Hypnosis is not new. In ancient times, Druids, Celts, and Egyptians gave suggestions when people were in trance-like states. Mesmer (1734-1815) goes down in history as the first physician to use hypnosis in medicine (Mutter, 1998). The American Psychological Association and the American Psychiatric Association have both endorsed hypnosis. I am a member of the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis, a professional association which includes physicians, psychologists, dentists, and other health clinicians who use hypnosis in their professional practice. 

What is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a state of inner absorption, concentration and focused attention. It is similar to what occurred when as children we played with a magnifying glass in the sun: when the rays of the sun are focused, they are more powerful. Similarly, when our mind is concentrated and focused, we are sometimes able to use more of our potential and more of the power of the our mind, for instance to block pain. In this sense, instead of being out of control ( as in the popular misconception) having hypnosis is actually the ultimate in a self-control skill (Hammond, 1998).

It is a procedure which may be induced or which may occur spontaneously. Some people are more responsive to hypnosis than others. Everyone has already experienced a trance many times, but we just don’t call it “hypnosis.” For instance, think of the times when you have driven a distance and realize you have forgotten passing a landmark, because you were absorbed by something else. Another example: you have probably had times when you have been so absorbed in a movie or television show that you lost some awareness of someone talking to you. 

Hypnosis works for most people, and it is often effective with psychotherapy patients. The more motivated the person is, the more she is likely to benefit.

What Happens in Hypnosis?

I do three things when using hypnosis:

1. I encourage the use of imagination. 
2. I present suggestions which are compatible with your goals (for example, quitting smoking, eating more healthy foods, etc.).
3. And, with your permission, I might use hypnosis for

unconscious exploration, to help you get more fully in touch with yourself.

Medical Applications of Hypnosis

These are just some of the many medical problems for which hypnosis can be of assistance as part of a comprehensive medical plan:

Alopecia Enuresis

Arthritis/Rheumatism Headaches

Back pain Hiccups

Bladder irritability Nausea

Cancer Pain

Colitis Phantom Limb Pain

Dietary problems Sleep Disorders

Eczema Smoking

Ego-Strengthening Surgical Preparation

Encopresis Vomiting

Psychiatric Applications of Hypnosis

And these are some of the many applications of hypnosis for psychiatric problems:

Anger control Obesity

Anxiety Performance Anxiety

Anorexia Phobias

Behavior Disorders Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Childhood Fears Sexual Aversion

Concentration Sleep Disorders 

Conversion Disorders Smoking

Depression Social Phobia

Ego-Strengthening Speech Disorders

Enhancing Social Skills Sports Performance

Fugue States Stress Management

Hysterical Symptoms Test Anxiety

Inhibited Sexual Desire Trauma

Low Self Esteem Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling)

Marital therapy

Nail-biting