The Art of Hypnotic Regression Therapy: A Clinical Guide

Hypnotic Regression Therapy, or HRT, is a type of hypnotherapy in which, following the induction of a good trance state, specialized suggestions are given to guide the client in reviewing and emotionally reframing earlier experiences that have either caused or contributed to the client's current symptoms. HRT is considered one of the most valuable hypnotherapy techniques available today, yet it remains controversial, partly due to inadequate training of psychotherapists and hypnotherapists which has contributed to numerous cases of false memory syndrome. In spite of the controversies, hypnotherapists successfully use regression therapy to discover the core causes of a number of problems and help clients release their emotional attachments to those causes. Such successful release empowers clients to overcome certain problems rather than simply coping with them. For example, people with a former fear of flying can now fly comfortably.

This volume removes the fear of the dangers of mishandled hypnotic regression by presenting an organized , client-centered approach. You will learn when and how to use HRT effectively to help clients discover and release the causes of their problems and symptoms. The authors emphasize the importance of avoiding inappropriate leading, and also how to explain the risk of false memories to clients. Five phases of HRT are explored: preparation abreactions and release, regression techniques to discover the cause(s) subconscious relearning and concluding the session. There is also a chapter discussing the controversial topic of past life regressions, with potential explanations and ethical considerations. The authors also include case histories to illustrate the value of their client-centered approach to HRT.

Additional background information is included that forms a foundation for client-centered hypnotherapy, with specific objectives to accomplish that increase and the likelihood of lasting results. The book also discusses how HRT fits in with other appropriate forms of psychological therapy and why regression is a valuable tool for helping clients realize lasting results in overcoming psychological and psychosomatic symptoms after other techniques have failed.

Roy Hunter, MS, CHt, teaches professional hypnosis and advanced techniques for professionals and teaches self-hypnosis to groups and clients for personal or professional motivation. He was specially selected to carry on the work of the late Charles Tebbetts. He was awarded a PhD from Alpha University and California University with a major in clinical hypnotherapy.

Bruce Eimer, PhD, ABPP, is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in the Philadelphia area with over 26 years experience using hypnosis as a tool in treating people with a variety of emotional and medical conditions. He is a Fellow of the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis and Board Certified in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy with the American Board of Professional Psychology.