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Created April 20, 2005
by Monte Merrell
Updated
Feb 2008 by Carl Hoogesteger
The use of hypnotherapy has waxed and waned in its
popularity for the treatment of various ailments over the years. It
involves
the art/science of altering the patient's subconscious mind as well as their
physiology for the purpose of rendering a lasting change. In theory, the
practitioner navigates the different levels of consciousness in the patient to
access the desired memory, feeling, or thought pattern which they desire to
alter or change. Some of the more common uses include behavior
modification, anxiety and stress management, habit cessation, improved
performance in public speaking or athletic events, and pain control.
So, what is hypnotherapy? It is the use of hypnosis
as a means of rendering therapeutic changes in the brain of the subject.
Hypnotherapy should not be used as an alternative to being seen by your regular
doctor. It should be utilized in conjunction with conventional medicine.
It is important to remember that health concerns should first be brought to the
attention of your physician, then a hypnotherapist may be called upon
 to
act as a partner in your care.
So, what is hypnosis? Some call it an altered state
of consciousness or a trance. Others refer to it as an altered state of
mind, or relaxation state. Whatever the definition may be, it seems that
the ultimate goal is to
access the mind, both at the conscious level and at the subconscious level.
The hypnotherapist usually begins a session by discussing the desired result
with the subject, as well as any concerns or reservations. After the goals
have been determined the therapist begins the hypnotic induction, which is
designed to gradually produce a progressive relaxation. Various techniques
may be used for induction.
The most stereotypical induction technique is a swinging
pendulum or pocket watch on a chain. In actuality, the use of the swinging
pendulum is quite rare. Most clinicians feel the use of visual aids or
items to induce hypnosis is not necessary. Most use techniques such as
guided imagery, counting backwards, eye fixation, and controlled breathing.
The common thread of all these techniques is that they are designed to divert
attention away from external stimuli and refocus the subject onto internal imagery.
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