Trancework: An Introduction to the Practice of Clinical Hypnosis

by Michael D. Yapko

For three decades, Trancework has been the fundamental textbook for guiding professionals in learning hypnosis. Now in its fourth edition, this classic text continues to be the most comprehensive book for learning the fundamental skills of the field. This edition accommodates new studies and topics, and contains five new chapters on positive psychology, the management of pain, pediatric and adolescent hypnosis, behavioral medicine, and hypnosis across modalities. Readers can expect to receive a comprehensive overview of what is currently going on in the domain of hypnosis, an in-depth consideration of issues associated with the use of hypnosis, a greater appreciation for the diverse ways in which hypnosis can be applied, and a more detailed description of hypnotic methods and characteristics. Those new to the field will also appreciate the €œFrames of Reference€ sections found throughout the book, which provide insights into the work of some of the founders a

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction, Science, Counselling

664 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 1984

About the author

Michael D. Yapko, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and marriage and family therapist residing in Southern California.

Reviews

[Myridian · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I am pretty sure that hypnosis is not a thing. At least not a thing that is conceptually different from a lot of other things. Yapko struggles through the first theoretical section of this book to try to cover the myriad definitions of hypnosis and that’s basically what it comes down to. Some people think everything is hypnosis (like watching a movie, having sex, exercising) while others think it comes down to the specific structure of guiding someone to focus and/or dissociate their attention that has built up within the tradition of what is currently called hypnosis. All of this lack of agreement makes the distinction clinical hypnosis tries to draw between itself and “stage hypnosis” a more difficult argument. I do worry that hypnosis practitioners and researchers might be selecting for those with a tendency toward wanting to be a guru.

There is also this emphasis on both arguing that people have full control over their acceptance of suggestions within hypnosis and that people can be guided towards false memories and beliefs that could be damaging. I understand that for Yapko (and perhaps this is also the most widely accepted argument within the field) the distinction lies in the power of influence we are all exerting on one another all the time vs. some kind of more concrete control over someone else’s actions. And at the same time hypnosis is trying its hardest to strengthen that power of influence, hopefully for good. That I think is where the layperson’s potential for misunderstanding and potentially justifiable concern comes in.

The confusion all strategies that are taught as part of traditional hypnosis are a case in point. As Yapko presents it, hypnosis is explicitly trying to demonstrate the power and capability of the hypnotic subject and I do have a hard time envisioning that being as effective in a modality that highlights and capitalizes on that power differential with strategies that are intended to intentionally confuse clients as a way of managing resistance, even in their own best interest.

All of that aside, this is a really nice overview of the state of the literature and the practice of primarily Ericsonian hypnosis. Yapko lays out the basic teachings around setting up expectations, induction, building a response set, utilization (suggestions), post-hypnotic suggestions and then conclusion of the hypnosis. I know everybody seems opposed to the use of scripts for hypnosis and at the same time, the scripts that Yapko provides are a great source of ideas.

I feel like my own use of hypnosis is going to much more build on the mindfulness practices that I am more familiar with and which, at least in the West but not so much in the East, have a very different foundation when it comes to their patriarchal and hierarchical background.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not planning to use formal hypnosis in my practice but I have to admit I am curious about this "dark art". Yapko sheds light on this mysterious and maligned practice. Intrigued as I am by the mysteries of consciousness this book illuminates alternative approaches to accessing the unconscious and helping patient's make change. Comprehensive but readable.

[Miro Calen]

Trancework is an impressive introduction to clinical hypnosis that manages to balance practical instruction with the theory and research behind the field. Michael D. Yapko presents hypnosis in a clear and grounded way, making the subject much less mysterious for readers who are new to it.

I especially appreciated the combination of practical techniques, sample transcripts, case material, and academic references. These elements make the book feel useful not only for understanding hypnosis conceptually but also for thinking about how it can be integrated into different therapeutic approaches.

The discussions around controversial topics such as memory, research evidence, and the changing understanding of hypnosis add another layer of depth. Rather than presenting hypnosis as a collection of simple techniques, Yapko encourages readers to think critically about how and why these methods work.

It is a substantial read, but well worth the effort. A strong resource for students, therapists, and anyone serious about developing a deeper understanding of clinical hypnosis.

[Angelina Sofia · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I enjoyed most about Trancework is how it presents hypnosis as both a practical skill and an area of serious clinical study. Yapko takes the reader beyond the common misconceptions surrounding hypnosis and explains the techniques in a way that feels structured and approachable.

The practical examples and transcripts are particularly helpful because they show how hypnotic language and interventions can actually be used rather than leaving everything at the level of theory. I also found the discussion of different theories, research findings, and clinical controversies valuable because it encourages a more thoughtful approach to the subject.

This isn't necessarily a book to rush through. There is a lot of material to absorb, but that is also one of its strengths. Each section offers something that can be revisited as one's understanding develops.

A worthwhile read for anyone studying clinical hypnosis or looking to build a more informed and practical foundation in the field.

[Wing · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Just wow. Not only does this remarkable book demystify hypnosis, but it also clearly shows how hypnosis, as a tool, can be used to heal. The first two hundred pages explain how hypnosis works, while the remaining three hundred pages demonstrate how it can be applied. Readers will quickly realize that knowing how to perform hypnosis won’t make one a therapist. Indeed, hypnosis alone is pretty useless. A therapist needs not only knowledge of human psychology but also must possess wisdom, if not outright sagacity. I believe it's this aspect of the therapist, rather than the technique of hypnosis, that matters more. An exception is hypnosis-induced anesthesia. The point is, if the therapist lacks great insights into the human condition, effective therapy will not ensue. That seems pretty obvious. The book is a cornucopia of techniques. Some of the transcripts are actually quite moving (I guess that’s the point). At around US$50, it is unbelievably inexpensive. Five stars

[Melvin Marsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very impressed by "Trancework." This was handed down to me by a clinical psychologist who was no longer in private practice and gave up using hypnosis (he went academic) and I was one of his students who was technically still a lay hypnotist but wanted to be clinical. This book is primarily Ericksonian (which is my favourite) but if you are not keen on that perspective you are not going to like it. It is a very large book, 450 pages, and is incredibly well written. I could see this as possibly being used as a textbook assuming there are any introductory hypnosis classes out there in academia. I think one of my favourite little charts was the difference in different types of hypnosis in Appendix A.

[Natalie Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trancework is an excellent introduction to clinical hypnosis. Michael Yapko explains the subject in a clear and practical way, making it easier to understand both the theory and the techniques behind hypnosis.

I liked that the book combines research with real clinical examples and sample transcripts. The step-by-step explanations make it helpful for readers who are new to hypnosis, while the discussions of current research and professional issues add value for more experienced readers.

Overall, this is a well written and informative guide that presents hypnosis as an evidence-based clinical tool. It's a great resource for students, therapists, and anyone interested in learning more about the practice of clinical hypnosis.

[Joanna Gain]

What stood out to me about Trancework is how it presents hypnosis as both an art and a science. The book does a great job of balancing practical techniques with research, making the subject feel more grounded and understandable.

I found the use of sample transcripts and discussions of different theories especially valuable because they show how hypnotic methods can be applied in real therapeutic settings. The attention given to research, ethics, and ongoing debates in the field also adds depth to the material.

This is a detailed and well-structured guide that goes beyond basic explanations. It offers a thoughtful look at clinical hypnosis and provides readers with a strong foundation for understanding the field.

[Christian Zenker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not my first medical hypnosis book, but one where I did take some notes again.
This one gives some really good view points. If you are in therapeutical hypnosis, or a hypnosis nerd, this is a book you should read.

[Jillybb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yapko is brilliant. I want to attend his training while he is still lucid.

[Gorav Goyal]

i'm intrested this title and search for hynotise books

[Achraf El]

i love these book

[Camalia]

better book