Animal Magnetism, and the early theory of Hypnosis:

“Animal Magnetism” :

“Animal Magnetism” was one of the earliest theories of hypnosis.

It was proposed in the late 18th century by Franz Anton Mesmer (1734–1815), a German physician. Mesmer believed that:

All living beings were influenced by a universal fluid or energy, which he called “animal magnetism.”
Illness arose when this fluid was blocked or out of balance.
Healing could occur by restoring its natural flow, often through gestures, passes of the hands, or the use of magnets.

Mesmer’s dramatic “magnetic” sessions often put patients into trance-like states, with convulsions, fainting, or calm relaxation. While his theory of an invisible magnetic fluid was eventually discredited, the altered states of consciousness he induced laid the foundation for later study of hypnosis.

Over time, James Braid (1795–1860) reframed these phenomena scientifically, coining the term hypnotism in the 1840s, moving the field away from “animal magnetism” toward psychology and suggestion.

Here’s a clear timeline showing how Mesmer’s animal magnetism evolved into modern hypnosis:

18th Century — Mesmer and Animal Magnetism

1770s–1780s — Franz Anton Mesmer proposes animal magnetism, a universal life force.
He uses magnets and hand passes to “realign” this force.
Patients often enter trance-like states, some showing dramatic reactions.
1784 — A French Royal Commission (including Benjamin Franklin) investigates and concludes the effects are due to imagination and suggestion, not magnetic fluid

19th Century — Hypnotism Emerges

1810s–1830s — Marquis de Puységur (Mesmer’s student) notices patients can enter a calm, suggestible sleep-like state (he calls it artificial somnambulism).
1840s — James Braid, a Scottish surgeon, studies these states scientifically.
Rejects Mesmer’s “magnetic fluid.”
Coins the term “hypnotism” (from Hypnos, Greek god of sleep).
Defines hypnosis as a psychological state involving focused attention and heightened suggestibility.
Mid-1800s — Hypnosis used for anesthesia in surgery before chemical anesthetics become widespread.

Late 19th — Early 20th Century — Psychology & Therapy

Jean-Martin Charcot (Paris) studies hypnosis in hysteria patients; treats it as a neurological condition.
Hippolyte Bernheim & the Nancy School emphasize suggestion as the key therapeutic factor.
Sigmund Freud experiments with hypnosis before developing psychoanalysis.

Mid-20th Century — Ericksonian Revolution

Milton H. Erickson (1901–1980) transforms hypnosis into a flexible therapeutic tool.
Moves away from authoritarian commands toward indirect suggestion, storytelling, and metaphor.
Develops Ericksonian Hypnosis, influencing psychotherapy, family therapy, and NLP.

Modern Day

Hypnosis is seen as a natural altered state of consciousness involving focused attention, relaxation, and openness to suggestion.
Widely used in clinical psychology, medicine, dentistry, trauma recovery, pain management, and habit change.
Scientific research focuses on brain imaging, attention, and the mechanisms of suggestibility.

In short:
Mesmer (mystical energy) → Braid (scientific hypnotism) → Charcot/Bernheim (medical & psychological study) → Erickson (therapeutic art) → modern evidence-based hypnosis.

Shervan K Shahhian

The History of Modern Hypnotherapy:

The person most often called the father of modern hypnotherapy is Milton H. Erickson (1901–1980).

Erickson revolutionized hypnosis by moving away from the rigid, authoritarian “You are getting sleepy…” style and toward a flexible, conversational, and highly individualized approach. He used storytelling, metaphors, and indirect suggestions, tailoring each session to the patient’s personality, needs, and unconscious communication style.

That said, the title is sometimes also given to James Braid (1795–1860), the Scottish surgeon who coined the term hypnosis and brought it into medical practice in the 19th century. Braid is often called the father of hypnotism, while Erickson is credited with shaping modern hypnotherapy.

Here’s a short timeline tracing how James Braid’s early work in hypnosis evolved into Milton Erickson’s modern hypnotherapy:

Early Foundations

18th century — Franz Anton Mesmer (1734–1815):
Promoted “animal magnetism,” an early theory of hypnosis. Though discredited, he popularized trance-like healing practices.

Scientific Beginnings

1840s — James Braid (1795–1860):
Coined the term hypnotism (from Greek hypnos, “sleep”).
Shifted hypnosis from mystical “magnetism” to a psychological and physiological phenomenon.
Emphasized focused attention and suggestion, laying the groundwork for hypnosis as a medical practice.

Medical Integration

Late 19th century — Jean-Martin Charcot (1825–1893):
Studied hypnosis in relation to hysteria and neurology in Paris.
1880s–1900s — Hippolyte Bernheim & Nancy School:
Focused on suggestion as the core of hypnosis, using it therapeutically.
Early 20th century — Sigmund Freud (1856–1939):
Briefly used hypnosis, then moved toward free association and psychoanalysis.

Modern Shift

1930s–1980s — Milton H. Erickson (1901–1980):
Considered the father of modern hypnotherapy.
Reframed hypnosis as a natural, everyday state of focused attention.
Developed indirect hypnosis: using metaphors, stories, and indirect suggestions instead of direct commands.
Stressed tailoring techniques to each client, emphasizing collaboration and the unconscious mind’s resources.

In short:

Braid: Defined hypnosis as a scientific process (attention + suggestion).
Charcot & Bernheim: Expanded hypnosis into medicine and psychology.
Erickson: Revolutionized it into a flexible, therapeutic art, forming the basis of modern hypnotherapy.

Shervan K Shahhian

Hypnotism, what is it:

Hypnotism is a state of focused attention, heightened suggestibility, and deep relaxation in which a person becomes more open to positive suggestions or guided experiences.

It’s not mind control or magic — rather, it’s a natural mental state that most people drift into at times (like getting “lost” in a book or movie). A hypnotist or hypnotherapist uses verbal cues, imagery, and pacing to guide someone into this state.

Core elements of hypnotism:

Induction — The process of guiding someone into hypnosis (through relaxation, fixation, or other techniques).

Suggestion — Positive or neutral ideas offered while in hypnosis to influence thoughts, emotions, or behaviors.

Deepening — Moving the subject into a deeper level of focus and receptivity.

Awakening — Bringing the person gently back to normal waking awareness.

Uses today:

Clinical therapy for pain management, phobias, or breaking habits.
Performance improvement in sports or creativity.
Self-hypnosis for relaxation or personal growth.

Shervan K Shahhian

Most famous Hypnosis techniques of Milton H. Erickson’s:

Most famous Hypnosis techniques:

Milton H. Erickson’s most famous hypnosis techniques were very different from the old stage-style hypnosis — they were subtle, conversational, and often disguised inside everyday interactions.

Here are his hallmark methods:

1. Indirect Suggestions

Instead of commanding, Erickson made suggestions in a casual, permissive way.

Example: Instead of saying “Close your eyes,” he might say, “You may notice that your eyes are getting heavier… and you might feel comfortable letting them close whenever you wish.”
Why it works: It bypasses resistance because the client feels they have choice.

2. Embedded Commands

Placing a subtle directive inside a larger sentence or story.

Example: While telling a story, he might say, “…and as you sit there, you might begin to feel more relaxed…”
Why it works: The unconscious picks up on the command hidden inside natural speech.

3. Metaphors and Storytelling

Erickson told elaborate stories or anecdotes that paralleled the client’s problem and hinted at solutions.

Example: To help someone gain confidence, he might tell a story about a stubborn plant that learned to grow toward the light despite obstacles.
Why it works: Stories bypass conscious resistance and deliver change ideas indirectly.

4. Utilization

He used whatever the client brought to the session — their mood, environment, body language — as part of the trance process.

Example: If a client was fidgeting, he might say, “You can let those little movements remind you that change is already happening inside…”
Why it works: Instead of fighting distractions, he incorporated them, making every experience part of the hypnosis.

5. Confusion Technique

Using paradox, vague language, or unexpected shifts to overwhelm conscious thought, allowing the unconscious to take over.

Example: “You can think about not thinking, and notice how that thought changes while you’re not thinking it…”
Why it works: The conscious mind gets tied in knots, opening the door for suggestions.

6. Pacing and Leading

First match the client’s current experience (pacing), then gradually guide them to a new state (leading).

Example: “You’re sitting here, hearing my voice, feeling the chair… and you might also begin to notice a sense of calm spreading…”
Why it works: Builds rapport and creates a smooth bridge from the familiar to the desired change.

7. Double Binds

Offering two choices, both leading to the desired outcome.

Example: “Would you prefer to go into trance with your eyes open for a moment, or closed right away?”
Why it works: Gives the illusion of choice while moving toward the therapeutic goal.

Erickson often blended several of these techniques seamlessly — for example, telling a metaphorical story (metaphor) in a relaxed conversation (indirect suggestion), pacing the client’s mood, and embedding commands along the way.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding Therapeutic Philosophy:

Therapeutic Philosophy:

A therapeutic philosophy is the guiding set of beliefs, principles, and values that shape how a therapist understands human nature, emotional distress, and the process of healing.

It’s not just a treatment method — it’s the “why” behind the therapist’s approach, influencing what techniques they choose, how they relate to clients, and what outcomes they prioritize.

Here’s a structured breakdown:

1. Core Assumptions About Human Nature

Every therapeutic philosophy starts with a view of what people are fundamentally like.

Humanistic — People are inherently good and capable of growth.
Psychodynamic — Unconscious forces and early experiences shape personality and behavior.
Behavioral — Behavior is learned and can be changed through conditioning.
Existential — People seek meaning, authenticity, and must face the reality of mortality.

2. Understanding of Distress

Therapists differ in how they believe psychological suffering arises:

Trauma-oriented — Distress comes from unresolved emotional wounds.
Cognitive-behavioral — Distress is maintained by faulty thinking patterns and behaviors.
Systemic — Problems arise within relationship and family systems, not just the individual.

3. Role of the Therapist

Philosophies define how active, directive, or collaborative the therapist should be:

Guide and facilitator — Helps clients discover their own solutions (humanistic).
Expert and interpreter — Offers insight into unconscious processes (psychoanalytic).
Coach and strategist — Teaches skills and assigns structured exercises (CBT).

4. Goals of Therapy

The philosophy shapes what “healing” means:

Symptom reduction — Relief from depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms.
Personal growth — Greater self-awareness, self-acceptance, purpose.
Relational change — Healthier communication and connection with others.

5. Values and Ethics

Therapeutic philosophies also include moral commitments:

Respect for autonomy — Clients direct their own healing.
Non-judgment — All experiences are valid in the healing space.
Empowerment — Helping clients reclaim agency.

Examples of Therapeutic Philosophies:

Here are examples of therapeutic philosophies from well-known therapists and schools of thought, showing how each one’s core beliefs shape their approach:

1. Carl Rogers — Person-Centered Therapy

Philosophy:

People have an innate drive toward growth, self-understanding, and fulfillment.
Healing happens in a non-judgmental, accepting environment.
The therapist is a facilitator, not a fixer.

Core values:

Unconditional positive regard — accepting clients without conditions.
Empathy — deeply understanding the client’s perspective.
Congruence — therapist authenticity and transparency.

2. Viktor Frankl — Logotherapy

Philosophy:

The primary human drive is the search for meaning.
Even in suffering, people can find purpose.
Meaning is discovered, not invented, through choices and attitudes.

Core values:

Freedom to choose one’s response to life’s challenges.
Suffering can be transformed into growth.
Responsibility toward oneself and others.

3. Aaron Beck — Cognitive Therapy

Philosophy:

Distress is maintained by distorted thoughts and beliefs.
Changing thoughts changes feelings and behavior.
Clients can learn to challenge and reframe their thinking.

Core values:

Collaboration between therapist and client.
Practical, skills-based interventions.
Empowering clients with tools they can use independently.

4. Irvin Yalom — Existential Therapy

Philosophy:

Psychological distress often stems from avoiding life’s givens: death, freedom, isolation, and meaninglessness.
Facing these truths openly leads to authentic living.
The therapeutic relationship is a real, mutual encounter.

Core values:

Radical honesty in the therapy room.
Encouraging personal responsibility.
Helping clients create a meaningful life.

5. Salvador Minuchin — Structural Family Therapy

Philosophy:

Problems often arise from dysfunctional family structures and boundaries.
Change happens by reorganizing how the family interacts.
The therapist joins the family system to promote healthier patterns.

Core values:

Focus on relationships rather than only the individual.
Flexible boundaries are healthier than rigid or enmeshed ones.
Lasting change comes from shifting interactional patterns.

Shervan K Shahhian

Carl Rogers and unconditional positive regard:

Carl Rogers, one of the founders of humanistic psychology, developed the concept of Unconditional Positive Regard (UPR) as a core element of his Person-Centered Therapy.

Here’s the essence of it:

Definition
Unconditional Positive Regard is the acceptance, respect, and support for a person regardless of what they say or do—without judgment, evaluation, or conditions. It’s essentially saying, “You have value simply because you are you.”

Why Rogers considered it essential

Rogers believed people have an innate tendency toward growth and self-actualization, but this process can be blocked if they feel they must earn worth through meeting others’ conditions (called conditions of worth).
When clients experience genuine UPR in therapy:

They feel safe to explore their feelings without fear of rejection.
They can face painful or conflicting emotions without self-condemnation.
They begin to internalize self-acceptance.

How it’s practiced

In therapy, UPR is shown through:

Consistent nonjudgmental attitude — even if the therapist disagrees with choices or behaviors.
Empathy — deeply understanding the client’s perspective.
Genuine presence — the therapist is authentic, not pretending or playing a role.

Example

If a client admits to making a serious mistake, instead of moralizing or shaming, a therapist with UPR might say:

“It sounds like you’re feeling a lot of regret about what happened. Let’s explore what it means for you.”

The acceptance is for the person, not necessarily for every action.

Key distinction:
UPR does not mean agreement with all behaviors or abandoning moral boundaries. It means valuing the person’s humanity and potential, even when addressing harmful actions.

Shervan K Shahhian

How Unconditional Positive Regard Changes Someone’s Inner Self-Talk:

How unconditional positive regard changes someone’s inner self-talk:

Unconditional positive regard (UPR), as Carl Rogers described it, doesn’t just make someone “feel supported” — over time, it can rewire the tone and content of their inner self-talk.

Here’s how that transformation tends to happen:

1. From self-criticism to self-acceptance
When someone repeatedly experiences UPR — hearing, feeling, and believing that they are accepted without conditions — it challenges the internalized voices of criticism or shame.

Before UPR: Inner voice says, “I messed up. I’m such a failure.”
After sustained UPR: Inner voice shifts to, “I made a mistake, but I’m still worthy and capable of learning.”

2. Replacing conditional worth with unconditional worth
Many people’s self-talk is shaped by early experiences where love or approval was conditional (“I’m only good if I get straight A’s”). UPR gives repeated corrective experiences, teaching the psyche: worth isn’t earned, it’s inherent.

This reduces “achievement anxiety” and the mental pressure to constantly perform for self-approval.

3. Internalizing the therapist’s (or supporter’s) voice
Over time, the way the therapist reflects and responds gets internalized. The client starts to “hear” that compassionate, nonjudgmental tone inside their own mind, especially during moments of distress.

This becomes a new inner resource — like having an internal coach who sees the whole self, not just the mistakes.

4. Encouraging authentic self-expression
If you expect to be judged, your inner self-talk often censors your thoughts: “Don’t say that, it’s stupid.”
With UPR, people learn they can bring all of themselves into the light — thoughts, feelings, impulses — without fear of rejection. This loosens self-editing and leads to a freer, more honest inner dialogue.

5. Shifting from fear-based to growth-based thinking
When you know you’re accepted, risk-taking in thought and action feels safer. Self-talk moves from,

“If I fail, I’ll be worthless” → “Even if I fail, I’ll learn and grow.”
That growth mindset becomes an automatic mental habit.

In essence:
UPR acts like a steady mirror that reflects your value is intact, no matter what. Over time, the inner critic loses dominance, and the inner voice becomes more like an encouraging friend — still realistic, but deeply supportive.

Before-and-after inner monologue chart:

Here’s a before-and-after inner monologue chart showing how unconditional positive regard (UPR) can shift a person’s self-talk over time:

Situation Before UPR (Conditional Self-Worth) After Sustained UPR (Internalized Acceptance) Making a mistake “I’m so stupid. I can’t do anything right.” “I made a mistake. That’s okay — I can fix it or learn from it. ”Receiving criticism “They think I’m worthless. They’re probably right.” “Their feedback doesn’t define my worth — I can take what’s useful and let the rest go. ”Feeling strong emotions“ I shouldn’t feel this way. It means I’m weak.” “It’s okay to feel this. My feelings make sense, and they’ll pass. ”Trying something new“ If I fail, everyone will see I’m not good enough.” “It’s worth trying, even if I fail — my value doesn’t depend on the outcome. ”Not meeting expectations “I’m letting everyone down. I can’t handle this.” “I didn’t meet the goal this time, but I can regroup and try again. ”Facing personal flaws“ I hate this part of me. I wish it would just go away.” “This is a part of me that needs care and understanding, not rejection. ”Receiving praise“ They’re just being nice. I don’t deserve it.” “I appreciate the compliment — it’s nice to be seen.”

Pattern shift:

Before UPR: Inner talk is judgment-heavy, conditional, and fear-based.
After UPR: Inner talk is curious, compassionate, and grounded in self-worth.

Shervan K Shahhian

Milton H. Erickson, a Psychiatrist and Hypnotist:

Milton H. Erickson, a Psychiatrist and Hypnotist:
Milton H. Erickson (1901–1980) was an American psychiatrist and psychologist best known for revolutionizing the field of hypnosis. He is often called the father of modern hypnotherapy.

A few key points about him:

Medical background — He trained as a psychiatrist and worked extensively with patients in both clinical and therapeutic settings.
Innovative hypnosis techniques — Instead of using the authoritarian, “You are getting sleepy” approach, he used a permissive, indirect style. He often embedded suggestions within stories, metaphors, and casual conversation, making the process subtle and natural.
Therapeutic philosophy — Erickson believed that people already have the inner resources they need for change, and the therapist’s job is to help them access those resources.
Personal challenges — He overcame significant disabilities, including the aftereffects of childhood polio, which shaped his keen observational skills and deep empathy.
Legacy — His work became the foundation for Ericksonian hypnosis, brief therapy, and influenced fields like NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming).

He had a knack for turning a simple conversation into a therapeutic intervention — sometimes his patients didn’t even realize they were being hypnotized until they noticed changes in behavior or feelings later.

Shervan K Shahhian

Covert Hypnosis, what is it:

Covert Hypnosis:

Covert hypnosis (also known as conversational hypnosis or undetectable hypnosis) is a form of indirect, subtle communication designed to influence someone’s subconscious mind without their conscious awareness. It’s used to guide thoughts, feelings, or behavior in a specific direction — often in therapy, sales, persuasion, or negotiation contexts.

Key Concepts of Covert Hypnosis:

Trance without formal induction:
The subject enters a light trance state naturally — through everyday conversation — without being told they are being hypnotized.

Pacing and leading:
The hypnotist paces the subject’s experience (by describing what’s happening or what they believe), then leads them to new thoughts or feelings.

Example:
“You’re sitting here reading this, and you may begin to wonder how easily your mind can absorb new ideas…”

Embedded commands:
Commands are hidden within longer sentences to bypass conscious resistance.

Example:
“Some people find it easy to relax deeply when they just listen to their breathing…”

Metaphor and storytelling:
Stories or metaphors are used to bypass the critical mind and deliver suggestions indirectly.

Milton Model language (developed by Milton Erickson):
Uses vague, permissive, and artfully ambiguous language to allow the subject to fill in the blanks with their own experience.

Example:
“You can begin to feel differently, in your own way, at your own pace.”

Utilization:
Whatever the subject gives you — resistance, mood, confusion — is used as part of the hypnotic process.

Ethical Use

Covert hypnosis can be controversial. It’s ethically acceptable when used:

With informed consent (e.g., in therapy or coaching)
To help people overcome inner blocks or change unwanted behaviors

It becomes unethical when used manipulatively — especially for personal gain, deceit, or control.

Shervan K Shahhian

Conversational Hypnosis, what is it:

Conversational Hypnosis:

Conversational Hypnosis — also called covert hypnosis or indirect hypnosis — is a communication technique used to influence someone’s subconscious mind through ordinary conversation, without them necessarily being aware that hypnosis is occurring.

Core Concept:

Conversational hypnosis uses language patterns, suggestion, and rapport-building to gently bypass the critical, analytical part of the mind and access the unconscious — where deeper change can happen (e.g., altering beliefs, attitudes, behaviors).

Key Techniques in Conversational Hypnosis:

Rapport Building
Establishing trust, empathy, and psychological alignment with the listener. Without rapport, the subconscious is less receptive.

Pacing and Leading
Start by stating observable truths (pacing), which builds agreement, then subtly guide the person toward a suggestion or desired thought (leading).

Example: “You’re sitting here reading this, maybe curious about how your mind works… and as you continue, you might begin to notice…”

Hypnotic Language Patterns (Ericksonian)
Inspired by Milton Erickson, these include:

Embedded commands: “You might begin to feel more confident.”
Double binds: “Would you prefer to relax now or in a few minutes?”
Tag questions: “That makes sense, doesn’t it?”
Implied causality: “As you sit here, you’ll naturally start to feel more at ease.”

Metaphors and Stories
Personal or symbolic stories bypass resistance and embed suggestions indirectly.

E.g., “I once knew someone who used to doubt themselves, but something shifted when they realized…”

Open Loops and Curiosity
Creating unresolved ideas or stories keeps the subconscious engaged and primed to accept suggestions.

“There’s something I want to tell you that could really change how you think about confidence…”

Applications of Conversational Hypnosis:

Therapy and coaching (e.g., building motivation, reducing anxiety)
Sales and negotiation (ethical influence)
Public speaking (engaging an audience deeply)
Personal development and habit change

Ethical Considerations:

Conversational hypnosis can be powerful and should be used with integrity. Misuse for manipulation or coercion can be harmful. When applied ethically, it’s a tool for positive influence, healing, and growth.

Here’s a simple example of a conversation using conversational hypnosis techniques, particularly drawn from Milton Erickson’s indirect approach. Imagine this is a therapist or coach helping someone feel more confident:

Scene: A client feels nervous about public speaking.

Coach:
“You know, a lot of people feel a little uncertain before they speak. And it’s perfectly natural, isn’t it? After all, when you care about something, it means you want to do it well… and just the fact that you care means something’s already working inside.”

(Rapport + pacing experience)

Client:
“Yeah, I guess so. I just get tense before I speak.”

Coach:
“And that tension… that’s just energy, really. A kind of energy that, once it shifts, can actually become focus. Have you noticed how sometimes when you’re doing something important, you almost forget the nervousness… and something else takes over?”

(Reframe + implied causality + open loop)

Client:
“Sometimes, yeah… when I’m in the zone.”

Coach:
“Exactly. And as you think about times you’ve been ‘in the zone,’ you might find it interesting… that the mind can remember that state and even return to it more easily than expected. Some people are surprised how quickly they can shift, once they allow that process to begin.”

(Embedded suggestion + indirect priming of internal resources)

Client:
“Huh, I never thought about it that way.”

Coach:
“Most people don’t, until they realize… that calm and confidence are already part of who they are. Maybe they were just waiting for the right moment to come back.”

What’s Happening Under the Surface:

No direct command like “Relax!” or “Be confident!”
Subtle suggestions are embedded within casual conversation.
The client’s subconscious is gently guided to associate past success with present potential.
The coach uses open language, reframing, and metaphors of natural learning and transformation.

Shervan K Shahhian