Clinical Hypnotherapy?

An Introduction To Clinical Hypnotherapy

Clinical hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis as a conduit for therapy.

There is nothing extraordinary about hypnosis. It is, however, important for people to understand that "trances" are just states of focused attention that we all go in and out of all the time. It is a perfectly natural condition which, when harnessed, can release all sorts of hidden potential to improve many aspects of peoples' lives.

Perhaps it's best known therapeutic applications are for stopping smoking and losing weight. However, there are countless other applications where it can be of great benefit. These include:

  • Increased self-esteem
  • Stress reduction
  • Dealing with phobias and trauma
  • Pain relief
  • Speeding up healing processes
  • Public speaking
  • Improving memory
  • Sports enhancement

Essentially, hypnotic techniques can assist in alleviating a wide range of psychological problems, very often including physical symptoms which have been psychologically induced. The therapist acts as a guide to take clients to a deeper level of trance than they could normally achieve on their own. In this state, the client is known to be suggestible and the therapist will then deliver appropriate positive suggestions.

Considerable and continuing research into hypnosis increasingly gives us a clearer understanding of the neurological changes that occur. This research carries on but it already reinforces the knowledge that the skilful use of hypnotic techniques can enable people to connect with their unconscious mind in a way which would otherwise not be possible.

The marvellous power generated when hypnotherapist and client work together, creates positive and therapeutic changes, which can alter a person's life permanently for the better.

The hypnotherapist's role does not and should not impinge on the territory of the doctor or psychiatrist. It is a complementary, not an alternative, profession in its own right, providing a unique set of skills to deal with problems often considered intractable elsewhere. No medical condition should ever be treated by a hypnotherapist without the full consent and co-operation with the client's doctor.

One of the ICH's senior lecturers, Darren Marks, has recorded some video interviews about hypnotherapy which may give you useful additional information. If you are interested in watching these click here.