Hypnotherapy

Apple Head · ‎01-31-2015

Anyone have any experience with hynotherapy?

I'm going through a lot of challenges right now and some deep seated fear and someone recommended a therapist who specializes in that field. The person who gave me his name said she was afraid of flying, and he helped her get through it and she can now fly anywhere.

I am a bit skeptical but will talk to him initially (won't cost anything for first appt). He said he doesn't put "people under" but works with the patient by techniques to help clear the mind and quiet the thoughts and I would never be "under his power" so to speak. He said it's nothing like the stereotype you see on TV or movies.

Anyway, just wondered if anyone has had experience with this type of therapy and if it is something that works and to consider.

Thanks.

Snowpuppy · ‎03-09-2010

Hypnosis works on the power of suggestion. Not all people can be hypnotized. Anyone who tells you they can "put everyone under" isn't telling you the truth. And not all people have the same level of suggestion. Some will put a lampshade on their head, others will not be persuaded to do so. The power is in your subconscious.

If you want to clear your mind and quiet your thoughts, try a yoga class or learn meditation or contemplation.

There are all sort of alternative therapies to explore. The University of Minnesota offers this. Sorry, dunno how to post a link!

http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices

Poodlepet2 · ‎03-09-2010

I have had experience, and it's worth a try.....My initial encounter with hypnotherapy was for smoking cessation. I was utterly relaxed until the therapist started bringing up imagery of being as light as a feather and floating in the sky: that session ended for me right there. Like you, I am afraid of flying and heights. In other sessions, I let the therapist know before hand what scenarios caused anxiety! ....and, as of late, I have been thinking of seeing a therapist for the same reason you are.....my husband is a sport pilot and we have a Cesna:for him, flying is his relaxation and there are so many places we could go together if I could get over this fear....a very long time ago while I was in college, I had test anxiety. I worked with a graduate student on a process called "automatic desensitization". I don't remember the entire process, but in a few short sessions-and practice- I overcame my fear. The therapist gets you totally relaxed, then gradually brings up the situation that causes anxiety..When you have anxiety, you purposely tense all the muscles in your body: that is done to the point of fatigue. Once you are fatigued, the anxiety producing situation is brought up again. This is where the healing begins because fatigue and anxiety are incompatible. I got to the point where all I had to do was clench my fist and my body would relax and the anxiety was not there. This took about three weeks, and you have to set aside time everyday to practice because it is a learned response, but it might work for you. Poodlepet2

PhatCat · ‎03-10-2010

A friend of mine has had it done for her anxiety and although the attacks are not completely gone, they are far and few between and not as bad.

blackhole99 · ‎08-22-2013

I've had it done by a therapist and it's just deep relaxation, you are not out of it, you hear every thing the therapist is saying and can come out of it any time you want.