Originally published in 1991, this book covers a comprehensive range of the applications of hypnotic techniques in therapy for psychological disorders, and medical conditions where such techniques are a valuable adjunct. In the years before publication psychologists, medical doctors, dentists and allied professional workers had come to make increasing use of hypnosis in their work, and there was a considerable amount of relevant research literature available in journals. Such literature is reviewed, and served as a practical guide for professionals at the time.
The book begins by explaining what is meant by hypnosis today, and traces its historical background. Some fundamental questions such as individual differences in susceptibility to hypnosis are discussed in relation to therapy. Separate chapters are devoted to the key topics of behaviour therapy, different forms of psychotherapy, psychosomatic medicine, the treatment of pain, and applications in medical and surgical procedures. The modern status of hypnotic techniques in obstetrics and in dentistry is reviewed, and a separate chapter on the use of hypnosis with children will be of special interest to educational and clinical psychologists. A final chapter reviews the use of hypnosis by various professions and para-medical disciplines, and discusses the possible abuses that may arise both through unqualified people seeking to practise "hypnotherapy", and by professionals acting outside their proper range of competence.