About the Book
For more than four decades, Trancework has been the definitive textbook for thousands of professionals around the world undergoing training in the art and science of clinical hypnosis.
Now in its 6th edition, this classic text continues its legacy of encouraging sound and insightful clinical practice based on established scientific research. This latest edition incorporates “up-to-the-minute” new studies and emerging topics within the field of hypnosis, including new chapters on trauma, dissociation, hypnotizability testing, and age regression and age progression. Special sections called “Frames of Reference” introduce readers to luminaries in the field, providing insight into the forces that have shaped current practice. Readers can expect to receive a comprehensive overview of current developments in the domain of hypnosis, an in-depth consideration of the practical and ethical issues associated with its use, and a greater appreciation for its many therapeutic applications.
This thorough, engaging text equips professionals with the essential skills to change clients’ lives by using hypnosis to enhance treatment of both medical and psychological issues.
Table of Contents:
Section One: Thought Before Action: Developing a Deeper Understanding of Hypnosis
Chapter 1 First Glimpses of Hypnosis
Chapter 2 The Myths About Hypnosis and A Dose of Reality
Chapter 3 Thinking About Hypnosis: Insights From Research and Theories
Chapter 4 The Brain, the Mind, and Hypnosis
Chapter 5 Hypnosis and Health: Amplifying the Mind-Body Relationship
Chapter 6 The Subjective Experience of Hypnosis
Chapter 7 Contexts for Applying Hypnosis and the Atmosphere You Create
Chapter 8 The Social Psychology of Human Suggestibility
Chapter 9 Responsiveness to Hypnosis
Chapter 10 Formally Assessing Hypnotizability
Chapter 11 Legal Considerations, Hypnosis Telehealth, and Ethical Guidelines
Section Two: Hypnosis in Action: Developing Skill and Artistry in Clinical Practice
Chapter 12 Structuring Suggestions: Generating Intentional Language
Chapter 13 Practical Tips for Conducting Effective Clinical Hypnosis Sessions
Chapter 14 Structured Techniques of Hypnotic Induction: Doing Hypnosis
Chapter 15 Conversational Approaches to Hypnotic Induction and the Art of Being Hypnotic
Chapter 16 Hypnotic Phenomena: Mobilizing Hidden Abilities
Chapter 17 Age Regression and Age Progression: Memory, Expectancy, and Time for a Change
Chapter 18 Dissociation: A Part of and Apart From
Chapter 19 Designing and Delivering Clinical Hypnosis Sessions
Chapter 20 Integrating Strategies of Clinical Hypnosis in Psychotherapy
Chapter 21 Therapeutic Metaphors: Stories Worth Telling
Chapter 22 Hypnosis and Positive Psychology
Chapter 23 Process-Oriented Hypnosis: When How Matters More Than Why
Chapter 24 Hypnosis and Treating Depression: Empowering the Disempowered
Chapter 25 Hypnosis and Addressing Trauma
Chapter 26 Clinical Hypnosis in the Management of Pain
Chapter 27 Hypnosis with Children and Adolescents
Chapter 28 Managing Unexpected Reactions
About the Author :
Michael D. Yapko, Ph.D., is an internationally recognized clinical psychologist and hypnosis expert, author of 16 books, and recipient of lifetime achievement awards from major hypnosis and psychology organizations.
Shawn R. Criswell, Ph.D., L.P.C., is a practicing clinician who uses and teaches hypnosis in a wide range of settings. She also offers consultation to health care professionals locally and internationally.
Review :
“Whether you’re new to hypnosis or have been practicing for years, this sixth edition of Trancework is essential for your clinical library. Trancework has always been an incredible resource, and in this edition, Yapko and Criswell bring even more insights, scientific advances, and applications that equip you with a depth of understanding and 'how-to' steps that enable you to use this wonderful tool. With new chapters that address dissociation, trauma treatment, and the use of new technologies, you’ll walk away with renewed inspiration about the possibilities of hypnosis and how you can apply it to enhance both your personal and professional work.”
Courtney Armstrong, L.P.C., author of Rethinking Trauma Treatment and The Therapeutic “Aha!”
“With each new edition I have considered – and expressed – that the world’s best-selling book on clinical hypnosis has gotten even better. Yapko, now with co-author Shawn Criswell, share both the core of sound hypnosis and the essence of effective therapy. The world has changed since the last edition, awareness of managing mental health issues has expanded, our scientific knowledge and understanding has grown, clinical interventions have adapted and evolved, and this thorough, scholarly, and still immensely practical 6th edition of Trancework covers it all. If you want to keep your clinical skills at the very cutting edge and thus maximize your clients’ well-being, then read – and re-read – this book!”
George W Burns, Adjunct Professor of Psychology, Cairnmillar Institute, Australia, author of 8 books including 101 Stories for Enhancing Happiness and Well-being
“What a delight to see Trancework enter its 6th edition! In their introduction, the authors’ two integrated voices identify their primary intention to focus on the clinical artistry of hypnosis. By offering readers step-by-step skill building guidance –essential for a new hypnotherapist and reinforcing for sophisticated practitioners. Trancework 6th edition offers balanced attention to what is known, not known, or debated about within professional hypnosis. This basis allows individuals to attend to details in a way that facilitates personal and professional growth. What is most essential in the art of hypnotic work is the individuality of the skills and resources, unique to the situation and time. That is the learning that Trancework fosters.”
Roxanna Erickson-Klein, L.P.C., Ph.D, The Milton H. Erickson Foundation, co-editor of 16 Volumes Collected Works of Milton H. Erickson
“I have welcomed and learned from every new edition of Trancework since 1991, when I first started assigning it as a required text for a graduate hypnosis course I taught for 30 years. But I’m particularly stoked by this fresh iteration – the impressive result of Yapko and Criswell’s synergistic scholarship, clinical acumen, and expansive knowledge. What a gift to the field! You’ll read this 6th edition with growing appreciation for the authors’ ability to illuminate, fascinate, and inspire.”
Douglas Flemons, Ph.D, Professor Emeritus, Nova Southeastern University, author of The Heart and Mind of Hypnotherapy and Of One Mind
“Trancework: An Introduction to the Practice of Clinical Hypnosis, 6th edition by Yapko and Criswell is an indispensable resource for healthcare professionals delving into the realm of clinical hypnosis. Spanning 28 comprehensive chapters with up-to-the-minute references, this seminal work offers a blend of theoretical depth and practical insights that are essential for those seeking to integrate and enhance their use of hypnosis in clinical settings. From classic to conversational hypnosis, the authors provide detailed descriptions, practical tips, and an insightful exploration of various trance phenomena.
What sets this edition apart is its extensive coverage of integrating hypnosis with other therapeutic techniques across diverse healthcare fields including psychotherapy, dentistry, obstetrics, oncology, and more. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to hypnosis, this book equips you with the knowledge and skills to effectively apply hypnosis in your practice. Yapko and Criswell's expertise shines through in their clear, engaging style, making complex concepts accessible without sacrificing depth.
For practitioners serious about learning hypnosis in clinical care, Trancework is not just recommended – it is an essential guide. It will enrich your professional toolkit and deepen your understanding of this instrumental therapeutic approach.”
Stephen Lankton, LCSW, DAHB, FASCH, Editor-in-Chief, American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, author, Tools of Intention, and The Answer Within
“The 6th edition of Trancework achieves its mission: combining the latest research and knowledge of hypnosis with an invitation to use creativity, language, and possibility to help others. Michael D. Yapko and Shawn R. Criswell speak directly to the reader, answering questions, dispelling myths, and offering concrete ways to incorporate a valuable tool into clinical practice. This wonderful resource, like the hypnotic process itself, compels clinicians to explore, practice, and discover how to make positive changes.”
Lynn Lyons, LICSW, author of Using Hypnosis with Children
“In this newest edition of Trancework, Michael D. Yapko and Shawn R. Criswell have written the most comprehensive textbook on clinical hypnosis to date. For two decades, earlier editions of Trancework have been my primary text for introducing hypnosis to psychiatry residents and medical and graduate students. The Sixth Edition and its Instructor and Student Resources will remain a staple of my teaching. Established clinicians and researchers will return to this book repeatedly as an invaluable reference.”
Barbara S. McCann, PhD, Mental Health Counseling and Hypnosis Endowed Chair, Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, President, Society of Clinical & Experimental Hypnosis, Approved Consultant, American Society of Clinical Hypnosis
“Books on hypnosis come and go … with one exception, Trancework, by Drs. Yapko and Criswell. Out in an unprecedented 6th edition, this classic, comprehensive, and up-to-date volume covers it all, from theory to practice and everything in between. It is my go-to resource.”
Scott D. Miller, Ph.D., Director, The International Center for Clinical Excellence
“The best overview of the field of hypnosis just got even better. Michael D. Yapko and his new co-author Shawn R. Criswell have produced, in this sixth edition of Trancework, the most comprehensive and illuminating book on hypnosis available. I will be eagerly digesting its 28 chapters and rich text for many months to come”
Donald Moss, Professor and Dean, College of Integrative, Medicine and Health Sciences, Saybrook University
“Trancework, 6th edition masterfully deconstructs the complex topic of hypnosis into curiosity-inducing understandable components. Yapko and Criswell are brilliant in how they weave together insights about hypnosis from its earliest theoretical origins and applications to recent evidence of its efficacy and neurobiological basis. Whether a novice or advanced practitioner, all will find something provocative and meaningful to enhance their practice acumen of one of the most effective tools we have in our behavioral armamentarium to reduce suffering in the patients we treat.”
Eva Szigethy, M.D, Ph.D., Lois C. Orr Endowed Chair in Pediatric Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Akron Children's Hospital
