Hypnosis, Hypnotherapy, and Hypnotherapists

What is a Hypnotherapist?

“Hypnotherapist—induces hypnotic state in client to increase motivation or alter behavior pattern through hypnosis.  Consults with client to determine the nature of problem.  Prepares client to enter hypnotic states by explaining how hypnosis works and what client will experience.  Tests subject to determine degrees of physical and emotional suggestibility.  Induces hypnotic state in client using individualized methods and techniques of hypnosis based on interpretation of test results and analysis of client’s problem.  May train client in self-hypnosis.”

– U.S. Department of Labor Directory of Occupational Titles. D.O.T. 079.157.010.

Though a number of people may share the goal to stop smoking, for example, each will be experiencing it in a different way.  One may smoke in certain emotional or physical situations such as feeling stress, talking on the phone or starting the car;  another may smoke only on certain occasions such as after a meal or at a party;  others may smoke only at certain times like first thing in the morning;  and still others with an infinite number of combinations of these and others.  There are as many reasons for having started to smoke as there are smokers!

A hypnotherapist is a skilled and trained helping professional who helps you use your own powerful mind to increase motivation or change behavior patterns by inducing a trance state.  When hypnotized, your mind is operating in its subconscious mode (referred to by some as the “first gear” of the mind).

Prior to hypnotizing the client, the therapist discusses in the goal the client wants to achieve or the problem s/he wants to resolve in detail.  The more the hypnotherapist can share in the experience of the client as s/he experiences it, the more individualized the therapy can be and the greater its impact.  The hypnotist also prepares the client to enter hypnosis by explaining just what hypnosis is, how it works and what s/he will experience; if you’re starting on a trip it helps to know how and where you’re going.

Everyone is susceptible (to one degree or other) to suggestion.  Your hypnotherapist will guide you through some exercises that will help determine your degree of suggestibility.

Finally, your hypnotherapist will induce a hypnotic state using individualized methods and techniques based on the results of your suggestibility and the nature of your goal or problem.

What is Hypnosis? | What is a Hypnotherapist? | Choosing a Hypnotherapist | Why does Hypnotherapy Work? | Pain Management through Hypnosis | Hypnosis and Phobias | Hypnosis and Human Memory | Hypnosis and Sports Psychology | Hypnosis and Stress Management


Referring to this article:
“Hypnosis, Hypnotherapy, and Hypnotherapists” was written by G. Edward Riley, M.Div., CH, Certified Master Hypnotherapist, and C. J. Newton, MA, and published in the Find Counseling.com (formerly TherapistFinder.net) Mental Health Journal in April, 2001.

Use or reference to this article on the Internet must be accompanied by a link to the page you cite.

Visit BetterHelp, our Top rated online therapy provider.

 

This blog post is sponsored by BetterHelp, but all opinions are our own.”

“Counseing.info may receive compensation from BetterHelp or other sources if you purchase products or services through the links provided on this page.”