Hypnotherapy and its use among diverse client populations by treatment providers.

摘要

This study explored utilization of hypnotherapy by Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs), and doctoral level therapists (Ph.D.s and Psy.D.s). The sample consisted of 12 licensed therapists, most of whom were either members of the Southern California Society for Clinical Hypnosis or the National Board for Certified Clinical Hypnotherapists. The researcher designed a 15-item instrument to assess therapist utilization of hypnosis, client characteristics, and perceived effectiveness of hypnotherapy.; The study provided an overview of the therapists' use of hypnosis in their practice and their attitudes toward the method. Participants consistently reported that hypnotherapy is an effective and efficient treatment modality that can be used with a wide range of diagnoses and clients. They unanimously reported that there exists a need for more exposure to hypnotherapy in the mental health professions, and stressed the ethical importance of adequate training in the method.