Hypnotherapy is a gentle and effective theraputic intervention for many issues, particularly those which fundamentally stem from stress of some kind.
Milton Erickson is considered the father of modern hypnotherapy. He frequently drew upon his own experiences to provide examples of the power of the unconscious mind. He was largely self-taught and a great many of his anecdotal and autobiographical teaching stories are collected by Sidney Rosen in the book My Voice Will Go With You. Erickson identified many of even his earliest personal experiences as hypnotic or auto-hypnotic.
In essence, Hypnotherapy is the crossroads between being asleep and awake – and between the conscious thinking mind and the unconscious feeling and emotional mind. Getting into this state allows changes to be made at a deeper, and therefore more effective, level.
Is there proof hypnosis is effective?
Yes; in 2001, the Professional Affairs Board of the British Psychological Society (BPS) commissioned a working party of expert psychologists to publish a report entitled The Nature of Hypnosis. This report included findings such as:
“Hypnosis is a valid subject for scientific study and research and a proven therapeutic medium.”
“Likewise, hypnotic treatment may assist in insomnia in the same way as other relaxation methods.”
“There is convincing evidence that hypnotic procedures are effective in the management and relief of both acute and chronic pain and in assisting in the alleviation of pain, discomfort and distress due to medical and dental procedures and childbirth.”
“There is evidence from several studies that its [hypnosis'] inclusion in a weight reduction program may significantly enhance outcome.”
“Hypnosis and the practice of self-hypnosis may significantly reduce general anxiety, tension and stress in a manner similar to other relaxation and self-regulation procedures.”
In summary, Hypnosis is an effective but often misunderstood medication-free intervention that can often help with stress, unresolved issues, fears and phobias. If you’d like to find out more about hypnosis, ask some questions or book in for an appointment to discuss how you’d like to be helped, call me on 0800 2425 825 or email me, ben@benjamincook.co.uk