Hypnosis in Human Sexuality Problems

Abstract

This is a general overview of the use of hypnosis in five aspects of human sexuality where problems or pathology may move patients to seek therapy. These are gender identity, sexual orientation, sexual preferences, sexual functioning and sexual mores. The article emphasizes two main hypnotic techniques that respect the patient's existential experiences regarding his/her own sexuality. The use of hypnosis proposed here is patient-centered, permissive and utilizing the patient's imagery and other inner resources. Several clinical vignettes illustrate the theoretical points with the intention of giving the reader an opportunity for identification with these cases.

Key Words:

• Gender identity
• human sexuality
• sexual functioning
• sexual orientation