Healing from Complex – PTSD with Hypnotherapy

Take a moment to anchor this feeling of peace, freedom, and empowerment. Imagine a bright, shining star in your heart, symbolizing your inner strength and resilience.

Complex PTSD is the opposite of uncomplicated PTSD. It is caused by multiple traumatic events, not just one. Complex PTSD is common in abuse or domestic violence cases, repeated exposure to war or community violence, or sudden loss. While they share the same symptoms, treatment of complex PTSD is a little more intense than uncomplicated PTSD. For example, individuals with complex PTSD can be diagnosed with borderline or antisocial personality disorder or dissociative disorders. They exhibit behavioral issues, such as impulsivity, aggression, substance abuse or sexual impulsivity. They can also exhibit extreme emotional issues, such as intense rage, depression or panic.

Here is a sample hypnotherapy script for healing from Complex PTSD:

Title: “Healing and Freedom from Complex PTSD”

Induction:

(Take a few deep breaths and get comfortable. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax.)

“Welcome to this hypnotherapy session, where you’ll embark on a journey of healing and freedom from Complex PTSD. Allow yourself to let go of any tension, worries, or fears. Imagine yourself in a safe and peaceful place, surrounded by a warm, comforting light. With each breath, feel your body relax, your mind calm, and your heart slow down. You’re safe, and you’re in control.”

Deepening:

“As you inhale, imagine fresh, calming air filling your lungs. As you exhale, imagine any stress, anxiety, or emotions leaving your body. Feel your body sink deeper into relaxation, like a soft, gentle cloud. Allow yourself to let go of any thoughts, worries, or concerns. You’re in a safe space, where healing and growth are possible.”

Guided Imagery:

“Imagine yourself standing in a beautiful, peaceful forest. Notice the vibrant colors, the gentle breeze, and the soothing sounds of nature. This forest represents your inner world, where you’re in charge and in control. As you explore this forest, notice any areas that feel dark, dense, or difficult to navigate. These areas represent the traumatic experiences that have contributed to your Complex PTSD.

“Now, imagine a warm, comforting light beginning to fill these areas. This light represents your capacity for healing, growth, and transformation. As the light illuminates these dark areas, notice how they begin to transform, becoming lighter, brighter, and more peaceful. This process is gentle, yet powerful, and it’s happening at a deep, cellular level within you.

“Notice how your body responds to this transformation. Feel any tension, pain, or discomfort begin to release, like autumn leaves falling from the trees. Allow yourself to let go of any emotions, memories, or sensations that no longer serve you. You’re free to release, free to heal, and free to move forward.”

Reframing and Reprocessing:

“As you continue to breathe in the peaceful energy of this forest, imagine that you’re reprocessing the traumatic experiences that have shaped your Complex PTSD. Notice how these experiences are no longer defining you, no longer controlling your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors.

“Reframe these experiences as opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation. See how they’ve made you stronger, wiser, and more resilient. Notice how you’ve survived, even thrived, despite the challenges you’ve faced.

“Allow yourself to integrate this new perspective, this new sense of self. Feel empowered, confident, and in control. You’re not bound by the past; you’re free to create a brighter, more fulfilling future.”

Anchoring and Future Pacing:

“Now, take a moment to anchor this feeling of peace, freedom, and empowerment. Imagine a bright, shining star in your heart, symbolizing your inner strength and resilience. Whenever you need to access this feeling, simply focus on this star, and allow its warmth and light to guide you.

“As you look to the future, imagine yourself navigating challenges with ease, confidence, and courage. See yourself making choices that align with your values, your goals, and your desires. Feel the excitement and anticipation of creating a life that’s authentic, meaningful, and fulfilling.”

Closing:

“Take one final, deep breath in, and as you exhale, imagine any remaining tension or stress leaving your body. When you’re ready, slowly open your eyes, and take a moment to notice how you feel. Notice the shift in your body, the calm in your mind, and the sense of hope and possibility in your heart.

“Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. You have the power to heal, to grow, and to transform. Keep shining your light, and know that you’re capable of overcoming Complex PTSD.”

Additional Tips for the Hypnotherapist:

* Before the session, ensure the client has a clear understanding of Complex PTSD and its effects on their life.

* Use a gentle, compassionate tone throughout the script to create a safe and supportive environment.

* Encourage the client to focus on their breath and bodily sensations to deepen the relaxation response.

* Use visualization techniques to help the client reprocess traumatic experiences and reframe their perspective.

* Emphasize the client’s inner strength and resilience throughout the script to foster empowerment and confidence.

* After the session, provide the client with resources and support to help them integrate the hypnotherapy work into their daily life.

Remember that hypnotherapy is a highly individualized and flexible approach. This script is meant to be a guide, and you should adapt it to the client’s unique needs and responses. Always prioritize the client’s comfort, safety, and well-being throughout the session.