What is hypnosis?
Hypnosis is the most fascinating method of psychotherapy and is known to have been used even before the recorded history. It has been wearing the cloak of mysticism for centuries. However the word 'hypnosis' which was only coined in the first half of 19th century by James Braid, an English physician, derived from the Greek root word 'sleep' is actually misleading. In fact hypnosis is related to sleep as the night is to day and resembles more daydreaming rather than sleep. It is quite opposite to sleep and by psychologists is referred to as an altered state of consciousness.
There is no one definition of hypnosis that fully describes this phenomenon. And one of reasonable interim might be that: "Hypnosis is a state of mind, enhanced by (although not exclusively) mental and physical relaxation, in which our subconscious is able to communicate with our conscious mind." In short it could be said: "It is a special frame of mind open to suggestion". This state of mind may be brought about by either self-hypnosis or with the help of another person. If this other person is a trained professional, who utilises the resultant state to encourage beneficial change to occur the process is referred to as "Hypnotherapy".
What is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is distinctive from other forms of psychological therapy because it addresses the client's subconscious mind. During sessions the client is usually required to be in a relaxed state by employing the power of the client's own imagination and may utilise a wide range of techniques from story-telling, metaphors or symbolism (should be meaningful to the individual client) to use of direct suggestions for beneficial change. Analytical techniques may also be employed in an attempt to uncover problems deemed to lie in the client's past.
Some common concerns:
- Clients are sometimes concerned if they can be hypnotised, the answer is – virtually everyone can experience hypnotic trance, taking into account that power of imagination and willingness are prerequisites of going into hypnotic trance.
- Some people concerned that they will 'lose control' or become unconscious. However, general consensus indicates that regardless of how deeply people may go into hypnosis and however passive they may appear to be, they actually remain in full control of the situation. They are fully able to talk if they wish to and can terminate the session, stand up and leave the consulting room and at any time.
- A fear of remaining 'locked in hypnosis', or that awakening from hypnosis may be difficult or impossible is another concern. In fact it is impossible to remain 'locked in hypnosis' as it is a naturally occurring state. Should anything happen to the therapist the client would either awaken spontaneously or just drift off into a natural sleep and awaken from that a short time later.