Verbal suggestions are highly effective in low Alpha and Theta
In a research study that was called "Case for Alpha Theta: Dynamic Asymmetry Model", PhD Thomas Budzynski had noted that the low-end arousal continuum is where verbal or image suggestions can be processed without full effect of critical screening, and more likely to then be accepted and eventually acted upon.
In 1965, Felipe conducted a study and Yale University showing attitude changing affirmations that were given to subjects during mental states had effects when the patients were sleeping or drowsy. When these patients were in deeper sleeping stages or awake, these same affirmations had very little or absolutely zero effect on their attitudes, resulting in little effect on their behavior.
Only 35% can be easily hypnotized. The rest need additional stimulation
The ultimate purpose of the alpha and theta sessions is to help guide the mind to a state, similar to hypnosis and receptivity reprogramming. In that research, it was shown that about 35% of the population can be easily hypnotized. The rest of the entire population have trouble in reaching states that are receptive without the help of added stimulation.
Theta brainwaves can induce high suggestibility by playing a specific frequency
D. Corydon Hammond conducted the study EGG Patterns Associated with High Hypnotizability, and suggests that specific brainwaves that are associated with high levels of hypnotizability. We use this frequency in all our affirmation sessions.
While the theta is better for external suggestions, alpha is best for visualization. Higher levels of conscious interaction with the subconscious bring the brainwave pattern to conflict with the theta session. Alpha is essentially perfect for this interaction. When you close your eyes and begin to visualize, the alpha levels begin to take off. One common EGG test is to ask a patient to close their eyes to better measure the baseline alpha levels.