Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness. It can occur when a person has become totally absorbed in or highly focussed on what they are doing. Therefore, like daydreaming, hypnotic-like feelings may occur in people regularly, perhaps even daily or several times a day.

Hypnosis is not the same as sleep. It is not like an anaesthetic; you don’t pass out and you are not unconscious when you are hypnotised. You don’t lose control over your mind; you don’t weaken or surrender your will. In fact, your will-power may be strengthened with hypnosis.

When in hypnosis it is usual to feel relaxed, at ease, and enjoy a special peace of mind; many people comment on a sensation of lightness or floating; a feeling of comfort and security.

What is particularly pleasant about hypnosis is the fact that it is natural, safe, and almost everyone can learn to use it and be helped by it. It can be learned by children and adults, young and old.

THE PRACTICE OF HYPNOSISMembers of the Australian Society of Hypnosis (ASH) have undergone an extensive 12 months training programme and passed a rigorous assessment process to be awarded Full Membership and the Society’s Diploma in Clinical Hypnosis. Membership of the Australian Society of Hypnosis is restricted to health professionals registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) as well as Social Workers, Speech Pathologists and Counsellors who are professional members of their respective peak professional body.

HYPNOSIS IN CLINICAL PRACTICEClinical hypnosis can be very usefully and successfully employed in a variety of conditions (particularly those in which anxiety, tension, stress and fears play an important role), for example:

» Addictions (e.g. alcohol, drugs, food, gambling, sex, smoking)

» Anxiety » Asthma » Bed-wetting » Burns » Coping with cancer » Dentistry (including dental phobia) » Digestive/Gastrointestinal disorders (e.g. IBS) » Fears and phobias » Headaches » Hypertension (high blood pressure) » Insomnia (sleep problems) » Labour and childbirth » Nail biting » Obesity » Pain » Sexual difficulties » Skin problems » Smoking » Stress management » Stuttering » Tension symptoms » Thumb-sucking

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HYPNOSIS

AUSTRALIAN SOCIETY OF HYPNOSIS

Hypnosis can also help improve confidence and self-esteem. With hypnosis a person can learn to improve their motivation and desire to do things, to change unwanted habits, and to relate better to themselves and others.

Hypnosis can be used to enhance the benefits of other therapies including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and psychotherapy.

Hypnosis does not work miracles. It is not magic and should never be seen as a cure for all problems. It usually is one method among others which the trained professional will use to help a person to work through their difficulties and worries.

Normally hypnosis will not provide an instant cure: while many people can be helped with brief treatments requiring a few sessions, some problems do require more extensive treatment. Often people attend for appointments of about one hour at an interval of one to two weeks.

THE USE OF HYPNOSIS IN THERAPYThe hypnotic state, or trance, when used for therapeutic purposes does not occur by accident. It is deliberately induced through a procedure called the “induction”. Essentially this consists of being taught to pay attention and to concentrate carefully, by accepting and responding to appropriate suggestions, and by learning to relax deeply, both mentally and physically. This may be followed by a “deepening” of the trance. When the hypnotic state has been established, then the treatment of the problem can begin, with the help and expertise of the therapist. Post-hypnotic suggestions may also be given so that there are lasting effects possible.

To end the trance clear instructions are given that can easily be followed.

Recording of the hypnosis component of a session if not uncommon and it may be suggested that you replay this recording at home.

HOW TO CONTACT ASHFor State contact details see the ASH Federal website:

www.hypnosisaustralia.org.au

The information in this brochure has been approved by the Federal Council of the Society and has been provided for the benefit of ASH members and their clients/patients.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Yes, when conducted by a trained professional, hypnosis is safe.

Yes, most people can learn to use hypnosis to a degree that is adequate for therapy.

No, with hypnosis you cannot be forced to do or say something against your will.

Yes, you will always be aware of what is going on whilst being hypnotised if you wish to be so. No, under hypnosis you will not lose consciousness.

No, if you are hypnotisable you are not weak willed, intellectually dull, or easily led; in fact it has been found that there is a link between intelligence and hypnosis.

No, hypnosis will not always work and other techniques may be more useful and successful.

No, you do not run the risk of staying in a trance; that is, you can come out of the hypnotic state whenever you want or choose to.

INFORMATION FOR CLIENTS & PATIENTS

HYPNOSIS

AUSTRALIAN SOCIETY OF HYPNOSIS