The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the view of the American Council of Hypnotist Examiners.

by Roger Cooper Dent

As experienced hypnotherapists, we all are aware of the power of suggestion with our client, often through the use of metaphor in trance or conversation. And, while there are times when even the most creative among us might refer to a prepared script for ideas, I suspect that most of us prefer to customize sessions for each client. That might include referencing scripts for ideas, of even gleaning ideas from past client sessions. In any case, developing a session in advance or impromptu need not be difficult and the reward is well worth the creative effort.

Developing metaphors or “creative script” ideas for clients begins with the initial interview. Over the years, I’ve pared down my multi-page introduction questionnaire to a few basic questions, covering personal and medical history, current medications, experience with hypnosis, reason for seeking treatment, and equally important, a few positive thoughts and images to build on for guided imagery and the development of metaphor-based sessions.

The subconscious mind responds amazingly well to metaphors. This is most obvious in children, who transition quickly into trance through image-provoking conversation, though works equally well with most adults. Clients often tell me about significant “shifts” following a session that relate to suggestions I’ve given them in conversation, in addition to those given in an induced trance. If phrased properly and placed in the proper context, seemingly benign words, phrases and stories significantly impact the client’s perceptions going forward.

While some creative ability helps, you need not be an accomplished story teller or creative writer to develop effective scripts and sessions using metaphors. Steps that will help you get started include:

Explore with your client. Metaphors must be pertinent to the client. The introductory interview provides the best opportunity to ensure that the session is symbolically or factually relevant. Information can be extracted through conversation or direct questioning. I always ask each prospective client to tell me where they feel the most positive (comfortable, secure, happy, or calm). Direct questions (“What was your favorite part of the best vacation you’ve ever taken?”). I have them describe details of their surroundings and what they especially like about this particular place or environment. Often, I’ll have the client close their eyes as they share their description with me, creating a gateway for their future experience in self hypnosis (development of an auto-suggestion), and reducing any anxiety that may exist about the entire experience. I’m also cautious to ask about any places or concepts they might prefer to avoid.

Read scripts prepared by others (Marlene Hunter’s “Creative Scripts for Hypnotherapy” is one of my favorites). Think about how you might use some of the thoughts, ideas, or concepts with your past and present clients. Adapt images to suit your client, their preferences and situation.

Use self hypnosis. Think about a specific client issue and focus on images around you or in nature that come to mind. Allow your thoughts to develop freely. When you end your session, document your ideas and continue to develop them. You likely will find yourself waking up in the morning with new and creative ideas!

Recycle concepts that you’ve used in the past. Adjust images and details to appeal to other clients. When you have a concept that works well, continue to develop it, even if generically, so that it can be useful to you in the future. Record concepts and ideas to develop later. At a minimum, you’re exercising your creative thought process!

Above all, use detailed descriptions. Use expression in your voice, speak clearly. Appeal to all of the senses. If you create a scene for your client, describe the leaves, hillsides and sky by color, shape, texture and even scent. Give the clouds temperature and possibly taste. Make the experience safe, secure, calm. Always use the positive. Allow moments of silence for the client to process.

When developing ideas, allow your creativity to take the lead. I once used the idea of a spring emanating from the forest floor as a quiet setting for a relaxation and grounding session. I liked the concept so much and it was so well received by the client, that over time, my spring has created a pool (sometimes pure, clear water, or possibly healing colors or lights), overflowed its boundaries and continued down-hill. It has encountered many obstacles, sometimes creating new pools, possibly causing the course to change. In some sessions, the stream from the pool joins other creeks and brooks to form a river. The river may have rapids, or may meander through fields. Ultimately, the river may pour into the ocean, or possibly form a delta with marshes teeming with wildlife. Even if I use this same image again with a client, each time the details are different, depending upon the message.

Each of your client sessions is an original opportunity to both teach and learn. As experienced professionals, it’s our responsibility to use the most appropriate tools at our disposal to create the best opportunity for success with clients. Even basic proficiency in preparation and presentation of metaphor-based sessions can enrich your practice significantly.

Roger Cooper Dent, MB, CCHt, has a hypnotherapy practice in Santa Rosa, California. He completed training at HTI in 2010, after four years teaching in public schools and almost thirty years in corporate management.