For example we might ask someone to visualize the shape of numbers while counting back from one hundred , and intersperse suggestions to relax and feel more comfortable .
3 . Noticing the good feelings
This technique is my absolute favourite ! I have used it liberally in nonemergency pain control sessions . It basically involves having the subject focus on several parts of the body that have not been injured , leading up to the one that has been . By guiding the subject to positively respond to contact on the ‘ well ’ parts of the body , we establish a pattern so that by the time contact is made to the injured section of the body , the subject also responds positively to contact made to the injured area !
4 . Compounding suggestions
This technique involves compounding a positive direct suggestion with an activity that is taking place . So you might mention that the siren lights on the ambulance are flashing , and suggest that : “ Each time you sees the flashing lights you will feel ( or begin to feel ) more relaxed …”
5 . The three Fs : Feel , Felt , Found
This technique is a clever way to create rapport with a subject that has experienced a traumatic injury . The technique makes the subject feel as if you understand what they are going through . It also increases acceptance of your suggestions . It is an accelerated way of building rapport by showing you understand their experience .
“ It hurts !”
“ Yes , it will do for a while . It must feel awful right now ! I can imagine how you must feel !” “ It must feel awful right now ” indicates that you recognise their pain , but you ’ ve also signalled that it is temporary . “ I know how you feel ” connects you to them .
You can also say , “ I have felt that way before .” Whether you ’ re talking about fear or pain , when a person hears this statement while noticing that , despite your having felt that way you are now doing well , they are given great hope for survival and rapport is deepened .