Post-traumatic stress disorder: cognitive hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and acceptance-based treatment approaches

Am J Clin Hypn. 2012 Apr;54(4):311-30. doi: 10.1080/00029157.2011.645913.

Abstract

In this article, we describe how cognitive hypnotherapy can be used in conjunction with evidence-based practices for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We review cognitive-behavioral interventions for PTSD, including mindfulness and acceptance-based approaches, and contend that (a) empirical support for the use of hypnosis in treating a variety of conditions is considerable; (b) hypnosis is fundamentally a cognitive-behavioral intervention; (c) psychological interventions with a firm footing in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are well-suited to treat the symptoms of PTSD; and (d) hypnosis can be a useful adjunct to evidence-based cognitive-behavioral approaches, including mindfulness and acceptance-based interventions, for treating PTSD.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Hypnosis / methods*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*