Conversational Assessment of Hypnotic Ability to Promote Hypnotic Responsiveness

Abstract

In this article, hypnotic responsiveness is conceptualized as the byproduct of hypnotic ability, which is largely unalterable, plus hypnotic participation, which is highly subject to manipulation in the therapeutic context. This framework constitutes the basis of a model for the conversational assessment of hypnotic ability and hypnotic participation, as well as the subsequent tailoring of therapeutic interventions based on that assessment. Specific clinical steps for implementing activities implied by the model are explained and then demonstrated by way of a case example.