Welcome to Research Roundup

Research Roundup is a publication created to deliver concise, research-backed insights on effective therapeutic strategies—tailored for healthcare professionals and curious readers alike.

In this issue, we spotlight current research on the clinical application of hypnosis for treating anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We also explore emerging findings on the nervous system’s involvement in cancer and the growing use of hypnosis in oncology care.

About The Author

Brian Allen is a registered psychologist and clinical hypnotherapist with over 40 years of experience in private practice. He has served as the Director of Training for the Australian Society of Hypnosis WA (ASH WA) for more than 31 years and has been a Board Member of the International Society of Hypnosis (ISH) since 2009

Brian has been invited as a keynote speaker and workshop presenter in 16 countries. In his clinical practice, he has developed effective and well-recognized treatment protocols using hypnosis for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addictions. He is also a Master Trainer in Effective Communication, with expertise in applying communication skills in parenting, education, leadership, and management.

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Key Research Studies Supporting Hypnosis

1. Kirsch et al. (1995) – A meta-analysis in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology found that integrating hypnosis with cognitive-behavioral therapy enhanced treatment effectiveness by an average of 70%.

2. Valentine et al. (2019) – A systematic review in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews reported medium-to-large positive effects of hypnosis on anxiety.

3. Aladdin (2012) – This randomized controlled trial, published in the American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, showed that cognitive hypnotherapy led to greater reductions in depression, anxiety, and hopelessness than CBT alone.

4. Yapko (2018) – Clinical reviews highlight that hypnosis boosts client responsiveness and accelerates therapeutic outcomes.

5. Hammond (2010) – Demonstrated significant benefits of hypnotherapy in managing depression, PTSD, and anxiety-related disorders.

Hypnosis for Trauma and PTSD

  • Meta-analyses show a large effect size (d = 1.17) for PTSD symptom reduction.
  • Benefits were sustained at 4 weeks (d = 1.58) and at the 12-month follow-up.
  • 82% of clients experienced improvement after just six sessions or fewer.

Mainstream Endorsements:

  • Journal of Traumatic Stress (2007): Reported enhanced emotional regulation.

  • International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis (2016): Confirmed long-term positive outcomes.

  • Clinical Psychology Review (2013): Noted increased treatment compliance and reduced dropout rates.

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Nerve Cells and Cancer – A New Frontier

A Recent article by Carissa Wong in the 9 June 2025 edition of New Scientist draws attention to the emerging field of cancer neuroscience. Researchers from Harvard and Monash Universities are exploring how tumors interact with nearby nerves, indicating that nerve cells may actively contribute to tumor growth, immune evasion, and metastasis.

These discoveries could open doors to novel treatments targeting the nerve–tumor interface, including the use of beta blockers or botulinum toxin. This evolving field may significantly reshape future oncology practices.

Summary adapted from Carissa Wong’s article: “The Chilling Discovery That Nerve Cells Help Cancers Grow and Spread,” New Scientist, 9 June 2025.

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Hypnosis in Supportive Cancer Care – A Systematic Review

A peer-reviewed article published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis (2023) reviewed 22 studies on the use of hypnosis as a supportive therapy for cancer patients. The findings reported significant reductions in pain, anxiety, fatigue, depression, and insomnia. Patients who received hypnotherapy also demonstrated better treatment adherence and experienced shorter hospital stays.

Importantly, no adverse effects were reported, and hypnosis was deemed a safe and effective adjunctive intervention when administered by qualified professionals.

Summary based on: Franch, M., Alarcón, A., & Capafons, A. (2023). Applications of Hypnosis as an Adjuvant in Oncological Settings: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 71(1), 1–24. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207144.2022.2160255