Section One
Thought Before Action: Developing a Deeper Understanding of Hypnosis
1 First Glimpses of Hypnosis
2 The Misconceptions About Hypnosis and a Dose of Reality
3 Thinking About Hypnosis: Insights From Research and Theories
4 The Brain, the Mind, the Body, and Hypnosis
5 The Subjective Experience of Hypnosis
6 Contexts for Applying Hypnosis and the Atmosphere You Create
7 The Social Psychology of Human Suggestibility
8 Responsiveness to Hypnosis
9 Legal Considerations, Hypnosis and Telehealth, AI, Digital Therapeutics, and Ethical Guidelines
Section Two
Hypnosis in Action: Developing Skill and Artistry in Clinical Practice
10 Structuring Suggestions: Generating Intentional Language
11 Practical Tips for Conducting Effective Clinical Hypnosis Sessions
12 Structured Techniques of Hypnotic Induction: Doing Hypnosis
13 Conversational Approaches to Hypnotic Induction and the Art of Being Hypnotic
14 Hypnotic Phenomena Part I: Age Regression, Age Progression, Amnesia, Analgesia and Anesthesia, and Catalepsy
15 Hypnotic Phenomena Part II: Dissociation, Hallucinations and Sensory Alteration, Ideodynamic Responses, and Time Distortion
16 Managing Unexpected Reactions
17 Designing and Delivering Clinical Hypnosis Sessions
18 Integrating Strategies of Clinical Hypnosis into Psychotherapy
19 Therapeutic Metaphors: Stories Worth Telling
20 Process-Oriented Hypnosis: When How Matters More Than Why
21 Hypnosis with Children and Adolescents
Postscript: The Next Step
Biography
Michael D. Yapko, PhD, is an internationally recognized clinical psychologist and hypnosis expert, author of 16 books, and recipient of lifetime achievement awards from major hypnosis and psychology organizations.
Shawn R. Criswell, PhD, is a practicing clinician who uses and teaches hypnosis in a wide range of settings. She also offers consultation to health care professionals around the world.
“Essentials of Hypnosis (3rd edition) continues the productive collaboration of Michael Yapko and Shawn Criswell, co-authors of the definitive text Trancework (6th edition). While Trancework is a large volume rich in detail and features nearly 1,000 references, Essentials of Hypnosis distills the essence of Trancework into a comprehensive yet easier read for those new to this dynamic field. Readers can expect to acquire a deeper understanding of hypnotic theory as well as the core skills and artistry of clinical practice.”
David R. Patterson, PhD, co-author of Clinical Hypnosis for Pain Control: A Comprehensive Approach to Management and Treatment (2nd edition)
“Essentials of Hypnosis is the rare text that combines technical rigor and conceptual depth with ease of reading. I have not seen another work that provides a more ideal foundation for professionals new to hypnosis who want to think and practice with the confidence of a seasoned expert.”
Dan Short, PhD, author of Making Psychotherapy More Effective with Unconscious Process Work and Principles and Core Competencies of Ericksonian Therapy
“Michael Yapko's passion for ‘skills, not pills’ and refreshingly honest teachings have inspired hypnotherapists worldwide to help their clients unlock healthier responses to life challenges and discover more efficient and effective paths to personal growth. In kindred partnership with Shawn Criswell's strategic, client-centered focus, that legacy thrives. Together they masterfully distill into this third edition the history, neuroscience, treatment and technology redefining the field – making Essentials truly essential for seasoned practitioners and newcomers to the field alike.”
Dana Lebo, PhD, Psychologist, Core4 Psychology, PLLC; President-Elect, American Society of Clinical Hypnosis; and Co-Founder of the Hypnotic Idea Exchange (HIE)
“This third edition of Essentials of Hypnosis by Michael Yapko and Shawn Criswell arrives at exactly the right moment. Much has changed in our world and profession since the previous edition appeared. Neuroscience has deepened our understanding of mind–brain and mind–body relationships, clinical practice has expanded into telehealth and digital spaces, and emerging technologies such as AI are already reshaping how therapy is conceived and delivered. Yet the authors remind us of something timeless: that hypnosis is a deeply human art rooted in meaningful communication, mutual responsiveness, and the optimistic belief in human resourcefulness and the capacity to grow and change. Essentials of Hypnosis is especially valuable due to its balanced approach to a complex subject, being intellectually rigorous but also extremely practical. It is an excellent guide for anyone ready to explore the positive possibilities of clinical hypnosis.”
Lilian Borges, MA, LPC, The Milton H. Erickson Foundation
