Hypnotherapy Explained

Author: Assen Alladin
Published by Radclife Publishing Ltd
Review by Josephine P Teague MSc BSc(Hons) DipPsych PGCE

The overall quality of appearance and feel initially appealed to me. I like books to be published on quality smooth paper and this is. It was a pleasure to open and hold.

I really liked the way the book was laid out with a summary preceding each chapter and a useful introduction of the overall aim of the current chapter being read, giving each chapter it’s own referencing. Overall I found it to be a very useful piece of work with copious and sound references as a guide for further intensive and in depth reading of specific topics mentioned. I found myself frequently nodding in agreement with the comments and conclusions made. It is a good basic background reading and I will definitely be recommending it for my students to read as an introductory text.

Hypnotherapy Explained emphasises the principle that hypnosis is a neutral state and it is the “technical eclecticism” of interventions within the hypnotic state that are of paramount importance allied with the active participation of the client/patient in their therapy.

The book demonstrates how linking hypnosis with other interventions such as CBT can enhance the long term outcomes for clients. It also contains methodology to enhance work with clients presenting with a variety of medical and psychological issues. Sample scripts are included as guides in the body of the work for inductions and further interventions. I would be inclined to further edit and refine the Hartlands based ego strengthening script, but this is only a minor aside. It stands the test of time.

Alladin kept my interest throughout the work, it is well written and accessible with a sound background to support his discussion, explanation and argument.

The only part which was not really relevant to practitioners in the UK is the part about training, which is a limited view. In saying this, the book is based on the medical model and training for qualified medical doctors.

Hypnotherapy Explained is being added to my students reading list without delay.