Hypnotherapy

The hypnotic experience is most simply defined as a deep state of relaxation (brainwave frequency in hypnotic Theta state is 5–9 cycles per second as compared to the wakeful Beta state of 15–40 cycles per second) coupled with a profound openness to suggestion. Hypnotherapy is the process of leading a person into the state of hypnosis for the sake of changing beliefs and behaviors through direct suggestion.

Pastoral hypnotherapists maintain that the ability to be hypnotized and to learn to engage in self-hypnosis is given to us by our creator in our very nature. Further, it is a good steward who recognizes and applies to himself/herself the encouraging words of St. Paul: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds…” (Romans 12:2).

Hypnosis provides a very practical method to make application in daily life of what one has determined to be important in the process of personal reflection and spiritual study. If one thinks of their brain as being like a computer, the subconscious mind is the software that is playing in the background. If the software works well, then the desired functions on the screen (conscious mind) will serve us well. However, if the software is not satisfactory, and we don’t understand how to uninstall the old and install the new, then it becomes difficult to get on with the tasks and challenges of life. Seeking to upgrade our mind’s software is the goal of hypnosis.

Hypnosis and Personal Awareness

Certified hypnotherapists work with the client to determine and articulate specific goals. The client determines the goals of the hypnosis session. At no time does the hypnotherapist have control over the client. Those who are being hypnotized do not say or do anything that they do not agree to or which would violate their values and convictions when in a hypnotic state. Those who may be concerned should know that hypnosis has nothing do with coercive “thought reform and mind control.” The hypnotic state is one freely chosen by the client with specific outcome goals determined by the client.