Format: Audio MP3 file download $25 - Compact Disc $30

Presenter: Mark Jensen, PhD

Recent research suggests that hypnotic treatments for chronic pain might be enhanced through the use of strategies and suggestions that alter patients? automatic processing of thoughts related to their life goals. By helping patients more easily (and automatically) focus more on their most important and meaningful life goals, less time is spent processing information related to pain and its impact. Research indicates that this approach results in larger beneficial impacts on important outcomes, including pain intensity, than treatment approaches that focus more directly on pain reduction. In this workshop, a model of automatic neurophysiological functioning (a ?Behavioral Activation System-behavioral Inhibition System? or ?BIS-BAS? model) will be presented, and specific hypnotic strategies that target components of this model (specifically, suggestions that activate the positive affect, optimistic cognitions, and behavioral motivation components of BAS) will be presented. The workshop will contain demonstrations, brief exercises and the opportunity for group discussion and consultation regarding specific cases.