Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder or ASD, is a variety of conditions related to repetitive behaviors, difficulty with social interaction, and communication both verbal and nonverbal. Approximately, one in fifty-four children are impacted by autism. While autism is not a condition to be treated, some of the symptoms that effect those with autism can be overcome with hypnosis. Patients may suffer from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety. Hypnotherapy for autism can help address all these challenges.
Autism categories
Autism spectrum disorder typically includes one of two categories. Those with autism may have difficulty understanding and maintaining relationships. This often occurs because social cues are not understood which leads to difficulty communicating. Repetitive and restrictive behaviors including, but not limited to toe walking, odd speaking patterns, body rocking, spinning, and hand flipping make up the second category of autism spectrum disorder.
Hypnotherapy for Autism
Hypnotherapy is a calming modality that accesses the unconscious mind, the control center of all we feel and think. Hypnotic trance is achieved by using a combination of relaxation techniques, overload, guided imagery, and confusion. The patient simply closes their eyes and follows the verbal instructions given by the hypnotherapist. Autism patients remain aware, relaxed, and attentive during the hypnosis sessions. Each patient with autism will have their own unique challenges that can be identified and addressed.
Social Anxiety
After being guided into a calming hypnotic trance, directions are given to the subconscious mind to address anxiety related to social interactions. A skilled hypnotherapist is trained to provide the necessary suggestions that will enable the client to overcome social anxiety. They can reframe difficult social experiences from the past, helping the patient to essentially let them go.
Generalized anxiety
Some patients with autism experience generalized anxiety or very specific phobias. There is a wealth of research that shows that hypnosis is effective in treating anxiety and phobias. One scientific study demonstrated that hypnosis along with cognitive behavioral therapy, was far more effective than C.B.T. alone. Hypnosis not only calms the mind, but it changes the way a client perceives the world around them. Anxiety can be released, and phobias can be overcome through hypnotic programming of the unconscious mind.
Confidence and self-esteem
Many children and young adults with autism suffer from low self-esteem. For those patients, hypnotherapy helps to eliminate rumination, negative self-talk, and overcome limiting beliefs. In hypnotic trance, past experiences that reinforce feelings of low self-esteem can be uncovered and reframed. In addition, hypnotic suggestions related to positive self-image and confidence help clients to improve overall confidence.
Hypnotherapy for autism can help both children and adults lead happier lives. By addressing post-traumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety, low self-esteem, anxiety related to social interactions, and phobias, those with A.S.D. can experience relief. If you or someone you know is impacted by autism spectrum disorder, consider hypnosis as a natural and prescription free solution to common autism symptoms.