What is Hypnotherapy

What is hypnotherapy? Many people wonder just what hypnotherapy is. Simply stated, it is therapy, or a series of therapy exercises which take place while the subject is under hypnosis. Hypnosis is a technique which has actually been used, and debated for centuries.

Since hypnosis provides a deeply focused state of mind, the subject is more open to ideas and images. Some uses for hypnotherapy are; weight loss, smoking cessation, increased self esteem, and more. It has been used for patients with chronic pain and endorsed by the National Institute of Health.

It has helped many people to live happier and fuller lives, although the process has been long debated amongst professionals.

What is Hypnotherapy-History

Throughout history, hypnotherapy and hypnosis has been used by shamans, medicine men and others in religious ceremonies and rituals. Achieving this altered state of consciousness has, through the years provided enlightenment and enrichment. In more recent history, although still used by shamans, a physician from Austria named Franz Mesmer first introduced techniques which were known as hypnosis and what is hypnotherapy today.

This was back in the 1700s. His exact methods, however were labeled as fraudulent. Hypnotherapy reentered public society in the mid 1900s.  In the mid 1950s, a psychiatrist named Milton Erikson used hypnosis in his practice, and it was accepted by both the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association.

What is Hypnotherapy-Myths

Although many people are familiar with the term “hypnosis” and “hypnotherapy”, it is still widely misunderstood by some. Those who have been hypnotized are not under the complete control by the therapist. Their minds are highly focused, but they still cannot be forced to do anything which is against their nature or value system.

For instance, someone who is hypnotized cannot be told to kill someone, if it is against their morals. Those who are hypnotized still maintain their own free will. They are not unconscious, simply very relaxed.

What is Hypnotherapy-the Process

Hypnotherapy sessions typically begin with the therapist will gain an understanding of what brought the individual in for treatment. Once they know what the problem is, they will begin the session.

The therapist uses relaxation techniques which may include using their voice, and providing mental images. When the individual is in a deep state of relaxation, the therapist will offer alternative suggestions, such as alternate methods of dealing with a nicotine craving for smokers.

The suggestions given are always appropriate to whatever issue the individual is experiencing. The individual is then brought back out of the hypnotic state. A good therapist will teach the individual self-hypnosis and relaxation techniques and offer instruction on how to utilize the process.

What is hypnotherapy?

There are hypnotherapy techniques used in many different settings. Emergency rooms, dentist offices, even some large companies offer it to their employees.

People respond to hypnosis in different ways. Some people are more successful at attaining the hypnotic state than others. Those who are qualified to offer hypnotherapy are most often medical and psychology personnel who have received special training in hypnotherapy.

Now, to answer the question what is hypnotherapy; it just may be the answer to a habit or problem that has been plaguing someone for a very long time.