ABSTRACT
Trance is a word that conjures up many associations. This chapter explores some of these associations, the major intention being to develop a general sense of trance as a pervasive and naturalistic phenomenon. It outlines major theories of trance, starting with 19th century speculations and then proceeding onward to present-day proposals. The chapter explores the discussion to distinguish the experience of trance from the specific ritual of hypnosis, emphasizing trance as a cross-contextual and pervasive phenomenon with profound therapeutic potential. It also explores some of the phenomenological aspects of the experience of trance, noting how such aspects apply to both symptom phenomena and trance phenomena. The chapter discusses how the therapeutic use of trance can be organized into the four steps of creating a context, making the transition, promoting transformations, and consolidating learnings. It indicates how hypnosis aroused considerable interest and controversy among 19th century scientists. The Ericksonian hypnotherapist frequently uses amnesia to "protect" unconscious change processes from conscious interference.
