Motivational Interviewing (MI) is particularly valuable for hypnosis when ambivalence about change is blocking recovery.
Ambivalence in Hypnosis
People with hypnosis are often ambivalent about change — part wants relief, part fears the unknown of being without familiar hypnosis patterns. This is normal, not resistance.
How MI Addresses Hypnosis Ambivalence
MI uses specific techniques to help people explore and resolve their ambivalence about hypnosis treatment:
- Reflective listening: Hearing and naming both sides of hypnosis ambivalence
- Decisional balance: Exploring pros and cons of changing vs. staying the same with hypnosis
- Evoking change talk: Drawing out the person's own reasons for addressing hypnosis
- Affirming strengths: Highlighting past capacities relevant to hypnosis recovery
MI in Hypnosis Treatment Settings
MI is integrated into many hypnosis treatment approaches as an engagement tool. It's particularly useful at the beginning of treatment and when motivation fluctuates.