Operator variables in successful hypnotherapy

Operator variables in hypnotherapy.

“…Knowledge of operator variables that contribute to the success of hypnotherapy is primarily derived from conceptual speculation, anecdotal reports, and research on the characteristics of therapists who do not use hypnosis. The one survey report (Lazar & Dempster, 1984) involved novice hypnotists in a practice setting rather than hypnotherapists in the clinical setting .…”

“…In hypnotherapy, as compared with psychotherapy that does not involve hypnosis, several aspects of the treatment may be accentuated. That is, the therapist may be more active, transference and countertransference reactions can be intensified, the attachment between therapist and patient may be greater and more variable, and hypnotherapy may work more quickly (Lazar & Dempster, 1984). The hypnotherapist therefore needs to respond to the patient sensitively, quickly, and flexibly to adapt to shifts in the patient and the therapeutic relationship.…”

“…A responsive therapist can relate to the regressed patient as he or she would relate to a child. Some therapists experience a "regressive pull" when their own dependency needs are reevoked by the patient's regression (Lazar & Dempster, 1984). Depending on the therapist's individual personality organization, the therapist may respond in a playful way that enhances the patient's growth or in a defensive way that may inhibit such growth.…”

“…An example of a playful way of responding is illustrated by work with a patient who was seen for hypnotherapy to relieve pain of sickle cell disease (Lazar & Dempster, 1984). The patient was in pain, moaned and rocked, and did not respond to direct or indirect suggestion.…”

“…I could find only one report that supplied survey data. Lazar and Dempster (1984) reported on a survey of 21 practice subjects in two university hypnosis classes. Subjects were asked to evaluate operator characteristics.…”