We need to immediately set aside the clichés of pendulums, drooping eyelids, and catchphrases such as “when I snap my fingers, you will wake up.” Hypnotic communication has nothing to do with stage hypnosis, either in terms of its purpose or the tools it uses. Rather, this particular type of communication allows the therapist to support their patient in independently entering a particular state: calmer, more focused, less susceptible to external stimuli.

The tools available to the therapist include words and the therapeutic relationship, which are the means and foundation for building a therapeutic alliance that benefits the caregiver’s work and, in turn, the patient.

Hypnotic communication can be used in many areas: rehabilitation, healthcare, mental health, palliative care, but also in everyday life.

We discuss this with:

Veronica Paggi, a nurse specializing in oncology and palliative care, professional lecturer, and head of SAS Basi di comunicazione ipnotica (SAS Basics of Hypnotic Communication);

Yuri Maritan, occupational therapist, sexologist, professional lecturer at SUPSI, and participant in SAS Basi di comunicazione ipnotica.