Imagine a compassionate, wise guide standing beside you. This guide represents your higher self, your inner wisdom, and your capacity for kindness and understanding.

Here is a sample hypnotherapy script for overcoming self-criticism:

**Induction**

“Welcome to this hypnotherapy session, where you’ll learn to quiet the voice of self-criticism and cultivate a more compassionate relationship with yourself. Take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, allow yourself to relax, letting go of any tension or stress.

Imagine yourself standing in a peaceful meadow, surrounded by gentle hills and a soothing sky. With each breath, feel your body relax, your mind calm, and your heart rate slow down.

As you inhale, repeat the phrase ‘I am safe’ to yourself. And as you exhale, repeat ‘I am kind.’ Allow these words to become a gentle mantra, guiding you deeper into relaxation and self-compassion.

Now, take a moment to visualize a warm, comforting light filling your body, starting from the crown of your head and flowing down to your toes. As this light travels, it nourishes your inner critic, helping it to relax and let go of its harsh judgments.”

**Deepening**

“As you continue to breathe deeply, imagine yourself sinking deeper into relaxation, like a leaf gently floating down a peaceful stream. With each breath, your body becomes heavier, more relaxed, and more tranquil.

Now, visualize a staircase before you, descending into the depths of your subconscious mind. With each step, you feel yourself becoming more relaxed, more calm, and more centered.

Take 5-10 deep breaths, and with each exhale, repeat the phrase ‘I release all self-criticism.’ Allow yourself to let go of the need to judge, criticize, or perfect yourself.”

**Confronting the Inner Critic**

“Imagine your inner critic standing before you, representing all the negative self-talk, doubts, and fears that have held you back. Notice how it appears, what it says, and how it makes you feel.

Now, imagine a compassionate, wise guide standing beside you. This guide represents your higher self, your inner wisdom, and your capacity for kindness and understanding.

The guide turns to your inner critic and says, ‘I understand that you’re trying to protect me from failure, rejection, or pain. But your harsh judgments and criticisms are actually causing more harm than good. It’s time to let go of the need to control and judge, and instead, cultivate self-compassion and understanding.’

As the guide speaks, visualize your inner critic begin to shrink, lose its power, and eventually dissipate into nothingness. You are now free from its negative influence, and you can begin to cultivate a more loving and accepting relationship with yourself.”

**Self-Compassion and Kindness**

“Imagine a warm, comforting light filling the space where your inner critic once stood. This light represents your self-compassion, your kindness, and your understanding.

As you inhale, repeat the phrase ‘I am enough’ to yourself. And as you exhale, repeat ‘I am worthy of love and compassion.’ Allow these words to become a guiding principle in your life, reminding you to treat yourself with kindness, care, and understanding.

Now, visualize yourself in a situation where you would normally criticize or judge yourself. See yourself handling the situation with self-compassion, understanding, and kindness. Notice how this feels, and allow this feeling to become a new pattern in your life.”

**Integration and Awakening**

“Take a moment to acknowledge the profound shift that has occurred within you. Notice how your body feels more relaxed, your mind clearer, and your heart more at peace.

As you slowly return to a state of full consciousness, remember that you have the power to choose your thoughts, to focus on self-compassion, and to cultivate a more loving relationship with yourself.

When you’re ready, slowly open your eyes, and take a deep breath, feeling refreshed, renewed, and empowered to live a life of self-acceptance, kindness, and compassion.”

**Final Suggestions**

“Remember to practice self-compassion, kindness, and patience with yourself as you navigate the journey of overcoming self-criticism. You are capable of cultivating a more loving and accepting relationship with yourself, and this will have a profound impact on your overall well-being and happiness.

And whenever you need to revisit this compassionate state, simply close your eyes, take a deep breath, and repeat the phrase ‘I am enough, I am worthy of love and compassion.’ Allow yourself to return to this sacred space, where you can access your inner wisdom, kindness, and understanding.”

This script serves as a guide, and you can modify it to suit your personal style and the needs of your clients. Remember to always use a gentle, soothing tone and to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for your clients to explore their thoughts and emotions.