Working with Hypnotic Resistance:
Hypnotic resistance is when a client consciously or unconsciously resists going into trance or accepting hypnotic suggestions. It doesn’t always mean hostility — it’s often a protective mechanism.
Here are ways practitioners typically work with hypnotic resistance:
1. Reframe Resistance as Cooperation
- Instead of fighting resistance, treat it as the client’s way of protecting themselves.
- Example: “That part of you that resists is doing its best to keep you safe. Let’s thank it and invite it to help in the process.”
2. Use Indirect & Permissive Language
- Direct commands (“You will relax now”) may trigger pushback.
- Indirect suggestions work better: “You may notice how your body begins to find its own comfortable rhythm.”
- Milton Erickson often used permissive language, metaphors, and double binds to bypass resistance.
3. Build Rapport and Trust
- Many times, resistance comes from fear, distrust, or a lack of clarity about hypnosis.
- Spend time explaining what hypnosis is (and isn’t). Clarify misconceptions like loss of control.
- Establishing safety reduces resistance.
4. Utilize the Resistance
- Rather than fighting it, you can “go with it.”
- Example: If the client says, “I can’t be hypnotized,” respond: “That’s right, and you don’t need to be hypnotized — you just need to notice what your mind is already doing.”
5. Use Paradoxical Suggestions
- Paradoxical interventions turn resistance into cooperation.
- Example: “I don’t want you to relax too quickly… because sometimes people relax too fast and miss out on the experience.”
- The unconscious mind often responds by doing the opposite.
6. Ego-strengthening & Gradual Approach
- Resistance can signal fear of losing control.
- Start with light relaxation, guided imagery, or simple focus tasks before deeper trance.
- Strengthen the client’s sense of autonomy: “You’ll always remain in charge.”
7. Identify Underlying Causes
- Sometimes resistance comes from:
- Trauma (needing safety before letting go)
- Fear of change
- Fear of manipulation or control
- Hidden secondary gains (the problem provides some unconscious benefit)
- Exploring these in therapy helps reduce resistance.
In short: Resistance is information, not obstruction. It shows where the client needs reassurance, permission, or a different approach.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 