What do you think about reading from a script....

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Permalink Reply by the grumpy hypnotist on May 31, 2009 at 7:12am

Hee hee... maybe someone should setup a group here called "Scriptnotists United". The training industry certainly seems to churn them out... what an easy way to make a living --- just read a story to someone in a soothing tone of voice.

Anyway, I often use scripts, but have to admit the problem I have is my own difficulty studying them while in a conscious state, and they sometimes seem impossibly simplistic or corny or strange... even though I know they have a different impact to someone in trance. I gotta get over that.

Synapse said:

I think they're called "Scriptnotists", Grumpy! :o)
the grumpy hypnotist said:

I think there is a difference between using scripts, and relying on them (being the kind of hypnotist who thinks all they need to do is have client close their eyes, relax and read some suggestions to the "unconscious mind").

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Permalink Reply by Susan French on May 31, 2009 at 4:01pm

What a great idea! Now I have to save enough to buy a Kindle...lol. It's been on my list.

Susan

the grumpy hypnotist said:

Well, I wouldn't agree that scripts "are the single best way to get great results with clients" (scripts don't play much of a role during the running of a regression or parts or forgiveness process -- which are arguably useful ways of getting great results too)... but I use scripts often at certain parts of the session. From what I understand, even Erickson did not rely on some wondrous ability to ad-lib using just the right metaphors and language... I have read that he spent many hundreds of hours perfecting variations of scripts and metaphors, and just got so good at using them that they appeared spontaneous.

I think there is a difference between using scripts, and relying on them (being the kind of hypnotist who thinks all they need to do is have client close their eyes, relax and read some suggestions to the "unconscious mind").

I look forward to getting an Amazon Kindle, because that has the ability to read PDFs. It would make the use of scripts very easy and non-obtrusive, I think. Has anyone out there with a Kindle used it for this purpose?

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Permalink Reply by Aino / Akpolarmom on May 31, 2009 at 8:58pm

Now, I did not read all the replies, but here is my newbie input. I find using a script limiting as it stops me from observing the client. If I am reading I will not be able to watch all the cues the client unconsciously gives me. He will tell me all kinds of things about his journey into and around in his trance, any special triggers, and sooo much more. If my head is buried in a written script I may miss something I can later utilize for his benefit. Scripts are also never exactly fit for a client... there is timing and mirroring and if one is reading and not watching ... well... I can imagine script says 'close eyes' and the client does not and the hypnotist simply keeps reading and goes on to the next ting, totally missing the lack of eye closure. or the opposite.... client has eyes close already and you just keep working on getting him to close.... both parts could make you look like a very inattentive hypnotist.

The way I have utilized a script is by getting ideas from it. Do I have notes... yes, but I can not imagine how reading a script can be anything but a hindrance. And I must add I have a terrible memory... so it is not because I memorize them. But that is my opinion.
Aino

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Permalink Reply by Fable Goodman on June 1, 2009 at 12:48am

Good thinking Aino,

I thoroughly agree, that paying attention to the client is far more useful than getting a set of words right, from a script.

Any script needs to be addapted and tailored to fit the specific client in that specific situation, at that specific time.

When I first started out, I did sometimes use sripts for the therapeutic suggestions, once the clients eyes were closed, but I would use them as prompts, glancing at the script from time to time, and then putting it in my own words, whilst returning my attention to the client.

Like Susan, I would highlight key words (often the beggining of a a paragragh), and keep the pages in plastic sleeves, to avoid rustling pages.

After a little while, because I had an excellent memory for strings of words, (whether heard or read), I soon internalised just about every script I had used. and became fluent at dancing between scripts, whilst working with a client... dipping in and out of various scripts as and when it seemed appropriate.


Many of the scripts I used at the beggining were someone elses, either taken from my trainings, books, and cassette recordings from other hypnotists. They eventually became more and more my own variations of my favourites, tailored to my style of working, and to fit the client.

I have not now used a script for many years with a client. But still sometimes refer to a writen script when making some of my MP3 recordings. Any one who listens carefully will be able to pick out the references, and I have often made a point of acknowledging my sources, when posting a recording on this site.

Love and hugs,

Fable

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Permalink Reply by the grumpy hypnotist on June 1, 2009 at 1:09pm

Very much agree about the importance of paying attention to the client's responses, instead of having head buried in a script. Personally, I have to be cautious about a related problem, except instead of being distracted by a script, I'm distracted by taking notes (alright I admit it: sometimes doodling) during the process, instead of closely observing the client.

One way of forcing myself to pay closer attention to the client is to pretend that a close family member of the client is in the room observing the session... sounds kind of cheesy but it seems to cause me to be more "with" the client during the experience, instead of just running on autopilot.

Fable Goodman said:

Good thinking Aino,

I thoroughly agree, that paying attention to the client is far more useful than getting a set of words right, from a script.

...
Love and hugs,

Fable

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Permalink Reply by John Cerbone - The Trance-Master on June 2, 2009 at 1:31pm

Since I write my scripts and people use my scrtipts, I like 'em.
As long as I or someone else I know and trust or have trained has written them.
I do own a dusty old boat-load of books from the 1980's, scripts written by others, that's why I wrote my own.
Scripts need to be a certian length, cleverly written and have impact, tricks and techniques to insure session sucess.
I do find their use important as it helps us keep records of what we are doing.

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Permalink Reply by Pete & Lorraine on January 31, 2010 at 4:09am

Hi Kenda
I think the majority of us have used scripts, certainly at the beginning, some remain using scripts, it's a good base to start from, or keep you on track, learning to pay attention to your clients reaction looking for change in their body language, as you get more experienced you may find you wander off from using scripts, or just use them occasionally depending on how you work. At the end of the day it's all script and ritual to some degree with the added alteration to fit with the client. I tend to use a script to back up any work or round it off, or for a cd.
At the end of the day as long as what you do has the desired effect and you are comfortable using it carry on. I see scripts as a structure or framework while you find your way and develop your own style of working and timing.

Pete

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Permalink Reply by Carol Buettner on January 31, 2010 at 5:54am

I will finish up my hypnosis training this coming weekend and test for the IHMDA. Back in the beginning I used the scripts because I simply did not understand patter/timing, direct/indirect induction and conversation formations. As I got deeper into the course and worked with my instructor and other students in my class, friends and family members that would allow me to try out what I was learning I got to where it was easier and easier to get a feel for the person I was working with and the need for scripts became less and less. It was simply easier to go with what I was seeing in reaction for the person.

Hope this is helpful
carol

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Permalink Reply by Bruce Taylor C.Ht on January 31, 2010 at 9:23am

I use to use scripts at first. I then use to write my own scripts for the client I happen to be working with. I now do not use them as often as I do not do much direct suggestion other them when wrapping up a session. It is all in the hypnotists comfort zone in what works the best for them. I believe that you do your best when you are doing it the way that fits you and your passions. It is amazing how many different people are on this sight and different ways that they tackle their sessions. All appear to be succesful in their efforts. This craft that we have is incredible. Keep up the great work that we all do.

Bruce Taylor

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Permalink Reply by John R. Brochu on January 31, 2010 at 2:21pm

Kenda:
I don’t think that using scripts is a faux pas.
Script books are a wonderful resource and provide interesting approaches to common problem.
I have a library of scripts that I will review before writing a script of a session.
The script I write becomes a “laundry List” of suggestions and not a verbal mandate.
My failures have taught me more than my successes. Going off script will offer you a chance to observe your client and release the patter within. Be Fearless..

Yours in Health,
John Brochu

BrochuHypnosisCenter.com

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Permalink Reply by Aino / Akpolarmom on January 31, 2010 at 6:02pm

I also think that scripts do have their places, that is purely as a resource. No disrespect to John or others who have script books or create their own, but I still say if you have a client before you that is where your attention should be. You may know that you didn't use that well written 'super double dissociation double bind' that was in the script book, but your client will never know, because you were able to feed him all the experiences back you were observing. He will only know you guided him into a trance experience, and helped him with what ever issue he presented you with.
My opinion is that the only time I may consider reading from a script is, if I was making a recording, and of course that points back to the fact that no client is present. But even there I hesitate, after recording one recently for a friend... it is just not 'me'... it sounds stiff and cumbersome, and not with as much feeling as I know I am capable of... So I will work on the content, rerecord without the script, and trust that 'my style' will show thru on the final result, not the robotron like result I found was on the track.

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