The list is quite long for all the varying and many applications of the use of hypnosis in a therapeutic setting , some of which are: General self-improvement, memory improvement, performance or test anxiety, nail biting, stuttering, children's bed-wetting, fear of flying, and fear of success. Some other applications include insomnia, addictions (often with additional support from the medical and support group community), and relationship difficulties.
Often clients come in, wanting more out of life, not quite sure of which direction to take, needing inspiration to get going, or wanting to have more understanding about themselves. Goal setting is a part of the conscious work done with the Hypnotherapist. Through visualization or imagery, the subconscious becomes aligned with the feeling of the desired outcome. This then helps to accomplish goals as motivation is increased.
Here is an area that much can be done to create new behavior for improving the client's memory. Something that helps immediately is to remove negative thoughts that have been cluttering up the mind. The capacity of the mind is huge, we have the ability to remember everything. Desire to do so is the key. Hypnosis can help stimulate that desire to become stronger and therefore the memory becomes stronger.
In hypnosis, learning on a subconscious level that "the thoughts you think control the feelings in the body, and that you can not have two different thoughts of the opposite nature at the same time" is part a process often used to help a client replace those anxious feelings. This desensitization helps the client change the behavior. Associating calm and comfort with an anchoring process is also a part of the program for relief. With hypnosis, public speaking can be an enjoyable process and tests can be taken with ease.
Since this is a nervous habit, what better way to deal with it than with relaxation techniques used in hypnosis? Sometimes, it may be necessary to discover the cause and counteract it.
Usually the stutterer will not stutter while in hypnosis. This place of relief can then be used to create an association for a new relaxed way of speaking in the conscious awake state.
Wetting the bed is fairly common for children. Depth of sleep and capacity of the bladder are two factors to be considered. If the child has learned to control himself, but then returns again to bed wetting, or the child is past an age where it is expected for him to have control and the problem still persists, this is the time when hypnosis can be effectively used. Children are very receptive to hypnosis and the response to treatment can be fast.
Movie and television images have not exactly fostered a sense of safety about flying. The news media also contributes to negative messages we all receive. What kind of images are we going to allow our minds to take in? This is important to think about when you are dealing with any kind of fear. A fear of flying can be due to a specific incident that the client has experienced. More often, there is no specific incident, only the fear. While treatment varies between the two, always a series of desensitizing sessions are a part of the program. Soon, with hypnosis, you will be flying quite comfortably. While the initial feeling of state may be similar, the experience is quite different, with different purposes for each.
Strategies for successful relationships have never been better since the Kappas theory of Emotional and Physical Suggestibility and Sexuality. In his book, Relationship Strategies, The E & P Attraction, Kappas provides a powerful handbook on behavior. Whether the problem lies with your boss, your best friend, or your significant other, E&P points the way to solution. E&P gives understanding and recognition of yourself and of those whom you attract. With hypnosis, significant changes can be made toward happier, and more fulfilling relationships.
In conjunction with a group support system, and perhaps medical attention, (Doc referral in that case) hypnosis is beneficial when the individual is able to recognize the problem. Since using the substance begins to be associated with the way to "get through life," the habit becomes the only choice. The individual is now limited by the addiction and does not see all the other choices and options available; and therefore, the dependence. Whatever the substance, it can be a cover-up or a substitute. Once the client has recognized the problem, helping them to feel better about themselves, and increasing motivation are paramount.
Many of your sports heroes use it. To win on the playing field, first you have to win the mental game. Hypnosis is now a common component in athletic training. A Hypnotherapist, along with the coach, can develop a customized program which results in peak championship performance. Professional or amateur, hypnosis can be a dynamic tool for improving your game. Consistent visualization with the practice of self-hypnosis will have you winning time and time again.