by MMH Team

Ever had advice just stick in your brain forever?

Sometimes, the most memorable advice we receive is that which resonates on a simple yet profound level. It sticks with us, guiding our decisions and shaping our perspectives. 

In the world of personal development and therapy, such advice can be a beacon of insight. In this blog post and accompanying video, we'll explores two pieces of wisdom that, while seemingly straightforward, offer deep lessons in the importance of mental flexibility and proactive problem-solving.

The Wisdom of Mike's Dad

Let's start with a quirky piece of advice from Mike Mandel's dad that might just change how you approach life's... urgent moments. 

He used to say, "Go when you can, not when you have to." Of course, he was talking about the restroom (aka washroom or toilet for our global audience). At first glance, it's a practical tip for avoiding discomfort, but dig a little deeper, and it's a profound metaphor for proactive living. It's about understanding your needs before they become dire.

Derek Balmer's Mentorship: Three Models of the World

Another valuable piece of advice came from Mike’s mentor, Derek Balmer, who recommended always having three models of the world. At first, this concept may seem abstract. What does it mean to have three models of the world, and why is it beneficial?

What the Heck is a Model and Why Do Models Matter?

Models of the world are essentially frameworks through which we understand and interpret our experiences. They're not tangible realities but perspectives that shape our interactions and decision-making processes. There are models of our approach to the therapeutic process (e.g. hypnosis, NLP, EFT etc), and models of the relationship between the therapist and the client (e.g. direct hypnosis, Ericksonian hypnosis, Neo-Ericksonian hypnosis etc.)

Understanding different models is particularly crucial in therapy, where understanding and flexibility in one's approach can significantly impact the effectiveness of the process.

Different Models for Therapeutic Success

Let's delve into the four noteworthy models to understand their distinct approaches and how they contribute to the therapeutic process.

Direct Suggestion in Hypnosis (DSiH)

Direct Suggestion in Hypnosis places the therapist in a pivotal role of direct influence over the client. In this model, the therapist uses hypnosis to deliver suggestions directly to the client's unconscious mind. The idea is that the subconscious is more open to suggestion during hypnosis, making it possible to influence behavior, thoughts, and emotions more effectively than when the client is in a normal waking state. 

This approach is particularly useful for issues like smoking cessation, weight loss, and managing stress, where direct suggestions can lead to significant changes in habits and mindset. The therapist's skill in crafting these suggestions to be both appealing and acceptable to the client's subconscious is key to the effectiveness of DSiH.

Clean Language

Clean Language takes a markedly different approach, focusing on the client's own narratives and language as the primary tool for transformation. Developed by David Grove, this model is grounded in the belief that the client's words and metaphors inherently contain the seeds for their own healing and development. By asking specific, non-leading questions, the therapist guides the client to explore their metaphors and personal language, helping them gain insights and resolve their issues. 

This approach respects the client's inner wisdom and capacity for self-healing, making it a powerful tool for facilitating deep psychological change. It's particularly effective in dealing with trauma and deep-seated emotional issues, where direct interventions might not be as effective or welcomed by the client.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, one of the most widely used and researched therapy models, emphasizes the interconnection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. CBT is based on the premise that maladaptive behaviors and emotional distress are often the result of cognitive distortions — inaccurate or negative thought patterns. Through CBT, therapists help clients identify, challenge, and reframe these distortions, leading to more positive behaviors and emotional states. Click here to learn more about CBT and how it relates to hypnosis.

This model is highly structured and goal-oriented, providing clients with practical tools and strategies to manage and overcome their issues. CBT has been proven effective for a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and phobias, offering a pragmatic approach to psychological wellness.

The Enneagram Personality Typing System

The Enneagram stands out for its use of personality types to guide understanding and therapy. This model identifies nine primary personality types, each with its own set of motivations, fears, and behavioral patterns. By understanding a client's Enneagram type, therapists can tailor their approach to suit the client's personality, facilitating deeper understanding and more effective change. 

The Enneagram offers insights into the client's worldview and coping mechanisms, providing a roadmap for personal growth and development. It's particularly useful in self-awareness work, relationship counseling, and personal development, offering both clients and therapists a rich language for discussing personality dynamics and pathways to change.

Each of these models offers a distinct perspective on the therapeutic process, highlighting the diversity of approaches available to therapists and clients alike. Whether through the direct influence of hypnosis, the introspective exploration of Clean Language, the practical strategies of CBT, or the personality insights of the Enneagram, these models provide powerful tools for facilitating change and promoting psychological well-being.

The Dilemma of Limited Models

Having only one model is like trying to build a house with just a wrench—ineffective and limiting. Two models present a dilemma, akin to a donkey caught between two piles of hay, unable to decide which to eat.

However, introducing a third model into the mix creates a powerful dynamic. With three models, there is room for comparison and choice, allowing for a more nuanced and effective decision-making process. Yet, it's essential to avoid the trap of the tyranny of choice, where too many options lead to decision paralysis.

Diversifying Your Toolkit as a Hypnotist

The strategy, then, is to start with three distinct models and expand the toolkit over time. Diversity in methodologies, such as NLP, hypnotherapy, Timelines, EFT, and ego state work, ensures a broad range of tools to draw from. This variety enables more flexible and effective problem-solving and therapy.

If you’re wondering where to begin, the key is to choose a method that sparks interest and curiosity. Take the first step toward learning and applying this new model. The path to mastery begins with a single step, fueled by the desire to grow and expand one's toolkit.

The Journey Begins Now

We encourage you to embrace the wisdom of having three models of the world. Whether it's deciding when to take a break or how to approach a complex client case, these models offer a flexible, robust framework for navigating life's challenges. And remember, it's about starting where you are, with what you have, and building from there.

Feeling inspired to diversify your mental models and tools? The Mike Mandel Hypnosis Academy is packed with resources and courses designed to expand your understanding and skills. Whether you're a seasoned therapist or just starting on your personal development journey, there's something for everyone. So, what will you do today to get started? 

The world of change is waiting for you. 

And remember: Go when you can, not when you have to.