10 Brilliant Books That Will Help You Understand Hypnosis

The Best Books On Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy

Interested in hypnosis? Want to learn more about it? You’re in luck! As a hypnotherapist, I’ve assembled a list of 10 excellent books on hypnosis and hypnotherapy.

“The Art of Hypnosis” by Roy Hunter

Roy Hunter’s “The Art of Hypnosis” is a classic book that’s been around for over 20 years. It’s an essential read for anyone interested in learning more about the art of hypnosis. Hunter breaks down the basics of hypnosis and provides practical tips and techniques for both beginners and experienced hypnotists. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to master the art of hypnosis.

Note, once you’ve finished this, you might want to jump onto Hunter’s excellent ‘The Art of Hypnotherapy’ next.

“Trancework: An Introduction to the Practice of Clinical Hypnosis” by Michael Yapko

“Trancework” is a comprehensive guide to the practice of clinical hypnosis, and a volume that is required reading for many training courses. Michael Yapko covers everything from the history of hypnosis to the latest techniques used in modern hypnotherapy. It’s an excellent resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of hypnosis.

Note, if you get the opportunity to train with Michael Yapko, absolutely TAKE IT. It’s a truly brilliant experience.

“Handbook of Hypnotic Suggestions and Metaphors” by D. Corydon Hammond

Often referred to as ‘the red book’, D. Corydon Hammond’s “Handbook of Hypnotic Suggestions and Metaphors” is an excellent resource for any hypnotherapist. It’s a comprehensive guide to the use of suggestions and metaphors in hypnosis covering an incredible range of presenting issues. Hammond provides hundreds of suggestions and metaphors that can be used to help clients overcome a wide range of issues, from anxiety and depression to smoking and weight loss.

“Hypnosis Without Trance” by James Tripp

If you’re someone who believes that hypnosis involves ‘going into trance’, then you need to read James Tripp’s “Hypnosis Without Trance”. James beautifully explains a new way to view hypnosis and hypnotic phenomena, and is highly recommended to everyone to help round out their understanding of what hypnosis truly is.

“Hypnotherapy” by Dave Elman

Dave Elman’s “Hypnotherapy” is a classic book that’s been around for over 50 years and continues to heavily influence today. It’s an essential read for anyone interested in the history of hypnosis. Elman was a pioneer in the field of hypnosis, and his book provides an excellent overview of the principles and techniques used in hypnotherapy. If you’re after the classic Elman Induction, this is the volume to explore.

“Hypnotherapy” by Freddy Jacquin

One of the more recent entries to this list is Freddy Jacquin’s ‘Hypnotherapy’. Freddy avoids giving a history on hypnosis, instead jumping straight into techniques and approaches that you can use for both personal change and working with others. My recommendation is to get the Audible version, read by Freddy himself, that includes the hypnosis sessions for you to enjoy.

“Reality is Plastic: The Art of Impromptu Hypnosis” by Anthony Jacquin

From father to son, Anthony Jacquin’s “Reality is Plastic” is a fascinating book that focuses on the art of impromptu hypnosis. Jacquin provides practical tips and techniques for hypnotizing people in everyday situations. It’s an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn more about the practical applications of hypnosis.

Note, I should mention that Freddy and Anthony run an incredible online hypnotherapy training which you can find at the Jacquin Hypnosis Academy.

“Hypnotherapy Scripts: A Neo-Ericksonian Approach to Persuasive Healing” by Ronald A. Havens and Catherine Walters

Havens and Walters’ “Hypnotherapy Scripts” is a great introduction to hypnotic patter through an Ericksonian frame. A favourite of the Jacquin’s, this volume has an introduction around inducing hypnosis before jumping into multiple examples across several presenting issues.

“The Collected Works of Milton H. Erickson, MD: Volume 1: The Nature of Therapeutic Hypnosis” by Milton H Erickson

When it comes to the world of hypnosis, there are few that have left as lasting an impression as Milton Erickson. He has a vast collection of works, so knowing where to start can be a challenge. This volume of collected works may be a good place to start although a special mention should go to “My Voice Will Go With You” by Sidney Rosen.

“Learning Hypnosis: A Common Everyday Approach After Erickson” by Rob McNeilly

Rob McNeilly was a student of Erickson and his wonderful ‘Learning Hypnosis’ is such an easy volume to access and to put into practice. Rob’s wisdom and insight will benefit any hypnotherapist who may feel ‘stuck’ with their clients. Drawing attention to the internal resources that we all have, Rob allows hypnosis to draw these strengths together towards an insight.

“Monsters and Magical Sticks: There’s No Such Thing As Hypnosis?” by Steven Heller

Steven Heller is often cited on many similar lists out there and the reason why is obvious. “Monsters and Magical Sticks” is a small book and an easy, enjoyable read. Much like James Tripp, if you’re stuck in the school of trance, this book will help you to view hypnosis differently. Additionally, it is heavily informed from the world of NLP.

These 10 brilliant books, while the tip of the iceberg, will help you to understand hypnosis from the basics to the latest research and techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hypnotherapist, these books will provide you with practical advice and insights that will help you to master the art of hypnosis. So what are you waiting for? Dive in and start learning today!

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