What is Ericksonian hypnotherapy?
Ericksonian hypnosis is the name given to the style of hypnotherapy used and taught by psychiatrist Milton Erickson. The approach is particularly associated with adapting hypnosis to the individual and using indirect suggestion, metaphor and storytelling.
In this video, hypnotherapist Heather Fletcher, Hypnotherapy (Cert. Hyp.CS), MHS (Accred); BA(Hons), explains Ericksonian hypnotherapy: what it is, how it came about and how the approach may benefit you.
Hypnotic trance, sometimes described as a state of focused attention or altered awareness, is used within hypnotherapy. Experiences that involve becoming absorbed in thoughts or activities, such as daydreaming, are sometimes compared with aspects of hypnotic trance.
Ericksonian hypnotherapy is particularly associated with indirect suggestion. Rather than giving an explicit instruction, a hypnotherapist might introduce an idea or possibility through conversation, metaphor or storytelling. Erickson believed this could help people respond to suggestions in a less consciously directed way, although research has not established that indirect suggestions are generally more effective than direct suggestions.
For example, an indirect suggestion might be: “Your eyes may grow tired as you listen to the story. You’re allowed to close them, and if you do, you may experience a pleasant sense of comfort as you begin to relax.”
Rather than directly instructing someone to close their eyes, this introduces it as a possibility. Erickson incorporated techniques like this into conversations and adapted the way he communicated to the individual.
Who is Milton Erickson?
Milton Erickson was an American psychiatrist known for his work in psychotherapy and medical hypnosis. Rather than using the same techniques with everyone, Erickson adapted his approach to the individual, drawing on their experiences, language and responses.
His use of indirect suggestion, metaphor and storytelling became closely associated with his work and influenced the development of what is now known as Ericksonian hypnotherapy.
The key elements of Ericksonian hypnosis
Erickson's approach was highly individualised, but several elements associated with his work have since been recognised and developed within Ericksonian hypnotherapy.
Having flexibility in the approach
Erickson was highly flexible and adapted his approach to each client. Sometimes he would use indirect approaches, while at other times he would communicate more directly. Other times, the hypnosis he used would barely be recognised as hypnosis at all. He would spend time getting to know the client and understanding their experiences, which would inform his approach.
Working with symptoms for change
Erickson often viewed client problems as part of a wider pattern. He believed that changing an aspect of a symptom or behaviour could help disrupt that pattern.
Engaging the unconscious mind
Erickson believed the unconscious mind could play an important role in therapeutic change. His approach therefore made extensive use of imagination, metaphor, therapeutic stories, humour and indirect suggestion.
Rather than always giving explicit instructions or asking someone to enter a trance-like state, Erickson incorporated these techniques into conversation. This more subtle, individualised style became closely associated with Ericksonian hypnotherapy.
Ericksonian hypnosis techniques
As well as the use of indirect suggestion and the elements noted above, there are a number of Ericksonian hypnosis techniques that may be employed in this approach, such as:
Use of metaphor
Metaphors and stories are key features used within Ericksonian hypnotherapy. They may be used to introduce ideas or different ways of thinking about an issue without addressing it directly.
The confusion technique
When discussing his approach, Milton Erickson noted that almost all of his techniques involved the use of confusion. The idea is to use complex or vague language patterns to interrupt someone's usual way of following what is being said. Erickson believed this could help make someone more receptive to suggestion.
Handshake induction
The handshake induction is a technique associated with Erickson that involves interrupting the familiar pattern of shaking hands and redirecting the person's attention.
Is Ericksonian hypnosis effective?
Research specifically looking at Ericksonian hypnotherapy is still limited. Some studies have reported positive outcomes, but more high-quality research is needed to understand how effective the approach may be for different concerns. While hypnosis and hypnotherapy have been studied for a range of concerns, the evidence varies depending on what they are being used for.
How someone responds to hypnotherapy can also vary, and an approach that feels helpful for one person may not be right for another.
What can Ericksonian hypnosis help with?
People may consider hypnotherapy for a range of concerns, including anxiety, fears and phobias, pain management, habits and behaviour change. The evidence for hypnotherapy varies depending on the issue being addressed.
If you're seeking support for a mental or physical health condition, hypnotherapy should not replace advice or treatment from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
Working with a hypnotherapist
If you’re considering Ericksonian hypnotherapy, you may want to ask a hypnotherapist about their training, experience and how they use this approach. They should be happy to explain what you can expect from sessions and answer any questions you have.
Finding a hypnotherapist you feel comfortable with is important. When you’re ready, you can use our directory to find a qualified hypnotherapist and learn more about how they work.
