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"I tried to teach my child with books, |
Almost everyone has experienced an altered state of consciousness at some time. One common altered state of consciousness is that of “highway hypnosis”, the act of driving and becoming lost in thought during this somewhat “automatic” process. Another altered state is becoming intensely absorbed in a television show and being unaware of other activity in the room. Meditation is yet another example of an altered state of consciousness. These are passive altered states; hypnosis is an active, willing and intentional focus on a particular problem. Hypnotizability is a trait, just like eye color. While there are varying degrees of hypnotizability, most people can be hypnotized to some degree if they want to be. The ability to be hypnotized lies within the individual and the therapist simply encourages the process. Likewise, not everyone can achieve the results they want to with hypnosis. Hypnosis is chosen for treatment when it is considered to be beneficial, just like any other therapeutic modality. Most children and adults can benefit from it, but some do not. Most importantly, no child will be hypnotized without the informed consent of the parent. Many myths exist about hypnosis, due in part to its portrayal in the media by lay hypnotists. One myth that exists about hypnosis is that it is mind control. Hypnosis is not mind control. The person in trance has complete control over their thoughts and actions and will not say or do anything, in or out of trance, that they do not wish to. Information will not be revealed spontaneously. The person will not “cluck like a chicken” when a cue is given out of trance. Clinical hypnosis actually serves to enhance a person’s control, and achieves effective symptom relief due in part to the person’s increased control over their body. The therapist can best be understood as a facilitator of the process. Hypnosis is completely safe when practiced by professionals. Clinical hypnosis is used for a wide variety of problems in both adults and children. Some of the problems it is effective for include anxiety and panic disorders, bedwetting, depression, fears and phobias, pain, smoking cessation, trauma, and a variety of physiological disorders. Clinical hypnosis is practiced by medical doctors, dentists, mental health professionals, and nurses. These licensed professionals each practice within their respective codes of ethics and seek symptom relief in their patients and clients. Only licensed professionals may become certified in clinical hypnosis. Certification requires a minimum of 60 hours of continuing education and supervised experience in the practice of hypnosis. To learn more about hypnosis or certification requirements, visit www.asch.net.
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Hypnosis
is an altered state of consciousness. It is focused daydreaming, a normal
and natural state of mind where a person can focus on their inner world
to discover new possibilities. In hypnosis, the body is deeply relaxed
and the unconscious mind is open to new ideas. In this relaxed and focused
state, a person can use their unconscious mind more powerfully and therefore
achieve mastery over their symptoms. 
