“Hypnosis is a state of inner absorption, concentration and focused attention. When our minds are concentrated and focused, we are able to use our minds more powerfully. Clinical hypnotists do essentially three things with hypnosis. They encourage the use of imagination. Mental imagery is very powerful, especially in a focused state of attention. The mind seems capable of using imagery, even if it is symbolic, to assist us in bringing about the things we are imagining.
Another basic hypnotic method is to present ideas or suggestions to the patient. In a state of concentrated attention, ideas and suggestions that are compatible with what the patient want seems to have a more powerful impact on the mind.
Finally, hypnosis may be used for unconscious exploration, to better understand underlying motivations or identity whether past events or experiences are associated with causing a problem. Hypnosis avoids the critical sensor of the conscious mind, which often defeats what we know to be in our interests.” http://www.asch.net/genpubinfo.htm , 30/03/03
“Hypnosis has been used for a long as records have been kept. Modern clinical hypnosis is dated from about 1773 and the use of hypnosis has

“Clinical hypnosis is an altered state of awareness, perception or consciousness that is used, by licensed and trained doctors or masters prepared individuals for treating a psychological or physical problem. It is a highly relaxed state.” http://asch.net/referrals.asp 30/03/03

Before having the chance to make this assignment, I knew very few things about hypnosis. Now that I have an idea on this topic, I have a total different opinion. I think that I would try it but in an extreme occasion. For example if I had a chronic mental or medicine problem that would prevent me from living a normal life. Yes, in that case, I would visit a hypnotist. Of course I would pick an authorized professional in order to feel safe that I would not get hurt physically or mentally.

Another myth about hypnosis is that people loose consciousness and have amnesia. A small percentage of subjects, who go into very deep levels of trance will fit this stereotype and have spontaneous amnesia. The majority of people remember everything that occurs in hypnosis. This is beneficial because the most of what specialists want to accomplish in hypnosis may be done in a medium depth trance, where people tend to remember everything. In hypnosis, the patient is not under the control of the hypnotist. Hypnosis is not something imposed on people, but something they do for themselves. A hypnotist simply serves as a facilitator to guide them.” http://www.asch.net/genpubinfo.htm 30/03/03