Priming: Using the Hidden Power of Language for Superior Client Outcomes and Self-Improvement

Priming research of the last 20 years has determined that humans are controlled by an unconscious guidance system profoundly more than ever conceived. Priming occurs when something stimulates and triggers behavior. Semantic priming has confirmed the hidden power of words to stimulate preparatory thoughts that trigger new behavior with or without conscious awareness. The most significant finding is that unconsciously created goals can be equal or more powerful than conscious goals and, amazingly, that goals do not require an act of will to be acquired. Yet, the nuances of how new behaviors are...Read more stimulated through the precise, meticulous use of language are rarely discussed relative to the therapeutic dialogue.

This dynamic, humorous workshop introduces the audience to world of priming through a discussion of the priming that occurs in our everyday lives of which everyone can relate. It then addresses the scientific research, demonstrates the phenomena, and explains how priming should be utilized in the therapeutic dialogue. Ultimately, therapists are provided a linguistic tool that will radically intensify the impact of therapeutic communications and effectiveness. In addition, these principles provide you with the mental tools necessary for molding yourself into the person you want to be and for reaching personally desired goals.

We will also delve further into the research on priming and the vital implications for the therapeutic dialogue. It will then explain specific applications where priming can be implemented. Some of these include:
-- Enhanced empathic statements that prime through recognition of deficits
-- How to talk positively to a negative person without them knowing it
-- The use of embedded suggestions and commands
-- Is your goal properly priming the client?
-- Priming suggestions of temporary stuckness and implied change
-- Pacing and leading with an embedded prime
-- Underlying meaning and implications of commonly spoken words
-- The direct application of priming as a self-change technique
-- Why priming works: What we know about the brain and learning

Upon completion of this training, participants will have a set of linguistic tools that incorporate priming and be aware of numerous instances where priming can be applied in the therapeutic conversation. Less...

Learning Objectives

• Explain what happens in the brain when a word is spoken and the implications for the therapeutic dialogue.
• Utilize priming in the therapeutic conversation at specific moments and with specific structured linguistic techniques.
• Utilize priming as an explicit technique and tool for client self-change.
• Define what priming is and understand how and why it has such a significant impact on mental processing and the stimulation of behavior.
• Explain the impact of therapeutic communication by incorporating priming techniques into the client-therapist dialogue.
• Create effective mental programming for breaking bad habits and reaching personally desired goals.

Target Audience

Learning Levels

• Intermediate to Advanced

Saturday, September 23, 2023

11:00 AM EDT - 02:15 PM EDT