Clinical Hypnosis:
WHAT
IS CLINICAL HYPNOSIS
Hypnosis is a therapeutic method which enables the therapist to assist
clients in gaining access to inner resources that may have been lying
dormant or untapped. These
accessed resources may include memories of successes, abilities, thoughts
and behaviors that will bring about desired healing, change and growth. The
therapist teaches the client to use these resources to facilitate problem
resolution and to create a greater satisfaction in life. Hypnosis is
frequently described as a state of consciousness similar to that of a
daydream or a relaxed state of focused attention.
WHAT
CLINICAL HYPNOSIS IS NOT
It is not magic and it is not a method for one person to force another
person to change his or her behavior.
All hypnosis is really self-hypnosis in that it is not something
that is done to you, but something that you yourself do.
The role of the therapist is to teach the client to use his or her
own subconscious mind to make desired and useful changes. Think of the
therapist as a gentle guide and coach. Hypnosis is not the same as sleep
although in some respects it resembles sleep.
WHAT
TO EXPECT
The hypnotic trance is quite simple; most clients feel relaxed and calm
while being mentally attentive. The
person experiencing hypnosis does not go to sleep but goes into a deep
state of inner focus. Most
people hear and remember everything that occurs and instinctive defenses
against injury, insult or intrusion remain intact.
A licensed, professional will only make suggestions and ask for
information that is in the best interest of the client.
ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION
Research indicates that there are no harmful side effects from hypnosis
and all hypnotic suggestions are directed toward beneficial feelings and
results. There is no coercion
in clinical hypnosis. Hypnosis
is successful with clients eager to make changes and resolve problems.
The person who requests assistance due to others’ insistence that
they must change may be disappointed because he or she lacks the personal
commitment and receptivity to change.
To learn more about the
beneficial effects of hypnosis click on the ASCH logo. 