Trance and the Transformation of Systemic Identity:

A workshop with Stephen Gilligan

Trance and Generative Change

This unique workshop will focus on how to use generative trance work to identify and transform the systemic identity of a person or group wishing to create new results in their lives. One part of the workshop will distinguish generative trance from more common trances (e.g., traditional hypnotic trance, negative ìsymptomî trances), and identify how this more creative, positive trance can be developed in natural, creative ways. A second main theme is that of ìsystemic identityîóthat is, the underlying ìmandala of selfî that a person uses to navigate in the world on many levelsóattention, behavior, meaning, motivation, etc. We will see how systemic identity, which can create either suffering and freedom, is developed, maintained, destabilized, and reorganized; and how therapists and coaches can learn to attune to, align with, and transform a systemic identity for positive change. Through demonstrations, exercises, case examples, and discussion, participants will learn how to practically apply these ideas in their personal and professional work.

Trance and the Transformation of Systemic Identity will organize around core questions: How do you develop a generative hypnotic trance that allows transformational work? What is meant by ìsystemic identityî? What distinguishes a "positive" (helpful, generative) system from a "negative" (suffering, symptomatic) one? How does the therapist open a generative trance field? Once a field is opened, how is the "problem" or "complaint" brought in? What else (e.g., resources) is brought into the field? How is the generative trance field maintained with all these different components present? What shifts among the constellation pieces precipitate meaningful change? How does the therapist facilitate this? How are these changes transferred/realized in the person's ordinary life?

The Trance and the Transformation workshop is informed by Milton Erickson and elements of Ericksonian hypnosis, Generative Self, Generative Trance, Self-Relations, constellation work, and hypno-systemic therapy.