The terms hypnosis and hypnotherapy, are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same. A common thread between the two is the altered state of mind, but they stand for entirely different meanings.
This blog talks about 3 differences between hypnosis and hypnotherapy.
Definitions
Hypnosis is a state of consciousness where your brain opens up and is receptive to suggestions. We get into a state of hypnosis every day; during activities like watching a movie or daydreaming.
Hypnotherapy, however, is a form of practice where a therapist leads you to a state of hypnosis to identify and dismantle unhealthy thinking patterns and cure a range of mental and physical health issues.
To illustrate both these terms, imagine a garden. Hypnosis is like growing a plant in that garden. Hypnotherapy is like removing the weeds so that the plant can grow healthy without restrictions.
Techniques
Hypnosis is like induction. You enter a trance-like state, and through verbal suggestions, you change the things in your life. You can enter this state of consciousness and relaxation yourself or with the help of a hypnotherapist. As a result, you feel pleasant and relaxed – receptive to embracing change.
Hypnotherapy is complimentary to hypnosis. It’s used to help individuals improve their lives in myriad ways. These include, but aren’t limited to, managing chronic pain, anxiety, stress, weight loss, addiction, and depression.
Practitioners
Hypnosis is a simple technique, and one can enter the state without even realizing it – like watching a film or reading a book. However, if a person practices hypnosis on different people, they’re called hypnotists. This discussion of hypnosis is limited to therapeutic hypnosis and doesn’t include the kind of hypnosis used for entertainment, called stage hypnosis.
Image filename: patient-hypnosis-therapy-session
Alt text: An old patient hypnotized at a therapy session while the therapist takes notes
However, for hypnotherapy, you need a hypnotherapist who’s trained in this practice. Hypnotherapists hold qualifications and certifications from professional institutions of therapy and counselling. Their education equips them with sound knowledge for detailed and in-depth consultations before therapy sessions.
If you’re suffering from chronic pain or anxiety, or other issues like alcoholism, drug addiction, and eating disorders, Advanced Hypnotherapy of Naples can help you. If you’re in Naples, FL and are looking to transform your life for good, schedule an appointment with us today.
