In a holistic treatment plan, hypnosis can be used alongside other therapies and treatments. In a clinical setting, hypnotherapy can be used as a treatment option. There is no one length. Each case is different. Hypnotherapy might require multiple sessions.
How Does Hypnotherapy Work?
Even though hypnotherapy was used since the 17th century, there are still skeptics in the medical community. But, it is now more well-known and accepted. There are more licensed and certified doctors who incorporate hypnotherapy into their practices.
While there has not been much scientific evidence supporting the benefits of hypnotherapy for trauma, this is changing. Some studies provide promising results or may lead to helpful conclusions. Research on hypnosis to treat pain, IBS, and symptoms of PTSD is the strongest evidence for the effectiveness of hypnotic treatment. The majority of medical associations and organizations agree that more research is required to determine the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of hypnotherapy.
Can Anyone Become Hypnotized?
The ability to be hypnotized is unique for each person. People’s fears and concerns regarding hypnosis could hinder their ability to be hypnotized.
Who Is The Best Candidate For Hypnosis?
People who are motivated to resolve a problem are most likely to reap the benefits. Hypnosis, like any other treatment, can be beneficial for some conditions and in certain individuals. However, it can also prove unhelpful.
Does Hypnotherapy Work Well For Some People?
Hypnosis might not be suitable for those with severe mental illness, including psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions. Hypnosis might not be appropriate for people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol. Research is not supporting the use of Hypnosis for memory retrieval. You should be careful when using hypnosis to manage stressful events starting in your early years. These situations can lead to false memories and more anxiety, especially if you are receiving unintended suggestions.
How Do Choose A Hypnotist?
Look first for a licensed, properly trained, and credentialed healthcare professional in medicine, dentistry, psychology, psychiatry, or social work. The practitioner should also have training in hypnosis, hypnotherapy, and other techniques. Hypnosis should not be used as a treatment tool alone. It should be used alongside their mental health training and medical training. Ask your practitioner about their qualifications, licensure, and training in hypnotherapy. Ask them if they have experience in the condition(s), for which you are seeking treatment.
You want to feel at ease with the therapist and have trust in them. If you feel that hypnotherapists don’t suit you, you should not hesitate to find another therapist.
What Usually Happens During A Session Of Hypnosis?
There are four stages in hypnosis: induction to deepener, suggestions, and emergence.
Induction
This stage is where you learn to relax, pay attention, and not be distracted. You will learn specific techniques from your hypnotherapist to help you get through this stage. For example, controlled breathing (breathing out over seven-count, then in over 11 counts), progressive muscle relaxation (tense muscles as you breathe in, relax muscles as it goes out, then repeat the process with a set number of muscle groups), or focusing solely on a visual.
Deepener
This stage is similar to the first, but takes your relaxation and focus to an even deeper level. This step can involve counting down or using similar imagery like walking downstairs or sinking deeper into your comfortable bed. These are the first two stages that aim to open you up to new ideas.
Suggestions
This is where real change can occur in behavior, perception, or experience. Your hypnotherapist may use imagery or carefully selected language. The suggestions are either symptom-focused (to solve a particular symptom), or exploratory (to explore the experiences that were associated with the onset of symptoms). The suggested changes could be in perceptions, sensations, emotions, memory, thought, or behavior.
