What hypnosis is and isn't. A layman's definition

1. Defining Hypnosis
Unit 1– – Video 1
Copyright the Horizon Center School of
Hypnotherapy 2004

2. Definition
o Hypnosis= an artificially induced state
of concentration in which deeper parts of
the mind become more accessible
o Can be created naturally (more on this
later)
o Can be created by a hypnotist ex. Stage
hypnosis
o Can be created by SELF HYPNOSIS=
auto hypnosis

3. Hypnotherapy
 Doing therapy with the client in an altered state
to address and/or uncover the cause of an issue
 What you see on stage is not hypnotherapy!--
It is merely hypnosis.
 Upon completion of this program and receiving
your certification, you will be a hypnotherapist,
not a hypnotist!

4. Natural trance states
Everybody can be hypnotized--
As long as they are willing
And, in fact we are hypnotized
"unofficially" on a regular basis
We drift in and out of altered
states all day long

5. Have you ever…
 Driving without paying attention to your
surroundings
 Tuned out when someone is talking to
you
 Become engrossed in a sport, hobby or
activity
 Felt emotional when reading an
emotionally charged book or watching a
tear jerker movie
 Noticed that you are having dream like

6. If so… You have been In
hypnosis
Hypnosis is not…
Being asleep
Being unaware
Being unconscious
Being under somebody's control

7. Note:
Hypnosis does not require
surrendering your will – – a
person must be willing to be
hypnotized.
Therefore – – ask permission
Hypnosis is never dangerous
– – it is relaxing and

8. Also noteworthy
Hypnosis enables people to do what
they could not normally do
Examples:
 Keep an arm stiff and rigid for a
lengthy period of time without any
discomfort
 Not feel any pain during a surgery
 Have more focus and
concentration during a performance

9. IMDHA definition
If you are writing the IMDHA certification exam, this is
the definition of hypnosis they want you to write:
Hypnosis is a
communication and
reeducation process which
allows the conscious and
subconscious to believe
the same message