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Hypnotherapy Terms and Definitions

Hypnosis Glossary of Terms - H

Hallucination
A sensory experience arising apart from any corresponding external stimulation; a mental image taken for a reality.
Homeostasis
A state of equilibrium. What the body returns to when the parasympathetic nervous system is activated to respond to the fight/flight mechanism of the sympathetic nervous system.
Hypersuggestibility
A state of waking hypnosis and exaggerated suggestibility to influencing factors in the environment, especially to negatives; possibly the greatest cause of all emotional and physical problems.
Hypnodrama
The process of acting out a role in the hypnotic state, which can be used for increasing talents or reducing the effects of earlier traumas in the client’s life.
Hypnoidal
A light stage of hypnosis, usually associated with Emotional suggestibility; also used to refer to the state of consciousness which is passed through in the transition from sleep to waking, and vice versa.
Hypnosis
An altered state of consciousness which results in an increased receptiveness and response to suggestion. While associated with relaxation, hypnosis is actually an escape from an overload of message units, resulting in relaxation. Hypnosis can be triggered naturally from environmental stimuli as well as purposefully from an operator, often referred to as a hypnotist.
Hypnotherapist
A therapist who utilizes hypnosis as a primary tool for assisting clients to achieve their goals. A Hypnotherapist often differs from others therapists by focusing on the role of subconscious behaviors and influences on the client's life.
Definition of Hypnotherapist - 079.157-010
In 1973, Dr. John Kappas, Founder of HMI, wrote and defined the profession of a Hypnotherapist in the Federal Dictionary of Occupational Titles...
Induces hypnotic state in client to increase motivation or alter behavior patterns: Consults with client to determine nature of problem. Prepares client to enter hypnotic state by explaining how hypnosis works and what client will experience. Tests subject to determine degree of physical and emotional suggestibility. Induces hypnotic state in client, using individualized methods and techniques of hypnosis based on interpretation of test results and analysis of client's problem. May train client in self-hypnosis conditioning.
Hypnotist
A person skilled in the technique of inducing the hypnotic state in others. Hypnotists are often associated with the use of hypnosis for entertainment.