Quieting the noise with hypnotherapy
If you are Autistic or ADHD you know what noise I’m referring to…
It’s the constant background in our minds and body that distract and disrupt us from everyday life. It’s the light that’s too bright. It’s the constant song in our head. It’s the pressured way we try to plan out social situations. Although all people have background noise, neurodivergent people have internal emotional and physical sensitivities that can have a significant negative impact on our lives. The noise level depends greatly on what is going on in our environment at any given moment.
Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to turn down the volume?
Many Autistic and ADHD adults have come to accept that this noise just a part of life that will not change. And that is true. There is no way to control our sensitivities, thought processes or subconscious feelings. There are ways to learn to reduce the intensity and frequency of the noise. Stress reduction, therapy and social supports can have a huge impact on our overall health. But sometimes these strategies seem elusive or there are deeper barriers to caring for yourself fully.
Hypnotherapy offers a path to quieting the noise
Hypnosis is a trance state, or a deeply relaxed state where our normal emotional defenses and communication stressors are silenced and we have a direct line to our subconscious mind. Hypnotherapy is a type of psychotherapy that is conducted while under hypnosis and focuses on both mind AND body. Hypnotherapy can be a very powerful tool for Autistic and ADHD people as it creates a natural “unmasked” state of mind. When you are under hypnosis you have easier access to your emotions and a greater ability to understand yourself.
How does hypnotherapy work?
Here are some key points that can help you understand hypnotherapy as a neurodivergent as well as give you the information you need to decide if you would like to pursue it for yourself:
You are in complete control during your session and will remember everything that happens. I cannot control your thoughts or cause you to have thoughts that you don’t already have.
You will need to make sure that you are comfortable and can close your eyes during the session while also making sure that your computer/phone is set up so that I can monitor you the whole session.
During our session, I will spend a great deal of time getting you into a relaxed state and will “install” a calming visual that you will be able to access anytime.
Before the session, I will ask for several beliefs that you would like to takeaway from our session (i.e. I am worthy, I care for myself) and will suggest them to you at the end of our session. These suggestions have a bigger and longer lasting impact when you hear them under hypnosis.
How can hypnotherapy help me as an Autistic and/or ADHD person?
Managing Anxiety and Stress: Many of us experience heightened anxiety related to social situations, sensory overload, or changes in routine. Hypnotherapy can help us understand and process the root cause of the anxiety and develop coping mechanisms, reduce anxiety responses, and promote relaxation.
Improving Sensory Processing: Hypnotherapy can help us learn to regulate their sensory responses, reducing sensitivity to overwhelming stimuli and promoting a sense of calm.
Enhancing Self-Regulation: Difficulties with emotional regulation and impulse control are common traits related to Autism and ADHD. Hypnotherapy can help develop strategies for managing emotions, improving focus, and promoting self-control.
Healing trauma and unmasking: Most neurodivergents have some level of chronic trauma due to increased risk of childhood abuse, bullying and mental illness. Additionally, we commonly learn to mask, or suppress our true nature and needs in order to fit in and feel safe. Hypnotherapy helps us heal from the pain of the past and decide on new ways of being that are more supportive to who we are.
Resolve social skills concerns: Hypnotherapy can help us understand the root of why socializing is difficult and develop confidence and skills to connect with others.
Coping with chronic illness: Studies have shown that autoimmune and other diseases occur at a higher rate in Autistic and ADHD individuals. Hypnotherapy can be helpful in connecting and caring with the body in a way that can reduce flares and pain.
Starting the process
Making the decision to start hypnotherapy can be intimidating, but the result will be rewarding. In seeking out a provider, make sure that you find someone who is knowledgeable about Autism and ADHD. There are special considerations for us and we need to work with someone that we can trust to help us change while also affirming who we are. If you are interested in pursuing hypnotherapy and would like to connect with me, feel free to reach out! I work with people living in Ohio. Indiana and Florida.