Ericksonian Hypnosis

Susan Reuling Furness is trained in hypnotherapy by trainers from the the Milton H. Erickson Foundation. Milton Erickson, considered by many to be the most influential hypnotherapist in history, was stricken by polio at the age of nineteen. He set about curing himself by focusing fixed attention on his infant siblings as they learned to move their hands and legs. Over the course of his professional career as a physician, Dr. Erickson helped people with seemingly impossible problems. He also trained a handful of therapists who now teach Dr. Erickson’s principles world-wide.

The unwavering principles of Ericksonian hypnosis are these:

  1. A fundamental respect for every client’s values, beliefs, and choices.
  2. The belief that each person has within them an innate capacity to heal, and
  3. The firm commitment that therapy should provide a healing experience.


Understanding Clinical Hypnosis

Hypnotherapy might be defined as a quiet state of mind that allows a focused concentration, which in turns serves to magnify what matters most to you and points you in a direction that makes sense to you. Clinical hypnosis is an alternative treatment designed to enrich your life and help you overcome many physical and emotional problems.  With the right hypnotherapist and a willing attitude, the difficulties, bad habits, and/or negative learned behaviors you have developed can gently be unlearned. One of the ways that hypnosis aids in bringing positive change, is through the reinforcing of constructive and encouraging visions during sessions. Afterwards, these reinforcements can act as a triggers, guiding you to make healthy life decisions from moment to moment.


Ways Hypnosis Can Help

There are a number of conditions that hypnosis is well-suited to help eliminate. Among these are most anxiety disorders, self-esteem issues, pain relief, sexual dysfunction, learning difficulties, concentration, and sleep disorders. Basically, any subject that requires changing your attitude toward being better and stronger is a good use for hypnosis.


Myths About Hypnosis

Stage acts help create a myth about hypnosis which discourages people from seeking legitimate hypnotherapy. People may fear they will lose control and surrender their free will under hypnosis. They fail to take into account that stage hypnotists screen their volunteers to select those who are cooperative, with possible exhibitionist tendencies, as well as responsive to hypnosis. The truth is that you remain in control. The therapist never wants you to look foolish in a clinical setting.  Another myth is that a hypnotist can gain control over your mind. This isn’t true. Hypnosis can never make you do anything against your will or principles.


For more information about hypnotherapy, please contact the front desk at 208-385-0888 or Susan Reuling Furness.