I saw someone coming to my page with erotic transference hypnosis from google and while I have spoke about transference before (actually had a guest writer write about it), this is certainly something that could require more attention.
Just like in any type of therapy, there is the possibility of romantic or erotic transference. With hypnosis, due to the very nature of the bond between the hypnotist and the client, a bond that is almost sacred feeling, it’s most likely going to develop much stronger and deeper. This is likely one reason why erotic hypnosis is not an uncommon fetish, to say nothing of those who are more interested in the “mind control” aspect. The client must trust the hypnotist before hypnosis can ever occur, and often this is done by using various rapport techniques. Pickup artists usually study hypnotic techniques to up their game because of the nature of the techniques.
Trance requires one to be placed in a vulnerable state and bypasses the critical factor which would protect the subconscious. With a hypnotherapist making the client and the client’s sensations and experience the complete focus of his/her attention, it’s easy to be attracted to and almost addicted to the pleasurable sensations of hypnosis and see the hypnotherapist as a giver of pleasure. The brain is also the sexiest organ, even if you are not sapiosexual.
While transference should not be encouraged, it should be considered natural. A good therapist or hypnotist can use that energy and attempt to direct it into a force for change.
While it is likely unprofessional to say this, but I admit, I as a hypnotherapy client I was also attracted to mine. His reviews from his students also seem to agree. While I suspect he knew it, he did not mention it. I always tried to keep any thoughts that should not be in there, out during trance. I know at one point, I did have a few seconds of thoughts that should not be there and I don’t know if he sensed it or what but right after that we reduced the more obvious hypnosis and moved on to a more solution focused approach for other things in my life. However since I still had that energy, I used it to pour into the to-do list he was having me work on which meant I completed so many things in record time, just to get a compliment from him. We were able to transfer the erotic transference into a positive force for change.
For those hypnotherapists with counter-transference (or should we call it counter-trance-ference?), that is where we need to be concerned as that could interfere with client care whether or not it is erotic. If possible, transferring clients to another provider is considered to be the best option. Remember depending on your certifying agency, you might have a cool-down period which can last up to two years before you can even be buddies with your client, much less take it further, which even then is still not recommended.
Melvin S. Marsh is a certified hypnotherapist serving Atlanta GA, Aiken SC, Augusta GA, Blairsville GA, and Cary NC. He performs hypnotherapy appointments both in person and worldwide virtually. He can be reached at www.afterhourshypnotherapy.com .
