The case for clinical hypnosis: Theory and research-based do’s and don’ts for clinical practice.

Abstract

We describe key aspects of hypnosis that distinguish it from other psychotherapeutic approaches, argue that hypnosis occupies a unique niche among clinical interventions, and claim that a substantial body of evidence supports its use across a gamut of psychological conditions. Hypnotic techniques are ideally suited to present useful suggestions that can alter subjective, behavioral, and physiological responses; enhance positive treatment expectancies; steer the ongoing flow of spontaneous mental activity and associations; focus attention; engage imagination; enhance rapport; access and bolster personal resources; and facilitate self-regulation. We contend that a sufficient corpus of theory and research now exists to extrapolate to a list of 18 "do's and don'ts" we present that represent a utilitarian approach to clinical hypnosis to guide its responsible, science-based use in clinical contexts and to supplement existing treatments on an adjunctive basis.

Best Practice Recommendations for Conducting Controlled Trials in Clinical Hypnosis Research

“…A client's or study participant's expectations, hopes, and misconceptions related to hypnosis are important factors in determining treatment success (27)(28)(29). Thus, the research protocol or the intervention manual should specify how the patient is introduced to and/or educated about the hypnotic intervention, to ensure that these processes are standardized across participants.…”