Medical Hypnoanalysis is a dynamic, short term and directed form of hypnosis that follows the medical model. It utilizes a measurable process of specific procedures, exact sets of suggestions, and more quantifiable diagnosis. It also is evidence-outcome based; asking "is the problem solved?" rather than simply addressing only the symptoms, managing them with loads of medication or years of expensive therapy. Medical Hypnosis is a dynamic treatment approach emphasizing causes rather than just symptoms, explanations rather than descriptions and unconscious sources rather than conscious sources as being the ultimate origin of the problem. In addition to being committed to the resolution of problem - it is also short-term in that in most cases, thirty or fewer (often fewer) are required for the completion of treatment for a singular, specific issue and for symptom relief. This makes it not only a more efficient treatment option, but a more cost-effective one as well.
(The information above and much more on this subject may be found in John A. Scott, Sr, PhD's book The Handbook of Brief Psychotherapy and Hypnoanalysis and also through the American Academy of Medical Hypnoanalysts.)
Hypnotherapy Versus Hypnoanalysis For Medical
While in some ways these two are quite alike there is a very significant difference. Clinical hypnosis is only a part of what a Medical Hypnoanalyst does for their clients. Medical Hypnoanalysts collect a very specific and intensive history – far more than most clinicians and physicians do in a typical practice. They also follow a medical model of treatment, which physicians are trained to do, but is very uncommon in contemporary out-patient psychotherapy or counseling. Unlike psychiatry, Medical Hypnoanalysts are not focused on managing or treating the symptoms, but on resolving the cause of the symptoms. There is a great deal of research supporting the use of Medical Hypnosis for: relief of pain and other symptoms, reducing impact of nausea/morning sickness for pregnant mothers-to-be, complete cessation of smoking and also survivors of cancer who are struggling with the side-effects of radiation and cancer treatments. In terms of anxiety alone, Medical Hypnosis offers a medication-free solution for clients with an array of challenges from stage fright for actors and musicians to performance enhancement for professional athletes, relief for travelers with a fear of flying, cravings reduction in addiction recovery, and even treating PTSD/traumatogenic exposure such as may follow a serious car accident or industrial accident.
Something You Should Know
A point to consider as well is this: the American Academy of Medical Hypnoanalysts (AAMH) requires no less than a Masters degree in clinical psychology or similar to even attend their most basic training, let alone the advanced ones or the residency. (They also have quite a few MD and DO members who use medical hypnoanalysis in their medical practices.) This is not the case with many other groups out there and it is important to be aware of this. Being trained as a “clinical hypnotherapist” in some states does not even require a degree at all. Be wary of "certified" hypnosis practitioners - there is no set standard or measure by which all of these certifications are measured. Being certified doesn't necessarily mean what you may think. Training and experience are more valid measures by which to make your decision. In addition, keep in mind that nobody "specializes in everything". If someone tells you they use their hypnosis for any/all problems that should be a clue to just how much attention and focus they may really have in your area of need. Look for practitioners with a limited selection specialty areas - ones who dedicate their time and resources to support their specialty. Remember, you are a precious resource. You wouldn't buy a car without researching it, you wouldn't get a babysitter for your kids out of the newspaper ads, so take the time to learn about who you are getting help from. You are your most worthy investment – make the best choice for you.