Additionally, a great deal of productive work can be done while an individual is in a light trance state. The induction is essentially a ritual that helps formalize a transition to a more focused state of consciousness. Deep or light trance states can occur spontaneously. The formal induction process serves to organize and structure the process so that the trance state can be more efficiently used in therapy. There are a wide variety of types of hypnotic inductions.
Some therapists tend to use a particular type of induction most of the time.
Others vary the type of induction depending on the personality type and preferences of the patient. Self Hypnosis I will often teach patients how to use self-hypnosis so that they can gain more control over the process. They can use it between sessions as boosters. Often I teach them a long induction for when they have time and a shorter induction for quick use in crisis situations. Individuals who have difficulty doing the self hypnosis may benefit from hypnosis tapes.