Dear Suze, My child has asthma and I’ve decided to stop smoking. My MD has me on the “patch” and referred me to a therapist for hypnosis and CBT (what is that?). Does hypnosis work? I don’t want to quack like a duck or become a mass murderer.
Dear Smoker, Besides the parlor tricks that’s made hypnosis popular, the AMA and APA endorse hypnosis as an effective, evidence-based healthcare. Some insurance companies cover hypnosis costs when prescribed by the M.D. Hypnosis is a deep state of relaxation where the client is more open to suggestions from the therapist, similar to being laser-focused in a book/movie/activity where you lose track of time/surroundings. The medical research finds hypnosis helpful in treating pain management, weight loss, speech disorders, addictions, and phobias, as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with other therapy, particularly CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy). The trick is get the right therapist and treatment plan the first time to minimize chance of failure. BEWARE! Use ONLY “Hypnotherapists,” -state licensed therapist (Ph.D., LMFT, LCSW) that have a speciality in hypnosis. Any quack can get a certificate and hang a shingle advertising themselves as a hypnotist. -SQ
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