Hypnotherapy

[CFS.ME Mum]

Is hypnotherapy possible on the NHS? Could it help with reduction of pain levels and to withdraw from pain medication? I am currently taking Buprenorphine sublingual tablets - 3 x 0.2mg per day - and would love to come off them. I have been told by a neurologist and immunologist in the past that I probably do have CFS/ME but I have never seen a CFS specialist to have a confirmed diagnosis. I live in the London area should services only be available in parts of the country.

[Adam Eason]

Hypnotherapy is very seldom available and paid for by the NHS. To date, there is one single NHS employed hypnotherapist based in the UK (in London). You are more likely to have a hypnotherapist recommended to you for you to pay for privately - which strikes me as a real shame, but is a discussion for elsewhere.

As I have mentioned in a couple of other threads in the fibromyalgia section regarding pain, there is an impressive evidence base to support the efficacy of hypnosis to help with pain. Though I would not recommend it as an alternative to your medication (this may be possible eventually, but it is not advised and must involve consultation with your doctor/specialist).

As an adjunct, it is seen as a very useful tool, especially if your hypnotherapist can help you develop self-efficacy, teach you ongoing self-hypnosis techniques to apply accordingly. I have actually posted two such step-by-step self-hypnosis pain relieving processes here at this website on the blog, which I hope you will find of some use (let me know if you have any questions or queries regarding them, but I think you'll find them very easy to apply). However, self-hypnosis is often better with the pre-cursor of hetero-hypnosis with a qualified professional.

Best wishes, Adam.

[Adam Eason]

Additionally, you might find this other thread here of some value too:

viewtopic.php?f=493&t=4691



Best wishes, Adam.