Hypnosis, also known as hypnotherapy in therapeutic situations, is a state of deep relaxation that allows for improved focus and concentration. A hypnotist or hypnotherapist skillfully leads patients into such a state through the use of verbal cues, repetition and vivid imagery.
In a recent article from Stanford Medicine, David Spiegel, MD, a leading expert in clinical hypnosis, spoke about the use of hypnosis for pain control, how it works, who can benefit from the process and when he uses hypnosis on himself.
According to Spiegel, this therapeutic practice offers remarkable potential for pain relief and healing. He explains, “Hypnosis helps people alter the way they experience pain, both by reducing the unpleasantness and by helping them increase their ability to handle it.“
The Stanford study featured in the article illustrates the power of hypnosis in modifying the brain’s perception of pain. Through the use of various cues, hypnosis induces a trance-like state where the brain becomes more receptive to suggestions. This allows patients to override pain signals and to experience significant relief.
As Dr. Spiegel notes, “Hypnosis is a way to get somebody to pay attention to something important, to the exclusion of everything else.“
The study further highlights the enduring effects of hypnosis on pain management. Even after the hypnosis session concludes, participants reported a remarkable reduction in pain intensity.
Beyond pain management, hypnosis exhibits promise in addressing a range of conditions. Dr. Spiegel explains that hypnosis has proven successful in helping patients overcome phobias, manage stress and anxiety, enhance sleep patterns and even stop smoking.
To read the full article from Stanford Medicine on hypnotherapy impacts, please follow the link here.
Cleveland Hypnotherapy at Stella Luna Counseling & Wellness
Paul DiFranco, certified hypnotherapist at Stella Luna Counseling & Wellness, recently shared a story about his own experience treating patients. “One of my first clients was a leg amputee with frighteningly horrific pain. It was one of the most interesting cases I’ve ever encountered. They were in such pain – it was hard to watch what they went through. But I did learn and validate some things about hypnosis.”
DiFranco’s findings align with others in the industry who study and practice hypnotherapy – the practice can help patients gain control over behaviors they’d like to change and it may ultimately help patients to better-cope with anxiety or pain.
Cleveland hypnotherapy sessions at Stella Luna Counseling & Wellness are a good opportunity for patients to relax and to let themselves experience the healing potential of hypnosis. Contact Stella Luna and book a hypnotherapy session today or reach out to our team here to get answers to your questions and to begin your transformative healing journey.
When visiting us for a hypnotherapy session, we advise to wear comfortable clothing to help you feel relaxed during your session. Hynotherapy at Stella Luna is available in 50-minute sessions, 1 hour and 50-minute sessions, and a free 15-minute phone consultation is also part of your initial visit.
Jennifer is a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC), psychotherapist and coach, creating a non-judgmental space for her clients to feel comfortable exploring their inner-most fears, challenges, and desires. As the founder and clinical director of Stella Luna, she holds space for you to explore the meaningful connections between past and current experiences, limiting beliefs, and current behaviors that are holding you back from being the most authentic version of yourself you’ve ever experienced. Learn more about Jennifer and her work at Stella Luna.