Psychotherapy helps people with mental health conditions improve their well-being, usually through methods liketalk therapy.
Hypnosis is anothertherapy methodthat can be used.
It is a state of trance-like consciousness that makes the mind more open to suggestion.
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This article discusses hypnotherapy, its effectiveness, and what to expect if you have a hypnosis therapy session.
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What Is Hypnosis?
Hypnosis and hypnotherapy are often used interchangeably, but the meanings are distinct.
Hypnosis is also described as a state of altered consciousness that allows for increased concentration and focus.
How Hypnosis Works
Trance-like states can occur regularly in daily life.
In a therapeutic setting, however, a trained therapist will guide you into a focused state of concentration.
Once in this altered state, they will suggest visualizations related to your goal for therapy.
Once the session is complete, they will guide you back to a normal state of consciousness.
Not Everyone Can Be Hypnotized
Around 10% to 20% of people cannot be hypnotized.
One study indicates thathypnotizabilityis actually a genetic trait.
Can Hypnosis Lead to Mind Control?
Entertainment media gives the impression that hypnosis is mind control.
But in reality, hypnosis is a trance-like state of relaxed, deep focus.
Hypnotherapy cannot make you do something against your will.
No hypnotherapist or hypnotist can make someone do things they don’t want to do.
This is why people who are hypnotized for smoking cessation may continue to smoke.
Sometimes the cost may be bundled into a broader program, such as with smoking cessation or weight loss.
Insurance will sometimes cover hypnosis when treated by a licensed clinical mental health professional.
However, hypnosis is not safe if you have a serious mental illness.
It may even be dangerous for those with dissociative disorders andschizophrenia.
Most hypnotherapy sessions last 50 to 60 minutes but can vary in length from 30 minutes to two hours.
Is Self-Hypnosis Effective?
Summary
Hypnosis is a trance-like state of consciousness that makes the mind more open to suggestion.
It involves inducing a person into an altered state and making suggestions influenced by their goals.
It has been shown to be an effective addition to traditional psychotherapy.
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