As a new addition to my practice, I have recently introduced elements of hypnotherapy

Many definitions of hypnotherapy and self-hypnosis have been attempted, none being universally accepted as accurate. Hypnosis is a natural phenomenon of our brain functioning that is best understood by being experienced. It is safe and pleasurable. It is happening to each one of us every so often: when daydreaming, getting completely absorbed in a novel or a movie, driving on a long, monotonous road, etc. Hypnosis is relaxing and it speaks to the deepest, most powerful, most creative and positive part of our mind. I am very excited to be able to explore hypnosis with my patients. The results are very good, and my patients enjoy it, while making huge strides of recovery and self-improvement.

Reprogramming one’s mind

Changing a thought pattern from one causing suffering into one that brings peacefulness, happiness and positive mental energy–can be done in many ways, one of which is hypnotherapy. Hypnotherapy can be done with a therapist or as self-hypnosis.

An important way of utilizing hypnotherapy is teaching my patients self-hypnosis. Self-hypnosis is a powerful tool to engage and reprogram the conscious and subconscious mind. Being able to do so has many practical applications: changing unhelpful thinking patterns, controlling chaotic emotions, maintaining focus on achieving a certain goal, and many other individually specific functions.

Hypnosis and self-hypnosis have many uses: to control pain mentally, to heal faster from surgery or injuries, to reduce anxiety and panic attacks, and for self-improvement (living a more balanced life, improving memory, improving the quality of our relationships, becoming a fearless public speaker, an inspired writer, etc.).

Books on hypnosis and self-hypnosis that my patients found useful:
Anxiety Relief: Guided Imagery Exercises to Soothe, Relax and Restore Balance (Guided Self-Healing Practices)—Martin Rossman, M.D.; Audio CD
Reduce Stress & Anxiety (Success World Self-Hypnosis Series)—David Illig; Audio CD

Through the Open Door: Secrets of Self-Hypnosis—Kevin Hogan; Hardcover
Sport hypnosis—Donald Liggett; Paperback
Hypnotize Yourself Out of Pain Now!: A Powerful User-friendly Program for Anyone Searching for Immediate Pain Relief (Book & CD)—Bruce Elmer
The Self-Hypnosis Home Study Course—Steven Gurgevich, Ph.D.; Audio CD

Stop Smoking Kit: Quit Smart Stop Smoking Guide, Hypnosis Quit Smoking Audio CD, and Cigarette Substitute—Robert H. Shipley
Hypnosis for Overcoming Anger (Hypnotic Empowerment Series for Self-Awakening)—Janet I. Decker; Audio CD
Hypnosis to Improve Memory and Recall (Hypnotic Empowerment Series for Self-Awakening)—Janet I. Decker; Audio CD
Self-Confidence—David Illig; Audio CD
Relax into Restful Sleep—Carolyn McManus; Audio CD

Guided Meditation: For Calmness, Awareness and Love—Bodhipaksa; Audio CD
Meditation for Relaxation and Stress Reduction—Joan Borysenko; Audio CD