Some clients will specifically ask for hypnosis, and others may be reluctant to even consider the possibility of exploring hypnosis because of the common misunderstandings about it, with the associations mentioned previously, with magic, anaesthetics, and even the devil!

Even if a client asks for hypnosis, it can be useful to explore what they understand about hypnosis, so we can correct any unrealistic expectations - "You put me into hypnosis and tell me to ... and that's what I will do". 

I have found it helpful to distinguish two sorts of hypnosis. One is authoritarian, controlling, and forceful, and the other, the one we use here, is a respectful, encouraging experience where a person can be more in control of their own experience, and less under the influence of others, resulting in more choice and self respect.

Naming a client's fears about fearful hypnosis, and distancing ourselves from that, can be reassuring to many clients, and results in a more open expectancy and a more trusting relationship with us.