Many people dismiss hypnotherapy as a fraud because they don’t understand the difference between hypnotherapy and hypnosis. The two are NOT the same. Hypnotherapy will use hypnosis as one of its tools, but the main part of the word to pay attention to is the word therapy.
Hypnotherapy is a complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) method that promotes health and healing of body, mind and spirit. In terms of health, it is well-documented for pain relief and treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
In terms of mind, it helps with sleep disorders such as insomnia, mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, and phobias, such as fear of heights or spiders.
In relation to spirit, hypnotherapy can help a person overcome obstacles in order to live their best life. Hypnotherapy has proven useful for quitting smoking, weight loss, and improving self-esteem. In some cases, it can heal past traumas, such as those in childhood, that might be holding a person back from success.
A Treatment Plan
Hypnotherapy is not a party trick, and hypnosis is not all about “feeling sleepy.” In fact, the mind actually becomes quite active – that is, the subconscious mind. Through the help of the hypnotherapist, it focuses and concentrates on the goal that the person wishes to achieve. The intense focus can help the person take the action steps they need to accomplish the goal they have set.
Before seeing a hypnotherapy, a person should be clear about their goal. Some might wish to relieve chronic pain, such as pain from arthritis. Others who want to make changes in their life and have tried many other methods might try hypnotherapy because they have heard that other people have been able to stop smoking or lose weight successfully.
Once you have set your goal, it will be time to look for a qualified hypnotherapist.
Finding a Trained Hypnotherapist
Many people can hypnotize others, but not everyone can be a trained and licensed hypnotherapist. It takes study, training and experience. Those who wish to practice should gain credentials to demonstrate that they have achieved a certain standard of professionalism. The American Psychological Association recommends that hypnotherapy should be conducted only by psychologists and psychiatrists who have been trained in the use of hypnosis for therapeutic purposes.
Hypnotherapy and Hypnosis Training
There are many different courses that call themselves “hypnotherapy certification programs” but are not truly that. There is a big difference between and “hypnotherapy certification” and “hypnosis certification,” so be sure to read the fine print when you are checking out the credentials of any hypnotherapist you might be considering working with.
Engaging in Hypnotherapy
Once you have located a hypnotherapist near you who has satisfactory credentials, you will meet to review your past health history and what your main goal is in using hypnotherapy. Hypnosis may not be used in every session. It is just one tool among many available. They should explain to you what to expect and how they plan to help you accomplish your goal. This might include them giving you tapes to use between sessions.
Once you have discussed your desired outcomes, you will work out a treatment plan together and track your progress as you continue with the therapy.
Many people get nervous at the thought of being under another person’s control or made to look silly, but the truth is, you are in the driving seat with hypnotherapy as you focus on your goals and go for them. Now that you know more about the difference between hypnotherapy and hypnosis, it might be time to try hypnotherapy and transform your life.
