3 Reasons why hypnotists snap or click their fingers?

Recently, I was asked by a potential client why hypnotherapists snap or click their fingers, so I decided to give you three reasons why some hypnotists do this.

Introduction

Sometimes, hypnosis can feel scary to people because they do not have the facts and are influenced by TV, movies and things people have said to them. So people try to analyse what is going on. I believe this is one reason why some people might ask this question.

However, if you were to observe a lot of stage hypnotists, you would think that most hypnotists snap their fingers, but that isn’t true. Stage hypnotists use the tool of hypnosis to entertain, so they want to look dramatic. Consequently, stage hypnotists use finger snapping or clicking more. (Find out more about stage hypnotists at the Federation of Ethical Hypnotists)

In contrast, hypnotherapists use hypnosis with therapy to help people think and feel better: to change. A lot fewer hypnotherapists snap their fingers with clients as there are other ways to achieve the treatment goals. However, a lot depends on the training and style of the hypnotherapist. Some modern-day hypnotherapists who might use indirect, conversational hypnosis may never snap their fingers. (Find out more about hypnotherapy at the National Council for Hypnotherapy).

If you are wondering how hypnosis works, here are the reasons why some hypnotists snap or click their fingers.

1. A snap of the fingers is an auditory cue or trigger

Stage hypnotists use finger-snapping to give people a cue that they are progressing into a hypnotic state or there is something that they will be asked to do next.

Some hypnotherapists use finger snapping when they are reinforcing the suggestion to go deeper and deeper into hypnosis. It’s also something that some people expect to enable them to go into hypnosis.

2. Snapping-fingers is a thought stopper

The client can be shocked by snapping my fingers to change the thought pattern. It can change the negative or routine state. For example, in hypnosis, if someone is thinking about being offered a cigarette, they will not continue with the old ways and now say no. This can be followed by a positive suggestion of ‘No thank you, I am a non-smoker’.

3. A snap of the fingers acts as an anchor by the hypnotist for positive thoughts and feelings

I use the clicking of my fingers when I want someone to be able to access some positive feelings. For example, if I ask the client to think about a special, happy place they have been to before in their life while in hypnosis, I may click my fingers so they can link the positive thoughts and feelings with the following suggestion I will give.

Other auditory anchors, such as clapping my hands, can also be used.

Clients can also anchor their positive state by pressing a finger and thumb together or holding their own hand or wrist.

Do I snap my fingers with with all clients?

No, I do not, as I have a style of hypnotherapy that is adjusted to meet the needs of the client. Sometimes, people need commands and direction to progress, while others want a gentle approach to allow the hypnosis to work at their own pace and in their own way. Furthermore, as an experienced hypnotherapist, I can help you get the desired results by using different techniques.

Finally, if you want to know more about hypnotherapy and how it can help you change, book a free initial consultation with me and learn more. I will answer all your questions and provide you with options for going forward to feel so much better.

Regards Linda