression therapy and parts theory, centre on this concept. The Art of Hypnotherapy shows students how all hypnotic techniques revolve around four main therapeutic objectives: Suggestion and Imagery; Discover the Cause; Release; and Subconscious Relearning. New features in this edition include an arrangement of techniques from simple to complex, so that those using hypnosis in a limited way easily learn the applicable technique; a chapter on the common application of hypnotherapy now includes new sections on anger, impotence, stuttering, and tinnitus, and the chapters on anchoring and triggers have been updated, with sections on how to help a client establish a safe place, and why this is important.

Leseprobe

The Art of Hypnotherapy

Fourth Edition

Part II of “Diversified Client-Centered Hypnosis”

(based on the teachings of Charles Tebbetts)

C. Roy Hunter, M.S., FAPHP

Crown House Publishing Limitedwww.crownhouse.co.ukwww.crownhousepublishing.com

First published by

Crown House Publishing Ltd Crown Buildings, Bancyfelin, Carmarthen, Wales, SA33 5ND, UKwww.crownhouse.co.uk

and

Crown House Publishing Company LLC 6 Trowbridge Drive, Suite 5, Bethel, CT 06801, USAwww.crownhousepublishing.com

© C. Roy Hunter 1995, 2000, 2007, 2010

The right of C. Roy Hunter to be identified as the author of this work has been asserted by him in accordance with the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.

All rights reserved. Except as permitted under current legislation no part of this work may be photocopied, stored in a retrieval system, published, performed in public, adapted, broadcast, transmitted, recorded or reproduced in any form or by any means, without the prior permission of the copyright owners. Enquiries should be addressed to Crown House Publishing Limited.

British Library of Cataloguing-in-Publication Data A catalogue entry for this book is available from the British Library.

10-digit ISBN 184590440-0 13-digit ISBN 978-184590440-1 eBook ISBN 978-184590452-4

LCCN 2010921871

Third edition published by Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company under ISBN: 978175754174

Printed and bound in the USA

Dedication and Acknowledgements

This second volume of Diversified Client-Centered Hypnosis, like the first volume (The Art of Hypnosis), is dedicated to all those who believe in the benefits of client-centered hypnosis to facilitate positive changes for willing clients.

We all owe a debt of gratitude to Charles Tebbetts for his tireless dedication to the art of hypnotism, evidenced by his many years of teaching and practicing. He based his hypnotherapy course on what he learned from Gil Boyne, who also deserves thanks for creating and promoting an in-depth hypnotherapy training course.

Additional gratitude is in order for Charlie’s wife, Joyce Tebbetts, who worked behind the scenes for so many years to support her husband’s important work. Certainly her efforts helped a great deal in promoting competent hypnotherapy training.

While Charlie was living, I expressed my appreciation to both Mr. and Mrs. Tebbetts for their support in my teaching The Charles Tebbetts Hypnotism Training Course. Before her passing in 2004, Joyce continued that support by putting her blessing on the first edition of this book, for which I am grateful. Her preface, written for the first edition, remains. This fourth edition, completed in 2010, contains an updated first chapter, as well as important updates for regression and parts therapy that did not appear in the first two editions.

I also wish to acknowledge all those in the profession who believe in comprehensive hypnosis training programs, which will benefit our profession as more hypnotherapists invest in comprehensive training programs. Also, my deepest gratitude goes to Jo-Anne, my loving wife, for her willingness to share so many hours of my time with all of you who read this book.

Roy Hunter March 8, 2010

Table of Contents

Preface (by Joyce Tebbetts)

1. Introduction to Hypnotherapy

Why is Hypnotherapy the Answer?

Which Title Do We Use: Hypnotist, or Hypnotherapist?

The Biggest Hypnotic Secret Revealed

Charles Tebbetts: a Master Teacher

Learn the Art of Hypnosis First

Who Should Teach Hypnosis?

Truth Removes Fear

The Purpose of This Book

Hypnotherapy Associations Originally Recognizing This Course

2. The Preinduction Interview

Objective #1: Building and Maintaining Rapport

Objective #2: Allaying Fears

Objective #3: Building Mental Expectancy

Objective #4: Gathering Information

The Importance of Choice

3. The Four Cornerstones of Successful Hypnotherapy

Overview

1. Post-hypnotic Suggestion and Imagery

2. Discover the Cause

3. Release

4. Subconscious Relearning

Additional Comments

4. The Benefits Approach

The Subconscious Resists Force

Identifying the Benefits

Explain the Role of Imagination

What about the Price of Change?

Doing Hypnotherapy: Benefits Approach

What Are Typical Client Benefits?

What Do You Say?

After Hypnosis

The Next Session

Mapping the Motivation

Why Not Begin with Advanced Techniques?

Scripts for Progressions

Non Smoking Script, Benefits Approach

Weight Management Script, Benefits Approach

5. Anchoring and Triggers

Triggers of Habit

Anchored Memories

Anchored Attitudes and Desires

Anchored Emotions

Anchoring and Hypnotherapy

Peaceful Place (or Safe Place)

Peaceful Place Meditation

6. Techniques to Discover the Cause

Does the Client Know the Cause of a Problem?

Ideomotor Responding

Seven Psychodynamics of a Symptom

Script for Psychodynamics

Age Regression

The Affect Bridge Technique

Dream Interpretation

Parts Therapy

When a Client Fails to Respond…

One Final Caution!

7. Regression Therapy

Spontaneous Regression

Guiding vs. Leading

Phase 1: Client Preparation

Phase 2: Regression Techniques to Discover the Cause

Phase 3: Abreactions and Release

Phase 4: Subconscious Relearning

Phase 5: Concluding the Session

Additional Hypnotic Advice

8. Parts Therapy

Parts Therapy: What Is It?

Variations of Parts Therapy

When to Use Parts Therapy

Before You Begin

The Therapist’s Role: Mediator

How to Get Results

Preparation

The 11-Step Process

Concluding the Session

Cautions (Potential Pitfalls)

Examples of Successful Parts Therapy

Parting Thoughts

9. Other Rapid Change Techniques

Imagery

Systematic Desensitization

Implosive Desensitization

Desensitization by Object Projection

Silent Abreaction (Reframing)

Inner Guide

Verbalizing

Direct Suggestion

Indirect Suggestion

Important Advice from Charles Tebbetts

What about Aversion Therapy?

White Light Healing Technique

Past Life Therapy

Other Cautions

10. Phobias, Fears and Anxieties

Simple Phobias

Complex Phobias

Sensitizing Event(s)

Activating Event

Handling the Preinduction Interview

Potential Therapy Techniques for Phobias

Now What?

Glossary (of common phobias)

11. Putting It Together

Successes Facilitated by Charles Tebbetts

A Few of My Successes

Student Therapy Successes

12. A “Miracle on Demand”

13. Past Life Regressions

Possible Explanations

Spontaneous Past Life Regression

Ethics

Techniques to Initiate Regression

Guiding vs. Leading

Past Life Abreactions

Additional Remarks

14. Peak Performance

Power Points for Success

Why Use Regressions?

Choosing Power Points

The Session: CELEBRATE YOUR SUCCESS!

Post Hypnosis Discussion

Who Can Benefit?

Doing It!

15. Motivation Mapping

The Five Subconscious Motivators

Objectives of Motivation Mapping

When is Motivation Mapping Used?

Which Session is Best?

Completing the Map

Mapping a Smoker

Mapping for Weight Management

Mapping Other Habits

Scoring

Now What?

16. Sources of Subconscious Motivation

Repetition

Authority

Desire for Identity (ego)

Hypnosis/Self-Hypnosis

Emotion

Final Comments

17. Common Potential Applications of Hypnotherapy

Anger and Stress Management

Confidence and/or Self-esteem

Depression

Forensic Hypnosis

Grief Therapy

Habit Control

Impotence

Medical Uses of Hypnosis

Memory and Study Habits

Multiple Personalities (D.I.D.)

Phobias

Public Speaking

Remembering Lost Items

Sales and Business Motivation

Sexual Abuse

Sports Enhancement

Stuttering

Substance Abuse

Suicidal

Test Anxiety

Tinnitus

Ongoing Training and Professional Improvement

18. The Journey Continues ...

Bibliography

Index

Preface

by Joyce Tebbetts

My husband devoted his life to hypnotism. He loved helping people, and he loved teaching others how to help people through hypnotherapy. Since I worked with him for many years, I feel qualified to give my opinion on the contents of this book, for which I have nothing to say but praise.

When Charlie passed away, he was still doing what he loved. We were at the annual convention of the National Guild of Hypnotists, where he was preparing to teach parts therapy to other hypnotherapists; and when he found himself unable to teach his workshop, he asked Roy Hunter to teach it in his behalf. I sat next to Roy’s wife as he honored my husband by teaching in a way that I believe would make Charlie proud. And I told this to the Hunters in my hotel room later that night.

The confidence Charlie felt in choosing Roy Hunter to continue teaching his methods in hypnotherapy speaks for itself. Roy has been teaching our course since 1987. In a letter I wrote to him last January, I said, “You are the only one I’d pick out for teaching it if I had to do so.” I believe him to be the most qualified to carry my husband’s torch.

I highly approve of Roy’s additions to some of the topics of importance. I feel that reading this book opens the door to a more complete understanding of hypnotherapy in every aspect.

I am delighted that he has written this book in a way that honors my husband’s name and perpetuates his teachings into the next century. It is very gratifying to me personally to know that Charlie will continue to touch people’s lives.

Joyce Tebbetts, C.Ht.

(Mrs. Charles Tebbetts)

Chapter 1

Introduction to Hypnotherapy

Increasing numbers of people around the world want answers. Not only do they want answers to life, they want to know how they can reach their own goals and bring their dreams into reality. Untold numbers of men and women spend countless sums of dollars annually, seeking professional help to overcome undesirable habits.

Why is Hypnotherapy the Answer?

My work is based on the teachings of the late Charles Tebbetts, who personally trained me in the art of hypnotherapy. He began the first chapter of his hypnotherapy textbook, Miracles on Demand (2nd edition), with these words:

Millions of people are suffering mental anguish and are striving unsuccessfully to find help. Hypnotherapy is the answer for most of them because it is short-term, safe, practical and effective.

All quotes throughout this book from Miracles on Demand are taken from the second edition, which is out of print (see NOTICE at end of this chapter).

With the advent of the fast-food society, increasing numbers of people are looking for faster methods of achieving their desires than in the past. Public interest in alternative modalities continues to increase. While this makes some people vulnerable for the “quick fix” artists out to make a fast buck, the upside is the most favorable public acceptance of hypnotism that we have seen in centuries – and possibly in the entire recorded history of the human race. The downside is an increase in controversy over what the typical hypnotist or hypnotherapist is qualified to do professionally for clients seeking help.

As with any profession, including medicine and psychology, we must endure a few who seem self-centered and greedy. The hypnotism profession is no exception, and has its share of practitioners more skilled in marketing than in practicing the art of hypnotherapy; but a small number of psychologists are too quick to throw us all out as “lay hypnotists.” Some of this criticism understandably resulted from numerous weekend training programs scattered across North America during the 1980s and 1990s, and this is one of the reasons why I believe that anyone who learns the art of hypnosis should invest in a quality training program.

I have stated in print that we who practice hypnotherapy are the artistic community (Hunter, 2010). Perhaps it is time for us to be called the professional artists of hypnotherapy, or hypnotherapy practitioners. Our growing profession deserves recognition for the many millions of clients empowered by the professional practitioners of the art of hypnotherapy; but we should govern our own training programs and insist on higher training standards for anyone who practices hypnosis professionally.

We still need both the scientific practitioners and artistic practitioners of hypnosis, because research will advance the field. However, many highly educated counselors, psychotherapists, and psychologists received only minimal specific training in the art of hypnotherapy – just as many hypnotherapists have only minimal training in psychology. Just as there is a need for both fields, there is a much greater need for building bridges of mutual support and cooperation. The world is laced with experienced and properly trained hypnotists and hypnotherapists who DO know how to competently use a variety of beneficial techniques. These professionals are quite willing to call in psychologists or physicians when appropriate. Likewise, some physicians are equally willing to suggest that a patient seek hypnosis or meditation when appropriate (Siegel, 1990).

The question, then, is not in what academic degrees the hypnotherapist does or does not have. Rather, how thorough was the specific training in the art of hypnotherapy? A few psychologists are very willing to persuade lawmakers to pass laws that would outlaw even a veteran hypnotherapist from engaging in the legal practice of professional hypnotherapy, as demonstrated in Australia in early 2007. Fortunately, the Council of Clinical Hypnotherapy unified the professional artists of hypnotherapy across Australia and blocked the passage of the law just barely in time.

Certain psychologists have tried more than once to get similar laws passed in the USA, prohibiting an experienced hypnosis professional from practicing what they term “lay hypnotism.’

The controversy over “lay hypnotism” now extends to the legal use of the very word hypnotherapist.

Which Title Do We Use: Hypnotist, or Hypnotherapist?

In the first decade of the 21st century, several American states now have laws prohibiting the use of the word “hypnotherapist” by anyone without an advanced college degree. We find an increasing debate taking place regarding the ethics of whether to use the title “Hypnotist” or “Hypnotherapist.” Some psychologists object to a “lay hypnotist” using the word “therapy” because it implies psychotherapy and/or treating someone with psychological techniques. The National Guild of Hypnotists apparently seems to accept the viewpoint of the psychology profession, and has encouraged hypnotherapists without advanced degrees to give up the professional titles that many of us worked hard to earn.

Perhaps a true definition of exactly what constitutes “hypnotherapy” in both professional and legal terms might help resolve the dispute. Here is what I wrote in the third edition of The Art of Hypnosis (Cown House Publishing, 2010) on page 194:

For 15 years I taught that one could define hypnotherapy as: the use of hypnosis or any hypnotic technique to enhance goal achievement, to enhance motivation or change, to enhance personal or spiritual growth, and/or to release clients of problems and the causes of problems.

At the bottom of page 195 I continue …

In short, the hypnotist simply gives many suggestions and hopes for results, while the hypnotherapist knows how to solicit the subconscious to reveal the cause(s) in order to facilitate release and relearning … and resolve problems.

In light of the recent debate over the use of the title “Hypnotherapist,” I now question whether my definition quoted above might have to change again in the future in order to protect the professional practice of many of my colleagues around the world. Since most states still allow me to call myself a hypnotherapist, the name for this book remains the same as the earlier editions: The Art of Hypnotherapy. If future laws force me to change the above definition of hypnotherapy again, along with other techniques taught by Tebbetts and other recognized experts in our profession, then I will deal with what legally emerges. Any law that might be construed to limit a hypnotist to the use of suggestion and imagery would hurt both our profession and our clients. Readers of this book will understand why.

Tebbetts believed that some of the simplest hypnotic techniques could result in some of the most profound benefits when facilitated properly, and he called it hypnotherapy. He did not require his students to have advanced degrees; but he took great care in how he taught these techniques, because my late teacher felt strongly that we should know enough about hypnosis to fit the technique to the client rather than to try to fit the client to the technique. Why? Read on …

The Biggest Hypnotic Secret Revealed

As modern science brings technological enlightenment to this world, it’s high time to bring the art of hypnotism out of the dark ages and shine the light of truth on its secrets. Let’s rip away once and for all the shroud of mysticism that has surrounded this art for so many centuries. Let’s begin by exposing the biggest secret of all: the power is NOT in the hypnotist, it is in the client – the person who is guided into hypnosis! This fact is recognized by several hypnosis associations, including The National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH). In fact, the NGH states in print that the hypnotist will “Induct a client into a Self-Hypnotic State” (NGH, 2006). In other words, hypnosis is guided self-hypnosis.

Charles Tebbetts, who became a legend in the hypnotherapy profession while still living, revealed this secret of hypnosis at the start of every session he did with these words: “All hypnosis is self-hypnosis.” I expanded on this in the first edition of my basic hypnosis text as well as the most recent edition (Hunter, 2010). Tebbetts believed that the hypnotist or hypnotherapist was simply a guide (or artist) facilitating the client’s inborn ability to change as desired, because all the power is already inside the mind of the person experiencing hypnosis (Tebbetts, 1985). In short, he believed and taught that all hypnosis is guided self-hypnosis. The founder of the American Board of Hypnotherapy held that same opinion (Krasner, 1990).

Some professionals from the scientific community also believe that the power is in the client (Temes, 1999); and that if a hypnotist tries to become too powerful, the client can break rapport and reject suggestions (Teitelbaum, 1969). Whatever power the therapist has is acquired from the client, and can be terminated by the client (Yapko, 1995). Our 19th century hypnotic pioneers believed otherwise (Hunter, 2000), and believed that the hypnotist had power over the subject (Zanuso, 1986).

Most certainly if it were the hypnotist that had the power, it stands to reason that very intensive (and expensive) training would be vital before turning a new hypnotist loose on any trusting person entering the trance state – especially if the person in trance was powerless to refuse suggestions. That is simply not the case, unless the person entering hypnosis was tricked into believing that he/she was under the control of the hypnotist. Even in such a case there are limits to the suggestions such a person might accept (Teitelbaum, 1969).

Even now, however, there are professionals in both the scientific community and the artistic community who debate where the power of trance resides. That does not surprise me, however, because we still cannot even agree on the proper definition of hypnosis. Al Krasner wrote: “Ask two hundred experts. I guarantee that you’ll get at least two hundred different answers … all of them correct, yet full of contradictions” (Krasner, 1990).

Charles Tebbetts: a Master Teacher

Charles Tebbetts spent all of the last years of his life teaching hypnotism and hypnotherapy. He kept his students in “hands-on” training for 150 hours, taught in three parts. The first part was devoted to learning the basics of hypnotism: inductions, deepening techniques, trance management, etc. Tebbetts taught hypnotherapy during the second and third parts of his course, and then required his students to pass both a written and practical exam, successfully demonstrating the art of hypnosis prior to certification. He believed that hypnotism could be learned and used effectively by almost any mature adult with average intelligence and education, provided he/she was honest, ethical, had a sincere desire to help others, and was willing to invest enough time practicing to master the art. (My own experience validates his opinions.)

During the decades when hypnosis was shunned by both the medical profession and the mental health field, Tebbetts successfully used hypnotism to help people get results. He invested over six decades of his life practicing and studying hypnotism, and eventually opened his legendary “Hypnotism Training Institute” in the Pacific Northwest – where I enjoyed the privilege of learning the art of hypnotherapy. Indeed, Tebbetts directly touched the lives of thousands of people, and indirectly touched the lives of my own clients through his teachings – as well as the lives of clients reached by his former students.

My mentor, honored for lifetime achievement by the International Hypnosis Hall of Fame, believed that too many people spent too much money and too much time trying to deal with causes of their problems on a cognitive level rather than at a subconscious level where one can obtain results (Tebbetts, 1985). Let me quote his own words, taken from the preface of his book, Miracles on Demand:

… I have helped thousands of people improve the quality of their lives through my knowledge of hypnotism and my understanding of human behavior. Although I have studied psychology in depth in college courses, I am more concerned with beneficial results than with interesting theories.

He goes on to say:

I feel a glow of pleasure and satisfaction when someone stops me on the street and says, “You’re the man who changed my life!” Of course, he did it himself, but I feel fortunate in possessing the knowledge that enabled me to help him.

Experience taught me how that “glow of pleasure” feels a number of years ago when one of my former clients came up to me in a public place and introduced me to her sister with the words, “This is the man who gave my life back to me!” This woman already had the power to give herself a better life. All I did was use the client-centered techniques taught by Tebbetts to help her unlock the power of her own mind – but I was still moved emotionally by this woman’s gratitude for my part in facilitating her personal growth. My master teacher indirectly helped give this woman her life back to her by teaching me what he knew.

I enjoyed the privilege of knowing Charlie (as his friends called him) as both a mentor and as a personal friend, learning much from him before his passing. One of my original goals in writing this book was to organize and preserve the essence of what my late mentor taught, updated with both my own professional experience (as well as some techniques learned elsewhere). Now the changing times make it necessary for me to update this book again to keep up with an evolving profession.

Although successfully employing Charlie’s techniques since training under him personally in 1983, I realize that the only permanent thing in the universe is change. My hypnosis course, based on his teachings, is now called Diversified Client-Centered Hypnosis. Even that course is still evolving.

A handful of people criticized my giving Tebbetts too much credit in my first two editions of this book, and told me that I should “own” these techniques myself. As a published author, I know how it feels when others teach my work and represent it as theirs … so I will continue to give credit where credit is due. It is far better to be accused of giving others too much credit than to be guilty of plagiarism. Charles Tebbetts was a master teacher; and even now his work indirectly touches lives all over the globe.

Learn the Art of Hypnosis First

This book picks up where my first text ends. Before my own students are exposed to the techniques presented in these pages, they have completed the same training detailed in The Art of Hypnosis: Mastering Basic Techniques (3rd ed., Crown House Publishing,2010), the first part of what I originally called the Charles Tebbetts Hypnotism Training Course.

Some references will make more sense to the reader who has the first volume, so I hope it is already in your library. If you have not had formal training in the art of hypnosis, it is my very strong professional opinion that you should obtain professional hypnosis training before attempting the techniques presented in this second volume! Even if you have a doctorate in medicine or psychology, hands-on training really makes a difference, because there is no substitute for practice to master an art with confidence and competence.

Even the best hypnotherapy techniques could prove ineffective if a client’s depth of hypnosis is so light that he/she lets the conscious mind get in the way and resists guidance. All hypnotherapy employs hypnosis; thus an effective hypnotherapist will help a greater percentage of clients by mastering basic hypnotic techniques first.

I am neither a psychologist nor a scientist – nor do I profess to be one. There are physicians, psychiatrists and psychologists who have done some profound research with medical applications of hypnosis; but how competent would some of these same scientists be at helping a smoker quit smoking without weight gain? … at helping a smoker quit smoking yet still be comfortable around others who smoke, or even help a smoker who does not choose to quit but would like to greatly reduce the number of cigarettes smoked? … or at helping an overweight person reduce without creating aversion to sweets? … at helping a salesman reach sales quota? … or simply helping a bowler improve his/her average? … or helping a person stop biting fingernails without aversion suggestions? … or helping someone forgive and release a deceased parent at a subconscious level? … etc., etc., etc. Do the professionals from the scientific community practice hypnotherapy full-time, or only occasionally while they practice medicine or psychology as a primary vocation?

Also, do all those who genuinely help their clients or patients with hypnosis seek to help the person become self-empowered with the realization that all hypnosis is guided self-hypnosis? Or are there still some hypnotists out there who treat people more like “subjects” who become bound by their suggestions? One real problem providing justification for psychologists calling us the “lay hypnosis” profession is that thousands of practitioners have only minimal training … and they try to fit their clients to those particular hypnosis programs that they learned while taking their short training programs. This hurts the entire hypnosis profession; but my strong opinion is that critics of “lay hypnosis” should not throw out the baby with the bathwater. Many of us around the world are capable of empowering clients through successful use of hypnotic regressions, parts therapy, and other advanced hypnotic techniques that are explored in this book.

If you are a new student of hypnosis seeking competent instruction, beware of weekend warriors who promise the moon and deliver pebbles by offering “certification” in hypnotherapy after only a few days of study. There is no short cut to mastering an art, so choose your instructor(s) wisely.

Who Should Teach Hypnosis?

Tebbetts said numerous times that there is no substitute for practice when mastering any art, including the art of hypnosis. His course spread out over a period of months in order to provide time for students to practice the numerous techniques included in his course.

If you have purchased this book because you believe you need more training, how can you determine whether or not your prospective trainer is your wisest choice?

Professional experience is vital

First of all, ask your prospective hypnotherapy teacher whether or not he/she practices hypnotherapy on a full-time or part-time basis, and for how many years. This is far more important than his or her academic credentials.

In my opinion NO ONE should teach hypnosis unless he or she has at least two years of full-time experience exclusively practicing professional hypnotism – or a minimum of four years of part-time experience in those techniques that are taught! (Some therapists are VERY competent at hypnotherapy, but inadequate at marketing, so they work two jobs in order to make ends meet.) No matter what the person’s academic credentials – or other professional experience – there is no substitute for professional experience when it comes to teaching hypnotherapy (with allowances for certain specialty courses).

I would far rather see someone teaching basic hypnotherapy with two years’ full-time experience in the profession than an instructor with a doctoral degree who only occasionally uses hypnosis in his or her practice of medicine or psychology – except for medical and/or other specialized applications of hypnosis. (Even with all my years of experience in teaching the practice of hypnotherapy, I do not consider myself to be qualified to teach a specialty course on medical applications of hypnosis! I only touch on it in my course on advanced techniques, encouraging interested students to pursue additional studies.)

Those newly certified hypnotists who jump right into teaching hypnosis a few weeks after their certification course are jeopardizing the credibility of our profession. Pay your dues and get your experiencefirst! This is important for both the practitioners and their future clients – AS WELL AS for long-term professional credibility and survival. Hypnosis instructors can far more adequately answer student questions when they have their own client experiences to draw upon. Also, the student of hypnosis will learn far more from actual experience than from any textbook, training manual, trainer or instructor – especially if the initial course of instruction was a wise choice.

What about length of training?

Secondly, find out the length of the training. Is it a weekend certification course? If so, forget it unless it is promoted and represented as an introduction with additional training required prior to certification. Training in basic or advanced hypnosis (for those not previously trained in the art of hypnosis) should span at least 100 hours to cover adequately what you need to know when you are out on your own, regardless of your other professional experience.

Some hypnosis schools offer hundreds of hours of classes in hypnosis and hypnotherapy, as well as in topics related to hypnotherapy and counseling. One of the most credible courses in the entire world may well be the one taught by Joseph Keaney, Ph.D., through the ICHP in Ireland. His course is extensive, with several hundred hours of training. I’ve taught numerous workshops over the years, and have been very impressed with the competence of his former students whom I’ve met while teaching parts therapy workshops at his school in Ireland. There are other hypnosis schools on both sides of the ocean that offer what I believe to be credible courses.

Charles Tebbetts required 150 hours of training for full certification for most of his students. Also, he exclusively taught subject matter that was directly related to hypnosis or hypnotherapy. He did not believe we needed hundreds of hours of classes on theories or on topics that have nothing to do with the practice of hypnotism, which is why he did not require his students to have a college degree. Even though the Tebbetts course was only 150 hours, I believe that additional courses will add to the width and depth of training of the professional practitioner, enhancing his/her practice of the art of hypnotherapy.

Will you learn client-centered techniques?

Thirdly, find out whether or not the techniques taught are client-centered and the classes student-centered. Will you learn hypnotherapy techniques that you must use on every single client? There is no hypnotic technique I know of that will work on all of the people all of the time. Tebbetts taught what I now call diversified client-centered hypnosis We. fit the technique to the client rather than vice versa. If the classes near you only offer a basic modality, consider investing in additional workshops as soon as you are able to do so.

Other important concerns

Does the prospective instructor hold himself or herself up as some guru or expert who frowns on all other techniques except the ones he/she teaches? Is this person the self-appointed director of a hypnosis association that he/she thinks is the only one you should belong to? If the answer to ANY of these questions is “yes,” you might consider looking elsewhere for your training.

Also, has the instructor submitted his/her entire course outline to one or more nationally or internationally recognized hypnotherapy associations for approval? If so, this is a plus. (Several associations have credentialed my course, whether taught by me, or taught by another instructor using my copyrighted instructor’s training manual. Not only have I submitted my material to several different hypnotherapy associations, I have submitted it to the entire profession by writing these books! Many hypnosis schools around the world either recommend or require their students to purchase this text. Also, my course is now offered in several colleges, including a fully accredited college.)

Finally, find out whether or not the instructor teaches that all hypnosis is self-hypnosis. This truth must be taught to the general public as well as to those who teach the art of hypnosis!

Truth Removes Fear

Many of my clients who have been previously hypnotized complain that they either felt like the hypnotist was in control, or felt like they were not the least bit hypnotized. They often seem surprised when I explained that hypnosis – as I use it – is guided self-hypnosis. Some clients (including a few with previous hypnosis experience) still have fears regarding hypnotism.

Even now there are still tens of millions of Americans who erroneously believe that a person in hypnosis is a subject who has placed himself/herself under the “power” or control of the hypnotist. Many medical writings spread this belief by labeling the person in hypnosis as a subject. This very word is misleading, as it gives the impression that the person in hypnosis is “subject” to the power of the hypnotist. That simply is not the case unless the person in hypnosis is tricked into believing that he/she is giving up control – and then he/she might respond according to the false belief system held at the time unless holding on to a strong emotional objection to a suggestion. It’s time for us to tell the truth about hypnosis, and we can begin by changing the language.

In my first book I explained my view that a hypnotherapist using non-medical applications of hypnosis should use the word client or participant, while the word patient may be used with medical applications of hypnosis – unless the person being hypnotized is the subject of an experiment (Hunter, 2010).

Using more respectful terms for those experiencing hypnotherapy is, in my opinion, an important step in removing the fear from hypnosis; and we can further diminish people’s fears by revealing to them the fact that theyare the ones with the power. We are only the artists – or tour guides – trained to guide them on their journey and facilitate their self-empowerment.

In spite of the above, some professionals still debate over who has the power, and whether hypnosis is really self-hypnosis or not. A person can be tricked into believing that he/she is giving up control, and respond accordingly; but in my opinion, the client still has the power as long as he/she believes that to be true. By telling a client that he/she is in a state of guided self-hypnosis, I believe that we empower the client to more easily resist any future unwanted hypnotic suggestions.

The Purpose of This Book

My goal in the first book, The Art of Hypnosis, was to present the basic hypnosis techniques similar to those taught by Charles Tebbetts just as I present them to my classes at Washington State since 1987. My students must learn how to induce and deepen hypnosis as well as how to manage the hypnotic state with both confidence and competence before learning hypnotherapy.

My goal in this second book is to present the same client-centered techniques that my own students learn so that they can effectively work with the majority of clients who seek help. Once we finally master the art of hypnosis, how can we effectively employ hypnotic techniques to help people achieve goals? How can we facilitate diversified client-centered hypnosis?

The second part of my three-quarter course presents the meat of client-centered techniques. The student learns how to use hypnosis for habit control and motivation – such as smoking cessation and weight management, and how triggers impact habits. I devote much of the second part to hypnotic regression, and include a class on dealing with simple fears and anxieties as well as a class on a more thought-provoking use of hypnosis.

The third part of the course explores advanced techniques in some of the more specialized areas, including the legendary parts therapy of Charles Tebbetts. I also include some techniques for the hypnotist who helps a client with a medical referral, as well as some techniques that I employ with hospice patients. For example, how can hypnotherapy help the client who obtains the appropriate written referral from his/her examining physician? How can you help a terminal patient manage pain through the use of imagery during hypnosis? It’s a good idea to know more than one technique if your client walks in with the appropriate referral – because if the technique you use first does not work, what do you do next?

Some actual case histories are presented to my class. My students enjoy the privilege of viewing videos of Tebbetts doing parts therapy while he was living. I occasionally have guest presenters discuss other specialized areas, so that the student who is interested in specializing has enough information to become motivated to seek more training in his/her area(s) of interest. Since those portions of the third part remain subject to change, I simply encourage the serious student of hypnotherapy to seek specialized training in those fields in which he/she desires to specialize.

With my professional hypnotherapy experience dating back to 1983, I feel qualified to share from my own experiences what might and might not be effective. You will read about some of my successful clients; and in addition, I’m willing to share some of my own learning experiences (as well as the mistakes of others) so that you will not have to reinvent the wheel.

There are so many effective techniques that no one book could adequately cover them all; but those taught by Tebbetts brought him legendary fame while he was still living. Just as he taught his students how to practice hypnosis (emphasizing techniques rather than scientific theory), my teaching style is more “how to” than academic.

Also, many textbooks are written in pedantic styles that make for difficult reading. I appreciated the easy-to-read style that my former mentor used, and endeavor to do likewise in all my books. Thus, I present these techniques in a simple and logical way, just as I teach the course. I originally invested over seven years and several thousand hours in organizing the teachings of Charles Tebbetts into what I believe to be a clear, easy-to-understand, logical learning sequence; although I present the chapter on parts therapy earlier in the text than I do in the classroom. Countless additional hours through the years increase my investment in updating this book.

This expanded version includes more references where appropriate. Several associates who evaluated the first edition drafts asked me to refrain from inserting excessive references, because they believed it would make the book more difficult to read. I originally followed their advice in the first two editions, including very few references (other than referring to the work of Tebbetts). However, after submitting articles for several hypnosis journals both at home and abroad, I realize that some professionals appreciate and expect references.

Now let me pose the question that originally motivated me to write the first edition of this book: How effective are the techniques taught by Charles Tebbetts?

Once you master the art of hypnotherapy, find out for yourself! By learning enough techniques to be able to adapt flexibly to your client, you will be practicing diversified client-centered hypnosis. It is my belief that you will discover something very important: results speak louder than books.

Before getting into the rest of this book, however, allow me to honor the request of one of the hypnotherapy associations endorsing my course by listing the names and addresses of those who gave their approval of my course before the first edition was published:

Hypnotherapy Associations Originally Recognizing This Course:

These are listed in alphabetical order…

The International Medical and Dental Hypnotherapy Association (IMDHA): www.imdha.com

The International Society for Professional Hypnosis (ISPH)

National Association of Transpersonal Hypnotherapists (NATH): www.holistictree.com

*National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH): www.ngh.net

National Society of Clinical Hypnotherapists (NSCH)

**Washington Hypnosis Association (WHA)

*Certification granted only on a “provisional” basis because I have not taken their “Train the Trainer” program.

**Other state associations also gave endorsement, but the WHA went under in the mid-1990s due to decreasing memberships. Until its demise, it was the oldest hypnosis association in the United States, dating back to the 1940s. In late 2009 several hypnotherapists decided to revive the WHA.

After the first edition of this text, other hypnosis associations also chose to recognize my course. The most notable one is the Association of Professional Hypnosis and Psychotherapy (APHP). Their URL is: www.aphp.co.uk

SPECIAL NOTICE about Miracles on Demand: I wish to express my deepest gratitude to the copyright owner for granting permission to use numerous quotations from that book in this text. Both Charles and Joyce Tebbetts granted me permission, both verbally and in writing, to use any and all materials written by Charles Tebbetts; however, the additional authorization given proved vital in clarifying potential misunderstandings.

Chapter 2

The Preinduction Interview

One of the most important qualities of a good therapist is the ability to put one’s self in the place of the client and have genuine understanding and empathy.

According to Charles Tebbetts, this feeling – when genuine – is actually picked up by the client subconsciously, and is an important part of building rapport (Miracles on Demand, 2nd edition, p. 214). While rapport is vital throughout the entire therapy process, it begins before hypnosis – and is the first of four main objectives of the preinduction interview. The other three objectives are: allay fears, build mental expectancy, and gather information.

While accomplishing all four objectives explored in this chapter, remember the importance of listening. Not only do we need to speak effectively, we must be very good listeners (Valley, 2005). This is at least half of effective communication. During the intake session (or preinduction interview), it is also appropriate to explain what confidentiality means (Emmerson, 2006). All credible hypnosis associations recognize the importance of client confidentiality in their codes of ethics.

The rest of this chapter will limit itself mostly to the teachings of Tebbetts, expanded by my own experience. The reader interested in additional research may invest the necessary time to learn about established methods used in other health care professions (S.O.A.P., etc.); but I wish to present this topic here adapted for hypnotherapy primarily as I do for my own classes. Let’s begin our discussion with the first objective of the preinduction interview of the intake session.

Objective #1: Building and Maintaining Rapport

Rapport begins the moment of first contact, whether in person or by phone.

How do you answer the telephone? Do you project a willingness to be a good listener? Do you ask questions and offer a free consultation, or do you try as quickly as possible to get the prospective client into your office so the clock can start ticking? Perceptive people on the other end of the telephone may discern your attitude by listening to your tone of voice. Of course, there must be a balance, as experienced therapists know that some people can and will take advantage of your time if you let them.

The second part of building rapport begins the moment the client steps into the office. What kind of image do you project? We can project a professional image both by our appearance as well as the appearance of the office.

By dressing professionally we convey an unspoken message that the client will be treated professionally. Personal grooming is also important. For example, a man with long hair and/or an excessively long beard could easily lose rapport within seconds. Furthermore, excessive makeup and/or strong perfume (or cologne) could make both men and women uncomfortable. Smoker’s breath can also be an immediate deterrent for many prospective clients. Much more could be said about personal image, but this book is not the place for it. If you have questions, invest some time and/or money with an image consultant.

The office should be pleasant but professional. If there are religious and/or metaphysical pictures or symbols around (such as crystals and/or crucifixes), some people will immediately become uncomfortable. Unless you are working primarily within your church or within a certain target market, be extremely careful about how you decorate your office. This becomes even more important if you work out of your home – which is already two strikes against you.

My first exposure to a hypnotherapist took me to a private home. When the door opened, a seductively-dressed woman took me down to a candlelit basement filled with new-age pictures. I had already decided against hypnosis even before meeting her husband, who appeared dressed in a robe that made him look like a sorcerer from the days of King Arthur! Over a year passed before I even considered hypnotherapy again. Fortunately someone changed my opinion of hypnosis, or you wouldn’t be reading this book right now.

Even though my own example was extreme – and, I hope, very rare – I have been in several hypnotherapy offices that would immediately tarnish rapport in the minds of many prospective clients.

So now you introduce yourself and invite your client to be seated in a comfortable environment … what next?

Take a few minutes to get acquainted. Tebbetts taught us that part of building rapport was in making friends with the client, because a client who likes his/her therapist will be much more comfortable and responsive to therapy. My professional experience validates his opinion. Maintain balance between friendliness and professionalism. Getting too friendly in a personal way could easily give the wrong image. Be professional, but be yourself.

Turn off the phone unless expecting an urgent call – in which case the client should not be charged for the time until after the call. Remember to turn off your cell phone as well, and request that your client do likewise.

We should also respect the client’s pocketbook and limit the amount of “small talk” so that we may get to the task we are paid for. Remember this important fact: your client is your employer!

The last part of rapport is ongoing. We should maintain rapport throughout the entire session and/or series of sessions by being good listeners as well as by doing for the client what we would want done if the roles were reversed. By all means let’s remain ethical, making ethics second nature. (If you have any questions about ethical conduct, refer to Chapter 9 of my first volume of this major work, The Art of Hypnosis.) Remember that it is much easier to maintain rapport than it is to try to regain it if lost.

Now let’s discuss the second important objective of the preinduction interview: allaying fears.

Objective #2: Allaying Fears

Many clients have entered my office with fears, whether expressed or unexpressed. What were they afraid of?

A smoker confessed to me that she had two fears. First, she was afraid that she couldn’t be hypnotized, and might waste her time and money. Second, she was also afraid that hypnosis would indeed work, and she feared the thought of never having another cigarette again in her life!

Some people have fears of being alone with a member of the opposite sex. I invite my clients to bring friends or relatives with them if they wish, and this seems to alleviate those fears. Very few clients actually do bring other friends or relatives with them; but just knowing they have that option seems to help them feel more secure. There are some hypnotherapists who will not do a session alone with a member of the opposite sex, while others make recordings of the sessions and/or keep the door open throughout. You are free to choose your own precautions for both your own peace of mind as well as that of your clients.

Other people have the two more common fears of hypnosis (whether or not they express those fears to you). They are afraid of losing control, and/or revealing personal secrets. Before addressing the latter fear, let’s discuss the former one.

Fear of losing control

Whether expressed or not, the fear of losing control is the single greatest obstacle we are likely to encounter; and unless we deal with this fear in a sensitive and positive way, it may hinder or prevent the client from obtaining any beneficial results (Yapko, 1995).

Effective use of suggestibility tests is essential in minimizing fears of hypnosis, as well as in building mental expectancy. I avoid calling them “suggestibility tests” with the client, as the word “suggestibility” could easily activate the fear of losing control. Also, some people have test anxiety, and might get nervous about whether they will pass the “test.” Before giving a suggestibility test, I say:

I’m going to give you the opportunity to discover the power of your imagination.

Pay close attention to my wording. The client will receive an opportunity to discover something … and it will be the client’s power, not mine! Furthermore, by explaining that imagination is the language of the subconscious, I teach clients how to communicate with their own subconscious minds! The suggestibility tests effectively demonstrate this important fact, so I end the demonstration by saying, “Your fingers [or arms] did not move because I told them to; they moved because of what you imagined!” My job is to help a client imagine success, then to believe that he/she may achieve it through effective use of hypnosis to help the subconscious become convinced of the possibility – or reality. Then I do what is possible to help the client have the expectation of success, both consciously and subconsciously.

I also reveal to my clients the fact that all hypnosis is really guided self-hypnosis, or guided daydreaming. Some might ask whether this could reduce the response of clients who wish to be hypnotized. Perhaps the best answer is yes; but am I really doing clients a favor if helping them means taking their power away and making those people already caught in a victim trap become “subjects” of hypnosis instead of clients? If people want me to “rescue” them instead of helping them to greater self-empowerment, what role might they take if I fail to rescue them to their own satisfaction?

Tebbetts required all his students to explain that all hypnosis is self-hypnosis before every session, even during classroom practice. This concept helps reduce or eliminate the fear of loss of control; and I believe that a client becomes more empowered by accepting this concept.

Unless I believe that my clients realize I’m only a guide, or an artist facilitating their own abilities to change, I will not take their money. Instead, I recommend that they seek other professional help. Additionally, I explain to clients that one of my goals is to help them claim the power of choice by teaching them how to get the subconscious to accept the choices of the conscious mind, in order to attain their ideal empowerment.

Fear of revealing secrets

If a client is afraid of revealing secrets, I explain that I cannot make him/her reveal anything against his or her will. Furthermore, in Washington State, hypnotherapists must abide by the terms of the Uniform Disciplinary Code, which requires hypnotherapists to maintain client confidentiality. Even if your state does not have such a requirement, most professional hypnosis associations have this requirement in their codes of ethics. We may also assure the client that professional ethics require that any information be held in confidence.

Here are some words of Charles Tebbetts about allaying fears (p. 215, Miracles on Demand, 2nd edition):

The usual fears expressed by clients who are not familiar with hypnotism are that they will reveal their secrets, that they will be unable to come out of the trance, and that they will be made to do things they don’t want to do. Contrary to average beliefs, these fears are all unfounded. Although the conscious, analytical mind is dormant during hypnosis, it is always functioning. A person can choose to lie when deeply hypnotized, and will not reveal any information he doesn’t want others to know. He can remember things he couldn’t remember consciously, but he chooses what he wishes to tell. He can come out of hypnosis at any time he wishes, and if he chooses to remain hypnotized, he will eventually go to sleep and awaken as usual. He will also refuse to do anything that he doesn’t want to do. He will do things while in hypnosis that he wouldn’t do otherwise, but only those things that he doesn’t mind doing.

Objective #3: Building Mental Expectancy

Remember the roles of belief, imagination, conviction and expectation? The acronym is BICE. These are the ingredients of the hypnotic formula (Hunter, 2010).

After the client responds to a suggestibility test, I refer back to the “demonstration of the power of imagination” in a way that builds mental expectancy. I say, “When I ask you to imagine a peaceful place, it is up to you to fantasize a peaceful place rather than the freeway during rush hour. Furthermore, if I ask a smoker to imagine having more energy or more fun money, and instead he fantasizes puffing away on a cigarette, what do you think the subconscious will buy?” (Note that I put the smoker in the third person format, even if the client is a smoker wishing to quit.) I expand on the second example by explaining that the occasional smoker who backslides does so after fantasizing a cigarette. Additionally, people who succeed fantasize their successes.

The advantage of having been in the profession for many years is that I can draw upon the successes of other clients whose circumstances resemble those of the person consulting me for the first time. When I did not have this advantage, I drew upon the experiences of Charles Tebbetts and other veteran hypnotherapists to help my clients believe that hypnosis could help them too. To benefit my readers, I have threaded some of my own case summaries throughout this book as well as some case summaries of my late mentor; so you might enjoy these same benefits if you are new in the profession.

Another part of building mental expectancy lies in your own level of expertise and confidence. There is no substitute for practice to develop that confidence and competence; so if you have learned hypnosis simply out of a textbook or a weekend seminar, do a favor for both yourself and your clients by seeking more training. (Refer to the section in the first chapter entitled, “Who Should Teach Hypnosis?” to find out how to choose wisely.)

Once again, I must also emphasize the value of suggestibility tests as a vital part of building mental expectancy. Read the words of Charles Tebbetts about this important objective (p. 216, Miracles on Demand, 2nd edition):

The fact that the client chose to come to you suggests that he recognizes you as a hypnotist. Your own confidence in your ability to guide him into hypnosis is your greatest asset for building the client’s expectancy. The statement, “If you can follow my simple directions, no power on earth can prevent you from becoming hypnotized,” suggests to the client that you are capable of doing your part and that it is up to him to do his. Inform him that all hypnosis is self-hypnosis and that you are an expert in guiding him into the trance state. Always project the attitude that a good hypnotist never fails. It is only the subject [client] who can fail.

If you have The Art of Hypnosis, you may wish to re-read Chapter 4 at this time, as the suggestibility tests are too important to omit in the intake session. Other hypnosis books also discuss them.

Objective #4: Gathering Information

It would be pointless to begin hypnotherapy without finding out what the client wishes to accomplish. This seems very basic – yet it is so important that I must share a personal experience with my readers.

A woman who was at least 100 pounds overweight entered my office after I had been in the profession for about two years. She told me that she had been heavy all her life, and had gone up and down like a yo-yo. She answered every question I asked her about her weight – including how much she weighed – and told me that she had great resentment towards society’s attitude against fat people. She resented people who even hinted that she should lose weight, and had not tried to reduce in over six years. When I asked her why she finally decided to use hypnosis to deal with her weight, she cleared her throat and exclaimed, “I came here to quit smoking!” Even though she accepted my apology, I wanted to crawl under the carpet. Needless to say, I shall always remember this lesson! My embarrassment was so severe that any hole in the carpet would have been welcome. In fact, my desire to forget this incident actually resulted in forgetting whether she ever returned for a second session.

Never assume. Ask your client what goal he/she hopes to accomplish through hypnotherapy before you put your foot into your mouth; and if the problem is beyond your area of competence, refer the client elsewhere.

If the client has a medical problem, avoid crossing the invisible line. You cannot diagnose illness or disease unless licensed to do so; and you should avoid medical applications of hypnosis without the appropriate medical referral (unless you are a licensed physician or working under medical supervision). Even if you are an ordained minister incorporating hypnotherapy into prayer and/or pastoral counseling, at least advise people that pain is a warning that something is wrong with the body – and suggest that they consider appropriate medical examination to deal with the cause of the pain.

Assuming you can help, proceed to gather whatever relevant information is necessary for you to help the client. This includes history and development of the problem or bad habit he/she might wish to change, as well as other relevant factors. Information from the client might also help you determine which induction is best.

Ask whether or not the client has ever been professionally hypnotized – and if so, which induction was used. We should also ask when and why, as well as whether or not the hypnosis was helpful. Duplicating good techniques formerly used will increase the probability of success. Conversely, if the previous experience was not successful, we run the risk of duplicating past negative experiences (Yapko, 1995).

If you plan to use guided imagery techniques, it’s very important to know whether your client visualizes – and whether or not there are any phobias. For example, do not take a client down an imaginary elevator as a deepening technique if he/she is afraid of elevators! Likewise, let’s avoid guiding someone to the beach if he/she is afraid of the ocean, etc. Ask the client to tellyou where his/her peaceful place might be. One of my students liked boats, so she had another student imagine being in a boat. He literally got seasick, and went outside to lose his dinner!

If you intend to use any touch techniques, you should first find out whether your client is comfortable being touched. Also, if you plan on using eye-fixation inductions, perhaps you’d better find out whether your client is sensitive to light. If so (or if he or she is not visual), the client just might prefer another induction type.

There are other questions that may or may not be appropriate depending on the client objectives, such as questions about marital status, family background and/or medical background. I used to ask every client about marital status until one woman took it the wrong way. This taught me that sometimes it’s not just what you ask; it’s how and when you ask. If you tend to sometimes put your foot in your mouth, you may ask your client to complete a written form with written answers to these questions.

Many therapists consider a lengthy written survey to be the professional thing to do. Some people hate writing, and ask questions verbally. My opinion is that the hypnotist should be free to make a choice; but even if most questions are answered verbally, there should still be some sort of written disclosure and/or client information sheet which your client completes in writing. Washington State has a state law requiring a written disclosure be completed and signed by both therapist and client – with the client retaining a copy. Such disclosure must contain fee structure, disclosure about therapist’s training, education and experience, estimated number of sessions (where known), and certain other information specified by the state. Even if not required, such disclosure