Havening Techniques®, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Hypnosis are three different approaches that share common ground — each focuses on the connection between body and mind, belief systems, and personal transformation. But they work in quite different ways.
Here's a breakdown of each modality and how they compare.
1
Havening Techniques®
Havening is a psycho-sensory technique developed by Drs Ron and Steve Ruden. It uses a specific type of touch — applied to the face, arms, or hands — to produce chemical and electrical changes in the brain, allowing the subject to improve their emotional responses to past memories. It can also be used to build a positive mindset. There are currently seven types of Havening, which can be used to address a wide range of issues.
Core Process
De-linking traumatic memories from the body's emotional response. The amygdala is engaged to activate the negative response, then distraction techniques are used to disengage the emotion from the memory whilst Havening touch is applied.
Applications
Trauma, phobias, anxiety, stress, PTSD, and negative emotional patterns.
Self-practice
Self-Havening is powerful and can be used between sessions to build a positive mindset and continue the work independently.
2
NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming)
NLP is a broad set of psychological techniques developed by Richard Bandler and John Grinder in the 1970s. It is based on the premise that language, thought patterns, and behaviour are interconnected — and that by changing one's linguistic patterns or mental models, one can change behaviour, emotions, and outcomes.
Core Process
Identifying and changing unconscious patterns of thought that lead to unwanted behaviours, beliefs, and emotional responses, using the power of language to influence thought and perception.
Applications
Anchoring (linking a physical gesture to a desired emotional state), reframing (changing the context or interpretation of a situation), swish patterns (redirecting thought patterns), and timeline therapy.
Self-practice
Phobias, anxiety, limiting beliefs, performance enhancement, addiction, and goal setting.
3
Hypnosis
Hypnosis is a therapeutic technique that involves guiding an individual into a state of deep relaxation and focused attention — often referred to as a trance. In this state, the conscious mind is relaxed and the subconscious becomes more open to suggestions for change. It has been used for a wide variety of purposes, from managing pain to breaking habits and addressing emotional issues.
Core Process
Using focused attention and relaxation to bypass the analytical mind and speak directly to the subconscious, allowing suggestions for change to be more readily accepted.
Applications
Direct suggestion (suggesting a desired change), age regression (revisiting past memories), and post-hypnotic suggestion (suggestions that take effect after the session ends).
Self-practice
Stress, anxiety, phobias, pain management, habit-breaking (e.g. smoking, overeating), sleep disorders, and trauma.
How they compare as healing modalities
Each approach has its own strengths — and the right choice depends on the individual, the issue being addressed, and what kind of process feels right for you.
Havening Techniques®
Particularly useful for trauma, PTSD, and chronic stress. Provides a rapid, non-invasive method to address the body's emotional response to past events. The somatic, touch-based approach can produce immediate effects — ideal for those seeking a gentle, body-aware process.
NLP
A more cognitive and behavioural approach — well suited for people who want to understand and reprogramme their thought patterns to achieve goals or break free from limiting beliefs. More interactive and conscious, making it a good fit for those who prefer structured, logical methods of change.
Hypnosis
Highly effective for accessing the subconscious and addressing deeply ingrained behaviours, habits, and emotional patterns. Works well for those receptive to deep relaxation and direct suggestion. Particularly useful for pain management and habit-breaking.
In summary
- Havening is particularly powerful for trauma recovery and emotional regulation, especially when trauma is stored in the body.
- NLP is versatile for reprogramming thought patterns and behaviours, often focusing on the conscious mind and language to create shifts.
- Hypnosis is useful for deep subconscious change — breaking habits or overcoming emotional barriers — through relaxation and suggestion.
Each modality offers a different path to healing. The most appropriate choice depends on the individual's preferences, the specific issues being addressed, and the type of process they resonate with. In my practice, I often combine techniques to get the best possible outcomes for each person. — Sue