About |
Hypnosis, a natural state of heightened and focused attention, is one of the most fascinating phenomena of the human psyche. Our ability to enter this unique state of consciousness opens the door to endless possibilities for healing, self-exploration and change. Hypnosis, called by different names in different cultures and times, has been recognized for thousands of years and used for many purposes.
When we enter into a state of hypnosis, we can utilize thoughts, talents and experiences in ways not usually accessible to us. With the guidance of a trained professional, we can develop our latent abilities that enable making desired changes in our thoughts, feelings and perceptions.
Although hypnotic trance is a very natural, peaceful state of mind that most of us experience almost daily (e.g., while daydreaming), it has often been portrayed in films and television in ways that have been inaccurate and even alarming. But hypnotherapy, when practiced by a well-trained, licensed health-care professional, is safe. And it is often speedier than many other forms of treatment–both psychological and medical.
Hypnosis has been used successfully to treat numerous psychological and physical problems and conditions. It also is a very effective technique to help individuals improve their performance in areas such sports, academics and vocations. “Peak performance” training, as it is called, can be used to help people uncover and overcome “blocks” that underlie their failure to achieve their desired goals.
FAQs
What does it feel like to be in a hypnotic state? How can a treatment aimed at your mind affect your body? Medical and psychological professionals have recognized the use of hypnosis in the treatment of both physical and psychological problems for many years. Our members are trained to assess whether hypnosis can and should be used for your particular problem. They will consider hypnosis among many possible modes of treatment, and may even recommend another treatment if they do not believe hypnosis is best for you. This is the most important reason why we believe you should see a licensed health professional, who is also trained in hypnosis. Can children be hypnotized? Can anyone be hypnotized? In a relatively small number of situations, (say, when hypnosis is being used instead of a general anesthetic, e.g., as in labour and childbirth), a deeper level of trance may be needed. For these purposes, it is helpful to determine the trance capability of a given person, before making a decision about the advisability of using hypnosis as an anaesthetic. Even for those people (maybe 15 to 20%) who do not enter into even a light trance state, hypnosis may still be helpful to assist their relaxation and improve their suggestibility to constructive comments and suggestions. Will I lose control of myself? Is hypnotherapy safe? Can I get trapped in the hypnotic state? Will I be asleep when hypnotized? Will hypnosis make you remember things accurately? Courts recognize this, and sometimes take the position that being hypnotized influences your ability to later testify in court on those matters. You should get legal advice before attempting to use hypnosis to improve your recall of events when there are, or might be, court matters involved. |