The belief that repressed memories from childhood affect adult behavior has been part of psychotherapy for years In addition, regression therapists believe that experiences from the distant past impact our current thoughts, feelings and actions. Repressed memories are stored in the subconscious mind, and hypnosis is one way to access those memories in an effort to resolve current life challenges.

   Contrary to popular misconception, hypnosis is a very natural state of mind. It is simply a state of deep relaxation and focused concentration that allows communication between the subconscious and conscious mind. People are naturally receptive to hypnosis, and an experienced hypnotist can hypnotize virtually any normal person under proper conditions. Studies show that children under age seven and individuals with an IQ of 70 or less usually lack the language and comprehension skills to effectively engage in hypnosis. However, all others, willing and able to concentrate and relax, should be hypnotizable. It may take a little longer for one person to be hypnotized than another, but the most significant factor in receptivity to hypnosis is the motivation to be hypnotizable.

A Bit of History
  The practice of hypnosis can be traced back to ancient times with a presence in a variety of cultures. References to it can be found in the Bible, and the Egyptians and Greeks used it for both therapeutic and religious purposes. Early scientific documentation includes a study conducted by a Scottish surgeon in the mid-1800s, which demonstrated the medical success of hypnosis on patients undergoing major operations. The study cited a drop in the mortality rate from 50% to 5% when hypnosis was used as an “anesthetic.”

   In 1958, the American Medical Association approved the addition of hypnosis instruction in medical schools and post-graduate curricula. Today, hypnosis is an indispensable tool of medicine, psychotherapy and self-development. It is actually one of the most effective methods for treating fears, phobias, pain, depression, addiction, sleeping and eating disorders, along with a host of other life challenges such as reducing pain and recovery time for patients undergoing surgery, helping athletes improve their performance and even enhancing peoples' self-esteem.

   Hypnosis has often been associated with the strange, mysterious or even supernatural. Stage hypnosis, popular in the early 20th century, perpetuated a misconception that people can be hypnotized against their will or made to do something that goes against their morals, but this is actually not the case. The client remains in control and will only do what he/she considers acceptable and desirable.

How Can It Help?
   The efficacy of hypnosis and regression for dealing with a wide variety of spiritual, emotional and health problems has been demonstrated repeatedly. An increasing number of scientific studies by reputable researchers, including those funded by the National Institute of Health, are showing the power of the mind and the role it plays in the healing process. While hypnosis should probably not be viewed as a miracle cure, results have certainly shown that sometimes just one hypnotherapy session can have a tremendously positive outcome. The most important factor for success in hypnosis is the client's motivation and desire to use hypnosis as a tool for getting to his/her subconscious mind to reveal and release whatever is creating an obstacle.

   Positive changes can be made quickly and easily with the aid of hypnosis. In some situations, the hypnotherapist incorporates guided relaxation and concentration techniques with helpful ideas and suggestions, communicated directly to the subconscious part of a client's mind. This suggestive type of hypnosis is commonly used to help individuals who wish to stop smoking or lose weight, both actions that are driven by the subconscious mind.

   In other cases, a hypnotherapist may ask questions of the client under hypnosis, rather than simply offering post-hypnotic suggestions. A dialogue takes place in an effort to uncover information or surface memories that may have been repressed. The conversation between the therapist and hypnotized client allows the client to increase awareness and often reveals surprising, helpful information. This type of hypnosis can be especially successful in uncovering the root cause of chronic pain, illness, depression, fears, phobias and more.

   The State of Ohio has not adopted uniform educational and training standards for the practice of hypnotism, so it is important to do some homework. The box below provides some advice.

Donna Nowak is certified as both a hypnotherapist and a past-life therapist. She lives in Cleveland Heights and has a professional practice in Beachwood. She is a member of the National Association of Transpersonal Hypnotherapists, the National Guild of Hypnotists, American Association of Professional Hypnotists and the International Association of Past Life Research and Therapies, Inc. Donna is also the founder and Executive Director of Mind·Body·Spirit Connected (MBSC), a nonprofit association that promotes health and wholeness through an understanding of mind, body and spirit connectivity. For more information, visit www.DonnaNowak.com or www.MBSCOnline.org, email DNowakCHT@cs.com, or call (216) 321-9181.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A Qualified Hypnotherapist: Has proper training and credentials. CHT, CH or C.Ht are designations for certified hypnotherapists, indicating that the individual has at least had a basic course of study regarding hypnotic inductions and techniques. Explore their continuing education and involvement in professional associations such as the American Association of Professional Hypnotists, the National Guild of Hypnotists or Academy for Guided Imagery. Treats clients as unique individuals and is perceptive to their needs. Consider how you felt about the therapist's reaction to your questions and issues during an initial phone call or e-mail. Is he/she tuned in to you? Is able to identify problem areas and determine an appropriate scope of induction and treatment. Do you get a sense of confidence when the therapist explains how she/he plans to assist you? Is the therapist insightful? Maintains objectivity; does not allow his/her own agenda or problems to interfere with your treatment. Does it feel like the hypnotist respects your opinions and beliefs, as opposed to trying to force a particular set of ideas or beliefs upon you? Do you get the impression that she/he is focused on your well-being and cares about you personally, yet can remain unemotionally involved? Does he/she seem stable and firmly grounded? Effectively handles surprises and emotionally charged situations. Does the therapist sound poised and confident? Does he/she have experience handling challenging situations? Respects your confidentiality. What is the therapist's position on confidentiality? Is there a published statement of ethics or philosophy of professional practice? Qualified and experienced hypnotists can be found in the Yellow Pages, on the Internet, in professional directories or through Balanced Living Magazine or other mind, body and spirit publications. Some psychologists have also been trained in hypnosis, which sometimes offers an option for partial reimbursement through insurance. In all cases, remember that the relationship with the hypnotherapist is an important one, so choose someone who is trustworthy and understanding. Please refer to the Directory in the May - June 2005 issue of Balanced Living Magazine on page 43 for a list of local hypnotherapists.