A Position Paper on the Training of Hypnotists

by Maurice Kouguell, Ph.D., BCETS

OVERVIEW OF THE TRAINING PHILOSOPHY

The training program at Brookside Center for Counseling and Hypnotherapy is based on the fact that hypnosis is not a profession but a tool in the hands of the hypnotherapist. The hypnotherapist must be trained in sizing up the client's problem and then selecting the approach necessary to alleviate the discomfort of the client. The students are required to have knowledge of both normal and abnormal psychology and how to reference and apply such knowledge in the scope of one's practice. For instance: thumb sucking, bed-wetting or nail-biting need to be looked at not only as habits, but also as perhaps the direct manifestation of non-conscious conflicts which might, if removed, precipitate strong feelings of anxiety or insecurity.

Becoming a hypnotist carries with it responsibilities. We must recognize and acknowledge that each person is a unique human being and must be handled in a highly individualized way.

Hypnotists in training need to begin their learning journey by being acquainted with the ethics of the profession, recognizing pathology, learning the fundamentals of interviewing techniques and rapport. Listening and observing are always a major part of the training.

CURRICULUM

Students are required to complete assigned reading covering, but not limited to, the following: (requirements will be waived for those students who are already proficient in any of the following areas)

1. Knowledge of ethical issues
2. Knowledge of normal and abnormal psychology
3. Historical overview of hypnosis
4. Nature of hypnosis
5. Techniques of trance induction

Introduction to Assessments
Screening technique to determine the advisability of using hypnosis. (Homework assignments required)

PRACTICUM: INTRODUCTION TO TRANCE STATE

(STUDENTS EXPERIENCE HYPNOSIS FROM INSTRUCTOR)

LIVE DEMONSTRATION OF AN INDUCTION:
The training requires that the students learn by watching their instructor in the process of inducing trance as well as deepening techniques and discussing the process with their instructor.

1. Students observe the instructor at work with a client
2. Students analyze the session (rapport, interaction, content, technicalities, etc.)
3. Students work with clients and their work is evaluated
4. Students observe others at work - either live or via tapes and critique the sessions
5. Students learn how to conduct an initial interview by doing it
6. Students will learn how NLP and EFT can be integrated in their training

SELECTING THE APPROPRIATE INDUCTION:
DEMONSTRATION AND DISCUSSION OF VARIOUS INDUCTION TECHNIQUES.
BEFORE THE INDUCTION, IT IS NECESSARY TO ACCESS THE UNCONSCIOUS PART OF THE CLIENT'S MIND.

Integrating the Assessment with the Induction and how to establish a follow up program (monitoring one's effectiveness) is an integral part of the training. The well being of the patient must always be a priority. Since hypnosis deals with the unconscious, we must have a tool that will allow us to become aware of the non-conscious. Students are given the two textbooks Human Figure Drawing: A Screening and Evaluative Tool in Hypnosis and DAPTH: Accessing the Unconscious in the Practice of Hypnosis and Counseling. These techniques are recognized as essential tools, have been adopted by the National Guild of Hypnotists and are being offered at the conventions. The two books are required of all graduate and doctoral candidates in the department of Counseling Psychology, as well as in the department of Family Life Communication at Westbrook University.

IS HYPNOSIS SAFE? IN THE HANDS OF A WELL-TRAINED CLINICIAN, IT IS SAFE. IT CAN BE UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS IN THE HANDS OF A HYPNOTIST WHO GOES BEYOND HIS AREA OF EXPERTISE.

THERE COULD BE COMPLICATIONS RESULTING FROM HYPNOSIS. THIS MUST BE EMPHASIZED IN THE TRAINING OF THE CANDIDATES.

DURING THEIR TRAINING PROGRAMS STUDENTS WILL BE EXPOSED TO VARIOUS PRACTIONERS IN VIVO OR VIA TAPES.

THIS WILL ENCOURAGE THEM TO DEVELOP THEIR OWN STYLE.

Hypnotherapy is a profession in its own right and will gain respect and credibility as the hypnotist's training incorporates an understanding of behavior as well as of the non conscious processes. It is expected that our are certified students will be prepared to practice. They are invited to consult with the Center as needed. Students will need to submit three original inductions.

Students can be certified by The International and Medical and Dental Hypnotherapy Association upon successfully passing their required examination.

Note: The Brookside Center for Counseling and Hypnotherapy as an institution closed in 2008. This curriculum is offered for information purposes only.