• 3. Dr. Rockers, what self-management tools are learned from hypnosis therapy?

This is such a great question and lets me know that you are a very good physician/treater of chronic pain. Skills like pacing yourself, developing increased self-awareness, relaxation techniques, breathing techniques are all quite common. A really great side effect of learning self-hypnosis for pain is self-efficacy: knowing that what you do makes a difference. This is a building of self-power in an appropriate way, and lets you function better as a responsible person in the world.

• 4. Dr. Rockers, how can someone find a hypnotherapist?

I think that the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH) is a very good professional governing body in this area. I took ASCH training when I was in graduate school and found it quite helpful. Another quality resource is to ask your pain physician or a nearby university multidisciplinary pain treatment center for a referral. I recommend finding someone with professional credentials, such as an advanced degree, and someone who has experience in both the psychological as well as the physical pain areas. They are both important.

5. Dr. Rockers, if I am hypnotized, will I just automatically "spill my guts" and reveal my deepest secrets?

I find this to be a common fear, and I am guessing that it comes from the stage hypnosis shows in which persons seem to relinquish all control to the hypnotist. Please remember that the purpose of stage hypnosis is much different that that of medical hypnosis. The short answer to the question is another question: do you automatically spill your guts when you have a drink, or when you meet someone new on an airplane? Probably not.

The longer answer is (1) that your unconscious is going to protect you, as it always does, but (2) you should also select a hypnotist in whom you feel trust. Why? Because you are placing your care in her or his hands. When you go to a doctor for medicine or surgery, you want someone who you trust. You wouldn't have surgery from just anyone on the street, would you?

Hypnosis is a worthy alternative treatment for chronic pain. As with any treatment, early intervention seems to be a key to success. If anyone has tried hypnosis, please share your experience in the comment section below. Sharing creates solutions!