Hypnosis shows promise in treating depression, addressing various symptoms and modifying patterns contributing to depressive thinking. Michael Yapko’s integrated approach combines strategic, cognitive-behavioral, and hypnotic methods. Limited research on hypnosis in psychiatric disorders, including depression, has been acknowledged. A meta-analysis suggests that, on average, patients receiving cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with adjunctive hypnosis fare better than those without. However, only a fraction of studies in the analysis focused on psychiatric concerns, raising questions about the broader applicability of hypnosis in emotional disorders. Despite this, studies like Nancy Schoenberg’s exploration of public speaking anxiety have integrated cognitive-behavioral elements. While recognizing the potential of hypnosis, further research is essential to fully appreciate its impact on psychotherapeutic outcomes in emotional disorders.
Source: National Institute of Health