Hypnosis

Hypnosis carried out by a therapist or trained health professional is considered a safe, complementary and alternative medical treatment. However, hypnosis may not be suitable for people with a serious mental illness.

Adverse reactions to hypnosis are rare, but may include the following:

• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Anxiety or suffering
• Creation of false memories

Be careful before using hypnosis as a method to overcome past stressful events in your life. This practice can cause strong emotions and lead to the creation of false memories.

You do not need special preparation to undergo hypnosis. But it’s a good idea to wear comfortable clothes that help you relax. Also, make sure you have rested well so you don’t tend to fall asleep during the session.

Choose a therapist or health professional who is qualified to perform hypnosis. Seek the recommendation of someone you trust. Meet the therapist you are considering. Start by asking questions:

• Are you trained in a field such as psychology, medicine, social work or dentistry?
• Do you have a license in your specialty in this state?
• Where did you attend college and where did you do graduate studies?
• How much have you trained in hypnotherapy and in which universities?
• What professional organizations do you belong to?
• How long have you exercised?
• What are your rates? Does medical insurance cover your services?

The therapist will explain the hypnosis process and analyze the goals of the treatment. Then, the therapist will usually speak in a gentle and calm tone, and describe images that create a feeling of relaxation, safety and well-being.

When you are in a receptive state, the therapist will suggest ways to achieve your goals, such as reducing pain or eliminating the desire to smoke. The therapist can also help you visualize vivid and meaningful mental images of yourself as you achieve your goals.

At the end of the session, you can leave hypnosis on your own or the therapist can help you get out of the state of relaxation.

Unlike the way in which hypnosis is usually shown in movies or on television, you don’t lose control over your behavior while under hypnosis. In addition, you usually stay aware and remember what happens during hypnosis.

Over time, you can practice self hypnosis, in which you induce yourself to a state of hypnosis yourself. You can use this skill as needed, for example, after a chemotherapy session.

While hypnosis can be effective in helping people cope with pain, stress and anxiety, cognitive behavioral therapy is considered the first-line treatment for these conditions. Hypnosis can also be part of a comprehensive care program to quit smoking or lose weight.

However, hypnosis is not suitable for everyone. For example, you may not be able to enter a state of hypnosis enough to be effective. Some therapists believe that the more likely you are to be hypnotized, the more likely you are to benefit from hypnosis.