Key Differences Between Ericksonian and Classical Hypnosis

Ericksonian trance is considered one of the most effective and, at the same time, one of the most mysterious methods of psychological correction. Milton H. Erickson (1901-1980) is widely recognized as a leading healer of the century and the creator of a new, non-directive, “gentle” approach to hypnosis, as well as brief strategic psychotherapy.

1. Differences in Approach

In Russia, there have traditionally been fundamentally different approaches to hypnosis and hypnotherapy. Classical hypnosis (imperative hypnosis) involves the hypnotist authoritatively controlling the will of the subject and the entire hypnotic process. This method was strictly regulated by law in the USSR.

In contrast, Ericksonian trance (often mistakenly called “Ericksonian hypnosis” in translations from English) allows the client (or patient) to remain fully in control. The psychologist or doctor forms a partnership with the client, maintaining clear feedback. The specialist simply utilizes naturally occurring trance states and guides them therapeutically. In Soviet and Russian law, the concept of “Ericksonian trance” does not exist, but the terminology has become common in Russia. The term “Ericksonian approaches in psychotherapy” remains outside the legal framework of the USSR and Russia.

2. Interaction

There are two main views on inducing trance: authoritarian and individual. Some believe the hypnotist is responsible for the trance state, actively guiding the subject into trance. In experimental research, when identical conditions were needed for all participants, the subjects themselves were responsible for entering trance, often using mechanical aids like audio recordings.

Erickson placed much greater importance on the individual than on any technique. For him, trance was something you experienced together with the person, not something you did to them as an object. The relationship is equal—no one controls anyone else.

3. Naturally Occurring Trance States

Trance is not an exceptional state that requires significant effort to achieve. As you learn to recognize its external signs, you’ll notice that people enter and exit trance states many times throughout the day. Some people enter trance briefly, others experience a light trance, and some prefer a deeper state. People seem to intuitively know what depth and duration of trance is right and beneficial for them. Even now, as you read this, some of you may be entering the level of trance you need at this moment.

One of Erickson’s achievements was recognizing trance as a widespread, common phenomenon (such as driving, waiting in line, listening to a lecture, or anticipating a meeting) and using these naturally occurring states in his work.

4. The Need for Trance States

Most people are familiar with the effects of sleep deprivation, and the consequences of lacking food, water, oxygen, vitamins, or physical activity are also well known. Less understood is the need for trance states. In trance, our subconscious can reorganize and restore our psyche, helping us adapt to our rapidly changing world.

Sadly, in our industrial society, we’ve lost many rituals of more primitive civilizations—ceremonies with singing, dancing, and mythological actions that led people into trance states. By regaining the ability to enter trance, we become flexible enough to change deeply and adapt to life, moving through transitional states to new ones. Without trance, we remain rigid and fragile, like a dying plant, vulnerable and easily influenced by others. Entering trance connects you to a healing ancient world, regardless of culture.

5. The Magic of Imagery

Milton Erickson was often asked to explain what hypnosis is, and he would usually reply, “Hypnosis is the transmission of images.” To understand what Erickson meant, consider the power poetry has over the human soul. Poetry is not only understood intellectually but also experienced physically (somatically). A poem can change the very essence of our lives. Erickson’s answer could be rephrased as: “Hypnosis is poetry, it is inspiration.” Keep this in mind as you continue your exploration of hypnosis.

Signs of Trance

What observable physiological changes indicate that a person is relaxed and their attention is turned inward? What did you notice when observing people in a relaxed state during previous exercises?

Pupil dilation
Fixed gaze
Slower blinking
Slower swallowing
Still posture
Relaxed muscles
Slower, more rhythmic abdominal breathing
Decreased pulse rate and heart rate
Relaxed facial muscles, smoother face (especially cheeks, forehead, lips)
Reduced response to external noises
Change in facial color (paleness for dissociated state, redness for associated state)
Delayed motor reactions
Spontaneous ideomotor responses, such as hand twitching, eyelid tremors, or sudden movements

In summary, Ericksonian trance is truly one of the most effective and, at the same time, one of the most mysterious methods of psychological correction. It’s important to note: as soon as a hypnotist tries to manipulate clients, their “skills” simply stop working. Otherwise, all banks would have been robbed and all women assaulted (just a joke, of course). In other words, practitioners of Ericksonian approaches are guaranteed to be specialists who strictly adhere to ethical standards. How could it be otherwise?

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Key Differences Between Ericksonian and Classical Hypnosis