Therapists induce a trance state in their clients, which is similar to that experienced when sleepwalking or daydreaming. In this state the patient is much more open to suggestion than in the everyday waking state, and the hypnotherapist can therefore communicate with the patient's unconscious mind more directly. Through the skilful use of language, the therapist can encourage positive changes in the client's life, and help the him or her to alter destructive or dysfunctional thinking patterns. Analytical methods can also be employed whereby the client can investigate psychic conflict, interpersonal dysfunction and childhood trauma safely and from a healing perspective. The hypnotherapist does not control the client (as is commonly misunderstood), but rather works with him/her to create the desired change in thinking or behaviour. A medical history is taken and a full explanation of what will happen are given in the first session, and hypnotherapists will often teach their patients self-hypnosis to help them between sessions.
Notes: Can be used to to treat stress-related conditions such as skin disorders, migraines, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, smoking, asthma, insomnia and phobias. Good hypnotherapists will not be involved in any form of 'stage hypnotism' which involves the use of the hypnotherapist for entertainment.
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