Age regression in the treatment of needle phobia: a case report

Am J Clin Hypn. 2023 Oct 11:1-6. doi: 10.1080/00029157.2023.2261517. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Trypanophobia (needle phobia) frequently occurs because of negative encounters with medical procedures and/or needles. Trypanophobia ranges in severity from causing mild anxiety, including apprehension about medical procedures, to severe anxiety and complete avoidance of medical care. In this case report, we describe a 29-year-old who underwent hypnosis-facilitated age regression therapy to improve his trypanophobia. Through the guidance of his subconscious, he realized his reaction to needles may not have been directly related to a difficult medical procedure he had undergone at the age of two. The patient's subconscious turned his attention to the anxiety he felt from being separated from his mother at the time of the procedure.

Keywords: Age regression; bibliotherapy; hypnosis; separation anxiety; trypanophobia.