Hypnotherapy

This therapy uses hypnosis, creating a state of mind in which normal thought processes are suspended tor a short period of time. Hypnosis can be used to induce relaxation, to treat stress-related conditions, to help people overcome addictions, phobias and eating disorders, and to treat lack of confidence and sexual problems. Some forms of hypnosis are also effective for pain relief, especially during labor and dental treatment.


Professional consultation

There are various ways of inducing a hypnotic trance, but the hypnotist will create a relaxing atmosphere, perhaps asking you to visualize a restful scene or repeat a phrase or sentence over and over. The therapist may suggest that your limbs are feeling heavy and that your eyelids are closing. When you go into a hypnotic trance, you will feel relaxed and you may be willing to accept the suggestions of the hypnotist. You may then go into a deeper trance, in which your heartbeat and breathing slow down and you enter a state that feels similar to that of meditation. The hypnotist may make statements to address your problem—for example, ones that boost your self-esteem or tell you that you are going to stop a damaging form of behavior, such as smoking or drinking alcohol.