As hypnosis has many applications in medical, dental, and psychological practice, I am issuing an invitation for authors to submit relevant and innovative Evidence-Based Clinical Case Studies for consideration for possible publication in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis. Well-conducted and empirically reported case studies can provide very useful information for clinicians and researchers.
Clinical case study research can identify new theoretical ideas and show the potential of combining hypnosis with other therapies. Such studies can also reveal innovative applications of hypnosis and potential feasibility. Rich clinical data helps to bridge the gap between empirical research and clinical practice, as thoroughly described interventions provide clinical methods for further research and replication.
The aim of Evidence-Based Case Studies will be to review relevant literature, offer verbatim hypnosis transcripts, and provide empirical outcome data, discussion, and recommendations. Authors must provide scientific justification for the intervention, clearly identify the rationale, describe the intervention, and provide objective outcome data. The following guidelines should be followed by those that are interested in submitting an Evidence-Based Clinical Case Study for peer review and consideration for publication in the IJCEH.
Evidence Based Clinical Case Studies should include the following components:
Cover page and Abstract of 140 words or less.
Comprehensive and relevant review of previous research.
Appropriate informed consent must be obtained before any measures are administered.
Description of case(s) with well-substantiated clinical diagnosis or symptom presence.
Patient’s history, referral source, and relevant details.
At least two standardized assessment measures (completed by the patient or an independent rater) of the target symptom, problem, and/or global rating.
Measures should be administered at least twice – at baseline and end of treatment, and may also be reported at long-term follow-up.
Details of the hypnotic induction used, procedures used, specific suggestions.
Data analysis of results/outcomes.
Discussion of findings (successful or unsuccessful).
Discussion of study limitations, implications for clinical practice, and future research recommendations.
Additional components recommended for clinical case studies:
Assessment of hypnotizability is strongly encouraged as well as measures of treatment expectancy.
Use of both self-report and objective (e.g. physiological) data, if available.
Clinical transcripts and vignettes should be included to illustrate the intervention and provide enough detail to allow for clinical use or for potential replication by other investigators. Hypnosis intervention transcripts may be included as an appendix.