By Dr. Elizabeth King, EdD, LCSW, CH.t

Sparked by recent headline news of celebrities overdosing on medication, there has been a lot more interest in understanding how hypnosis works and how it can be used.  Mainstream medical journals and shows like “Good Morning America and Prime Time Live ”, to name a few, have recently done several pieces on hypnosis as a viable option for relieving the symptoms of psychological and physiological conditions (see partial list below).  This article will help answer some questions about what hypnosis is and what it is not.

Hypnosis can be used to…

• Lose weight
• overcome phobias (ie, flying, public speaking, etc.)
• change negative behaviors such as stop smoking and addictions
• lower blood pressure
• control pain from injury or chronic illness, surgery, and child birth
• reduce intensity or frequency of migraines
• help heal skin diseases, including warts and psoriasis
• improve self-esteem, reach your highest potential
• decrease or eliminate depression or anxiety
• athlete and business peak performance
• relieve stress

1)      Misconception: Hypnosis is fake.

Fact: Many top health care professionals are using hypnosis as part of their treatment protocol and they are seeing great results in their patients. Hypnosis simply is using the power of the mind to overcome barriers and achieve positive change. 

2)      People that are hypnotized are gullible.

Fact: Research has shown that the most people can benefit from hypnosis. Choosing to be responsive to suggestions means that you understand the concept of how hypnosis works and are willing to allow your mind and body to do what is natural.  In my practice, I have not observed IQ to be at all reflective in someone’s ability to be hypnotized.

3)      Misconception: The person being hypnotized will be under the control of the hypnotist and can be made to do or say anything the hypnotist wants.

Fact: No matter how deeply hypnotized you are, you will remain in total control. You cannot be made to do anything you do not want to do. Rest assured that no one can make you bark like a dog or quack like a duck unless you agree to do it. 

4)      Misconception: Hypnosis is something that is done to someone, rather than something that can be done for oneself.

Fact: Hypnosis is a skill you can learn. It is a tool you can use to be empowered to take control over your life.

5)      Misconception: You can be trapped in hypnosis and may never come out of it.

Fact:  This is absolutely false. You may come out of hypnosis anytime you want.  Just like you can not stay asleep forever, you cannot be under hypnosis forever. 

6)      Misconception: During hypnosis, you are unconscious, in a coma or asleep.

Fact: You are not in a coma or unconscious. You are just in a deep state of relaxation. Although many of my clients do fall asleep because they feel very relaxed, they are still aware of everything and are active participants in the process.

7)      Misconception:  You have to be lying down in a quiet place to be able to go into a hypnotic trance.

Fact:  You can go into a hypnotic trance sitting up or lying down.  It is all about practicing to be tuned in with your mind and body.  An experienced hypnotherapist can teach you how to do self-hypnosis anywhere. Hypnosis is a powerful tool that can be used by everyone, anywhere. 

How to Choose a Hypnotherapist:

            Because Florida does not require a license for someone to call themselves a hypnotherapist, it is very important that you check out the person’s credentials and experience before signing up for a session. Fortunately, there are now many highly qualified and licensed mental health professionals that are also certified hypnotherapists.  But remember, hypnosis only works if you are REALLY ready to make the change.  Hypnosis is not magic, but it is effective!

About Dr. Elizabeth King:

Dr. Elizabeth King, EdD, LCSW, CH.t is the founder and CEO of International Holistic Center (IHC).  She is a highly respected holistic EMDR psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, Adjunct Professor at Nova Southeastern University, Certified Ondamed Practitioner, author, and empowerment speaker.  Dr. King is the host of her own weekly radio talk show the “Health Fusion Hour” on 1470am or www.IHCHealthFusion.com.   IHC is a boutique center specializing in fusing conventional and nonconventional therapies and assessments to tackle the problem at the core level, not just the symptoms.  We believe the most effective way to prevent disease and heal the body and mind is to address the whole person. Our goal is help you feel better, get better and look great!  For more information, please visit our website www.IHCHealthFusion.com or call (954) 903-9426.