The pre-talk is the part of the hypnotherapy process where the hypnotist explains what the client can expect from hypnotherapy, and hopefully dispel any myths regarding hypnosis.
- “Don’t expect to feel Hypnotised“
Many people come to the hypnotherapist thinking that there is something about trance which is markedly different from their “normal” state of consciousness. This is definitely not the case. A Light Trance will likely feel no different from relaxation. Since trance is a normal natural state, then clients will likely feel a feeling of familiarity, no matter how deep in trance they go. You can say, “Don’t expect to feel Hypnotised. Trance is not about feeling ‘zonked out;’ it is a normal natural state.”
- “Do expect to feel relaxed.”
“Hypnosis is a natural state where you feel increasing levels of relaxation.”
- “You ARE in control.”
“During the trance induction, you need to know that you are in charge. For example, if I told you to stand up and it was OK, you would, right? But if I told you to rob a bank you wouldn’t do that. Well it’s the same in Hypnosis. You are in charge. You only accept the suggestions that are given that are consistent with your own internal values and beliefs.”
- “Trance is about learning to go into trance.”
“So the process we are about to learn is just that, a learning process. Each step of the way there are several exercises, and we will see how many exercises you succeed at. The more successful you are, the deeper you can go.”