This article provides an overview of conversational hypnosis (CH) as distinct from traditional forms. The article includes a history of Ericksonian hypnosis followed by a conceptual model and operational definitions for CH. The analysis is built on three levels of comparison and contrast. Three concepts commonly used in the general hypnosis literature-focusing, engaging, and inciting-structure a comprehensive definition of CH. The article concludes with recommendations for future research.
Keywords: Ericksonian hypnosis; conversational hypnosis; naturalistic induction; traditional hypnosis; utilization approach.