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Patterns

The authors explain Milton H. Erickson's skills of hypnotism to the readers, identifying the elements of his skill by using refined patterning and modelling techniques, moving from verbal patterning to non-verbal communication. Erickson also describes his methods in his own words.

272 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1975

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John Grinder

63 books97 followers

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5 stars
271 (50%)
4 stars
176 (32%)
3 stars
69 (12%)
2 stars
16 (2%)
1 star
4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Timothy Nichols.
Author 6 books11 followers
December 19, 2016
A classic in its field, but like many classics, a bit of a chore to slog through. The authors use Chomsky's long-since-discredited deep structure hypotheses to analyze linguistic patterns, which is definitely taking the long way around for what they're trying to do. It's very clear, if you don't mind learning the nuances of a linguistics that even Chomsky doesn't believe anymore, but there's got to be a better way to do the job.
Profile Image for Christopher.
71 reviews
January 5, 2011
I used to think Bandler was a pseudo-psychologist much like Tony Robbins or Wayne Dyer. However I am wrong.

Bandler and Grinder pretty much break down Erickson's hypnotic techniques as a methodical science that is easy to understand. He does this by showing the semantics of Erickson's writings and explaining why what he says bypasses the consciousness.

This is a great book which I finished quickly. I am definitely going to keep and re-read this book in the future. I eagerly await to get my hands on Volume II.
Profile Image for Creative Choices.
54 reviews7 followers
January 26, 2008
Definitely NOT an easy read for new comers on NLP, Hypnosis, or Erickson. But worth the effort for more advanced students. Be sure to read the forward by Erickson himself as well.

A big part of NLP's Master Practitioner foundation lies with the studies Bandler did on Milton Erickson and how he became so proficient at hypnotherapy. This book covers some of the things Bandler experienced though the studies of this man.

Profile Image for Tonya.
89 reviews
October 5, 2010
Read for class and glad I'm done. Only about 20 more to read.
5 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2014
This books is a MUST READ for anyone aspiring to REALLY learn hypnosis. Not only does the book LITERALLY break down language patterns to a remedial reader-like definition, it also contains bits of gold on perspectives of Erickson's work, and even how the brain works. I found the article about the work between Huxley and Erickson immensely intriguing. If you are already proficient in hypnotic language, skip to the last 10 percent of the book. The last 10 percent of the book focuses on providing the reader with a structure of how to create your own hypnotic language patterns.(less)
Profile Image for Shaun Phelps.
Author 20 books16 followers
January 13, 2021
Bandler and Grinder open the doors to potential and wonder in this work, reviewing the technique of Erickson's hypnosis work. This provides some tools for creating an effective induction, though I find myself with more tools and not much more ability. I think they communicated as much as they could given the restraints of written word. Honestly, this is worth reading for Erickson's article on his work with Adolus Huxley alone. Everything after that is extra credit.
Profile Image for El Even.
1 review
July 26, 2012
Richard Bandler and John Grinder the creactorsof NLP presents the techniques of the master of hypnosis Milton Erickson.This book is a tool for NLP practitioners or professional hypnotists.All the patterns of the hypnotic techniques are followed by many examples to help the hypnotist understand how to use the exact words to achieve his goals.A great book and a "must have" for every hypnotist
25 reviews1 follower
April 13, 2016
In constrast to what you might think reading the book's title, this is not just for hypnotherapists. The book provides insight into aspects of communication, that are interesting for everybody who is involved in communication. People who've never communicated, and never will, probably won't need this book.
Profile Image for Ana Filimon.
2 reviews11 followers
August 31, 2013
As my interest was more on Milton H. Erickson than on NLP, I found the book fairly hard to read. Making a theory out of a life-long experience deludes the actual teaching and somehow, betrays the Master.
Profile Image for Joe Richardson.
107 reviews6 followers
October 21, 2019
Good for songwriting. A bit of filler, like all their books, but some real concrete explanations on hypnotic patterns are in here.
Profile Image for Harris Joy.
16 reviews
August 3, 2026
Patterns of the Hypnotic Techniques of Milton H. Erickson, M.D., Vol. 1 is one of those books that rewards careful reading. Rather than presenting hypnosis as a collection of tricks or scripts, Bandler and Grinder break down the communication patterns that made Milton Erickson so remarkably effective.

What I appreciated most was how the authors analyze Erickson's language and therapeutic approach in a structured way. The examples make it easier to see how subtle shifts in wording, pacing, and suggestion can influence communication. Even if you're not a therapist or hypnotist, the insights into language and human behavior are fascinating.

This isn't a beginner's "how-to" guide, and some sections require patience because of the detailed analysis. However, readers interested in hypnosis, NLP, psychotherapy, coaching, or advanced communication will find it well worth the effort.

A challenging but highly rewarding read that deepens your understanding of Erickson's genius and the power of language.
7 reviews
August 7, 2026
Patterns of the Hypnotic Techniques of Milton H. Erickson, M.D., Vol. 1 offers an interesting and detailed exploration of Milton Erickson’s methods and the patterns behind his hypnotic work. Rather than simply presenting hypnosis as a set of techniques, the book looks closely at how Erickson communicated, responded to people, and adapted his approach to different situations.

I particularly appreciated the emphasis on observing the structure and patterns of Erickson’s work. The examples and analysis make the material useful for readers who want to understand the thinking behind his methods rather than just memorize techniques.

It can be a demanding read, especially for someone unfamiliar with NLP or clinical hypnosis, but there is plenty here for anyone interested in Erickson’s work, communication, and the development of modern hypnotic techniques. A thought-provoking book for practitioners, students, and serious readers of hypnosis.
1 review
March 22, 2024
Milton Erickson
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Tanay.
3 reviews7 followers
April 9, 2009
wonderfull book ,source book on Milton Erickson hypnosis
Profile Image for Paula.
382 reviews14 followers
May 25, 2010
Anyone who practices, or is learning, Ericksonian hypnosis, should have this book in his or her permanent library.
Profile Image for Yaroslav Sk.
82 reviews3 followers
October 31, 2019
Початок, вступ до підґрунтя НЛП і психотерапії. Мені подобається те як Еріксон вчить довіряти підсвідомості
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews