IC19 Short Course 04 - Priming: Understanding the Power of Word Choice on Successful Therapeutic Outcomes - Clifton Mitchell, PhD

Description:

Advances in the priming research have validated the rationale and impact of Erickson’s linguistic techniques. To wit, the priming research has confirmed that we are controlled by an unconscious behavioral guidance system more than previously conceived and, once covertly activated, unconscious goals are just as powerful as or more powerful than conscious goals. To the surprise of many, goals do not require an act of will to be acquired. These findings suggest that the key to effective therapeutic dialogue may be the meticulous and artful use of semantic priming.

This presentation will introduce participants to the concept of priming, review selected research, and demonstrate its implications in resolving therapeutic roadblocks and creating therapeutic movement. Ultimately, attendees will learn what priming is, the theory behind what occurs in the brain when priming occurs, and how to incorporate priming into the therapeutic dialogue to minimize resistance and create movement. An added bonus will be a discussion on how to incorporate the same scientific principles into your personal life for self-improvement and habit control. The ideas and methods presented are readily integrated into all theoretical approaches and client problems. A detailed handout will be provided.

Educational Objectives:

1. Define what priming is and describe how and why it has such a significant impact on mental processing.
2. Utilize priming principles into the therapeutic dialogue in order to circumvent resistance and increase the impact of the therapeutic dialogue.

*Sessions may be edited for content and to preserve confidentiality*