If you have questions about hypnosis, or are interested in reading excerpts from the latest scientific research involving hypnosis, or would like more information about hypnosis for a particular problem or concern, you're in the right place. Browse our knowledge base of articles, research, and interviews.
Definitions of hypnosis, myths about hypnosis, helpful applications of hypnosis, and questionable uses to avoid.
The American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association have approved hypnotherapy for use by professionally responsible individuals. The British Medical Association also adopted hypnosis as a viable therapeutic tool in 1958.
Finding a definition of hypnosis that everyone agrees with is virtually impossible. Because they come from diverse backgrounds, the different therapists in The Hypnosis Network probably would not agree on a single definition. So here are multiple definitions.
A team of researchers headed by Carol Ginandes of Harvard Medical School and Patricia Brooks of the Union Institute in Cincinnati wanted to determine if hypnosis could speed wound healing and recovery. The results? Those who were hypnotized healed faster than those who were not.
A study reported in the November-December 2004 issue of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine found that volunteers under hypnosis experienced significant pain reduction in response to painful heat. They also had a distinctly different pattern of brain activity compared to when they were not hypnotized and experienced the painful heat.
Research demonstrates a significant effect when using hypnosis for weight loss. See a sampling of studies.
Some hypnotists may claim to be able to help with every issue. It's not possible: no single individual can be knowledgeable in EVERY hypnosis topic available. Here's what to watch out for.
Beware of "Certified Hypnotherapist" (CHT) hypnotists who are not licensed health-care professionals, or those whose degrees come from diploma mills. Beware of audio hypnosis programs that claim to use subliminal messages or make unrealistic claims.
Advice on how to find a qualified hypnotherapist, from Steve K.D. Eichel.
Randy Gilchrist, Psy.D., specializes in using hypnosis for smoking cessation and for managing stress and anxiety. Meet Dr. Gilchrist.
Recently Dr. Jack was interviewed by Chris Shugart, the editor of T-Nation, on hypnosis for sports performance and weight lifting.
"In these two programs, Dr. Eric Greenleaf creates a relaxed, natural feeling, assuring his listener that the process of hypnosis is easy, though some of the things accomplished within it may be difficult." Will Handy, MSSW, The Milton H. Erickson Foundation Newsletter.
"Those schooled in Ericksonian trancework will . . . appreciate how masterfully Dr. Mills weaves classical Ericksonian techniques into the story to accomplish an unconscious parallel retrieval of resources that would result in an enhanced esteem and sense of empowerment in the listener. The target audience goes beyond children with bedwetting problems."

— Michael Lovitch
Co-Founder, The
Hypnosis Network
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