The popularity of online therapy has been skyrocketing in our digital world. If previously many people were wary of the idea of psychological care conducted through a screen, the Covid-19 pandemic came to show how valuable and effective this methodology can be.

In this scenario, clinical hypnosis further expands the possibilities of therapeutic action on the web. It is a powerful tool that has been revolutionizing psychotherapeutic care, including in the virtual environment. And when it comes to clinical hypnosis, the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis (SBH) emerges as a reference in promoting this ethical and responsible practice.

If you are a healthcare professional looking to expand your skills or simply someone who cares about emotional well-being and wants to understand more about the effectiveness of online therapy, you are in the right place. Through this article, we aim to clarify how online therapy works, discuss its advantages, the application of clinical hypnosis in this context, and also present the best platforms for conducting this type of service.

Ready to explore the world of online therapy and clinical hypnosis? Prepare yourself for an engaging and highly informative read!

Understanding How Online Therapy Works

Online therapy has been increasingly adopted, mainly due to social isolation imposed by the new coronavirus pandemic. With the need to stay at home, many people sought help through the internet to deal with the emotional challenges of this period.

This type of service happens through technological tools, such as video calls and chats, allowing the patient and therapist to maintain continuous communication, even at a distance. Special emphasis was given to apps and platforms specifically developed for this purpose.

It’s important to highlight that online therapy does not differ in content from in-person therapy. The therapist’s job is still the same: to help the patient explore their emotional life and create strategies to deal with difficulties. The only difference is the delivery method.

Generally speaking, an online therapy session begins with scheduling a time, like a regular appointment. At the agreed time, the patient accesses the platform via their computer or smartphone and starts the session with the therapist. The conversation’s direction follows the same as a face-to-face session, always respecting the patient’s pace and needs.

Advantages of Online Therapy in Psychological Care

But after all, what are the advantages of online therapy in psychological care? First of all, there’s convenience. With online therapy, any comfortable and private place can become a consulting room. This facilitates access for people with mobility issues or who live in more remote areas.

Flexibility in scheduling is another point to highlight. Professionals and patients find it easier to balance their routines with treatment. The more flexible hours, including the possibility of having sessions outside office hours, help improve attendance and, consequently, the effectiveness of the treatment.

Online therapy also brings a feeling of security. For some people, starting therapy can cause anxiety. In this sense, having sessions in a familiar environment can help reduce initial tension.

Finally, digital communication tends to be easier for some people, especially for the younger generation. This can facilitate the expression of feelings and concerns, contributing to the progress of the treatment.

Overall, online therapy sessions have the same potential effectiveness as in-person sessions. However, it is essential that the professional is trained for the online modality and uses a secure and reliable platform.

How Clinical Hypnosis is Used in Online Therapy

In the context of online therapy, clinical hypnosis consists of a set of techniques that facilitate concentration and suggestion. These techniques can be used to help patients explore thoughts, feelings, and memories that may be hidden from their normal consciousness. Often, these issues are the source of emotional distress.

During the online clinical hypnosis session, the therapist will guide the patient to a state of deep relaxation. Then, specific suggestion techniques are used to help the person confront and address underlying problems. The focused attention provided by hypnosis allows the patient to consider experiences and alternative viewpoints that may not be possible in a normal state of consciousness.

A valuable feature of online clinical hypnosis is its flexibility. In fact, hypnotherapists often customize the techniques used for each patient, adapting interventions and approaches to the individual needs and goals of each one. This personalization often results in the effectiveness of the therapy.

It is worth noting that it is essential to choose a therapist with adequate training and certification to conduct online clinical hypnosis. This ensures that therapeutic techniques are applied safely and effectively, respecting the rights and limitations of each patient.

Best Platforms for Conducting Online Therapy

We know that the virtual environment can seem like a huge challenge for conducting “online therapy”, especially when we talk about clinical hypnosis. However, there are several platforms that enable this service in a simple and effective way.

It is important to emphasize the importance of choosing a secure and credible system to ensure patient privacy. Skype, for example, is a globally recognized platform, allowing high-quality video calls.

On the other hand, Zoom offers additional features, such as session recording, ideal for therapy reviews or later analysis. It also allows for group sessions, a common practice in some therapies.

Another important one is Google Meet. It is easily accessed even by people with less technological skills, requiring only the link provided by the therapist to join the session.

VSee also deserves mention. In addition to being a videoconferencing tool, it provides a complete suite for online clinical practice, including information management.

These are just some options currently available, and it is necessary for the professional to analyze which one best suits their practice and audience. The right choice of platforms can enhance the efficiency of online therapy and contribute to the success of the treatment.

Finally, it is important to reinforce the need for good internet access and a quiet environment, both for the therapist and the patient, to ensure the best use of the sessions.

The Role of the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis in Online Therapy

As a reference entity in the field, the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis (SBH) plays a crucial role in implementing hypnosis practices in online therapy. In this way, we assist mental health professionals in expanding their skills and knowledge.

SBH promotes numerous trainings and certifications for all those interested in offering online therapy with the support of hypnosis. Our trainings strictly follow the guidelines of the American Psychological Association, ensuring ethical, scientific, and high-quality learning.

We know that hypnosis enhances any health treatment when associated with evidence-based practices. Therefore, we are committed to training professionals capable of using hypnosis ethically and responsibly in online therapy.

Alongside these activities, SBH works actively to demystify hypnosis, clarifying that it is not a technique of “mind programming”, but a tool that can modify automatic thoughts or behaviors.

With online therapy, hypnosis becomes even more accessible, facilitating the treatment of people suffering from anxiety, stress, and other mental health issues that can be improved with our techniques.

In conclusion, it is worth remembering that SBH is always open to new members interested in expanding their practices with the ethical and scientific use of hypnosis. Whether in online or in-person therapy, the important thing is to be willing to help and contribute to a more emotionally healthy society.

Skills Needed to Conduct Online Therapy

To conduct online therapy effectively, there are some key skills you must develop. The first is the ability to create an empathetic and genuine connection with your client through the screen. Although face-to-face contact may be limited, empathetic communication remains fundamental. You need to be able to read subtle non-verbal cues and respond accordingly, creating a safe and welcoming environment for your client.

Technical ability is also crucial in conducting online therapy. You must feel comfortable with the chosen online therapy platform and be able to troubleshoot technical issues that may arise. This allows the session to flow without interruptions, keeping the focus on the client.

Another important skill is knowledge of digital ethics, including online informed consent, data protection, and confidentiality. It is imperative that you understand and follow ethical guidelines to protect your clients and the integrity of the session.

Last but not least, good time management is essential to keep online therapy organized and efficient. Sessions should start and end on time, and you must be able to maintain focus on the main discussion to ensure that clients receive the maximum benefit from each session.

Developing these skills can make online therapy a very rewarding and effective experience for both you and your clients.

Limitations and Challenges of Online Therapy

Online therapy has revolutionized access to psychological treatment, but it comes with its own challenges. Like any tool, it has its limitations. It is important to be aware of them to use the platform in the best possible way.

Firstly, it is necessary to emphasize that not all cases are suitable for online therapy. There are situations and psychological issues that require in-person intervention. The limitations of the screen can make it difficult to build a solid therapeutic bond or address more complex problems.

Another challenge is the issue of technology. Patients need a device and good quality internet access to conduct the session. Connection failures or technical problems can interrupt the session and interfere with the therapeutic process. This technological barrier can be an obstacle for people who are not familiar with these digital tools.

There is also the concern about privacy. Although online therapy platforms strive to ensure data security, there is always the possibility of breaches. Therapists should always inform patients about these risks and how they are protecting their information.

Finally, there is the challenge of managing distance. In an online therapy session, therapists must be able to manage sessions so that distance does not interfere with the quality of treatment. This includes setting up an appropriate environment for the therapy session, free from distractions and interferences.

These challenges do not diminish the value of online therapy, but they highlight the importance of being aware of its limitations to make the best possible use of this practice.

Why Online Therapy is Gaining Ground in Psychological Treatment

With the advancement of technology and changes in people’s lifestyles, online therapy is gaining ground in psychological treatment. But why is this rapid transition occurring?

One of the biggest reasons is increased accessibility. Online therapy removes physical barriers, allowing individuals in remote areas or with mobility issues to receive the necessary care without leaving home. In addition, with the current global situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, online therapy has become a vital solution to continue providing psychological assistance.

Another important factor is convenience. Online therapy can be conducted where the person feels most comfortable, reducing the stress of having to travel to a clinic or office. This also means that therapy sessions can be easily fitted into tight schedules.

By breaking traditional barriers of time and space, online therapy can also meet the growing demand for mental health services. This is especially useful at a time when stress and anxiety are high, accelerating the need for effective psychological treatments immediately.

Thus, it is no wonder that online therapy is gaining more and more ground in psychological treatment. This modern and flexible approach to psychological care is one of the many ways mental health is being transformed to better meet people’s needs.

How Online Therapy Supports Patients’ Emotional Health

Online therapy has been a great ally for managing and improving the emotional health of many people. In times where technology is part of our daily lives, its use to promote health is gaining more and more ground.

One of the advantages of online care is providing democratic access to therapy. Often, people who live in more remote areas or have a busy routine find it difficult to go to an office. The digital platform breaks this barrier.

Many patients report feeling more comfortable expressing their feelings and traumas in a familiar environment, such as their own home. This can facilitate the therapeutic process, allowing greater contact with one’s own emotions.

Additionally, online therapy also allows the therapist to observe the patient in an environment where they feel safe, which can bring important insights to the therapeutic process. The therapist has the opportunity to notice aspects that might not be so evident in an office.

Finally, it is important to emphasize that online therapy, like in-person therapy, requires commitment from both parties. To bring effective results, it is necessary for the patient to be engaged and the therapist prepared to work in this modality. Online therapy offers a new way to care for emotional health, accessible and efficient, adapted to the reality of the 21st century.

History and Importance of Clinical Hypnosis in Psychology

The practice of clinical hypnosis in psychology has ancient roots, dating back to civilizations such as ancient Egypt and Greece. At that time, it was considered a form of spiritual healing. However, the modern understanding of hypnosis was forged in the 18th century by the German physician Franz Mesmer, whose theories on “animal magnetism” laid the foundations for the development of this practice.

In the modern era, hypnosis has become a valuable therapeutic tool in the hands of trained professionals. Through direct or indirect suggestion, therapists use hypnosis to help patients address emotional and behavioral issues.

It is important to note that clinical hypnosis is much more than a mere technique for entertainment or mind control. It is a therapeutic approach recognized by many medical and research institutions worldwide. For example, the American Psychological Association recognizes hypnosis as a valid and useful clinical procedure.

The value of clinical hypnosis in psychology transcends its status as a therapeutic tool. It has a healing role, stimulates self-awareness and self-knowledge, helps create emotional balance, and encourages positive behavioral changes. Additionally, as an online therapy modality, clinical hypnosis has the advantage of being both convenient and accessible for patients.

Conclusion

Online therapy has proven to be a powerful and valuable tool for promoting emotional health. In this context, clinical hypnosis is further expanding the possibilities of action. The professional who adds clinical hypnosis to their repertoire has a solid foundation to further enhance the results of their services.

The Brazilian Society of Hypnosis (SBH) was born with the goal of disseminating this practice, always ethically and in alignment with scientific principles. We believe in hypnosis as a valuable ally for any health professional, especially in training online therapists.

It is important to emphasize that the use of hypnosis should always be surrounded by care, with qualified and certified professionals for its use. This ensures effective, safe care that can truly provide well-being and emotional health to patients.

In the end, we are committed to supporting professionals interested in the subject and willing to expand their practices to make a difference in their patients’ lives through hypnosis.

Therefore, if you are interested in learning scientific hypnosis and applying it professionally, to enhance your results in your current profession or even have a new profession, I invite you to explore the evidence-based hypnosis courses and postgraduate programs at the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis. Visit https://www.hipnose.com.br/cursos/ and discover how to change people’s lives with this incredible tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can clinical hypnosis be conducted entirely online?

Yes, clinical hypnosis can be conducted entirely online. Even though there is no physical presence, the connection between therapist and patient is maintained, allowing for the effective application of hypnosis techniques. However, it is essential that the therapist is qualified to work in this format and that the chosen platform is secure and of good quality.

2. Who can conduct online therapy with clinical hypnosis?

All healthcare professionals can conduct online therapy with clinical hypnosis as long as they have the appropriate training and necessary certification. It is essential that the therapist has specific training to use clinical hypnosis safely and ethically, always respecting the rights and limitations of each patient.

3. Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Online therapy presents the same effectiveness as in-person therapy. There is no significant difference in the content of sessions between the two modalities, with the main difference being in the delivery method. However, for online treatment to be effective, it is essential that the professional is trained for this modality and uses a secure and reliable platform.

4. What are the challenges of online therapy?

Some of the main challenges of online therapy include technical issues, building a solid therapeutic bond, data privacy and security, and managing distance and time. However, these challenges can be overcome with proper training, awareness of potential issues, and the use of appropriate digital tools.

5. How is clinical hypnosis applied in online therapy?

In online therapy, clinical hypnosis uses a set of techniques that facilitate concentration and suggestion. During the online session, the therapist guides the patient to a state of deep relaxation, and then uses specific suggestion techniques to help confront and address underlying issues. This personalized approach generally results in the effectiveness of the therapy.