STAGES OF HYPNOSIS

There’s a host of different techniques used to induce a trance during hypnotherapy

Priming

This is where the hypnotherapist may prepare or outline the patient’s trance. This may involve carrying out an interview about the goals of the treatment.

Preparation

The patient is placed in a comfortable position with their eyes closed. Breathing techniques may then be used to help relax the patient.

Induction

Hypnotic induction involves one of several techniques. The patient may be guided into a meditative state through calming visual cues, such as imagining a beach.

Hypnotic state or trance

Following a successful induction the patient will enter a state of heightened relaxation, both physically and mentally.

Suggestion

Intended to replace or edit subconscious thoughts, a hypnotherapist will use verbal communication to make suggestions to alter behaviour.

Emergence

A cue set by the hypnotherapist in the priming stage – such as a sound or word – may be used to bring the patient out of their trance-like state.