What is Hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a form of therapy that utilizes hypnosis to help individuals reach a state of focused relaxation, where they are more open to suggestion and insight. This therapy aims to help individuals positively change their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Hypnotherapy as a practice does not have a single founder. However, some key figures who have contributed to the development and popularization of hypnotherapy in modern times include, Franz Mesmer, James Braid, and Milton H. Erickson.
How does IH Psychotherapy utilize Hypnotherapy?
At our practice, hypnotherapy is used as a tool to help clients reach a state of relaxation and heightened awareness During hypnotherapy sessions, clients may be prompted to visualize prositive outcomes, reframe negative beliefs, or explore past experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Hypnotherapy may be used in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches to help clients reach their treatment goals.
What are the key tenets of Hypnotherapy?
The tenets of hypnotherapy include utilizing relaxation techniques to induce a trance-like state, offering positive suggestions to encourage change, and aiding clients in exploring their thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
What issues does Hypnotherapy address?
Hypnotherapy can address a wide range of issues, including anxiety, phobias, smoking cessation, weight loss, stress management, and chronic pain. It can also be used to improve self-esteem and enhance performance in sports, academics, and public speaking.
It is important to note that hypnotherapy is not a standalone treatment and should be used in conjunction with other therapies or interventions as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. It is always recommended to seek guidance from a qualified hypnotherapist or mental health professional when considering hypnotherapy for addressing specific concerns.
What does research show about the effectiveness of Hypnotherapy?
Research on the effectiveness of hypnotherapy has shown promising results, with studies suggesting that it can help address various mental health issues and promote overall well-being. For example, a meta-analysis conducted by Alladin and Alibhai (2007) found that hypnotherapy was significantly more effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety compared to cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and supportive psychotherapy. In line with this research, a literature review found that hypnotherapy is effective as a treatment to help reduce pain and anxiety (Davis, 2016).
Furthermore, a study conducted by Gonsalkorale et al. (2003) found that hypnotherapy was a viable and effective treatment option for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life reported in patients. Following the completion of hypnotherapy, patients also reported a reduction in consultation rates and medication use. Another study by Lindfors et al. (2012) found that compared to the control participants, members of the gastrointestinal hypnotherapy group showed significantly more positive effects on IBS. The hypnotherapy treatment may have enduring effects as the researchers of the study reported that improvements were maintained when they followed up with the patients after one year.
Additionally, a systematic review by Holger et al. (2014) found that hypnosis was effective in breast cancer care. Specifically, the review found that in women undergoing a diagnostic breast biopsy, hypnosis positively influences pain and distress. For women undergoing radiotherapy, hypnosis combined with cognitive behavioural therapy improved distress and fatigue. Furthermore, the review also found that for women with and without a history of breast cancer, hypnosis improved hot flashes and distress, suggesting its potential benefits in managing menopausal symptoms.
It’s important to note that research outcomes may vary across different populations and issues, and further research is ongoing to explore the effectiveness of hypnotherapy in different contexts. It’s always advisable to consult a trained professional and consider multiple sources of evidence to make informed decisions about therapy approaches.
References
Alladin, A., & Alibhai, A. (2007). Cognitive hypnotherapy for depression: An empirical investigation. International Journal of Clinical Experimental Hypnotherapy, 55(2), 147-166. https://doi.org.10.1080/00207140601177897
Cramer H, Lauche R, Paul A, Langhorst J, Kümmel S, Dobos GJ. Hypnosis in Breast Cancer Care: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Integrative Cancer Therapies. 2015;14(1):5-15. https://doi.or/10.1177/1534735414550035
Davis, E. (2015). Literature review of the evidence-based for the effectiveness of hypnotherapy. Melbourne: PACFA. Retrieved from https://pacfa.org.au/common/Uploaded%20files/PCFA/Documents/Research/Literature-review-of-the-evidence-base-for-the-effectiveness-of-hypnotherapy.pdf
Gonsalkorale, W. M., Miller, V., Afzal, A., & Whorwell, P. J. (2003). Long-term benefits of hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome. Gut, 52(11), 1623-1629. https:/doi.og/10.1136/gut.52.11.1623
Lindfors, P., Unge, P., Arvidsson, P., Nyhlin, H., Björnsson, E., Abrahamsson, H., & Simrén, M. (2012). Effects of gut-directed hypnotherapy on IBS in different clinical settings-results from two randomized, controlled trials. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 107(2), 276-285. https://doi.org/10.1038/ajg.2011.340