Hypnosis Series: Is Hypnosis Right for Me?
If you haven’t checked out my first three posts on hypnosis, you may be interested in reading those first. They are:
Now, the main question to answer: Is hypnosis right for you?
Here are some things to think about when deciding if hypnosis is right for you.
What are some common things hypnosis is used for?
Hypnosis is used for a variety of different things, here’s some of the most common:
Stress and anxiety
Panic attacks
PTSD
Phobias
Losing weight
Smoking
Insomnia
Asthma
Pain control for migraines, fibromyalgia, and even after surgery
Side effects of chemotherapy or radiation
IBS
Skin conditions
What is the typical length of treatment?
There is no set or typical length of treatment for hypnosis. It varies greatly depending on the issue you are trying to resolve. It can take only one session while other issues can take many or multiple sessions.
Is hypnosis like mind control?
Can someone get me to do something I don’t want to do while hypnotized?
Hypnosis is not mind control. Hypnosis puts you into a tranced state, if you are ready and willing, which allows you to enter into a state of deep consciousness where your subconscious is more activated and focused and outside distractions are easily ignored.
You cannot be tranced if you don’t want to be and the hypnotist cannot make you do anything you don’t want to do while tranced.
Potential downsides
People vary in just how hypnotizable and suggestible they are while in the hypnotic trance. Research suggests that people who are highly suggestible are more likely to experience a reduced sense of agency while in hypnosis.
Additionally, those who have a lot of fear or concern about hypnosis may have a much harder time being hypnotized.
Hypnotherapy may not be appropriate for someone with severe mental health issues, such as psychotic symptoms, though it may be helpful for them during times when they are not experiencing these symptoms.
How do you find someone who does hypnosis?
When looking for a mental health professional that specializes in hypnosis, you should look for providers who have taken courses recommended by the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis to be sure the courses are legitimate.
If you want to be really sure of your providers credentials, look for providers that have been certified for clinical hypnosis by ASCH. The certification is rigorous and requires 40 hours of ASCH-approved workshop training, 20 hours of individualized training, and two years of independent practice using clinical hypnosis.
Hypnosis is not for everyone and only you can decide what feels most right and most comfortable for you.
If you have experiences with hypnosis, please share in the comments below!
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