How can hypnosis be dangerous

Some evidence suggests hypnosis relaxation therapy could help with pain management. Once a person is in that state, the therapist will speak to the patient and may ask them to do some visualization. Often, people are then taught how to do this on their own.

It is a powerful treatment extender. I see many of my patients only one time to assess them, measure their hypnotizability, and teach them self-hypnosis to address the problem. You can search for a licensed professional on the ASCH website here. Hypnotherapy can be an effective method for coping with stress and anxiety.

In particular, hypnosis can reduce stress and anxiety before a medical procedure, such as a breast biopsy. Hypnosis conducted by a trained therapist or health care professional is considered a safe, complementary and alternative medical treatment. However, hypnosis may not be appropriate in people with severe mental illness. Be cautious when hypnosis is proposed as a method to work through stressful events from earlier in life. This practice may cause strong emotions and can risk the creation of false memories.

You don't need any special preparation to undergo hypnosis. But it's a good idea to wear comfortable clothing to help you relax. Also, make sure that you're well-rested so that you're not inclined to fall asleep during the session.

Choose a therapist or health care professional who is certified to perform hypnosis. Seek a recommendation from someone you trust. Learn about any therapist you're considering. Start by asking questions:. Your therapist will explain the process of hypnosis and review your treatment goals. Then the therapist will typically talk in a gentle, soothing tone and describe images that create a sense of relaxation, security and well-being.

When you're in a receptive state, the therapist will suggest ways for you to achieve your goals, such as reducing pain or eliminating cravings to smoke.

The therapist may also help you visualize vivid, meaningful mental images of yourself accomplishing your goals. When the session is over, either you are able to bring yourself out of hypnosis or your therapist helps you end your state of relaxation. Contrary to how hypnosis is sometimes portrayed in movies or on television, you don't lose control over your behavior while under hypnosis. Also, you generally remain aware of and remember what happens during hypnosis.

You may eventually be able to practice self-hypnosis, in which you induce a state of hypnosis in yourself. Hypnotherapy appears to work best when used with other forms of treatment, says Steve G. Kopp, a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist. Depression is more than just feeling sad or having negative thoughts. Kopp also warns that hypnotherapist quality varies widely. Anyone considering hypnotherapy should make sure the therapist is not only certified to perform hypnosis, but is also a trained mental health professional.

Several professional organizations and licensing agencies exist for hypnotherapy practitioners. To be an ASCH member, practitioners must attend at least 40 hours of workshop training, 20 hours of individual training, and have completed at least two years of clinical practice as a hypnotherapist. For those interested in hypnotherapy, contacting these organizations to find a local chapter and licensed professionals is a good start. Some insurance companies will pay a portion of the cost of hypnotherapy treatments.

However, insurance companies often require a licensed professional to administer the treatments. Hypnosis has been gaining traction as an alternative treatment for anxiety. But is it as effective?

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