can be used to try and control an individual control unwanted behaviour, emotions or biological processes
the hypnotherapist induces a hypnotic state in the patient - this is a natural state of focused attention or mental absorption
is not known how hypnotherapy works
one theory is that hypnotherapy modulates activity in brain structures involved in the regulation of consciousness
another theory is the areas of the brain associated with attentional focus are more active in the hypnotic state
not clear to what extent hypnotherapy's effects are attributable to psychological or physiological processes
different people vary in their susceptibility to hypnosis
susceptibility appears to be linked to the patient's ability to focus his or her attention during activities such as reading or listening to music (1)
susceptibility to hypnosis does not seem to be related to features of the patient's personality (such as submissiveness or gullibility) - however negative attitudes to hypnotherapy can influence outcome
patients in the hypnotic state typically behave as active problem-solvers, not automatons, while being responsive to the expectations expressed by the practitioner (1)
Add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation, such as a web address or phone number. This information will always be displayed when you visit this page