Trauma-Informed Care · Wilmington, NC
Clinical Hypnosis
Harnessing the Mind-Body Connection for Healing
What is Clinical Hypnosis?
Clinical hypnosis is a safe, evidence-based therapeutic tool used by licensed healthcare professionals—including psychologists, therapists, and physicians—to support healing and change. In clinical hypnosis, you enter a natural, focused state of awareness (trance) where you are relaxed, attentive, and in full control. This state allows you to access inner resources and make positive changes in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
How Does Clinical Hypnosis Work?
Hypnosis
A process that helps you enter a trance state, which is a natural and common experience (like daydreaming or deep focus).
Trance
A state of relaxed, heightened awareness where you can access both psychological and physiological abilities.
Suggestion
Therapeutic suggestions are offered to your unconscious mind, helping you achieve your goals. All hypnosis is self-hypnosis—you are always aware and can end the session at any time.
What It Helps With
- ● Trauma and PTSD
- ● Anxiety and panic attacks
- ● Sleep problems and insomnia
- ● Chronic pain and fibromyalgia
- ● Headaches and migraines
- ● Autoimmune and gastrointestinal disorders
- ● Stress management and relaxation
- ● Preparation for surgery or medical procedures
- ● Side effects of cancer treatments
- ● Habit control and performance enhancement
What It Is Not
- 01Not stage hypnosis or entertainment.
- 02Not a state of unconsciousness or loss of control.
- 03Not a “cure-all”—it is an adjunct to evidence-based medical and psychological care.
The Evidence
Clinical hypnosis is recognized by the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association. It is recommended by the National Institutes of Health as a treatment for chronic pain and is included in the Veterans Health Administration’s benefits package for appropriate cases. Decades of research support its effectiveness for pain, anxiety, trauma, and more.
Dr. Perry Stanley, PhD
Licensed Psychologist & Certified Clinical Hypnotist
Dr. Stanley is a licensed psychologist and Certified Clinical Hypnotist (American Society of Clinical Hypnosis) with advanced training in trauma-informed integrative medicine, chronic pain, and mind-body healing. He offers both individual clinical hypnosis sessions and self-hypnosis group classes for those facing cancer, chronic illness, or pain.
Self-Hypnosis Classes
Dr. Stanley offers four-week self-hypnosis classes (in-person or via Zoom) for patients and the general public. These classes teach you practical skills for managing pain, reducing stress, and supporting healing.
If you are interested in exploring how clinical hypnosis can support your recovery, contact us for a consultation.
Begin Your Healing Journey
If you or a loved one is experiencing trauma or PTSD, support is available. Reach out today—take the first step toward healing, recovery, and renewed hope.