Approximately 40 million people in the United States over the age of 18 have an anxiety disorder. Feelings of anxiety can be so intense for these people that it is difficult to function and lead a normal life without treatment. In addition to counseling and medication, quite a few people are turning to hypnotherapy as a treatment for their anxiety. Although this does prove beneficial for some, those who are interested in this particular therapy should take the time to learn about the process before deciding whether or not it is right for them.
Function
Hypnotherapy uses focused attention, guided relaxation or intense concentration to allow people to reach a heightened state of awareness. The hypnotherapist guides the person to explore the reasons behind their anxious feelings or behaviors. The person is able to explore these reasons without becoming fearful or anxious due to their altered state of consciousness. The hypnotherapist may then suggest healthier, alternative responses or behavior before bringing the person back to a normal state of consciousness.
Considerations
Although hypnotherapy can reduce anxiety, no reliable comparisons exist between hypnotherapy and anti-anxiety drugs or psychotherapy. Researchers also do not know if hypnotherapy produces different results than biofeedback or relaxation therapy for anxiety. Aetna InteliHealth notes that better research is necessary before it is possible to make a strong recommendation to use hypnotherapy as a treatment option for anxiety.
Risks
Having an appropriate diagnosis helps the hypnotherapist know what issues to focus on. Those who seek hypnotherapy before getting an accurate diagnosis for their anxiety symptoms may end up making their symptoms worse, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. Hypnotherapy also could lead someone to develop false memories called confabulations, although this is rare.
Finding a Hypnotherapist
Although many hypnotherapists are licensed medical or mental health professionals, some are not. People interested in using hypnotherapy to treat their anxiety should carefully consider the hypnotherapist's credentials before beginning treatment. Members of the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis, or ASCH, must hold a doctorate or master's degree in particular medical or mental health fields with at least 20 hours of approved training in hypnotherapy, while the American Psychotherapy and Medical Hypnosis Association provides certificates for licensed mental health and medical professionals who complete a six to eight week course. People may want to consider hypnotherapists from these organizations to ensure they are getting a licensed professional with specialized hypnotherapy training.
Misconceptions
Although a person's mind may be more open to suggestions in its altered state under hypnosis, hypnotherapists cannot control people or make them do something they do not want to do. There is no need, therefore, to be apprehensive or to resist the process. Those who do fight the process and are not willing to make changes may find that hypnotherapy is not effective. Hypnotherapy is most helpful for people who sincerely wish to stop their anxiety and resolve their issues.
Warning
Although hypnotherapy can reduce anxiety, sometimes other treatment approaches may be better. Hypnotherapy should not postpone diagnosis or treatment with more proven techniques or therapies, and hypnotherapy should not be used as the only approach to an anxiety disorder, warns Aetna InteliHealth. People should also consult a doctor or mental health professional before starting hypnotherapy.
