Conversational hypnosis, also known as "covert hypnosis" or "verbal hypnosis," is a type of hypnosis that is performed through conversation or verbal communication. It involves the use of language patterns, tonality, and other verbal cues to influence the listener's subconscious mind and bring about a desired change in their thoughts, behaviours, or beliefs.
There are various techniques used in conversational hypnosis, including:
Pacing and leading: This technique involves matching the language and behaviour of the listener and gradually leading them in the desired direction. For example, if a hypnotherapist wanted to help a client overcome a fear of public speaking, they might start by saying, "It's completely normal to feel nervous before speaking in front of a group. Many people feel this way." By pacing the client's feelings of nervousness, the hypnotherapist is able to establish rapport and build trust. They can lead the client towards a more positive mindset by saying, "But with practice and preparation, you can learn to control those nerves and deliver a confident and engaging presentation."
Embedded commands: This technique involves hiding a command within a sentence or phrase, often using a change in tonality or emphasis. For example, a hypnotherapist might say, "You will feel more relaxed and focused after you take a deep breath and let go of any tension in your body." The command "let go of any tension" is embedded within the sentence and may be more likely to be accepted by the subconscious mind because it is not stated directly.
Fractionation: This technique involves rapidly alternating between two opposing states or emotions to create confusion in the listener's mind. This confusion can make the listener more susceptible to suggestions. For example, a hypnotherapist might say, "Imagine feeling completely relaxed and at ease, and then imagine feeling anxious and stressed. Now, go back and forth between these two states until you feel completely hypnotized."
Pattern interrupts: This technique involves disrupting the listener's thought patterns by introducing something unexpected or unfamiliar. This can break the listener's trance and make them more open to suggestions. For example, hypnotherapists might snap their fingers or clap their hands to interrupt the listener's thought patterns and create a moment of confusion.
Anchoring: This technique involves creating a strong association between a specific stimulus (such as a word or touch) and a desired emotional state or response. The hypnotherapist might touch the client's hand while saying a positive affirmation, for example, and then later use the same touch to trigger the positive emotional state.
Reframing: This technique involves changing the interpretation or meaning of an experience or belief to alter the listener's emotional response to it. For example, a hypnotherapist might say, "Instead of thinking of your fear of public speaking as a weakness, try thinking of it as a sign of your care and concern for delivering a great presentation. You want to do your best, and that's a good thing."
Visualization: This technique involves guiding the listener to create a vivid mental image of a desired outcome or experience. The hypnotherapist might say, "Close your eyes and imagine yourself giving a confident and successful presentation. See yourself speaking clearly and confidently, and notice how your audience is engaged and receptive to your message. Now, open your eyes and bring that feeling of confidence and success into the present moment."
Storytelling: This technique involves using a story or metaphor to convey a message or desired outcome. The hypnotherapist might tell a story about someone who overcame their fear of public speaking and achieved great success, for example, and then help the listener to see themselves in that story.
It's important to note that these techniques can be combined and modified in different ways to suit the needs and goals of the listener. A trained hypnotherapist can use their understanding of these techniques and the listener's unique needs to create a personalized hypnosis experience.
Keywords: conversational hypnosis, hypnosis techniques, pacing and leading, embedded commands, fractionation, pattern interrupts, anchoring, reframing, visualization, storytelling