What is hypnotherapy?
The term "hypnosis" comes from the Greek word hypnos, meaning "sleep." Hypnotherapists use exercises that bring about deep relaxation and an altered state of consciousness, also known as a trance. In a deeply focused state the mind and body are very responsive to an idea or an image. But this does not mean that a hypnotist can control the person's mind and free will. On the contrary, hypnosis can actually teach you how to master your own states of awareness. By so doing you can affect your own bodily functions and psychological responses.
What conditions respond well to hypnosis?
Hypnosis is used in a variety of settings, from emergency rooms to dental offices to outpatient clinics. Clinical studies suggest that hypnosis may improve immune function, increase relaxation, decrease stress, and ease pain and feelings of anxiety.
Hypnotherapy can reduce the fear and anxiety that some may feel before medical or dental procedures. For example, studies show that dental patients who underwent hypnosis had a significantly higher threshold for pain than those who were not hypnotized. Hypnosis may also improve recovery time and reduce anxiety and pain following surgery. Clinical trials on burn patients suggest that hypnosis decreases pain (enough to replace pain medication in some cases) and speeds healing. Other studies show the use of hypnosis resulting in decreased the use of pain medication, higher pain thresholds, shorter hospital stays, less surgical intervention, fewer complications, and a more satisfying labor and birth experience.
Generally, clinical studies show that hypnosis may reduce the need for medication, improve mental and physical health before an operation, and reduce the time it takes to recover.
Hypnotherapy has also been used in dental offices to control gagging, reduce pain, anxiety and bleeding.
A hypnotherapist can also teach you self regulation skills. For instance, with arthritis you can learn how to turn down pain like the volume on a radio. Hypnotherapy can also be used to help manage chronic illness and smoking addictions. Self hypnosis can enhance a better sense of control, which is often lacking when someone is dealing with a chronic illness. It is also very helpful for general anxiety and numerous phobias.
How many treatments will I need?
Each session lasts about an hour, and most start to see results within 4 to 8 sessions. Your progress will be monitored and your response can range from subtle to very noticeable and can occur slowly or rapidly. Overall, changes will progress at the rate that is right for you. Children (aged 9 to 12) often respond quickly and may have results within only 1 or 2 visits.