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1
WEIGHT LOSS SPECIALTY TRAINING
FOR PROFESSIONAL HYPNOTISTS
Copyright © 2013 by Tom Nicoli, BCH, CI, CPC
All rights reserved
New England Institute of Hypnosis
400 West Cummings Park, Suite 1350
Woburn, MA 01801
A Better You Press
Woburn, MA
2
Copyright © 2013 by Tom Nicoli, BCH, CI
All rights reserved. No part of this material may be
reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying, recording, or by any information
storage retrieval system, without express
written permission from the publisher.
Published by A Better You Press
400 West Cummings Park
Suite 1350
Woburn, MA 01801
www.NEIHtraining.com
Printed in the United States of America
Nicoli, Thomas, BCH, CI, CPC
Weight Loss Specialty Training
For Professional Hypnotists
3
Welcome
“The material in this training program is based on my vast experience of working
with thousands of clients seeking help with their ‘weight loss’ goals. What you will
find in this program is the approach I have found to be successful after modifying
the techniques, programs, written scripts and hypnotic stylings over a period of
years, keeping in mind the ultimate goal is to continue to improve upon what we
know in the present.
It’s important to keep in mind there is no one way to do what we do and that goes
for this training material. You will find your way of doing things by using what
you learn from all sources. This is one of the successful models and trainings
available and can assist new hypnotism professionals and anyone who has been
doing this for any number of years. The material in this course is a good reference
from which to build a complete hypnosis weight loss business, add as a niche in
your existing practice or to complement what you are already doing.
Enjoy using the material and techniques I have found to be successful with people
of all ages and from many different backgrounds, while fitting the material to your
style and approach. Always be you regardless of any training and material you
learn and apply. I offer this advice as my personal opinion based on over 13 years
in practice.”
Tom Nicoli, BCH, CI, CPC
4
Section I
• Why a successful weight loss program = a successful practice
• Importance of Perception
• Consultations
• Programs
• Session Elements
• Scheduling the Client
• Preparing for Effective Induction
• Intake Form, Effective Questioning, Pre-Talk & D.E.P.T.H.
• Creating the Client’s Landscape
• Modalities
Section II
• Variables
• Linguistic Bridges
• Inductions – Key Points
• Key Phrases
• Metaphors
• Scripts for Inductions & Change
• Post-hypnotic Suggestions - Continued Reinforcement
• Instructions for Self-Hypnosis
• Materials for Client
• Reaffirm Importance of Client Interaction
• Forms & Letters
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Section I
Successful weight loss sessions = a successful practice
(The business of weight loss clients)
Though these statistics are based on the USA, other countries are seeing a rise in
the problem of the health risks with being overweight and obese. A quick search on
the internet will show the current statistics of your country. The material in this
training regarding working with weight loss clients using hypnosis stands true for
all people.
Population in the USA (2012)
Estimated at 315,000,000
Total number of overweight adults:
Statistics tell us that 65 percent of all adults are now overweight
and 30 percent of them are dangerously overweight or obese
Estimated - 204,000,000 people are overweight
Amount of money spent by Americans annually on weight loss
Money spent on weight-reduction products and services, including diet foods,
products and programs: $60+ Billion
It makes complete sense to become proficient with working with weight loss
clients. It is one of the top three areas hypnotists are commonly known for AND it
is the biggest market for money spent by people looking for results.
Weight Loss clients have referrals
Weight loss clients know other people who are overweight and are actively looking
for, or open to, a way to end the continual cycle of losing weight and gaining the
weight back. And though a small percentage of people like to keep this approach to
themselves, when a client loses weight, it’s not as if they can hide it. People get
curious and ask and then it’s out in the open that they have seen a hypnotist. Many
times the client will tell you that people they know are waiting “to see if hypnosis
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will work for them first.” When it does, they all want to try it. I have found the
referrals from successful weight loss clients are much higher than any other
sessions. However, this creates something that must be addressed…
Explained to client:
“Every person has their own personal time frame and degree of change based on
the many factors involved physiologically and emotionally and based on the
motivating issues at hand that have caused this outcome of being overweight. No
two people should expect the same results, though similar or better results may
occur.”
There is another point to consider. Though there is a huge income potential
working successfully in the area of weight loss, the focus must be on the client’s
success. People do not buy products or services, they buy results. Get results and
the business will follow.
Importance of Perception
Most hypnotists lose sight of when the interaction with a client begins. The
“session” and the success that will follow when working with clients does not take
place in the chair during the hypnotic process. The first time a potential client
makes contact with you, even before calling, perception, rapport and reframing has
begun.
Your business card, website, or any printed material has an effect on how the client
will decide as whether to call and feel comfortable to pursue your services. This is
very important to understand in the business of being a professional hypnotist. The
way the copy is written, the layout of a website, the contents, any images, your
photo, and information presented, and the way it’s presented, is when the
interaction between you and the potential client begins… before you get to speak
with them.
Imagine the difference in the response of someone seeking the services of a
hypnotist and on one website or business card there are stars and moons and
another is presented somewhat conservative and clear and professional. Who is
more likely to not only get the call but also have a better chance at charging higher
rates for sessions and programs? As a Certified Professional Consultant I see this
mistake made too often. It can be the downfall to any potential business.
7
Consultations
There is value in consultations, not during the first initial contact, but set up as an
in office visit. This is typically 30 minutes. One idea is to have 1 or 2 days of the
week dedicated to scheduling consultations to not interrupt session work. During a
consultation you can:
• Assess the Client – is this someone you want to work with or not? Are they a
good fit and will be committed to their responsibility while in the program?
• Explain Expectations – most people have unreasonable expectations and this
must be reframed. Many people think they come to a hypnotist and
everything just happens for them. Explain that as in any approach to change
and achievement, this too is a process.
• Remove the Myths – in short time you can remove the myths and
misconceptions of people’s perception of hypnosis and explain what it is,
and isn’t, and how it actually works.
• Suggestibility Testing – During the consultation can be a good time to see
how a potential client responds to “suggestibility tests”, if you use them.
There surely is value in doing so and it helps classify the client based on
what “test” they respond to best. It’s also an easy way to dispel the
preconceived misconceptions about hypnosis.
• Present Program Options – DO NOT present any programs you offer and
then leave it up to the person to choose. People who are 100 pounds
overweight will choose a 3 session program when we know they require
more work. It would be a disservice to a person to not advise them as to
what is a reasonable program for them in order to reach their personal goal.
• Pay or Not – You can add a consultation fee to the program or not.
Personally I’m fine whenever doing a consultation to not charge for the time.
This is up to you, it’s your business.
If charging for the consultation you might want to let the consultation fee be
applied to any program the person purchases. This is an emotional /
psychological strategy as it tends to have the client feel they just got a
reduction off the program fee.
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Programs * No fees are included for fee structures vary for a variety of reason
among practices. However, in most areas an average of $100 per hour is common.
* In this training material a “session” is based on 1 hour.
A 3 session program would be $300. Add to that any added materials included in
the program while also considering any incentives. This is your business and it’s
suggested to not set your fee structure too low for it’s easier to lower program fees
if need than raising prices.
Program I
* Not intended for those requiring considerable weight loss.
For clients needing to curb behaviors and habits before problems begin or to lose
up to 20 pounds.
➢ 3 weekly sessions
➢ 2 CDs included for home use and continued reinforcement
➢ Instructions to self-hypnosis.
Program II
For clients who require moderate to considerable weight loss. Not intended for
anyone with a lifelong problem with weight issues.
➢ 6 weekly sessions
➢ 3 CDs included for home use and continued reinforcement
➢ Instructions to self-hypnosis.
Program III
For clients needing a substantial amount of weight loss or with lifelong weight
issues and eating behavior issues.
➢ 8 – 12 weekly sessions
➢ 4 – 6 CDs included for home use and continued reinforcement
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➢ Instructions to self-hypnosis
Note: I do not record sessions. The work in the office is more personal, emotional
and issues are addressed. The reinforcement I want the client to do by listening to a
hypnosis CD each day is with one of my titles from my CD catalogue. It could be
for healthy choices and proper portions, reduce sugar and sweets, end night time
snacking, increase activity and exercise, increase confidence and self-esteem, or
whatever title will benefit the client’s individual needs based on their issues at
hand that motivate the unhealthy behaviors with eating.
If you do not have your own CDs you can purchase them usually at a wholesale
cost from me or other hypnotists to have for your clients and as sale items in your
office. This is not uncommon.
Also, as time passes there are less and less CDs given to the clients and have been
replaced with MP3 downloads. I email the client the MP3 download links for them
to save to their computer and listen from the computer or load to their device of
choice for daily listening. Having them do an audio session at home daily
reinforces the change to healthy habits, creates the habit of them being responsible
to interact and anchors them to my voice, which helps when working together live.
Notice that each program has Instructions to Self-Hypnosis included. I feel it is
important to teach our clients self-hypnosis in order to assist them further and
empower them by learning this process.
Session Elements
Too many hypnotists rely solely on direct suggestion scripts preceded by a PR
Induction – Progressive Relaxation. Both have their place but are only two
elements when providing your services to a client. When doing programs and
multiple sessions, there needs to be a variety of inductions, as well as a variety of
interventions used.
You may find you feel most suited working with a certain style of hypnosis, and
can use that as your foundation, but it’s still advised to be able to work with a
variety of inductions and processes for personal change to be successful with the
various personality types you will experience. This will increase your odds for
success, which is our ultimate goal and will bring you more referrals and clients.
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Included in sessions:
• Intake & Pre-Talk – This is obviously at the first session. Subsequent
sessions start with an update as to what has happened, changes experienced,
etc. since last session
• Variety of Inductions – It is necessary to learn as many inductions as you
can to be able to have available what will work best for different clients.
This is not a one-size-fits-all process.
• Direct Suggestion
• Indirect Suggestions
• Embedded Suggestions
• Metaphors
• Regression Techniques
• The Client’s Landscape (Explained later in the manual)
• NLP Techniques
• Hypno – Analysis – Many hypnotists “induce the hypnotic state” and then
talk to their client. During sessions, not all sessions, talking with the client in
a question and answer format has tremendous benefit. Simple, clear, open
ended questions should be used to get responses and information the
conscious mind cannot deliver.
• Post Talk – This is as important as anything else. Gather the subjective
feedback as to what the clients experienced during each session. This is
information that can be helpful at the following session.
One most important piece to be sure to include in all sessions is the responsibility
is ultimately upon the client. This cannot be stressed enough. Too often
hypnotists accept full responsibility for their client’s success. Our role is to provide
good service. This is a two sided interaction between facilitator and client.
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Now that we have program examples to begin with and elements of what to use in
the sessions, which can be used as is or as something to work from as you create
your own, let’s look at actually scheduling the client…
Scheduling the Client
Pay in Advance
At A Better You Hypnosis, Inc. we offer between 5%-10% discount if prepaid.
This slight incentive is a motivator. If the client pays in installments, which is only
for the duration of the program chosen, they pay the regular rate. Over 95% of our
clients pay in advance for their programs (or at the first session). This also reduces
“no shows” and last minute cancellations because the client has already invested in
their program.
There is also a psychological advantage to do this. I call it the “free drink at the
wedding syndrome.” When people are at a function with an open bar and they do
not have to pay for their own drinks, they will sometimes choose more expensive
drinks than they would buy and do not always finish the drink completely before
getting another. But when they have to pay for the drink, they are now invested and
there is more value to that drink. They treat it quite differently.
No Show: Any no show without reasonable explanation is charged for, which is
explained in the material the client receives before first visit or during the initial
contact or at the consultation. It is explained the client is paying for the time as
well as the services.
Cancellations: A 48-hour notice is required. If not the session is charged.
However, we are flexible. Each situation is determined individually for sometimes
a missed appointment cannot be avoided.
Preparing for an Effective Induction
What will help to prepare for an effective induction is creating rapport in the pre-
talk, gathering information with the intake form and effective questioning, and
creating the client’s landscape. There is another piece that helps and that is to key
in on a person’s primary modality.
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Intake Form, Effective Questioning & Pre-Talk
(Intake form sample is included in manual)
The intake form will give you a basic idea as to why the person is there and
what they need or want. However, the issues at hand are much deeper than bad
eating habits. The main question is why. Sometimes the client will have good
insight and self-reflection but in most cases they don’t. Insightful questioning
can quickly begin to create more self-awareness in the client and immediately
break down some of the emotional barriers and illogical thoughts as well as
give you insight before your pre-talk.
** The pre-talk is as or more important than the session! If your pre-talk is
effective, the session(s) and results will be much more successful.
Know that people who want to lose weight have spent time, money and lots of
emotion. They now want what they’ve been looking for all along, a viable answer
to their problem. Guide them to results and you will have a successful practice.
Effective Questioning
There is a need to become something of a chameleon due to the variety if
personalities we experience with clients. Sometimes you can be more direct and
other times you will need to be indirect and even somewhat delicate. There is a
middle ground in there somewhere and eventually you will find it, while tweaking
your approach when needed.
Like a reporter, we need to ask questions of mostly what, when, where and how, in
order to start creating the client’s landscape. Asking why isn’t something that
people know consciously, though they think they have an idea why they do what
they do. That’s why the hypnosis session and hypno-analysis for it’s the
subconscious that knows why we do what we do.
There are two questions everyone asks about anything, whether they know it or
not:
1) What’s so good about that?
2) What’s in it for me?
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With questions like what follows, you can gather some of that information. These
questions, and others you will come up, with will help you gather information to
create suggestions based on the individual’s needs.
What...
is the main reason for wanting to lose weight?
have you done in the past to lose weight?
stops you from losing weight now?
is your reason to lose weight now?
Will you need most in order to start losing weight?
When...
did you begin to be overweight... lifelong problem or somewhat recent?
did you lose weight in the past?
will you know you have reached your goal?
Where…
are your eating habits and choices best?
are your eating habits and choices worst?
at home do you eat?
How…
do you feel in your present situation – physically? Emotionally?
have you lost weight in the past? (if they ever did)
will you know when you are on track to achieve your goal?
The Pre-Talk
This is something you should have already learned in your basic training and have
tweaked by now if you have any experience working with clients. A few of the
major points are:
• Remove the myths and misconceptions about “hypnosis.”
• Explain what the process of hypnosis really is and a basic explanation of
how it works. (This should be concise and done in short time)
• Explain the program and what the client can expect during sessions.
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• Suggestibility tests, or as I call them, imagination exercises, to classify the
client as to what induction process may work best, though some induction
methods will work for almost all clients, and to then explain during the
session that’s basically what their role is… to listen to what you say and be a
participant. To have them feel and imagine and not think and analyze.
• Establish rapport and their trust in you as the facilitator.
➢ D.E.P.T.H Model – Tom Nicoli
D.E.P.T.H. is what I consider to be the necessary basic approach and major factor
in success with the majority of clients engaging in any behavior that causes
emotional and or physical pain, especially ‘weight loss’ clients. The longer the
situation has been that the client has searched for and implemented a variety of
programs for change yet continues to struggle, the more focus on D.E.P.T.H. is
required. Most people know emotions are at the root of their negative patterns but
don’t know to what degree. It is more important to focus on the why and not the
what. The what is the behavior of using a substance, with food being one of these
substances, receiving consequences. The why is always emotionally based, either
to smother emotional pain and/or to fill emotional voids. The majority of the
clients seen for ‘weight loss’ are women and naturally more emotional and
typically have more emotional voids.
* This last statement is not an opinion but fact. Female clients will require more
attention to the D.E.P.T.H. process than men. Example: we know that in
communication, men use an average of 10,000 words per day based on
information. Women use an average of 25,000 words per day based on emotion.
Naturally women are more complex not only physically but emotionally as well.
Denial - Emotional Pain – Truth – Honesty
The denial is in place (justifying, rationalizing and ignoring) motivated by the
emotional pain (or emotional voids) and the need to avoid it (embarrassment,
disappointment, failure, low self-esteem, etc.), in turn requiring truth and honesty
(creating a clear view of self-perception), which breaks down those internal
15
barriers and self-defeating attitude. This is necessary to go over in the consultation
or before the start of any program, such as the pre-talk in session one.
Said to client: “All problems and solutions are within, in the mirror of self-
reflection. No one or nothing is going to create our balance and happiness.
Everything is within. If we blame something or someone for something that has
happened, it will take someone or something to change it, and that’s not going to
happen. And regardless of what’s been done to us, it’s ours. Once we accept
ownership of anything, we can do whatever we want with it. Imagine the mirror of
self-reflection has become cloudy. Cloudy with rationalizing and justifying the
behaviors you haven’t been able to change.
We do this because it is emotionally painful to focus on the feelings of
disappointment, embarrassment or any of the negative feelings of not looking,
feeling or acting the way we’d like. But when we are honest and truthful with
ourselves, allowing ourselves to take a good look at the reality of the situation,
then we can make change and progress. So, it will be necessary for you to be as
honest with yourself and with me as you can, and I know you can do that… for
you. Right?”
➢ Remove Denial - Continual Reframing
We must be aware of the language a client uses and continually reframe them to
truth and honesty… reality. In order to remove denial, truth and honesty are
key. Start with using honest terminology. The most common words used to
deflect avoid acceptance of behaviors and responsibility are…
Try - Every client will say “I’ve tried everything in the past to lose weight” or
“No matter how hard I try….” etc. And all I hear is, “I haven’t done it yet.” The
synonym for try is attempt. We don’t want to only attempt to take action and
achieve goals, we want to actually do it if we are to be successful in any way.
Consistent action is the catalyst for success.
Hope and Wish – Instead of focusing on what it will take to reach a goal,
create a plan and follow it, another way of creating emotional relief and comfort
is to wish and hope for something to happen. As soon as someone uses the
words hope or wish, I reply with, “You know, I hope and wish that by the end
of this session my television turns into a huge diamond… but that’s not going to
happen.”
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The words try, wish and hope need to be replaced with can, will and do.
Explain how when we “try” or “attempt” something, what we are saying is we
didn’t do it. If you lost weight (fat) you would not say ‘I tried to lose weight.”
You would say, “I lost weight.”
When we disappoint ourselves, we become frustrated, guilty, regretful, and
many more of those defeating emotions. And because we haven’t been honest
enough, which requires emotional courage, we must rationalize and justify the
pain away. So the blanketed comforting and guilt releasing words try, wish and
hope are used. We do something or we don’t, it’s that simple. This will begin
the client on the path of becoming accountable for his or her own actions.
It is imperative that each client understands that it is not simply a matter of
being hypnotized and magically all things change. Hypnosis is magical, but it’s
not magic. Explain that hypnosis is like a match, a shovel or any helpful tool. If
we use it, it works.
Most clients are conditioned to brushing over the truth as to why they do what
they do or have no idea why. When questioning, be sure to be aware of client’s
rationalizing and justifying, the recipe for denial.
** If you are unable to break through the conditioned pattern of rationalizing
and justifying behavior, you will have a mighty task ahead. However, once you
are able to get the client emotionally open and honest, you will have a much
easier path to success with them. They need to understand it’s for their benefit.
“We all know how to lose weight, (you’ve done it before, more than once).
What prevents you from losing weight now?
“I’m too busy, I don’t have the time.”
Very busy people find the time to do what’s necessary to get what they want.
This client may require suggestions when in hypnosis to use time efficiently.
“The kids are home from school and it is difficult to eat right when
they’re around.” Passing the blame. We can choose to eat whatever we want.
And maybe, we need to look at how we’re feeding the kids.
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“I only have a little _________. It’s okay as long as I don’t have too much.”
This is more of the same auto-pilot response. Getting shot with only one bullet
is all it takes. Explain how a little of an action is still reinforcing the
subconscious of the behavior we are looking to change.
The excuses and reasons are endless and sometimes very creative. It’s all
denial… rationalizing and justifying.
Explain that if they truly desire to lose weight or make any healthy change and
remain that way, it is time to become willing to accept the truth and to be honest
and open with them and you. Always let your client know that we are all the
same and do the same things, act the same way and think the same. The
difference is those who make positive change are willing to be open and honest
to remove any rationalizing and justifying negative behavior.
Beware… when we make a person accountable for their actions, many times they
become defensive. An easy way to remove the potential of the client becoming
defensive is to say, “It’s important for you to know that up until now, this has not
been your fault.
What I mean is that consciously, I’m willing to bet you never woke up and said, ‘I
can’t wait to make things worse today’. Am I right? Of course. You see, we all
know what to do consciously, but it’s the subconscious that has continued to direct
this behavior for some reason or reasons. So you see, it hasn’t been your fault,
but… it is your responsibility. Any person can only direct another to make a
change. The responsibility of actually doing what it takes is up to each individual.
But I’m going to guide and assist you and in a way to make it easier than ever
before. I will do what I know will help you, but you must agree to do what I ask
you to. Do we have a deal?”
Questions to expose denial:
What...
is the main reason for wanting to________?
have you done in the past to ______?
stops you from ________ now?
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Why...
do you ______?
do you want to ________ now?
When...
did you begin to_______? A lifelong problem or somewhat recent?
did you lose weight in the past?
will you know you have reached your goal?
➢ Working With Emotional Pain/Emotional Voids
Remove past anchors – age regression / cause and effect
Clear the emotional clutter – Forgiveness for self and others
Increase confidence, pride, self-respect and self-esteem.
Reinforce that life experiences fill the emotional voids, substance or negative
behavior causes pain.
Parts therapy – Unite all parts for there is only one true self.
➢ Truth & Honesty
Use metaphors, direct suggestion and indirect suggestion for responsibility for self.
Consistency of using hypnosis CDs and/or self-hypnosis after sessions continues
the clarity to be honest with self as confidence continues to strengthen.
*The more confident an individual is, usually the easier it is for them to be honest
with themselves. Confidence creates security and it’s been insecurity that has
helped create and continue issues.
Creating the Client’s Landscape
When we speak in the ‘client’s language’ throughout the session, there is more
rapport and a higher response of the client accepting suggestions you deliver. I’m
19
not referring to whether it’s English, Spanish or French but the way they speak and
the actual words and phrases they use.
We also need to know in what environments they may feel most comfortable, safe
and secure and environments they wouldn’t. An example is the typical progressive
relaxation method of a beach scene and sun. If the person has never been at a beach
or may be fair skinned and the sun is something they avoid, it would be good to
know that and avoid such imagery. Learn a bit about your client so when using any
imagery it will be relative to their belief system and acceptable.
Here is an example of what it could be like when creating the client’s landscape
and how to use that in the session.
The client likes nighttime rather than day because they enjoy looking at the
stars. They have fond memories of camping with their family as a child and has
a dog. They eat healthiest when around other people but when alone feels like
no one is watching so they let down their guard and overeat.
Another part of the client’s landscape is whatever way they may speak
grammatically. Also any phrase they say that I can weave into my suggestions.
“It just don’t matter sometimes” “I hate feelin like this” “I just wanna feel good
again.”
likes nighttime - enjoy looking at the stars - fond memories of camping with their
family as a child - has a dog - eat healthiest when around other people - when alone
feels like no one is watching so they let down their guard and overeat.
Now let’s see this this would be used during the session. As it is said, the client
writes the script.
“And now that you are feeling more comfortable and begin to enjoy this
experience… like those fond memories of camping with the family as a child …
because you just wanna feel good again… and you can feel good because you
know how much you hate feelin like this… being uncomfortable physically and
emotionally. And you know it just don’t matter sometimes whether you are out
socially and eat healthiest when other people are around or you are enjoying
looking at the stars and why you like nighttime. And I wonder if no one is ever
not watching because even when alone feeling like no one is watching and you let
down your guard and overeat… YOU will always know… and you are someone.
Someone to care for and feed in a healthy way because like having a dog you
20
know how important it is to be fed healthy and to be cared for… as you now care
more about you and yourself.
You will see each word, phrase and the same grammatical approach was used.
Imagine how comfortable that is to hear and more easily acceptable to the client
for it’s ‘their language. ‘Have fun with creating the client’s landscape and weaving
it into the suggestions you use, whether direct, indirect or as metaphors.
Modalities
As you are observing and listening to the client during the intake and explanation,
be aware of the words they use. This will assist you as to what induction may be
most effective. See the chart Predicate Words on the next page.
We function within three modalities, audio, visual and kinesthetic (touch –feel) one
being dominant. When in an office setting, one on one, you can learn the person’s
primary modality with the words he or she uses. For instance, a person who is
kinesthetic will say things like, “I slammed it in there”. A person functioning in a
primary modality that is visual uses terms like, “I see what you mean” while an
auditory person might say, “That has a nice ring to it.”
The best tool we have to be most effective is... listening. Listen to the cues the
client delivers and use them during the sessions to increase the odds for success. It
is said, “If the client is, or is not, successful, who will they tell.” Answer…
EVERYONE!
Section II
Variables
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• Touch or don’t touch
• Visual or not
• Use script(s) as is or vary it accordingly
• Your instincts and intuition as your guide
Simply use the above points as a guide when working with clients. Have they said
anything that would lead you to think they do not like touch or have they led you to
know they are more visual, auditory or kinesthetic to help you choose the best
approach?
If you are not comfortable or experienced enough to ‘freestyle’ the patter, script,
dialogue, etc., use my scripts included in this manual or any scripts you have that
you feel pertain to the clients’ needs. But you always have the option to be flexible
with any prewritten script to add to it or not deliver it completely, while omitting
what you feel best to leave out.
We are always explaining that the unconscious is that part of us that is our instinct,
intuition, and gut feeling. The best moments I have are always when I say things
I’ve never said before as they seemed to ‘just come to me out of the blue’…
intuition and instinct. I could never consciously create those moments for
consciously we can’t compare.
Linguistic bridges / Transition
Transition is a linguistic tool that allows the hypnotist to match a subject’s ongoing
experience while moving smoothly to an altered state, or hypnosis. Words such as
‘and’, ‘as’, ‘because’, ‘but’, ‘while’, ‘when’ and ‘yet’ are linguistic bridges and
can be used to take a person deeper into hypnosis. For example, “You are listening
to my voice and relaxing more with every breath you take.”
The first part of the sentence is matching the client’s present experience, feeding
back what is actually taking place; ‘relaxing more’ is the suggestion the hypnotist
tags on to the true statement of what is desired to happen. There is really no logical
connection between listening to words and relaxing, but if you join them with
‘and’ it appears that there is.
A large part of hypnotic language consists of these transitions, and the technique is
simple. The hypnotist describes something the subject can see, hear or feel, and
then links that by use of a transitional word to what the hypnotist wants to happen
next. For example: “You can feel the weight of your hands on ______while you
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begin to notice the changes happening as your eyelids close because you know you
are able to relax easily with every relaxing breath.
Inductions
As discussed previously, you will have insight as to what induction may work best
for the client. With the various amounts of inductions available, and any you may
have created, you should be able to find one that is best for your client. The
following key points will lend strength to any induction.
Pre-Induction Key Points
• Permission ... “And because you have given yourself permission as your
older more experienced self, you now allow all of these changes to
happen at that deep level where all changes occur.”
• Sound... “…and you may hear sounds inside the room, outside the room
or outside the building, but... at all times you are focused on my voice…
unconsciously… while all sounds bring you deeper still… and
consciously you may think you don’t hear all that I say… and that’s
fine… as your mind may drift away.... and at any time there is a sign of
danger or warning, you will react immediately if needed, but for now you
can drift deeper and rest.”
• Friendly & Familiar... “And because my voice has become friendly and
familiar to your mind, you accept all of my suggestions and react exactly
as I suggest because you have decided this positive change is for your
well-being, to be healthier mentally, physically and emotionally.”
• Safe & Secure... “As you drift deeper and deeper into that peaceful
relaxation, into that personal and private place, you are at all times safe
and secure as your unconscious is aware at all times... while your
conscious mind continues to drift.”
• Speak Fast or Slow: “And whether I speak very quickly, or very slowly,
or even if I whisper, your subconscious mind will at all times focus on
my voice and accept these suggestions that are based on your desires.”
Key Phrases
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The boundaries of your imagination create the limitations in your reality. Your
reality is your perception and your perception is imagined.
All problems and solutions are in the mirror of self-reflection.
Hypnosis at times appears magical but it is not magic.
The level of your interaction is equal to the level of our success.
Effort over Time equals Results.
When you settle for less than you deserve... you get less than you settled for.
Like a flower, butterfly or tree… you are life and all of life is beautiful &
precious… worthy and deserving.
Charity starts at home and home is where you live and you live where you think…
behind your eyes… and you now put your home in order.
Every face is a mask and behind every mask there are issues. Those with the most
issues act out and speak out the most. It has nothing to do with you. You were
simply in that space at that time.
With 3 seconds of confidence we can do anything… the thought is always more
overwhelming than the task.
There is no failure. Failure is simply a learning experience and you now know
better ways to be and what not to do.
The thought is more overwhelming than the task.
Metaphors
“A picture’s worth a thousand words.”
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Metaphors work because they can quickly transmit enormous amounts of
information and generate new ideas. Presenting ideas and situations as metaphors
gives the client the opportunity to understand in their own terms the message being
communicated to them.
As you listen to people speak, notice how often metaphors are used. You will most
likely hear your client use them during your initial meeting and intake questioning.
Notice how the client uses metaphors and feed them back during hypnosis.
The representation of stored information in the mind is with imagery. The
subconscious is literal yet words that initiate a response in the mind bring forth
pictures. If I say, “The pink elephant playing a trombone”, you don’t see the words
pass through your mind, you see the image. Metaphors literally shape the brain and
they literally determine in large part your view of the world and everything about
that world, past, present and future. This is why we are totally engaged in
storytelling from when we are children and throughout our lives. Look at a group
of children during story time. They are in trance… a great time to deliver
suggestions embedded in the story.
Scripts for Inductions & Change
As with any script, you have the option to use them as is or modify as you feel
needed to best suit each client. Scripts are useful as a good foundation but should
not be relied upon as the only method to guide a client to their personal changes. It
is also best advised to pre-read any scripts to be prepared and not sound like you
are reading and to look at the language patterns for not all scripts available are
written equally well.
When to use any scripts is up to you. I do not offer any certain script to be used at
any certain session. There is a format to the work we do though we must be
flexible and spontaneous as well.
Following are scripts I’ve written and have used along with many other
components used in sessions, as previously mentioned. They will give you a good
place to start, coupled with the client’s landscape, as you continue tweaking the
sessions work to be your own.
Here are scripts for Inductions followed by scripts for directing personal change.
Falling Leaf Induction
Tom Nicoli, BCH, CI, CPC
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(Option: You can have the client focus on a spot on the wall, ceiling, your hand,
etc. as you deliver the induction until eyes close. Object Fixation Method)
“And now that you are becoming more comfortable… physically… emotionally
and spiritually… you’ll find that little things begin to change. You may feel how
your shoulders settle down even deeper into the chair… or how one hand becomes
warmer than another… or heavier… or feeling a heaviness in the eyes… wanting
to close. And at any time they feel they need to close… they do… because you are
now observing these changes… as they happen now. And as each breath brings
more oxygen to your muscles… automatically allowing them to now let go…
relaxing… smaller muscles… and those larger, bigger muscles can relax now. And
every flutter and flicker of your eyelids is a sign they want to close… that’s right…
and as they do… feeling heavy… tired… like looking at the sun on a warm
summer day… you will find how as if it was being done for you… your eyes will
close down… feeling even more comfortable when they do… safer… more
peaceful… while hearing all sounds around you as all sounds… whether loud or
soft… bring you into a deeper feeling of relaxation… while at all times your
unconscious mind… where all things happen for you now… hears my words…
and at times you may think you didn’t hear all of what I say… consciously… and
that’s fine… because like when we sleep… our unconscious mind alerts us to any
sign of danger or warning… but there will be no need for that… as you become
more relaxed to my voice… imagining what I say.
(Eyes may have closed by now. If not, simply say, “Now take a deep breath and
close your eyes as you relax even deeper still.”)
“You are doing perfectly now… as perfect is for you… and as you take your next
deep, relaxing breath … feeling more comfortable… allow yourself to really enjoy
the comfort now… as your body settles more deeply… physically… while all
thoughts begin to drift… like when we watch a television show or a movie… how
we become absorbed in the story line… no longer thinking or feeling our …
body… as we enjoy those moments… as you do now…and how much more deeply
(Falling Leaf cont.)
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you relax as I continue to talk to you… and as your eyes are closed now, they will
remain closed until I ask you to open them again… which won’t be for a while.
Now I’d like you to imagine a very tall tree. Maybe you imagine the type of tree…
Maple… Oak…any tree…maybe even a tree you never saw before. In your mind’s
eye… imagine a tree so tall you need to bend your head back…seeing the very top.
And as you look up to the top of this tree… imagine it is bare… all but for one leaf
at the very top of that tree. That’s right… one single leaf hanging on the tip of that
small branch… as if the wind has blown all the others away. Now… as you see
that leaf… feeling tired with your head leaned back… imagine how that leaf now
falls from the branch... and as it does… how slowly… gradually… it begins to drift
down through the sky… gently drifting down…down…down deeper still… side to
side… so calmly… peacefully. And as that calming leaf falls gently through the
sky… you may have noticed its’ color… or not. It’s however you imagine it
now…but… as that leaf falls closer to the ground… you notice there is a small
stream next to you. Maybe to your left… or right… behind or in front of you… but
in a moment… you will notice how that leaf lands on top of the water in the
stream… cupped and floating. And with your next deep breath… notice the leaf
has landed on the water… gently being brought down the stream. And as you
watch that leaf drift down… down… further away… watch it until it becomes a
small dot… a speck on the horizon… until it is completely gone… and when it is
gone from sight…take a deep relaxing breath… bringing you even deeper into
comfort.
(Watch for a deeper breath than usual indicating the leaf is gone and they
followed your suggestion. Give the time… now and then saying something
“That’s right” or “Deeper and deeper still”)
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Raft of Security Induction Tom Nicoli, BCH, CI, CPC
“You have come here today because you desire a change in your life… a healthier
way to feel…act and think… but you can take these moments we share to not think
about this now…. To allow yourself this time to let all things happen for you. What
I would like you to do is allow yourself to simply imagine… like when we were
children and we could imagine anything… and as the older, wiser, more
experienced self… you can imagine even more now. When a mother kisses a boo-
boo and the child feels better… the truth is the child imagines it to be better and it
is. Even Einstein said, ‘Imagination is more powerful than knowledge.’ This is
because our imagination is endless… unlimited and without boundaries… when
we allow… as you do now... we can imagine something even with eyes open and
in conversation… but… as you become even more comfortable now… imagine
how much better you feel… secure and peaceful… with eyes closed… and let them
close now as I continue to talk to you… while all parts of you become more
comfortable…. that’s right… allow them to close now and remain closed while I
talk to you.
“Sometimes we imagine, visualize… as if we were watching a movie or seeing
pictures… behind our eyes… but… you know we can imagine even if it is dark
and comfortable behind our eyes… as you are now. Maybe you are imagining what
I am saying… or not…or imagining what it would be like to let your mind wander
to a place now… a special and private place that you have found. I’d like you to
imagine what it would be like to be at a beautiful river… the air warm… the sky
blue… the scenery is how you would create it. Now… imagine at this never ending
river… calm and peaceful… there is a rubber raft at the shore. You may even see
the color of this raft.
(At this time, you can ask if they can ‘see’ the raft, surroundings, etc. If they
can… ask the color of the raft and what they notice around them, then
continue with the induction. If they cannot ‘see’ the imagery, say…)
“That’s fine, because as you relax deeper now your unconscious mind can
imagine all things for you and you can let your mind wander as I talk to you.”
(Then, continue with the following text )
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(Raft of Security cont.)
“Now… this rubber raft has been sitting by the shore for a while and has been
warmed by the sun. And this raft has been made for you… the most comfortable,
soft, warm feeling you can imagine. And as you now get inside and sit…
you feel how strong yet soft the raft is under your body…how safe and secure it
is… as you allow yourself to float… gently… slowly… drifting down this never
ending river. And at all times how the raft stays in the center of the river… slow…
and can go on for days and days… allowing you to enjoy having your eyes close as
you drift… feeling the warm air… maybe hearing the soft, gentle breeze through
the trees…. birds soaring through the sky… that’s right… and the water is so clean
and clear… like the thoughts you have each moment… of health… confidence…
and calm.
Now imagine what it would be like… as each relaxing breath allows you to feel
even more secure… safe… calm… inside your raft of security and peace. And how
you settle down deeper into the warm rubber… floating safely… as changes of
healthy behavior continue… becoming more balanced like the Nature around you
for we are Nature and Nature is us. And you may notice… as you continue to drift
along this beautiful… private… personal place… how much more deeply relaxed
you are… with each passing moment… as you continue to drift… that’s
right…drifting… floating…changing thoughts, ideas… behaviors and actions… to
feel more balanced like all the life around you… balanced… natural… and
healthier with every breath.”
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Feet in the Sand Induction Tom Nicoli, BCH, CI, CPC
(Deliver this induction with a slower, gentle pace. Use tone to create more
emphasis than usual to induce relaxation via the imagery)
“I’d like you to take a deep, relaxing breath… and as you exhale… allow all
tension, stress and anxiety to completely leave your body… mind… and thoughts.
And as you take another deep, relaxing breath… you feel how you become more
physically relaxed… sinking down deeper into the chair… soft and comfortable.
And because we use our imagination when we relax… you can imagine
anything… positive… happy… healthy… and calm. You can imagine drifting
across the sky like a white puffy cloud… or imagine the warm air around you… as
you drift deeper into comfort. Our imagination is used when we are doing
something... or nothing… like when we drive… we imagine many things… as we
remain safe and secure… or sitting by a pool with people all around… splashing…
playing… as we imagine being somewhere else. Yes… that’s right… we can use
our imagination at any time… at any place…for anything. Imagine yourself now…
at a private beach. maybe a private tropical island… or bay. The sand is warm…
white… soft… soothing the muscles in your feet as you walk down… down to the
water’s edge. And you can imagine what it was like… a time before when you
stood at the shoreline with the waves gently washing over your feet… or maybe
imagining what that would be like now… because you can imagine anything.
Imagine that first wave… slowly… gently washing over your feet… and as the
water goes back out to the sea… feel how your feet sink down… into the warm...
wet… heavy sand. And the next wave… that’s right… feeling your feet now sink
deeper… deeper … into that warm… wet… heavy sand… and imagining how
peaceful it is to be there now. And as the next wave washes over your feet…
feeling them sinking deeper … into that warm… wet… heavy feeling… you sit
back on the warm… dry sand… warmed by the sun… and as you lie back on the
sand… or maybe a blanket… feeling that warm sand under your shoulders and
back… relaxing… as the waves continue to gently wash over your feet… as your
eyes are closed… lying there…safe… secure… drifting away in your mind… like
the way a bird floats through the sky…over the ocean… without flapping a wing…
just soaring… away… away… further… and further…”
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Weight Loss Script 1
(This script is for eating healthy foods, eliminating fatty, greasy foods,
paying attention to both parts of appetite and for emotional strengthening)
“Sitting there comfortably now as you continue to drift into a deeper feeling of
peace and calm you have decided to make these positive changes… while at a deep
level of receptivity these suggestions for change are accepted... as you have given
yourself this permission. You remain safe, secure and protected at all times by the
positive energy that surrounds you ... while at all times feeling more wonderful
than before...every breath bringing you deeper still. And as my voice has become
familiar, soothing and comfortable to your mind...all of my suggestions are being
received at a deep level of receptivity ...creating those changes you desire ...and
you will act exactly as I suggest ...not because I say so...no...you accept all of my
suggestions while making positive changes because this is what you desire
now...positive change and progress...and progress means change and you desire
change and progress... while you become healthier ...lighter ...thinner and happier...
as it is right for you.
At that deep level where all decisions are made and information stored ...you
realize now that Nature has signs and Nature has created balance...and as we are
Nature and Nature is you...you begin to create that balance within...
The signs of what is right for you is in your intuition, your instincts, your ‘gut
feeling’...directed behavior at an unconscious level...that highest level of awareness
which you are now more receptive to...removing that internal struggle like before
because all parts are now working together at a deep level now.... and no part will
resist this change... as they negotiate all differences...
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(Weight Loss Script 1 cont.)
…and create this new part of you, cleaner, healthier and happier...mentally,
physically, emotionally and spiritually.
You’ve been aware of the sign that is your appetite but you have only paid
attention to half of your appetite...the part that says “eat, I’m hungry” ...which is a
survival technique... and now you eat when hungry... but...only when hungry. The
moment you feel that sign to eat... you will eat the healthy, nutritious foods that
nature has provided...and you now pay attention to the other part of your
appetite...the part that you forgot about... the part that says... “Stop I’m full”...the
moment you feel full... which will be after only small amounts of healthy,
nutritious food...however your unconscious guides you...you will feel completely
satisfied physically and emotionally and stop eating...and you realize that any extra
food on your plate is harmful in your body...only pennies of leftover food but
thousands of dollars of potential danger in the body.
You will find you may eat more often during the day but in smaller amounts... you
eat small amounts of healthy, nutritious food that invigorates your body...
strengthens your body and allows your body to function at peak performance to
expedite those stored fat cells from the body...expediting fat elimination
now...losing 1-2 -3 or more pounds in a week… while at all times maintaining
proper health...losing that unwanted unnecessary fat as your unconscious
determines it best for you...accelerating the natural processes to eliminate excess
fat from the body...in a safe and healthy way.... You realize that this is your time to
live...not a practice or rehearsal, but your time to live...to be healthy in all ways...
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(Weight Loss Script 1 cont.)
It is your basic human fundamental right to feel good mentally, physically and
emotionally and you call upon that now... loving yourself as you were meant to
from the beginning.
You now notice all the Natural healthy nutritious foods filled with nutrients and
vitamins...the fuel for the body for performing and processing all the changes you
desire...those wonderful colors of red, orange, green, blue, yellow, pink and
purple...you notice these colors on your plate and it gives you such satisfaction as
you allow only clean healthy food into your body...You now notice all those fatty,
greasy, oily disgusting foods that have been clogging your body...feeling greasy
and slimy in the mouth...another sign from Nature that immediately lets you know
to reject those foods ...feeling very uncomfortable as you notice those foods and
the uncomfortable feeling those wonderful pink healthy tissues in the mouth feel
from that slimy grease and fat that have been harming the body...but that ends now
as you make those changes.
The instinctive sign of our appetite signals when to eat and when to stop and you
now eat when hungry and stop when full...this gives you great pride and self-
respect...confidence in knowing that all changes are happening now...your
confidence, self-respect, pride, self-worth and love are now growing more and
more...as you breath every breath of peace and comfort...as all tension, stress and
anxiety has washed away like the excess fat that leaves your body.
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Weight Loss Script 2
Tom Nicoli, BCH, CI, CPC
“As you are now more comfortable…. more relaxed…. and enjoy this time for
you… the time for you to now end all the old ways of acting and thinking about
food. With each breath you take in… feeling more of the natural abilities you have
to allow change… these changes are happening at a deep level… where
information is stored and behaviors are created... new healthy behaviors and habits
to be free from unnecessary excess fat on your body. The mature part of you is
now integrating all parts of self to leave the old ways where they belong… in the
past… and you like millions of others who have made this change can feel
secure… safe… and confident of your abilities… as you allow the changes you
desire. Your desire is your permission to change and your permission the key to
open new doors that have been locked too long.
Your imagination is now free and we all know we can imagine anything… stars in
the night sky… a calm pond with lily pads on the water’s surface… and you can
even imagine how where you are now… behind your heavy closed eyes… that this
is your home. And you know that charity starts at home… and home is where we
live and we live where we think… behind our eyes… and you now begin to put
your home in order. Imagine that there has been accumulated information stored in
your home… your mind… that is no longer needed… unnecessary and
unwanted… like old boxes of expired papers…. serving no purpose to you….
information of using food for emotion… but you know at this deep level of
honesty and truth that using food emotionally causes emotional problems like
guilt… regret… and more. It has become very clear to you that the things we do
fulfill our emotions and as you now take action each day to do more things… to
simply enjoy your life… you are redirected from the thought of food…
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(Weight Loss Script 2 cont.)
… for food is only meant to be used as fuel for the physical machine… your body.
Imagine what it would be like to pull up to the gas pump when your tank is full….
or to continue pumping gas all over your car after the tank is full. That would be as
silly and potentially damaging… as silly and damaging as putting food into your
body when not hungry or past feeling physically full… and knowing that the size
of your stomach is the size of your fist… you only require small amounts of
healthy, nutritious natural food…. And will feel full physically and emotionally
with small amounts of healthy food.”
“You know that all behavior begins with a thought. People once thought the Earth
was flat… even the smartest people of their time. It doesn’t mean it was true. But
they imagined it so…. believed it and it was true to them. Regardless of what
anyone has ever said or done in the past… only what we believe is true… and you
believe that all positive change and progress for you is true... because it is. People
younger than you have made this change to be healthy… people older than you
have stopped eating the way they did for longer than the way you have and
changed… this means nothing can stop you from this change to become
healthier… thinner… and happier…. while eating healthy foods that stimulate your
body to burn and remove fat. To feed your body… your metabolism… the foods it
requires to work for you… to do its’ natural job of burning the fat from your body.
Old… unnecessary… unwanted fat…. that you have no use for and let go of now.
Your body requires healthy, natural foods that grow. Any fatty… greasy… slimy,
disgusting food has lost its appeal. At some time… for some reason or reasons…
these foods gave you comfort… but now… they only cause problems…
consequences and negative feelings….
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(Weight Loss Script 2 cont.)
…which allows it to be easy now to notice the truth…. to see the slimy fat on those
cheeseburgers… pizza… French fries… cookies and candies… or any foods that
you know cause fat in your body. You enjoy small portions… eating when
hungry… but only when hungry… noticing how quickly the body truly does get
full… and you stop… knowing any excess food is only pennies but causes
tremendous harm to the body and your emotions. You know that thirst happens
before hunger and you enjoy clean… clear… healthy… invigorating water….
Feeling refreshed… confident and proud of the changes you are now making.
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Weight Loss Script 3
“We all know the more we do anything, the better we get… and you have become
better at allowing yourself to be healthier. Allowing the part of your mind that is so
remarkable that it monitors blood flow… your heartbeat…. healing the body of
illness and disease and wounds and broken bones when needed… that same
tremendous ability that you have to create new behaviors while recalling any old
healthy behaviors that you had. As we think… so we are. When you think you can
do something… you might… and when you think you can’t do something…
you’re right. So… it makes so much sense now to think you can. The mind will
believe what we think… and the way we either weaken or reinforce our behaviors
is how we think to ourselves… those little conversations we have in our
thoughts… our mind. And you now have more positive, healthy thoughts allowing
your powerful mind to know what you desire. To reinforce the idea and ability to
reject harmful, sugary, fatty, greasy foods automatically… removing the thoughts
that created consequences in the past… because fat is not your friend… fat is a
problem you are removing.
Any healthy, positive habits and behaviors you have now will be strengthened as
more healthy and positive behaviors are being created. Because you have now live
more truthful and honestly… you are very aware of foods that cause fat in the
body… the preservatives… additives… chemicals and fake coloring… and the fat
and grease in these harmful foods are now perceived more honestly. If the
manufacturers of these slimy, disgusting harmful foods were accountable… they
would have labels that read… “eating this food may cause heart disease or clogged
arteries” ... …or…”eating this food will create excess, ugly, unwanted fat on your
body”… or maybe a warning label, like…
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(Weight Loss Script 3 cont.)
“eating this food creates fat which lowers your self-esteem, confidence and pride.”
I know you would choose something healthier… more natural and better for you
physically and emotionally.
Your imagination is now able to have you imagine a very fat… unhealthy… obese
body. Someone who for their own reasons ate the harmful, greasy, fatty foods that
caused problems… physically and emotionally. Imagine this body having
liposuction surgery. You know… sucking the fat out of the thighs… butt…
stomach… all that yellow, slimy, disgusting fat… sucked out of the body with a
clear hose. Imagine that fat being sucked out and the other end of the hose is now
producing the same foods that went into that body to create this unwanted…
unhealthy… disgusting fat.
Ice cream, cheeseburgers, pizza, Chinese food, candy, cookies, cakes, cheesecake,
French fries, all deep-fried foods… you know all of the foods that cause unhealthy,
unwanted fat. Imagine the fat from that body is now in all those foods…. feeling
what it would be like in your mouth… on your tongue… sliding down your throat.
And just like old, sour, lumpy milk… or green, moldy bread… your body rejects
what may cause harm in the body… like greasy, sugary, fatty foods that are now so
unappealing to you.
And you know the body is mostly water… like the earth… and you can now
imagine 3 glasses of water. In one glass there is a piece of white plastic… in
another a piece of cheese… and the third a cooked piece of pasta. You can see how
the cheese and pasta… like the plastic… will sit in the water and not change. And
imagine how the pasta and cheese are like rubber. They stick like rubber when
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(Weight Loss Script 3)
dry… burn like rubber and get cold and hard like rubber. Putting rubber into your
body would be silly… ridiculous… even harmful…. and you now treat your
body… yourself with respect…. admiration and support…. for your life is
beautiful and precious…. and you are worthy and deserving of all healthy change.
You were given free will at birth… choice… and you now choose to exercise…
your rights to feel better mentally… physically… and emotionally.
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Honesty & Truth (No More Reasons or Excuses)
You now realize at the deepest level of honesty, truth and awareness...that deep
level where all information is now rational...reasonable... logical and fair... and
because of this... you are firm in your decisions... all reasons and excuses have
been washed away like the summer rain cleans the air... See the words reasons and
excuses erased from your mind... because you are so honest and truthful with all
parts of yourself... at the deepest levels... letting all of the old ways of thinking and
acting to be washed away... and you have given yourself permission to make this
change... to be clear and obvious in all decisions... because you are so honest and
truthful with yourself at the deepest levels... private and personal... clear and
obvious... and you will make this change for you know all change for progress is
happening now... at that deep level of honesty and truth... to be healthier...
mentally, physically and emotionally in all ways.
All parts of you are now working together and no part will resist this change...
working out and negotiating all differences so you can now move forward... no
longer living and behaving the old way... the way that has held you back from your
desires and goals... to be healthier and happier... but that is now over... you can
allow all parts of you to now come together for you are them and they are you...
and no part resists this time... As the older, wiser, experienced and mature self... all
parts allow you to be the leader... to act and live in a healthier more productive
way... to no longer be the younger self when food was used for emotional
reasons... because all reasons and excuses have been washed away... easily and
comfortably.
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(Honesty & Truth cont.)
You may notice that time... that younger self... when there was a need to be loved...
have attention... companionship... safety or security... or some other emotional
reason that is no longer necessary... for you fulfill all emotional needs with life
experiences... with people... experiences... thoughts and events... and you have
matured into this way of thinking and feeling... You may even notice that part of
self... when food was used illogically... irrationally... and created a way of being
that you no longer need... and you only focus on your needs... as you need to be
healthier to live longer... to be happier and more confident... more self-respect and
pride... and you feel this now.
And just like you don’t drive looking backward or walk looking backward...you
would get hurt... but that is how you have been living...looking to the past of what
was and has been...the past is over and gone and you live in today...
All we have is today...what we call yesterday was once today but that is gone and
when tomorrow comes we will call it today...You have crossed that line leaving all
past reasons, excuses and illogical ways of thinking behind for you have matured
into that way of thinking...at a deep level of guidance and motivation...all decisions
now automatic, clear and obvious... making the right choices for expedient weight
loss and proper health... a healthier mind and body... more confident... proud and
higher levels of self-respect and responsibility for self... you know that charity
starts at home and home is where you live... and you live where you think... behind
your eyes... where you are now, making positive changes with all parts of self,
giving you assistance and no longer feeling any resistance to this change and all
changes for health and peace... in your mind, body and spirit.
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The Car Metaphor (This metaphor is for healthy food as ‘fuel’, proper
maintenance and the need to ‘work the engine’)
“As you continue to drift away to the sound of my voice...you know that just like
the vehicle you drive...or some machine you may know...there are certain
requirements for peak performance and for the life of that machine...and the
vehicle which you live in... your body...this physical machine...the most complex
machine we know of... has special requirements for peak performance and
continued healthy life...
You know we can always replace that car or truck or vehicle...though it may be
difficult...but there is no replacement for the magnificent and precious vehicle we
travel this life in...your body...and it requires certain attention, maintenance and
fuel...and you feel this responsibility now...because you have great levels of pride
and self-respect. Now I know you wouldn’t put diesel fuel in your car if it required
regular gas...that would cause harm and danger...but that is what you have been
doing to your body...feeding it the wrong fuel causing harm and danger...And I
know you wouldn’t put rubber into your break lines or sand into your oil because
you would cause serious damage to the engine...and just like that engine...your
body...we don’t know all the working parts but we know what we need to maintain
it properly for peak performance and for a long life...
You now are motivated toward proper maintenance of your body giving it the
proper fuel it requires...Nature’s fuel for the body is food and you now know that
food is fuel and has purpose.... noticing those delicious, healthy nutritious natural
foods... Nature’s healthy colors...red, orange, green, blue, yellow, pink, purple...
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(The Car Metaphor cont.)
… all of those natural requirements that you enjoy for peak performance and
expedited weight loss... as excess weight continues to decrease daily.
I know you would never drive looking backward... you would crash and be
injured... but you have been living looking backward... and you now know that the
past is over and done... it served its purpose to you as a learning experience and as
your older more mature and wiser self... you use the past and know what not to do
and what you now will do... to remove and eliminate all of those harmful fatty,
greasy, oily, sugary sweet foods and to allow only the healthy nutritious helpful
foods in the body...
Healthy, nutritious, clean food as fuel for peak performance as Nature intended...
this gives you a great increase of self-respect, pride, confidence, value and worth...
and just like the way we wash and clean our vehicle and give it the proper
maintenance... you now take great pride in the maintenance of your body... your
vehicle... and exercise your right to use this machine daily to strengthen all of its
working parts...
Just like a peak performance race car... we know if it sits and is not used it will rot
and rust.... and you now feel a tremendous motivation at a very deep level ...
unconsciously motivated through your heightened desire to feel better in all ways...
mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually... as you move all parts of the
body.... all muscles, joints, tissues, tendons... every cell of your body healthier,
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stronger and feeling free to move... free to grow and develop as a thinner, healthier,
trimmer you... and in that same way... that deep level of knowing....
… this will be and now all things are possible for you... and will happen as you
exercise your right to feel better... look better and act as you have desired.
You are Nature and Nature is you and all things in Nature move... the ocean, the
animals, the wind... plants move and all living things as you are alive, free and
refreshed and invigorated... you move in all ways... each and every day... You have
closed the door on the old way of being... on the old way of feeling... and now
move forward with great speed and confidence... as all changes happen... burning
those stored fat cells and eliminating all excess weight from the body... as you tone
and strengthen muscle and muscle eats fat... this motivates you even more than
ever before to allow muscles to tone and eat the fat away... all of these suggestions
are working on a deep level and you will react exactly as I have suggested for your
personal reasons... to feel better mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually
every moment of every day.
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All Parts Script
"All parts of you are now working together for they are you and you are
them, negotiating all differences and creating the solution to this problem.... of
using food illogically and emotionally. And that part of you that began this behavior is
now aware and willing to let you, the older, wiser, mature self make the healthy
choices to eat when hungry and stop when full, needing only small amounts of
healthy, nutritious, natural foods. And once you are full physically, with small
amounts of healthy nutritious foods, you will feel emotionally satisfied. And you can
respond now with a nod of your head as I speak with your unconscious.... is that part
of you now able to let go of that behavior, to rest now and let you make better choices
to become healthier and happier?
Wait for nod, yes, or use ideomotor response (using a finger to lift in place of nod).
If no nod or 'I don't know", continue with....
"That's fine for I know that all parts of you are now working out that solution,
ending that way of using food for emotional reasons for that is the past, over and
done. And you will find that your younger self is accepting your attention, love
and companionship to feel better, mentally physically, emotionally and spiritually.
And like any good friend, every part of you is receiving forgiveness and
understanding for all things for the past is now a learning experience of how to be and
not to be…. And you know better ways to be as an experienced, older wiser part of
self…. And all parts are secure and safe… allowing YOU to make better, healthier
choices and decisions. And as this positive change is happening NOW, is that part of
you now allowing you to become healthier and happier, using food only as the fuel it
was meant to be for this body, the machine we live in?"
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(All Parts Script cont.)
A yes nod should happen if it didn't before... whether a nod or not say....
"That's fine... your unconscious mind is now focused on the time when you were
healthier, happier and thinner, lighter and the you that you want to be. And it recalls
all the actions and behavior to be that way and begins creating this new and wonderful
change for you, to be physically active, eat healthy nutritious foods...to eat when
hungry and stop when full.... which happens now with less food, fueling the body to
feel better in every way. And when the unconscious has worked out that solution…
and how fast the unconscious works out all solutions to problems…as YOU determine
problems to be… you will make all the necessary changes in your eating patterns and
food choices… to be healthier, happier, prouder and more confident than ever before.
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Confidence Builder Tom Nicoli, BCH, CI
“The past was this morning and that was you… any time in the past… 1… 3… 10 or
more years ago was you. We are everything we’ve ever been… at the moment…
integrated into our older, wiser, mature selves…. and all parts of you are now working
together for they are you and you are them… negotiating all differences allowing the
old ways of thinking and acting to now end. And that part of you that began any
negative behavior is now aware and willing to let you, the older, wiser, mature self,
make healthy and more positive choices. And you will find that your younger self is
accepting your attention, love and companionship to feel better, mentally, physically,
emotionally and spiritually. And like any good friend, every part of you is receiving
forgiveness and understanding for all things for the past is only a learning experience
of how to be and not to be…. and you know better ways to be as an experienced, older
wiser part of self…. as all parts are secure and safe… allowing YOU to make better,
healthier choices and decisions. And this positive change is happening NOW…
feeling more confident… secure and capable in all ways.
You have had the right since birth to be, do, have and become all that you desire.
Maybe someone in the past said something that changed that thought…. just like
when someone once said the Earth was flat and people believed it. Just because
someone says something… it does not make it true. The only thing that limits any of
us is the way we think… and at the deep level where behavior begins and thoughts are
stored… you now think more confidently… positively. You realize now that in the
past you had many moments of confidence. It took confidence to walk as a little
baby… it took confidence to go to school alone… it took confidence to meet new
friends…. and it took confidence to do many more things you have done without
thinking of it.
You have been a confident person all along. Confidence is not something new… just
something forgotten… and I know you are more confident now than when you were a
little baby. It’s a simple natural progression to be better at anything you do the more
you do it… and you have done many things. There are things you have done that other
people who you think are confident have never done.
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(confidence builder cont.)
Sometimes we are held back because of what someone else may think. You now
understand that every face is a mask and behind every mask there are issues. The
people with the biggest issues speak out and act out the most. It has nothing to do with
you… it’s their insecurity and lack of confidence that allows them to act this way.
Avoiding themselves and their own issues.
Confident and secure people support others… confident and secure people are kind
and understanding. Nothing and no one gives anyone confidence. Confidence was
with you at birth…. given to you as life and it now grows stronger and stronger with
every breath. More and more each day you live within a balance of being fair to
yourself and others… confident… happy… supportive and kind… to self and others.
As you are now more confident each day… you experience more confident thoughts
and actions… having more positive results.”
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Post-hypnotic Suggestions - Continued Reinforcement
(I use the color red as a post hypnotic suggestion because clients drive to the
office. Even those who don’t, they are in cars enough for this to be effective)
“Every time you see the color red, break lights, tail lights, stop signs, stop
lights, fingernail polish, lipstick… anytime and anything you see the color red,
you will act appropriately and safely at all times but all of all of my suggestions
will continue to be reinforced and strengthened deep within your mind.”
The following post hypnotic suggestion is to reinforce not only when my
voice is heard when listening to CDs between visits and at other visits that
they will respond well, but also to reinforce the daily listening of the CDs
between visits.
“From this moment on, each and every day as you hear my voice, you will
become deeply relaxed and accept all of my suggestions and act exactly as I
suggest because this is your desire. You may drift into a deep, deep rest but at
all times will hear my voice from beginning to end and react exactly as I
suggest, any time you hear my voice”
Instructions for Self-Hypnosis
It is important to instruct the client in self-hypnosis for continued maintenance
even after the behaviors have become positive. Also, you should want all clients
to be able to be independent and be able to make changes in all areas of their
life. Even with this instruction, you will still get follow up visits in the future
for reinforcement. There are enough people for us to continually receive clients.
Following is just one way to teach the client self-hypnosis. Use whatever
method(s) you feel best. Also, teaching the client self-hypnosis can be one of
the sessions in the bigger programs you offer.
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Self-Hypnosis
Step 1
1) When you go to bed, starting tonight and continuing every night,
just before you are ready to fall asleep, give yourself the following
suggestion 10 times:
"Every day, in every way, I am better and better and better."
While you are saying the suggestion, imagine yourself in every way,
getting better any way you desire.
2) In order not to fall asleep and not to lose count, every time you say the
suggestion, press down with each finger of your right hand. Then continue
with each finger of your left hand until you've completed the suggestion
10 times.
3) This may be your first attempt at learning to effectively program yourself
through suggestion. It is of the utmost importance to do this exercise
every night without falling asleep until you've completed the 10
repetitions.
You are beginning to establish a habit pattern of properly programming
yourself by giving yourself positive suggestions before going to sleep.
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Self-Hypnosis
Part 2
1) Continue doing Step 1, the Pre-Sleep Technique you learned last week.
2) In addition, do the following:
Sit in a comfortable chair with your back and head supported.
Focus your attention-effortlessly-on a spot opposite you, slightly above
the eye level, about 45 degrees up.
Take 3 deep breaths (as I have instructed you too). As you inhale your
third breath, hold it for 5 seconds and count backwards as you exhale
5-4-3-2-1.
On 1, close your eyes, RELAX and allow yourself to go into a deep
hypnotic rest.
When you are feeling relaxed and feel your breathing begin to become
regular and slower than it was before, imagine yourself on the top of a
staircase with 10 steps.
Walk down each step, slowly, and with each step think to yourself,
“deeper and deeper”. Allow yourself to feel the downward motion of
going down the steps as you continue to think to yourself,” Deeper and
deeper.”
When you reach the bottom step, you will now feel calmer, more
relaxed and in a hypnotic state. Stay at that level for as long as you feel
comfortable, about 5-10 minutes. Do not force thought, simply allow
your mind to roam.
3) To awaken, just count forward from 1-5. With each count, imagine
yourself feeling more refreshed and energized than ever before. Think
to yourself, “I feel better physically, mentally and spiritually than ever
before.”
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Self-Hypnosis
Part 3
Assuming you have followed Part1 and Part2 of the 3 Step Method of Self-
Hypnosis, you are now able to get deeply relaxed. This is the first level of
hypnosis. The first level of hypnosis is enough to begin behavior pattern changes
through autosuggestion.
**The more you practice self-hypnosis, the better you will become at it. You will
soon realize that you can achieve not only a deeper level of relaxation but you will
be able to achieve it faster.
Autosuggestion
1) Have a prepared goal image ready to focus on or a prepared set of
keywords.
2) Get yourself deeply relaxed to the first level of hypnosis (See Step 2).
3) Once you reach the last step and feel completely relaxed, test your eye
closure. Tell yourself in your mind that you cannot open your eyes, they
are shut tight. After you test them and cannot open them, stop and
continue to relax.
4) Now, you are ready to give yourself autosuggestions. The autosuggestion
will be the image or keyword(s) you have previously chosen. See your
image or keyword(s) over and over, vividly in your mind’s eye.
For each new goal, do this exercise at least
21 days in a row then continue for reinforcement.
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Materials for client
• Steps to self-hypnosis
• CD of related topic for daily listening for reinforcement
• Weekly tips to create client interaction and accelerate weight loss
• Business card, brochure, cancellation notice, etc.
The fine line between the materials given is too have enough to be informative
and create interaction through guidance via the materials but not so much as to
overwhelm the client.
Reaffirm Importance of Client Interaction
Too many people have been misled to believe that hypnosis is magic. It appears
magical, but is not magic. Let every client know that just like the physical gym,
the mental gym requires daily activity, practice makes perfect. The more we do
something the better we get and it is the interaction of the client that will have
an effect on their progress and in creating permanent change and reinforcement.
Explain this in your pre-talk as well as the exit. Each client has to realize the
sense of individual responsibility.
Let all clients leave knowing…
“The level of your interaction is equal to the level of your success. The
mind gym is like the physical gym. If you go there you get benefits.”
You might also offer a free class, once per month, for weight loss clients in
Program II or III. Not only are they getting another part of the program, which
creates more value to the program and is a way to teach them more skills and
techniques to apply for their success, but it’s also a way to promote any services
or products you have.
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Forms & Letters
• Create your Intake Form as you feel best suited to your practice in order to
gather information before any questioning during your pre-talk or
consultation. What follows is an example and can be used as is with editing
the header and release statement at the end.
• Accepting Credit Cards is a must when doing business. The vast majority of
people will spend the fees required for your services with a credit card that
they wouldn’t with cash or a check. At A Better You Hypnosis Center cash,
checks and credit cards are accepted. It’s also a way to schedule and secure
appointments over the phone. You may not require a form as today’s smart
phones have a card swipe or reader available. But if you do, one is included
here for you.
• The Dear Dr. letter. This is another reason why it’s good to get the client’s
primary care physician info on the Intake Form. Send a letter to their doctor,
or any doctor at all for that matter, as a way to introduce yourself and your
services. When sending this letter to a client’s doctor, mention you are
working with one of their patients and whatever healthy results they are
having.
• The Client Agreement. This is for when signing a client up for any of your
programs. In it make clear what the program entails, what you will be
offering and any responsibilities the client will have. This contract is an
example to be modified for your programs.
• There is also a Permission Release Form for clients. This is for you to create
a Client Testimonial folder. Use a 3 ring binder and display it in your
reception area for clients to read as they wait for their session. Also use it to
show clients during consultations to increase their perception of your
services as being successful. There is nothing better than them reading other
people’s success stories to instill their belief in you and your services. Be
sure to ask every client to fill one out before their last session, or during the
program, and bring it back with them at their next session.
Please read ALL forms and letters carefully and insert the appropriate
information where indicated, such as Business Name, etc. See included
CD with text files.
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(Business Name) Intake Questionnaire & Release Form
NOTE: All information will be kept strictly confidential except that which we are legally
obliged to report such as threat of injury to self or others. If you are in any way uncomfortable
with any of these questions, feel free to skip them. Please be aware that the more you tell me
about yourself, the more I may be of assistance to you. Feel free to use the back of the
questionnaire to go into detail about anything you wish for me to know about you or to help you
with. It is our honor to assist you.
Name____________________________ Date of Birth_____________ Sex_______
Address____________________ City ____________________ State ____________
Zip Code ___________ Email Address______________________________________
Daytime Phone ______________________ Evening Phone ___________________
Personal Status: _____Married _____Single _____Divorced
Names and Ages of Children _____________________________________________
Name of Spouse/Partner _____________________________
1. List your three favorite colors in order of preference ________________________
____________________ ____________________
2. List your three favorite places in order of preference: ________________________
______________________________ ____________________________________
3. List any fears/phobias _________________________________________________
4. Do you have any Current health problems _________________________________________
5A. Are you being treated by a physician? ____Yes ____ No
If yes, for what? __________________________________________________________
Doctor info (name, address, tel. # ) _______________________________________________
5B. Are you being treated by a psychologist/psychiatrist? ____ Yes ____ No
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If yes, for what? ______________________________________________________
Name, address, tel. # ___________________________________________________
6. Have you ever been hypnotized? ____ Yes ____ No
If so, when, where and why? ______________________ ____________________
__________________________________________________________________
7. What is your current occupation? _______________________________________
8. Do you enjoy your work? __________________________
9. How did you hear about this office? _____________________________________
10. Are you currently experiencing any of the following: (Please check all that apply.)
___ nervousness ___ inability to relax ___ sleeplessness ___ compulsive tendencies
___ teeth grinding ___ poor health ___ cigarette smoking ___ alcohol abuse
___ compulsive overeating ___ codependency ___ inability to focus attention
marital problems ___ recent divorce ___ war trauma ___ childhood trauma
___ poor self-esteem ___ abusive home situation ___ abusive work situation
other: ____________________________________________
11. Do you follow any spiritual or meditative practices? (if so please describe.)
______________________________________________________________________
RELEASE STATEMENT: I hereby authorize certified personnel of (Business Name) to
hypnotize me for the purposes outlined in this intake form and for future purposes that I may
request. I understand that the success of my hypnosis therapy depends greatly on my own ability to
relax and desire to create change in myself. I understand that because the results of my sessions
depend greatly upon my own serious participation, that (Business Name) cannot offer any
guarantee of the success of my treatment. I am aware however, that (Business Name) will do
everything reasonably in their power to ensure my success.
Signature ______________________________________ Date ________________
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Credit Card Payment Information
Card Visa_____ MC_____
Card # ______________________________________________________
Exp. (mo) ________ (yr) ________
Print Name _______________________________________________________
(as it appears on card )
Billing Address ____________________________________________
City/Town________________________ State _______ Zip____________
Email ________________________________________________________
Tel. # __________________________
I authorize charges to be made to my credit card by (Business Name) in the amount of
$______________.
Signature _________________________________ Date ____________________
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Your Letterhead
To:
From:
Dear Dr. ____________
Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is (insert name). I have been
involved for (length of time) successfully helping people reach their personal goals
and changing habits using hypnosis. Hypnosis has aided my clients for the
following concerns: weight loss, smoking cessation, stress reduction, pain relief
and sleeping issues, to name just a few.
My belief is that your patients will benefit as well with hypnosis to complement
your services. You may know hypnotism was endorsed by the British Medical
Association in 1955 and the AMA in 1958 and it continues to be used in many
healthcare facilities throughout the world.
I invite you to visit my website, especially my testimonial page, and read how
hypnosis has helped my clients. The power of one’s mind can change the quality of
one’s life. I would be happy to speak with you and answer any questions you may
have. I look forward to working with you in the near future as a complementary
approach to assist your patients to their optimum health.
Sincerely,
(Your Name)
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Hypnosis Program Client Agreement
As a client of (Business Name) I willingly enter the program as outlined in this
agreement. I understand that because the results of my sessions depend greatly
upon my own serious participation, that (Business Name) cannot offer any
guarantee of the success of my treatment. I am aware however, that (Business
Name) will do everything reasonably in their power to ensure my success.
Type of Program (weight loss, smoking cessation, etc.)
Amount of Sessions _______________________________
Length of Time per Session __________________________
Program Fee _____________________________________
Payment Method __________________________________
Payment Schedule ________________________________________________
Hours of Operation _________________________________________________
Client Signature _________________________________ Date ______________
Hypnotist Signature ______________________________ Date ______________
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Your Letterhead
I hereby give (Business Name) the unqualified right to publish, print and reproduce
the following endorsement in whole or in part which includes my name, city and
state, and occupation for any commercial, public or private use. The following
statement, endorsement, is a true and factual representation, which I have read and
understand.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Signature __________________________________________________
Print Name __________________________________________________
City / State __________________________________________________
Occupation __________________________________________________
Date _________________________