Foundations of Clinical and Applied Hypnosis

In addition to reviewing a brief history of hypnosis, this course will introduce students to the steps to facilitate a hypnotic state along with various types of suggestions for positive therapeutic change. Emphasis will be placed on how to integrate these skills into clinical practice or apply to research models.  This workshop will include live demonstrations, videos, PowerPoint lectures and supervised hands-on practice of hypnotic inductions, deepening techniques, suggestions and re-alerting. Each student will have the opportunity to practice skills and experience hypnosis.

1. Provide definitions of hypnosis and of terms commonly used in describing hypnosis.
2. Describe the effects of hypnosis on the autonomic nervous system.
3. Describe the steps in a formal hypnotic encounter.
4. Describe at least 4 observable physiological and 4 psychological/behavioral signs of trance.
5. Discuss the importance of removing suggestions.
6. Explain 5 different hypnotic phenomena.
7. Define abreaction and how it can be addressed therapeutically.
8. Describe three methods of trance intensification.
9. Name at least four commonly used words/phrases to reinforce the patient’s hypnotic experience.
10. Define what is meant by ego strengthening and how it might be used in clinical practice.
11. Explain how to teach self-hypnosis to a patient or client.
12. Describe the ways in which memory may be fallible.
13. Describe the therapeutic application of hypnosis to children.