Hypnosis for Pain Control

Dr. David R. Patterson demonstrates this helpful therapeutic technique. Hypnosis is a powerful tool for helping clients to access personal resources to assist them in controlling pain. Although hypnosis can be used with chronic pain, in this context it is typically best used over a number of sessions in conjunction with psychotherapy. On the other hand, hypnosis for acute pain-typically from medical procedures such as surgery, trauma, or child birth-may be beneficial even if used in a single session.

In this session, Dr. Patterson works with a woman with a rare form of cancer who has a tumor on her spine that causes burning, stabbing pain, interfering with her sleep. Dr. Patterson first educates the client about hypnosis, then takes her through an induction that gives her access to internal resources that help her to feel less pain and greater comfort.