"Demystification" has become an intellectual buzzword; finally, we have a book that accurately fits the definition. When most people think of "hypnosis" they imagine either a sinister, Mesmeresque figure declaring to his subject "you're getting sleepier and sleepier ... your eyelids are getting heavier and heavier, you vill go into trance," or an entertainer compelling a subject to "cluck like a chicken." In this comprehensive introduction to hypnosis based on the pioneering work of Milton H. Erickson, William O'Hanlon demystifies the concept of "trance" and "hypnosis." He goes to the heart of the subject by answering the question: "What is trance?" But be forewarned: This is no dry, formal discourse on trance induction techniques. Rather, readers are invited to share the experience of attending one of O'Hanlon's lively and popular two-day workshops on Ericksonian hypnosis. In an energetic and often humorous manner, O'Hanlon takes his audience through the basics of trance induction and explains the how, what, and why of hypnosis. Readers familiar with Erickson's work will be delighted at the author's Class of Problems/Class of Solutions approach, which deconstructs Ericksonian interventions and provides a powerful new tool in directing clients toward solution. Each individual element of trance induction is explained clearly, through the use of case examples, demonstrations, and audience participation exercises. The book's gradual approach takes readers through the hypnotic process in a step-by-step fashion, increasing their skills and confidence....

A friendly and brief guide to the essentials of hypnosis. Popular author Bill O’Hanlon offers an inviting and reassuring guide to the essentials of hypnosis, alleviating the newcomer’s anxieties about how to make the most of this clinical tool. This brief book illustrates the benefits of solution-oriented hypnosis, which draws on the work of the pioneering therapist Milton Erickson (with whom O’Hanlon studied) and emphasizes doing what is needed to get results—which, more often than not, means trusting that the client holds within him- or herself answers or knowledge that need only be tapped or released by the therapist. O’Hanlon covers the key aspects of hypnosis, including: using possibility words and phrases; using passive language; and inducing trance. O’Hanlon offers practical tips and friendly encouragement for the novice hypnotherapist—in his characteristic warm, reassuring, and humorous style. ....

Do You Need a Kick in the Pants?

You've heard all the rules to get yourself to write--work on a schedule, write in a particular place, always write a certain number of words, and so on ... all rules based on things that have worked for other writers.

But what works for you? What will get your book written?

Psychotherapist and writing coach Bill O'Hanlon provides no rules--just principles and methods that you can personalize to your own style and preferences. You'll learn that you don't have to be a natural writer or a good writer to write; you just have to write--and find out what uniquely motivates you to write.

By combining his experience as a therapist and his own prolific career as an author, Bill shows you how to manage overwhelming projects, while finding the passion to finish what you start. Plus, a DVD featuring an hour-long workshop showcases the best bits of Bill's weeklong bootcamp for writers, so you can fully experience the charisma behind the principles.

It's the literary equivalent of Prozac, cattle prods, M&Ms, and whatever else you need to get moving, get writing, and get it done....