How to Hypnotize People
I am looking at this from the point of view of hypnotherapy. However, the steps are the same in case of hypnosis (as demonstration) or stage hypnosis. I will later write about how to do stage hypnosis. The following steps are used the first time you hypnotize anybody:
- Hypnosis pretalk. Explain what hypnosis is and is not. Get rid of misconceptions and any concerns. Also build rapport and get the subject used to accepting your suggestions.
- Induction. There are numerous different inductions. Use your favorite or whichever is most apt for this subject. Remember flexibility is one of the most important skills of a great hypnotherapist. Have sensory acuity. Notice what is working and what is not and use a different induction if the first one does not work until you find one which works. I think a great amount of your success depends on your belief in your capabilities as a hypnotherapist and belief in the client's capabilities. I start with each new client with the belief that I am lucky to be working with the worlds best subject.
- Deepening. There are plenty of different deepening techniques. Typically counting down works fine. Some hypnotherapists count up. Choose whichever works for you and do the opposite in the realerting phase.
- Suggestion for therapy.
- Suggestion for easier induction and going deeper next time.
- Realerting. If you counted down during deepening count up and vise versa.