Hypnotherapy According to Milton Erickson

Hypnosis – a scientifically grounded method

Hypnosis is one of the best-researched psychotherapeutic approaches.
It is used deliberately to support change processes on a deep, often unconscious level. Our unconscious thinking processes influence nearly all aspects of life – emotions, behavior, and even physical responses.
Although not all complaints can be “healed” through hypnosis alone, hypnotherapy opens a valuable space to reconsider and work with psychological and psychosomatic challenges.
It supports the activation of inner resources and makes it possible to use unconscious processes in a targeted way, helping you regain balance and wellbeing.

What is hypnotherapy according to Milton Erickson?

Ericksonian hypnotherapy was developed by Milton H. Erickson (1901–1980), one of the most influential psychotherapists of the 20th century, whose work fundamentally shaped modern hypnotherapy.
A central principle in Erickson’s work is that trance is nothing unusual.
On the contrary: our everyday lives are filled with natural trance states.
When we are deeply absorbed in a book, lose ourselves in thought on a long car ride, or become fully immersed in an activity, we are already in an altered state of consciousness – in trance.
Ericksonian hypnotherapy uses these natural trance states to initiate inner change processes.
It is not about putting someone into a passive, sleep-like hypnosis. Instead, it is about bringing conscious and unconscious levels into a productive dialogue.
Whereas classical hypnosis often relies on direct suggestions (“You will feel calm and relaxed”), Ericksonian hypnotherapy uses gentle, individualized, and often surprisingly creative approaches.

Key characteristics of Ericksonian hypnotherapy

Individual and resource-oriented
Every person already holds the abilities needed to solve their difficulties – hypnotherapy helps to access them.
Working with natural trance states
Hypnosis is not a foreign state, but a familiar part of human experience that can be used therapeutically.
Indirect suggestions instead of direct instructions
Ericksonian hypnotherapy uses metaphors, stories, and targeted questions to activate unconscious processes.
Connecting conscious and unconscious experience
Trance does not mean loss of control or complete relaxation – Ericksonian hypnosis often works with open eyes and active participation.
Focus on self-efficacy
This form of hypnotherapy does not aim for short-term relief alone. It helps you gain influence over your inner processes – often including self-hypnosis techniques that can be applied in everyday life.

Distinction from Stage Hypnosis

Many people associate hypnosis with spectacular stage shows in which seemingly willing participants perform strange acts on command.
Therapeutic hypnosis has nothing to do with this.
In hypnotherapy, respect, individuality, and self-determination are central.
It is a serious, scientifically grounded method that has proven effective in psychotherapy, medicine, and personal development.

Typical Areas of Application

Hypnotherapy can be helpful in many different situations, including:

• anxiety and phobias
• compulsive thoughts or behaviors
• depression
• dealing with inner conflicts
• psychosomatic symptoms
• smoking cessation
• support with weight reduction
• self-confidence and personal development
• decision-making and ambivalence
  

Hypnotherapy – a gentle but powerful method

Hypnotherapy according to Milton Erickson is not a passive treatment, but a creative process of self-discovery and change.
It helps you access unconscious potentials and develop greater self-efficacy and inner balance.
If you are curious about how hypnotherapy might support you, you are welcome to arrange an initial consultation.