Hypnosis for Managing Acute and Chronic Pain

This workshop will describe practical models for using hypnosis to manage acute and chronic pain. The presenter will describe how hypnosis using direct and pos-hypnotic suggestions can be used to reduce pain and anxiety in patients in the hospital or who are facing medical procedures (acute pain). It will also offer a model for managing chronic pain. Chronic pain typical lasts a minimal of six months and requires a biopsychosocial model to manage (rather than cure). Hypnosis for chromic pain often involved non-linear, indirection suggestions and often focuses on increasing activity and mindfulness.

• Discuss the nature of acute pain and a model of hypnosis that is useful in reducing it.
• Describe and implement a biopsychosocial model of hypnosis that is useful in managing the suffering from chronic pain.

David R. Patterson, PhD