The Practice of Cognitive-Behavioural Hypnotherapy: A Manual for Evidence-Based Clinical Hypnosis

by Donald J. Robertson

Hypnotherapy is arguably the oldest modality of psychological therapy, at least in the modern sense. Psychologists have long attempted to conceptualize hypnosis in terms of cognitive and behavioral processes and the term cognitive-behavioral approach to hypnosis was first coined in 1974 by Theodore Barber, and his colleagues, one of the most prolific and influential researchers in the field of hypnosis. Since then cognitive research on hypnosis has continued to evolve alongside the assimilation of modern cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques within the framework of hypnotherapy and vice versa. This book explores the historical and conceptual relationship between hypnotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT). It proceeds to offer a modern cognitive conceptualization of hypnosis, based on the writings of James Braid the founder of hypnotherapy and drawing upon modern cognitive-behavioral research on hypnosis. The author carefully explores the combination of hypnosis with both cognitive and behavioral interventions and ways in which methods can be adapted in the light of therapeutic principles derived from both fields. The book aims to provide a comprehensive core text for the practice of cognitive-behavioral hypnotherapy and to facilitate further dialogue between practitioners of hypnosis and CBT.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction

460 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2012

About the author

Donald J. Robertson is the author of seven books including "How to Think Like a Roman Emperor"; the graphic novel "Verissimus", about the life and philosophy of Marcus Aurelius; a philosophical biography, "Marcus Aurelius: The Stoic Emperor"; and "How to Think Like Socrates", a guide to applying Socratic wisdom to modern life, based on the story of his life.

Donald is a cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist, writer, and trainer, specializing in the relationship between ancient philosophy and modern self-improvement psychology. Donald is known for his work on Stoicism and evidence-based psychotherapy. He was born in Ayr, Scotland, but now lives in Quebec and Greece.

Reviews

[Malini Devar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had the pleasure of reading this book and have found it to be what the title suggests. The first chapter is full of information that is supported by evidence and research. Like any good book on a practice it is full of thoughts, ideas, research that support the central theory but it also gives arguments for and against linking it to other well known theories, backed up again by evidence. Everything within this book denotes evidence based practice making interesting connections between Hypnosis and CBT. I think people who have a background in psychology, hypnotherapy or CBT will find this book useful,even if it is to simply stimulate the thought cells and widen theoretical knowledge. It provides clear guidance for practitioners in this field providing helping practical ways to utilise CBH and to do it well, exploring assessment, hypnotic skills and even self hypnosis. I think it's a really valuable source of information, and an essential manual to have at your work place or on your shelf at home which you can dip in and out of for reflection, direction and enhancing your work through evidence based practice in this field.
My professional background is in psychology and hypnotherapy.

[Cécile · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very useful book and easy to use as a reference book to check on cases based on needs.
Well written and clear!