Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis to treat physical or psychological conditions.

Self-hypnosis usually consists of writing or adapting a script to induce hypnosis (including suggestions to help with specific problems), recording the script, and playing a tape or CD to become hypnotized.  Some people are more comfortable with self-hypnosis because they are alone throughout the exercise and are in control of all suggestions made during the hypnotic trance.

Hypnosis has been effective in relieving pain associated with surgery, paralysis, and childbirth.  Also, it is widely used to control addictions to drugs, alcohol, food, and smoking.  Hypnosis can reduce stress by increasing relaxation, offering positive suggestions, and eliminating negative thoughts.

Hypnosis can help with anxiety, insomnia, phobias, obesity, asthma, and other physical and social applications.   In some cases hypnosis is combined with cognitive therapy or other relaxation and behavioral techniques.