Basic principles
Safety first: avoid anything that could cause physical or psychological harm.
Clear voluntary consent: get explicit, informed agreement before hypnotizing anyone.
Respect and dignity: never embarrass, humiliate, or exploit participants.
Know your limits: do not attempt to diagnose or treat mental illness, nor offer therapeutic help.
Privacy and discretion: don’t share personal details or recordings without permission.
Before you hypnotize
Ask permission out loud. Example: “Would you like to try a short, non-therapeutic hypnosis for relaxation/fun?” Wait for a clear yes.
Do a quick safety check: ask if they have epilepsy/seizures, history of psychosis, recent head injury, are currently under strong medication or highly intoxicated, or are pregnant. If any apply, do not proceed.
If the person is a minor: get a parent/guardian’s permission and the minor’s assent; preferably don’t work alone with minors.
Clarify the context and limits: say this is for relaxation/demonstration/entertainment only, not therapy.
Informed-consent points (short script)
“Hypnosis is a focused state; you remain in control and can stop at any time. I won’t make you do anything against your will. Are you comfortable proceeding?”
If using recording or photos, get explicit consent first.
During the session
Reconfirm consent before induction.
Use non-coercive language and offer choices (e.g., “If you want, you can open your eyes anytime.”).
Monitor comfort: watch face, breathing, body language; ask how they feel if anything looks off.
Avoid any sexualized or humiliating suggestions. Don’t ask for or allow actions that would be illegal, unsafe, or deeply embarrassing.
Do not attempt to recover memories or suggest things that could create false memories. Keep suggestions neutral, positive, and reversible.
After the session
Safely bring them fully alert (clear wake-up protocol).
Debrief briefly: ask how they felt, explain anything unusual they experienced, and offer to stop contact/sharing of any media.
If they report distress or unexpected reactions, stop further hypnotic activity and suggest they seek appropriate help.
Special situations
Intoxication: refuse. Alcohol or recreational drugs can make hypnosis unsafe.
Strong emotional reactions: stop and refer to a qualified professional if needed.
Repeated requests for multiple or intensive sessions: remind them you’re not a clinician and suggest professional help if they seek therapeutic change.
Behavioral boundaries
No sexual or romantic exploitation. Don’t flirt or use hypnosis to advance personal relationships.
No promises of cures, big guarantees, or claims you can fix mental health problems.
No performing stunts that risk injury (no unsafe sleep-like poses, no making them perform dangerous actions).
Recording and social media
Always get explicit consent to record or post images/videos. If used publicly (social media, shows), get a written release. Respect requests to remove media.
If something goes wrong
Have a simple plan: stop the session, reorient the person, call an assistant or responsible adult, and if needed call emergency services.
Be honest and document what happened (brief notes): who, what, when, and actions taken.
Practical tips
Keep sessions short and simple for casual settings (5–15 minutes typical).
Use light, clear language and avoid technical claims.
Use safe, familiar inductions and wake-ups.
Practice your screening and consent script so it feels natural.
Carry a short written consent/waiver for events or stage demonstrations.
One-line consent script you can use: “Do you consent to a short, non-therapeutic hypnotic induction for relaxation/demonstration? You stay in control, can stop anytime, and I won’t ask you to do anything illegal, sexual, or humiliating. Are you okay to proceed?”
Why this matters: Even casual hypnosis affects attention and suggestibility. Following a brief code reduces risk, protects both you and participants, and keeps casual hypnosis fun.