Hypnosis What is hypnosis? Hypnosis is the induction of a state of consciousness in which an individual loses the power of voluntary action and is highly responsive to suggestion or direction. Its use in therapy, typically to recover repressed memories or to allow modification of behavior by suggestion, has been revived but is still controversial (Psychology Today). While hypnosis is often associated with sideshow performances, it's not a magical act. Rather, it's a technique for putting someone or yourself into a state of concentration where you are more suggestible and thus more open to messages about breaking bad habits or changing in other positive ways. Along with hypnosis, there is a therapy for it that is called, hypnotherapy. Hypnotherapy is the application of any therapeutic process or tool in conjunction with hypnosis. Since in a hypnotic state the subconscious mind is more receptive, a therapist is able to suggest ideas, concepts and lifestyle adaptations to the client. These act like seeds which become firmly planted in the subconscious mind. Hypnotherapy is guided hypnosis, or a trance-like state of focus and concentration achieved with the help of a clinical hypnotherapist. …show more content…
Also, you generally remain aware of and remember what happens under hypnosis. At the start of hypnotherapy the therapist will typically talk in a gentle, soothing tone and describe images that create a sense of relaxation, security and well-being. When you're in a receptive state, the therapist will suggest ways for you to achieve your goals, such as reducing pain or eliminating cravings to smoke. The therapist also may help you visualize vivid, meaningful mental images of yourself accomplishing your goals. When the session is over, either you are able to bring yourself out of hypnosis or your therapist helps you end your trance-like