Hair pulling or the technical term, Trichotillomania, is the irresistible urge to pull one’s own hair. It’s normally described as an impulse control disorder because it’s an unwanted habit that is an unconscious response to relieve stress. The severity of the condition ranges from mild to totally overwhelming to the person suffering from hair pulling.

Symptoms of Trichotillomania may include:

• Feelings of stress and tension
• The pulling of hair
• A feeling of relief, pleasure, or satisfaction after the act
• Inspecting, biting, chewing, or even eating the pulled-out hair
• Some people also bite their fingernails and pick their skin
• Can sometimes feel the urge to pull their pet’s hairs or the furry material of their blankets or garments
• Noticeably bare patches on the scalp, eyebrows, or other facial or body areas

Standard Treatment

Trichotillomania is normally treated using psychotherapy. This kind of therapy helps patients understand and recognise the abdominal pattern. Doctors may also offer medication, but these will only help control the symptoms and not totally cure the condition. Typical oral medications include antidepressants like clomipramine. Other medications include N-acetylcysteine and olanzapine. Keep in mind, though, that the benefits of these medications should be weighed against their possible side effects.

Hypnotherapy as a Form of Treatment for Trichotillomania

Studies

Many studies have been performed looking at Trichotillomania and hypnotherapy. For instance, a journal article in abstract form was published stating that a 26-year-old female who has been pulling her hair for 18 years stopped the habit after sessions of hypnotherapy. An article published on Trich.org also revealed that hypnotherapy can be an effective treatment. According to the author, “Hypnosis is one of the methods that can end or lessen that struggle. For those who are uncomfortable with medication, who have failed to see results with strictly behavioural approaches, or who just seek to add another tool to their coping techniques, hypnosis is an option worth considering.” See below for references.

Who comes to see me?

People of all ages suffer from the condition.  It usually starts in childhood.  If you would like to book an appointment to see me, please do so by clicking the orange button below and following the links to book on the online appointment system.

References

“Trichotillomania.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 30 May 2014. Web. 02 June 2014. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trichotillomania>.

“Trichotillomania (hair-pulling Disorder).” MayoClinic. N.p., n.d. Web. 04 June 2014. <http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/trichotillomania/basics/definition/con-20030043>.

Sarna, Naomi, and Paul Weinberg. “Hypnosis and Trichotillomania.” Editorial. InTouch 1999: n. pag. Trichotillomania Learning Center. 2008. Web. 05 June 2014. <http://www.trich.org/treatment/article-hypnosis-sarna-weinberg.html>.

Galski, Thomas J. “The Adjunctive Use of Hypnosis in the Treatment of Trichotillomania: A Case Report.” American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis 23.3 (1981): 198-201. Taylor and Francis Online. Web. 1 June 2014. <http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00029157.1981.10403266#.U4syYXYb3Fw>.

What is Insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterised by sleeping issues such as difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep. There are two labels associated with the medical term insomnia. The first being “Primary Insomnia“, which is a sleeping difficulty that has no direct association with any health problem. The other is “Secondary Insomnia“, which is caused by a certain health condition, such as depression, asthma, pregnancy, heartburn, or pain; or by taking medications that may cause this problem.

Insomnia can be caused by many different factors. It could be due to stress, illness, or physical discomfort. It may also be caused by environmental factors, such as light, noise, or extreme temperature changes. Emotional distress may also cause insomnia, as well as certain medications like antihypertensive drugs, antidepressants, or even simple cold and flu medication.

Symptoms of Insomnia

• Insomnia is characterised by the following symptoms:
• Finding it difficult to fall asleep
• Waking up in the middle of the night with trouble of getting back to sleep
• Tiredness upon waking and throughout the day
• Irritability
• Concentration issues

Treatment

While acute insomnia does not require immediate treatment, chronic insomnia is typically dealt with over-the-counter and even with prescription sleeping aids. Nonetheless, it is widely-known that sleeping pills can be addictive and can result in various withdrawal symptoms that can affect your health. Moreover, insomniacs can have the tendency to develop a dependency on sleeping medication, which can result in a heap of other short and long term issues.

Hypnosis as a Form of Treatment for Insomnia

Studies

Several articles linking hypnosis and insomnia have been published. BMC Pediatrics concluding that hypnosis can be an effective treatment for insomnia in school-age children as an example. The study was performed among 84 children and adolescents that suffered from sleeping issues. Among the 84 participants, 87% reported improvement following their hypnosis sessions.

If you would like to book an appointment to see me now about your sleeping issues, you can do so by following by clicking the orange button below.

References

“Insomnia (Chronic and Acute Insomnia) Causes and Symptoms.” WebMD. WebMD, n.d. Web. 29 May 2014. <http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/guide/insomnia-symptoms-and-causes>.

“Insomnia.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 28 May 2014. Web. 30 May 2014. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Insomnia>.

Anbar, Ran D., and Molly P. Slothower. “Hypnosis for Treatment of Insomnia in School-age Children: A Retrospective Chart Review.” BMC Pediatrics. N.p., 16 Aug. 2006. Web. 31 May 2014. <http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2431/6/23>

Stanton, Harry E., Ph.D. Hypnotic Relaxation and Insomnia: A Simple Solution? (n.d.): n. pag. Http://www.hypnosishouse.biz. Web. <http://www.hypnosishouse.biz/uploads/2/5/0/6/25064124/article_-_insominia___hypnosis.pdf>.

Stanton, Harry E., Ph.D. Hypnotic Relaxation and Insomnia: A Simple Solution? (n.d.): n. pag. Http://www.hypnosishouse.biz. Web. <http://www.hypnosishouse.biz/uploads/2/5/0/6/25064124/article_-_insominia___hypnosis.pdf>.

References

“Migraine.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 25 May 2014. Web. 31 May 2014. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Migraine>.

Conrad Stoppler, Melissa, MD. “Migraine Headache.” MedicineNet. N.p., 4 Dec. 2002. Web. <www.onhealth.com/migraine_headache>.

“Migraine.” MayoClinic. N.p., 4 June 2013. Web. <http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/basics/definition/con-20026358>.

“Hypnosis for the Relief and Control of Pain.” American Psychological Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 May 2014. <http://www.apa.org/research/action/hypnosis.aspx>.

Anderson, J.A., Basker, M.A, Dalton, R. (1975). “Migraine and Hypnotherapy.” International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 23, 48-58.(2)

Hammond C. (2000) The International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis; Volume 55, Number 2 – April 2000

What are Migraines?

A Migraine is a moderate to severe painful headache that is characterised by throbbing sensations in a single, or multiple areas of the head and neck. It is considered a chronic neurological disorder due to its often recurring nature. About a third of affected individuals experience aura-perceiving migraines, resulting in certain disturbances that signal to the person that the migraine is about to happen.

Stages of Migraines

A migraine has Four Stages. In each stage various symptoms are present. While some people experience all of the stages, others do not. The Prodrome Stage is felt about a day or two before a major migraine attack. Some of the symptoms include:

• Food cravings
• Constipation
• Depression
• Stiffness of the neck and jaw
• Yawning
• Irritability
• Hyperactivity

The Aura Stage occurs before or during the headaches. Auras are typically visual disturbances like light flashes. At times, auras can be sensory, motor, or even verbal disturbances. The aura stage includes symptoms such as:

• Flashes of light, bright spots, different shapes and other visual phenomena
• Temporary loss of vision
• Abnormal sensations, such as pins and needles in the arm or leg
• Speech problems

The Attack Stage may last from 4 hours to as long as 3 days. During this the following symptoms may be experienced:

• Throbbing or pulsating pain on one side of the head
• Feeling nauseous and about to vomit
• Being sensitive to light, sounds and smells
• Blurred vision
• Light-headedness
• Fainting
• Standard Treatment

You may be taking medications in order to relieve the pain or even prevent migraines from occurring. Pain-relieving medications include pain-relievers like aspirin, acetaminophen, and NSAIDs like Ibuprofen are common. There are also over-the-counter drugs that use a combination of aspirin, acetaminophen, and caffeine and are marketed specifically for migraine sufferers. While these could be effective for mild to moderate migraines, some suggest that they do not always have any effect on severe headaches and migraines.

Hypnosis as a Form of Treatment for Migraines

There are a number of studies that suggest hypnosis is an effective treatment for migraines. Below is part of an abstract and a link to a relevant study:

“This paper provides an updated review of the literature on the effectiveness of hypnosis in the treatment of headaches and migraines, concluding that it meets the clinical psychology research criteria for being a well-established and efficacious treatment and is virtually free of the side effects, risks of adverse reactions and ongoing expense associated with medication treatments.”

If you would like to book an appointment to see me now about your migraines or severe headaches, you can do so by following by clicking the orange button below.

References

“Migraine.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 25 May 2014. Web. 31 May 2014. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Migraine>.

Conrad Stoppler, Melissa, MD. “Migraine Headache.” MedicineNet. N.p., 4 Dec. 2002. Web. <https://www.onhealth.com/migraine_headache>.

“Migraine.” MayoClinic. N.p., 4 June 2013. Web. <http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/basics/definition/con-20026358>.

“Hypnosis for the Relief and Control of Pain.” American Psychological Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 May 2014. <http://www.apa.org/research/action/hypnosis.aspx>.

Anderson, J.A., Basker, M.A, Dalton, R. (1975). “Migraine and Hypnotherapy.” International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 23, 48-58.(2)

Hammond C. (2000) The International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis; Volume 55, Number 2 – April 2000

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS for short affects between 14 and 25% of the general population (Jones and Lydeard, 1992). The major symptoms of the the condition are abdominal pain, altered and frequent bowel movements – all of which impair quality of life most often to a high degree. Interestingly the causes of IBS are not well understood but it is thought that a combination of stress, anxiety, and past trauma often play a role in its development (Rutter and Rutter, 2002). It has been found medication has limited efficacy in its treatment but study after study indicates hypnosis and hypnotherapy more often than not is a very effective treatment for IBS.

Hypnosis for IBS – The Evidence

A randomized control study in 1984 (Whorwell, Prior, Faragher, Lancet) found that counseling combined with hypnosis produced significantly higher positive outcomes than counseling and a placebo.

In another study (Whorwell, Prior, Colgan, 1987) conducted with the assistance of 50 sufferers of irritable bowel syndrome found that after 10 hypnotherapy sessions, 84% of cases saw significant levels of improvement in symptoms of IBS.

In a 2003 study (Gonsalkorale et al) 204 IBS patients treated with hypnotherapy 72% responded favourably and 82% of these maintained this positive result over a 5 year follow up.

A 2006 study (Palsson) also demonstrated the efficacy of hypnosis in treating the condition with 80% of patients studied showing improvements in IBS and its range of symptoms.

Hypnotherapy for IBS Program

Hypnosis is a day dream state. Most clients in their early sessions do not go into a very deep state but it’s generally deep enough for effective work to be done. You will hear every word most likely and most say after the session/s that they were deeply relaxed, calm and positive throughout. It should be noted that people cannot be made to do anything they do not wish to consciously do in a hypnotic state. Initially I have you focus on various parts of the body which induces the relaxed hypnotic state and then I just tell you a little story (sometimes interactive), and you simply daydream it as best you can. Typically I see clients over 3 -6 sessions

How to Book on the Online Booking System:

Residents from Australia can instantly book a private appointment by clicking the green  button below. You will arrive at an external booking system where you can choose an appropriate appointment time.

Appointment length: 50 mins – 1 hour.

Payment is due at the end of each consultation unless a package is purchased at the end of the first consultation.

To pay for a missed appointment (less 24 hours notice) please request from Michael relevant bank account details or alternative payment method. Missed appointments or cancellations with less than 24 hours notice will be charged.

References

Gonsalkorale WM, Miller V, Afzal A, Whorwell PJ (2003) Long term benefits of hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome. Gut 52: 1623–9

Palsson O (2006) Standardized treatment for irritable bowel syndrome: The North Carolina. Protocol International Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 54(1):51–64.

Whorwell P, Prior A, Faragher EB (1984) Controlled trial of hypnotherapy in the treatment of severe refractory irritable bowel syndrome. Lancet 1232–3.

Whorwell P, Prior A, Colgan S (1987) Hypnotherapy in severe irritable bowel syndrome: further experience. Gut 28: 423–5.

Zimmerman J (2003) Cleaning up the river: a metaphor for functional digestive disorders

American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis 45: 353–9

What is Emetophobia?

Emetophobia is the fear of getting sick or of vomiting. It is a common type of phobia and can begin at any age, but most sufferers state that the condition arose from a set of childhood experiences relating to being sick. Most sufferers actually rarely vomit. As a matter of fact, most people with emetophobia a lot of the time haven’t vomited since early childhood, but still they worry that it may happen. It is a debilitating condition.  I can talk from personal experience after suffering from it!

Symptoms of Emetophobia

Individuals with emetophobia may display these following symptoms:

• experience digestive upsets and nausea frequently
• feeling of anxiety during long road trips and other such journeys.
• avoidance of alcohol or places or gatherings where alcohol could be present
• do not want to be around children
• do not welcome the idea of being in a public vehicle like buses, aeroplanes etc
• women with emetophobia often delay or avoid pregnancy for fear of morning sickness

Who Comes to See Me?

Men and women in their twenties and thirties typically come to see me to address the issue.

Treatment

Because it is a complicated type of phobia, emetophobia is not very easy to diagnose, let alone to treat. Many patients suffer from other types of phobia in addition to the fear of vomiting. Some doctors may prescribe medication. Some patients react positively with exposure therapy. Exposure exercises usually involve inducing the sensations of nausea, watching videos or looking at photos of vomiting, and even frequently using the word “vomit” or “sick”.

Hypnosis as a Form of Treatment for Emetophobia

There is no significant number of research papers directly linking hypnosis as a form of treatment for emetophobia. However, there are studies conducted showing that hypnotherapy could help improve various cases of phobias and anxieties. I have treated a great number of individuals who have suffered from this condition previously. I was able to treat myself using hypnosis for this condition.  I developed the phobia during childhood where at one stage, I refused to drink water because I thought it would cause me to be sick!

References

“Emetophobia.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 26 May 2014. Web. 26 May 2014. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emetophobia>.

Fritscher, Lisa. “Fear of Vomiting or Emetophobia.” About.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 May 2014. <http://phobias.about.com/od/phobiaslist/a/emetophobia.html>.

Fritscher, Lisa. “Hypnotherapy – Understanding Clinical Hypnotherapy.” About.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 May 2014. <http://phobias.about.com/od/therapy/a/hypnotherapy.html>.

Kluft, Richard P. “Hypnosis in the Treatment of Phobias.” Psychiatric Annals 16.2 (1986): 96-101. PsycNET. Web. 27 May 2014. <http://psycnet.apa.org/psycinfo/1987-26082-001>.

Crawford, Helen J., Arreed F. Barabasz, and Judith W. Rhue. “Phobias and Intense Fears: Facilitating Their Treatment with Hypnosis.” Ed. Steven Jay Lynn and Irving Kirsch. Handbook of Clinical Hypnosis. (1993): 311-37. PsycNET. 2012. Web. 27 May 2014. <http://psycnet.apa.org/books/10274/015>.

What is a Nail Biting Habit (Onychophagia)?

Nail biting is one of the more common stress relieving vices.  It is considered an “impulse control disorder” in the DSM-IV-R.

The habit of biting nails can lead to several problems.  Commonly it leads to broken skin on the nail cuticle which often causes viral and microbial infections.  The habit also seems to cause dental problems such as malocclusions on the anterior teeth from the consistent picking and biting. The habit usually first presents itself in childhood and continues until adulthood if left untreated.

Symptoms of a Nail Biting or Nail Picking Habit:

• The inability to stop or control the habit of biting and or picking your fingernails
• Broken and infected cuticles.
• Reddened skin

Who comes to see me for help with this?

A high number of professional people.  From solicitors to sales reps.  The habit usually is correlated with highly stressful jobs.  People tend to exhibit a greater tendency to pick and bite their nails when they require a higher level of concentration throughout the day.

Hypnosis as a form of treatment for Nail Biting:

Studies

There has been multiple research studies on the efficacy of hypnosis in treating nail biting.  The following is a quote taken from one research article.  Links to this and other studies can be found in the resource section at the bottom.

“Results for all Ss indicated immediate and dramatic increase in fingernail lengths concomitant with the introduction of treatment. At 3-month follow-up, 1 S demonstrated a moderate reversal effect while the remaining 2 Ss continued to indicate substantial progress. These findings were discussed with regard to the efficacy of hypnobehavioral treatment strategies and utilization of single-case experimental designs in future hypnotherapy research.”

(Philip H. Bornstein, Robert G. Rychtarik, Miles E. McFall, Jill Winegardner, Rochelle L. Winnett, David A. Paris International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis Vol. 28, Iss. 3, 1980)

My Nail Biting Hypnotherapy program

My program consists of three to five hypnosis sessions. Three sessions are normally recommended . Some see satisfactory improvement after one session but three or more are recommended.

Case Study: Jess, Manager (name changed for privacy reasons):

“Jess” worked at a management firm and found that during periods of intense concentration she would often catch herself biting her nails.  She came to see me because she didn’t like the way her fingernails looked nor how the habit appeared to others.  She had a long history of biting her nails in the past but felt the problem had increased in recent times due to the nature of her job.  We worked on the unconscious processes leading up to the habit with guided imagery, ego state therapy and suggestion.  After two sessions she felt there had been significant improvement.  She showed me her nails and there had been definite improvement in length.  In the future I intend to take photos of the nails with the client’s permission so that we can adequately test the outcomes with before and after photos.

Sources:

1. “Nail Biting.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 20 May 2014. Web. 20 May 2014.

2. “Nail-Biting-Topic Overview.” WebMD. WebMD, 03 Jan. 0000. Web. 20 May 2014.

3. Hypnosis and the treatment of nail biting: A preliminary trial.

Wagstaff, Graham F.; Royce, Catherine Contemporary Hypnosis, Vol 11(1), 1994, 9-13.

4. Hypnobehavioral treatment of chronic nailbiting: A multiple baseline analysis

Philip H. Bornstein, Robert G. Rychtarik, Miles E. McFall, Jill Winegardner, Rochelle L. Winnett, David A. Paris

International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis Vol. 28, Iss. 3, 1980

Please Note: I do not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The content on my website is not, and is not intended to be substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your Doctor or other Government qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding this or any other medical issue or condition.

Studies

There is a surprisingly number of studies that suggests hypnosis may be an effective form of treatment for aviophobia or fear of flying for some individuals. In the article Hypnotherapy for Flight Phobia by Peter A Bakal M.D., twenty-one aviophobia sufferers were studied using hypnosis as a form of treatment. In another case study: Short-term Hypnotherapy for the Treatment of Flight Phobia: A Case Report, a 30-year old married woman with aviophobia immediately flew cross-country after three hypnotherapy sessions using Erickson hypnosis techniques after formerly suffering from a debilitating form of the condition.

My Social Phobia Hypnotherapy Program:

My program consists of three to five hypnosis sessions. Three sessions are normally recommended . Some see satisfactory improvement after just one however.

Fees:

It is recommended a three session package is purchased ($490) but you may opt for a singular session as a trial ($180). As with all my appointments, they can be booked online on my system below. Please see the bottom of the page if you are interested in more resources.

How to Book Online:

Residents from Australia can instantly book a private appointment by clicking the green button below. You will arrive at an external booking system where you can choose an appropriate appointment time.

References:

Foreman, Elaine I. “Fear of Flying.” Doctor (2006): 26. Http://www.freedomtofly.biz. May 2006. Web. 23 May 2014. <http://www.freedomtofly.biz/Old_Web_Site/files/article_gp_update_may_2006.pdf>.

“Pteromerhanophobia.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 13 May 2014. Web. 23 May 2014. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pteromerhanophobia>.

Bailey, Eileen. “Aviophobia or Fear of Flying.” Aviophobia or Fear of Flying. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 May 2014. <http://www.healthcentral.com/anxiety/disorder-types-273811-5_2.html>.

Bakal, Peter A. “Hypnotherapy for Flight Phobia.” American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis 23.4 (1981): 248-51. Web.

Deyoub, Paul L., and Seymour J. Epstein. “Short-term Hypnotherapy for the Treatment of Flight Phobia: A Case Report.” American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis 19.4 (1977): 251-54. Web.

The program consists of three sessions.  It is often the case benefits are seen after the first session.  I use guided imagery, direct suggestion, CBT and ego state therapy as components in the hypnotic treatment.

Teeth grinding (bruxism) causes severe levels of pain that often radiates across, the jaw, face and neck.  It is also a common source of headaches and gum pain.  There can be any number of reasons why people grind their teeth during the day consciously and often in the evening whilst asleep.  Some of the risk factors and reasons include:

• A learnt behavioural response to high stress
• Medication such as anti-depressants have been found to cause grinding
• Recent dental work

Much research has indicated the effectiveness of hypnosis in treating the condition.  The aim of hypnosis with regards to bruxism is to reduce and remove the unconscious drivers of clenching and the grinding of the teeth.

Hypnosis for Teeth Grinding / Bruxism Research Links

The following links to research that highlights the effectiveness of hypnotherapy in treating bruxism.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2712013

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8203355

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2712013

Suffering from public speaking fears and concerned it’s ruining your career chances?

Public speaking anxiety (Glossophobia) is the most common anxiety and phobia that people possess – statistics suggest that nearly 3 in 4 people suffer from this condition. Some research does seem to show that people who suffer from this type of phobia or anxiety have had a negative experience as a child in a public speaking environment. It is from this sensitizing event that the negative feelings and sensations were learnt to avoid such scenarios in the future. Regardless, many do not seem to know why they have the anxiety.

Most of my clients that see me for this issue are business people that need to reduce or remove this anxiety so that moving forward they can speak to their colleagues and employers in presentations in a confident and straight forward manner. Other common reasons for the need to improve in this area that I’ve also had success with include clients that need confidence for wedding speeches or academic lectures.

The Melbourne Public Speaking Anxiety Program is a three session program. In the first session we will discuss the case history, allowing me to understand in detail the aspects of your condition, the environment in which it arises and the frequency. An explanation of hypnosis will be given as well as a hypnotic intervention.

In the second and third sessions we will focus on specific feelings and sensations as well as reinforcing the positive changes that have already been made. Self hypnosis training will be given allowing you to further reinforce feelings of relaxation and calmness in the future further enhancing confidence and performance levels during your public speaking opportunities.

Payment is due at the end of each consultation unless a package is purchased at the end of the first consultation.

To pay for a missed appointment (less 24 hours notice) please request from Michael relevant bank account details or alternative payment method. Missed appointments or cancellations with less than 24 hours notice will be charged.

Residents from Australia can instantly book a private appointment by clicking the green button below. You will arrive at an external booking system where you can choose an appropriate appointment time.

What is Cleithrophobia?

Cleithrophobia, also known as cleisiophobia or clithrophobia, is the fear of getting locked or trapped inside an enclosed space. The word is derived from the Greek word cleithro, meaning to close or shut; and the English word phobia or fear. At times, cleithrophobia is confused with claustrophobia, however, the former is triggered in the moment of being in a small, enclosed space. The two phobias have subtle, often unnoticeable differences, but these distinctions are very important.

Cleithrophobia Symptoms

There are two kinds of cleithrophobia symptoms. One is psychological and the other is physical.

Psychological Symptoms:

• a feeling of losing control
• a dread and the feeling that you are about to die

Physical Symptoms:

•  panic attacks including crying and screaming
• attempts to run away from the scene
• a feeling of nausea with headaches and dizziness
• a rise in heartrate and sweats

Treatment

Some doctors may advise that the patient seek an psychological intervention like psychology and or hypnosis, but often they will just medication, such as antidepressants, beta-blockers, and tranquilizers that have effiacy in believe able to manage the phobia. Nevertheless, although these medications can greatly help suppress the fear, they do not treat the cause which hypnosis can often do.

Hypnosis as a Form of Treatment for Cleithrophobia

Studies

While there are very few studies that show the effectiveness of treating cleithrophobia with hypnosis, hypnosis has a record of being able to treat most phobias with some efficacy.

Claustrophobia and Hypnotherapy: Overcoming Fear Though Hypnosis

What is Claustrophobia?

Claustrophobia is an irrational fear of enclosed places. This condition is one of the ten most common anxiety disorders that affect people from all walks of life. The fear is not of tight space itself but of the thought of having no ability to escape from the confining area. For other people, this fear may seem a little ridiculous but for the sufferer, this problem can be embarrassing and debilitating.

Derived from the Latin word claustrum or “shut in place” and phobos, the Greek word for “fear”, claustrophobia is found to affect about 15% to 37% of the world’s population.

Symptoms of Claustrophobia

The onset of panic may varies from one sufferer to another. A claustrophobic may feel a bolt of sudden fear when getting into an elevator or going inside a low-ceilinged cellar. A common trigger for a sufferer of the condition arises when they need to go through an MRI machine. Being restrained or incarcerated can also bring about different manifestations of the disorder.

Claustrophobia is a psychosomatic disorder. The fear itself is psychological in nature and manifests physically. This intense fear usually stems from a traumatic childhood experience. The brain stores the memories including the horrifying moments during the actual incident. During a panic attack, a claustrophobic may experience one or more of the following signs and symptoms:

       cold sweat

       hyper-ventilation

       trembling

       chest congestion

       palpitations

       elevated blood pressure

       nausea

       urinary incontinence

       fainting

       migraine

       hyper-acidity

       temporary dementia

When to Seek Help

Medicaments such as antidepressants and beta blockers are measures that control the physical symptoms of anxiety. However, some suggest that these medications are habit-forming and may in fact cause secondary complications which is why some elect to choose alternative means to address the problem like hypnotherapy.

The practice of hypnotherapy in treating and managing claustrophobia is gaining ground. Hypnosis is now seen by some as an accepted form of intervention that is non-invasive and chemical-free.

Claustrophobic patients with me normally see results after one session.  But three sessions are recommended initially to evaluate the effectiveness of hypnosis with your condition.

Sources:

1. “Phobias: A Handbook of Theory, Research and Treatment”. April 1997. Edited by Graham C. Davey of University of Sussex, UK. Web. http://as.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0471969834.html. Accessed 23 May 2014.

2. “What is Claustrophobia? What Causes Claustrophobia?” Published 21 April 2011, updated 25 September 2013. 

Please Note:

I do not give diagnosis or dispense medication. The contents in this website do not intend to replace medical advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed medical practitioner or a professional healthcare provider.

Erythrophobia Hypnotherapy (Blushing)

What is Erythrophobia?

Erythrophobia is the fear of blushing. A person who suffers from this phobia will avoid speaking in front of other people, socialising, or even going out because they fear a moment of embarrassment that leads to blushing. Most of the time, individuals with erythrophobia are concerned about how people will subsequently judge them. They seldom feel secure and lack levels of self-esteem.

Symptoms of Erythrophobia:

Erythrophobia symptoms are generally similar to the symptoms of other phobias, which may include:

a feeling that you are about to choke

social awkwardness

rapid heartbeat and palpitations

sense of threat and anxiety

Standard Treatment

Erythrophobia, as a form of phobia and social anxiety disorder, is often treated by SSRI or selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor medication like Zoloft and Prozac. It is widely suggested that taking these kinds of drugs will address the symptoms but not the cause.

Hypnosis as a form of treatment for Erythrophobia

Studies

Some individuals with erythrophobia have been successfully treated using hypnosis or hypnotherapy. For instance, in a case study conducted a few years ago, a college student who was suffering from erythrophobia re-established her sense of well being and diminished her fear of blushing by using both paradoxical intention and self-hypnosis. Please see the references below for more information about this study.

My Erythrophobia Hypnotherapy Program

My program consists of three to five sessions. Three sessions are recommended normally.   Some see satisfactory improvement after one session. The following aspects will be included in the program: guided imagery, Ego State Therapy, and desensitization.

How to Book a Session on the Online Booking System:

Residents from Australia can instantly book a private appointment by clicking the green button below. You will arrive at an external booking system where you can choose an appropriate appointment time.

References

Niekerk, Mabel Dawn Van. The Blushing Phobia- Erythrophobia. N.p.: n.p., n.d. Web.

Samson, Jonathan, MD. “Erythrophobia Treatment, Causes and Symptoms (Fear of Blushing) Definition.” FeelGoodTime RSS. N.p., 18 Aug. 2012. Web. 26 May 2014. <http://feelgoodtime.net/erythrophobia-treatment-causes-and-symptoms-fear-of-blushing-definition/>.

Bögels, Susan M., Lynn Alden, Deborah C. Beidel, Lee Anna Clark, Daniel S. Pine, Murray B. Stein, and Marisol Voncken. “Social Anxiety Disorder: Questions and Answers for the DSM-V.” Depression and Anxiety 27.2 (2010): 168-89. Web.

Stephenson, Kathy. “Case Study: Hypnotherapy to Banish Blushing.” Positive Th Nov. 2007: n. pag. Positive Health Online. Web. <http://www.positivehealth.com/article/case-studies/case-study-hypnotherapy-to-banish-blushing>.

What is Claustrophobia?

Claustrophobia is an irrational fear of enclosed places. This condition is one of the ten most common anxiety disorders that affect people from all walks of life. The fear is not of tight space itself but of the thought of having no ability to escape from the confining area. For other people, this fear may seem a little ridiculous but for the sufferer, this problem can be embarrassing and debilitating.

Derived from the Latin word claustrum or “shut in place” and phobos, the Greek word for “fear”, claustrophobia is found to affect about 15% to 37% of the world’s population.

Symptoms of Claustrophobia

The onset of panic may varies from one sufferer to another. A claustrophobic may feel a bolt of sudden fear when getting into an elevator or going inside a low-ceilinged cellar. A common trigger for a sufferer of the condition arises when they need to go through an MRI machine. Being restrained or incarcerated can also bring about different manifestations of the disorder.

Claustrophobia is a psychosomatic disorder. The fear itself is psychological in nature and manifests physically. This intense fear usually stems from a traumatic childhood experience. The brain stores the memories including the horrifying moments during the actual incident. During a panic attack, a claustrophobic may experience one or more of the following signs and symptoms:

•        cold sweat
•        hyper-ventilation
•        trembling
•        chest congestion
•        palpitations
•        elevated blood pressure
•        nausea
•        urinary incontinence
•        fainting
•        migraine
•        hyper-acidity
•        temporary dementia

When to Seek Help

Medicaments such as antidepressants and beta blockers are measures that control the physical symptoms of anxiety. However, some suggest that these medications are habit-forming and may in fact cause secondary complications which is why some elect to choose alternative means to address the problem like hypnotherapy.

The practice of hypnotherapy in treating and managing claustrophobia is gaining ground. Hypnosis is now seen by some as an accepted form of intervention that is non-invasive and chemical-free.

Claustrophobic patients with me normally see results after one session.  But three sessions are recommended initially to evaluate the effectiveness of hypnosis with your condition.

Sources:

1. “Phobias: A Handbook of Theory, Research and Treatment”. April 1997. Edited by Graham C. Davey of University of Sussex, UK. Web. http://as.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0471969834.html. Accessed 23 May 2014.

2. “What is Claustrophobia? What Causes Claustrophobia?” Published 21 April 2011, updated 25 September 2013. 

Please Note:

I do not give diagnosis or dispense medication. The contents in this website do not intend to replace medical advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed medical practitioner or a professional healthcare provider.

What is Erythrophobia?

Erythrophobia is the fear of blushing. A person who suffers from this phobia will avoid speaking in front of other people, socialising, or even going out because they fear a moment of embarrassment that leads to blushing. Most of the time, individuals with erythrophobia are concerned about how people will subsequently judge them. They seldom feel secure and lack levels of self-esteem.

Symptoms of Erythrophobia:

Erythrophobia symptoms are generally similar to the symptoms of other phobias, which may include:

• a feeling that you are about to choke
• social awkwardness
• rapid heartbeat and palpitations
• sense of threat and anxiety
• Standard Treatment

Erythrophobia, as a form of phobia and social anxiety disorder, is often treated by SSRI or selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor medication like Zoloft and Prozac. It is widely suggested that taking these kinds of drugs will address the symptoms but not the cause.

Hypnosis as a form of treatment for Erythrophobia

Studies

Some individuals with erythrophobia have been successfully treated using hypnosis or hypnotherapy. For instance, in a case study conducted a few years ago, a college student who was suffering from erythrophobia re-established her sense of well being and diminished her fear of blushing by using both paradoxical intention and self-hypnosis. Please see the references below for more information about this study.

My Erythrophobia Hypnotherapy Program

My program consists of three to five sessions. Three sessions are recommended normally.   Some see satisfactory improvement after one session. The following aspects will be included in the program: guided imagery, Ego State Therapy, and desensitization.

How to Book a Session on the Online Booking System:

Residents from Australia can instantly book a private appointment by clicking the green button below. You will arrive at an external booking system where you can choose an appropriate appointment time.

References

Niekerk, Mabel Dawn Van. The Blushing Phobia- Erythrophobia. N.p.: n.p., n.d. Web.

Samson, Jonathan, MD. “Erythrophobia Treatment, Causes and Symptoms (Fear of Blushing) Definition.” FeelGoodTime RSS. N.p., 18 Aug. 2012. Web. 26 May 2014. <http://feelgoodtime.net/erythrophobia-treatment-causes-and-symptoms-fear-of-blushing-definition/>.

Bögels, Susan M., Lynn Alden, Deborah C. Beidel, Lee Anna Clark, Daniel S. Pine, Murray B. Stein, and Marisol Voncken. “Social Anxiety Disorder: Questions and Answers for the DSM-V.” Depression and Anxiety 27.2 (2010): 168-89. Web.

Stephenson, Kathy. “Case Study: Hypnotherapy to Banish Blushing.” Positive Th Nov. 2007: n. pag. Positive Health Online. Web. <http://www.positivehealth.com/article/case-studies/case-study-hypnotherapy-to-banish-blushing>.

What is a Social Phobia?

A social phobia is a form of anxiety where an individual suffers from feelings of nervousness, unease, physical symptoms of distress and fear when present in social and professional group settings and environments. The condition usually presents itself for the first time during teenage to young adult years.  It will normally continue as the individual ages.

Symptoms of a Social Phobia:

• Some of the key symptoms of the condition include:
• Physical sensations of anxiety which include, nausea, stomach pangs, blushing, heart palpitations, voice trembling, shaking, blushing and sweating.
• Intense shyness and a deep hesitation to interact and pay attention.
• Strong negative thoughts and chronic fears about future moments in a social or professional group setting or situation. Persistent doubts about future performance in such a social setting.

Who Comes to See Me?

People from all walks of life come to see me with this condition. From businesspeople who want to help feel more comfortable public speaking, job interviews and in the work environment in general, to people wanting to be more social and friendly in a party setting. Others just want to make friends more easily and to be better at attracting a suitable relationship.

Treatment

Doctors will normally prescribe medication such Zoloft or Luvox and or beta blockers to treat the condition and will often also suggest some form of counselling or psychological intervention. Medication works well for some, others will not react as favourably. Hypnosis increasingly is gaining some popularity at being one intervention worthy of investigation of its efficacy in treatment of the phobia.

Hypnosis as a form of treatment for a Social Phobia

Studies

Very little research between hypnosis as form of treatment for social phobia exists. A brief search came up with a singular study that can be found here in abstract form. It simply found that labelling a treatment used in the research study ‘hypnotic’ seemed to increase the likelihood that the person improved in their social phobia condition.

My Social Phobia Hypnotherapy Program

My program consists of three to five sessions. Three sessions are recommended normally.   Some see satisfactory improvement after one session. The following aspects will be included in the program: guided imagery, Ego State Therapy, and desensitization.

Case Study Lucy Bank Employee (name changed for privacy reasons):

Lucy came to see me because she did not feel comfortable in attending gatherings and parties. Both her personal and professional lives were affected by this condition. She would often find that she would blush uncontrollably in these environments even when there was nothing to be shy about nor be nervous about. Over the course of the three sessions, we broke the formerly automatic response of blushing and developed a feeling of comfort and confidence. This allowed her to network and connect in a professional environment as well as to help her months later find a suitable relationship.

Residents from Australia can instantly book a private appointment by clicking the green button below. You will arrive at an external booking system where you can choose an appropriate appointment time.

Sources:

1. “Social Anxiety Disorder-Topic Overview.” WebMD. WebMD. Web. 20 May 2014.
2. “Hypnotic Enhancement of a Cognitive Behavioral Treatment for Public Speaking Anxiety.” Science Direct. Web. 20 May 2014.

Please Note: I do not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The content on my website is not, and is not intended to be substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your Doctor or other Government qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding this or any other medical issue or condition.