One of the most widespread and influential branches of therapeutic hypnosis, Ericksonian hypnosis takes a permissive approach, in which the practitioner removes resistance to change without providing the patient with a ready-made solution. It is up to the patient to access their inner resources to resolve their problem, whether physical, behavioural, or emotional.
The obstacles faced by young Milton H. Erickson
Born on 5 December 1901, Milton Erickson was colour blind and amusic (unable to recognise musical rhythms and tones). During his schooling, it was also discovered that he had severe dyslexia.
In 1919, at age 17, he contracted a severe form of polio: able only to speak and move his eyes, he would watch his sisters, their body language, their movements… He gradually relearned to move, and after 11 months of training, he could walk with crutches. On 15 June 1922, he set off on a 1,200-mile canoe trip: he came back able to walk and even carry the canoe on his back…
While studying medicine, he took part in a seminar on hypnosis with Clark L. Hull, one of the founding fathers of experimental psychology. Hull advocated a strict methodology, based on suggestibility.
From directive hypnosis to Ericksonian hypnosis
Before Milton Erickson, the hypnotherapist intervened actively in the process, directly offering the patient a solution to their problem: this was directive hypnosis! While effective for specific cases or symptoms, such as bedwetting, it did not suit most situations, which called for a “personalised dynamic” on the part of the subject. With Milton Erickson, the professional is no longer required to provide an answer: instead, they draw on the patient’s often untapped inner resources.
Ericksonian hypnosis can have effects at the physical level (pain management, preparation for childbirth…), on behaviour (addiction, weight loss, physical recovery, shyness…), and on personal and emotional development (stress management, exam preparation, interviews…).
Please note: hypnosis does not cure, but it allows the patient to connect with their inner resources, to improve their capacity for recovery.
How does a hypnotherapy session work?
Traditionally, a hypnotherapy session lasts around an hour. It begins with the “induction”, a relaxation phase leading to a state of heightened focus. At this stage, the practitioner uses suggested images and stories to guide the patient towards their goal: a non-invasive approach that respects the person’s values and environment. During this phase, the patient hears everything and can interact with the professional.
The time needed to resolve a problem varies enormously, but you can ask the practitioner to agree together on a number of sessions to reach the goal. For example, Ericksonian hypnosis proves highly relevant for addressing stress management and academic success in a child with DYS disorders.
As hypnosis is not yet regulated in France, visit the Ora-Visio platform to find specialists who have received theoretical and practical training, followed by certification. Available immediately online, all you need to do is follow this link to request an appointment!
