What Is Regression Therapy?
Have you ever felt that your past has been holding you back? You may sometimes wish you could be more present or let go of painful memories. Perhaps you struggle to remember something, but you feel that it could be hidden somewhere in your mind.
Regression therapy might be a helpful technique for these feelings. This type of therapy works to help you remember or let go of painful memories. If you're considering regression therapy, there are several aspects you may want to learn about first. Note that certain forms of regression therapy are often unsupported by research. Consider your options with caution.
Age regression focuses on a traumatic event or multiple events in childhood, aiming to find and assist in healing unresolved issues. Past life regression delves into subconscious memories of previous lives to resolve negative emotions from past life experiences, affecting the present day.
Regression therapy, including past life regression and age regression therapy, can be controversial, due to limited scientific evidence. Nevertheless, some individuals report significant improvements after treatment.
Regression therapy
Regression therapy aims to enhance emotional and cognitive well-being by addressing past life memories and traumatic experiences.
These therapies often delve into the subconscious mind, focusing on history and negative emotions. During a session, a therapist may use leading questions, relaxed state techniques, or clinical hypnosis to facilitate regression.
Addressing past issues
When a therapist helps clients regress to an earlier time or a previous life, their significant goal may be to help them resolve problems in the present. They might use regression techniques to find and resolve feelings about past situations, such as events that occurred when they were children, allowing the soul to heal, anxiety to diminish, and other mental health issues to dissipate, overall improving daily life. In many cases, regression therapy is used to address trauma.
People with a diagnosis of complex PTSD or PTSD may benefit from working with regression therapists and retrieving memories in this way. However, psychological regression may also carry a risk of flashbacks or remembering difficult emotions that remind you of traumatic events. Speaking with a therapist about your mental health before trying to retrieve childhood memories from your subconscious mind could be beneficial.
Past feelings or trauma may cause you to feel or behave in ways that don't make sense to you in the present moment. For example, these feelings and behaviors from the past might cause you to experience the following:
- Fears and phobias without knowing why
- Guilt for no understood reason
- Difficulty being intimate
- Eating disorders
- Relationship issues
- Mental health conditions or symptoms
- Flashbacks or panic attacks
Using hypnosis for mental health
Although there can be many potential techniques for conducting regression therapy, hypnosis or hypnotic regression therapy are common. Psychoanalysts often use hypnosis therapy as well. Hypnosis often involves becoming detached from external or environmental stimuli and becoming cognitively focused on one's emotions or inner thought processes. Hypnotic regression therapy can be a treatment for insomnia, depression, phobias, grief, and more.
Regression therapy types
Age regression therapy may take you back to an earlier time in your life. Alternatively, past life regression therapy goes beyond your current life and into previous reincarnations if you believe in past lives.
Age regression
Sigmund Freud defines regression as a defense mechanism which causes the ego to retreat to an earlier stage of development. In age regression therapy, you might learn about things that happened to you when you were young. In some cases, this therapy may uncover memories that surprise you because you were unaware of them.
The goal of regression therapy may not be to re-experience the memory but also to bring it to your conscious mind, where you can deal with it intentionally. Regression theory is often based on the belief that we can free ourselves to feel differently about similar experiences by processing these memories and the emotions surrounding them.
You may engage in child work in age regression therapy, such as playing with toys or coloring with your therapist. Many practitioners in this field will help with inner child work by helping you heal relationship problems with yourself and integrating your inner child with your current self as one complete person.
You may experience conscious awareness of your inner child and the things they went through. Regression therapists might help you through age regression therapy by observing and asking leading questions based on evidence-based research on the treatment of trauma and childhood experiences.
Age regression therapy is not related to fetishes, nor is it sexual. The treatment is professional and carried out by a licensed psychologist.
Past life regression
Past life regression therapy may focus on taking you back to "past incarnations" to potentially support you in dealing with problems that arose before your current lifetime.
Many people feel past life regression therapy makes sense because they're unsure why they live with fears, guilt, or other difficulties. They may also hold certain spiritual beliefs that allow them to benefit from this form of therapy.
Although many individuals feel that past life regression is helpful, science and modern psychology do not back up the existence of past lives at this time, and past life regression is often considered a pseudoscience.
In a past life regression session, you may be able to retrieve childhood memories from another life or experience a hypnotic state that takes you back to past lives. The reincarnation hypothesis states that all humans, no matter who they are, have reincarnated or will in the future. Hypnosis may lead an individual to see scenes or experiences from past lives that may have shaped their lives today.
Psychologist Brian Weiss has studied past life regression in this field. He has written a few books with Crown House Publishing about this practice and how it might impact an individual's emotions and daily experiences.
Common misconceptions about past life regression are that it's only available to people who believe in spirituality and is not readily available to anyone. Many licensed psychologists believe in and practice this type of therapy.
You can read the clinical guide on past life regression with the New York Academy Bestseller, Many Lives, Many Masters, by Brian Weiss. Although there is limited medically reviewed research supporting this practice, and it's believed to hold ethical concerns by some in the psychology field, some individuals who have tried it have seen improvement in their mental health.
Hypnosis with a regression therapist
There are several potential stages to regression therapy, beginning with hypnosis. Below is a brief explanation of each stage.
Relaxation
Relaxation is often the first part of the hypnosis phase. The therapist may talk to us slowly and gently, guiding us through a systematic process to relax our body and mind. If we have trauma, we may stay in this phase for longer. Relaxation can be essential to opening ourselves up to suggestions.
Visualization
Next, the therapist may move you on to the visualization stage of hypnosis. Instead of asking if you see a particular thing or feel a certain way, the therapist may ask open-ended questions. These questions may allow you to talk about whatever you recall, even if it's something the therapist doesn't know.
As you see a memory in your mind's eye, you might feel the way you did when it first happened. Your emotions may feel more sensitive than usual. You might also feel compassion for the younger person you were when the event occurred. If you remember an incident of abuse or violence, you may feel upset. Before the therapist guides you to awareness of your surroundings, they may help your younger self process the emotions or the memory that has come up for you.
Consciously examining memory
Once you explore and re-experience a past situation, a therapist may help you transfer that knowledge to your conscious mind. They may tell you about what happened or offer a session recording. Once you're aware of the memory you discovered, your therapist may help you begin to put it into perspective.
Finding the significance
After rediscovering a memory, you might begin to understand why it matters to you. How has it affected your life? Now that you remember it, how do you feel about yourself, those involved in the event, and the world in general? What have you learned?
Learning from the new information
If you've recently recovered a memory, you might use it to understand yourself better. You might also know more about other people in your life. Your therapist may help you apply this new information to current feelings, conflicts, and behaviors.
Controversiality
While some may say that they've benefited greatly from age regression, hypnosis, or past life regression, this type of therapy still hasn't gained widespread acceptance in the mental health community and often lacks credible research.
Some therapists may believe in the benefits of age regression but don't believe in reincarnation, so past lives may not be something they work with. Two aspects of regression therapy that have caused controversy are the lack of evidence for its effectiveness and the possibility of creating false memories.
Furthermore, many therapists avoid this therapy because they're concerned it might be a waste of time. They feel it's more effective to spend time on therapies that have been proven to work in many scientific studies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy. At the moment, there's little research to confirm the effectiveness of regression therapy, but many assert there have been dramatic results in this type of therapy.
Regression therapy, past life therapy and create false memories
If a therapist isn't careful to ask only open-ended questions, they may inadvertently cause a client to imagine something that never happened.
Opponents of regression therapy often point out that false memories may become indistinguishable from memories of events that did happen. Many opposers of this therapy also claim that false memories may lead to false accusations of abuse.
Can I do this therapy on my own? False memories and emotional pain
It may or may not be possible to do regression therapy on yourself through self-hypnosis. You may ask yourself what happens if you remember something and don't know how to deal with it. You may also have trouble discerning which memories are true and which are false. You could put yourself in a situation that causes considerable emotional pain or confusion. To be as safe as possible, consider choosing to work with a licensed therapist instead.
Who benefits from this therapy?
For those interested in pursuing regression therapy, finding a therapist who has been trained in this form of mental health care can be beneficial. It can also be helpful to talk to a therapist who works with people who have faced abuse or violence, especially if you believe you may have experienced a trauma related to these areas.
Professional training
The International Board for Regression Therapy offers accreditation to therapists who have studied regression therapy and demonstrated their ability to practice it. One part of the training may be learning the "proper hypnosis techniques." People who try to tackle difficult memories without adequate training in hypnosis may unintentionally cause a worsening of symptoms in a patient.
Regression therapy can be performed during in-person therapy sessions as well as through internet-based therapy. According to the World Psychiatry Association, there is "considerable support" for internet-based therapy when dealing with common mental health conditions.
Alternative mental health solutions
You might choose to partake in several alternative solutions to regression therapy from home or with a counselor.
Visualization exercises
Envisioning what you remember about what you have experienced may be beneficial. For some, visualization may come easy, but for others, it can be difficult or impossible to recreate sensations or images in your mind.
Practicing creative visualization at home may better prepare you for hypnotherapy. It may also allow you to experience other parts of your life in more detail.
Try meditating and inducing a trance
Meditation is another exercise that has proven health benefits and could be beneficial if you plan to try hypnotization. If you try regression therapy in the future, consider practicing meditation first to improve your focus and grounding.
Get support from a professional
If you’re wondering why you feel, think, or behave the way you do, you might benefit from regression therapy. Consider working with a qualified therapist who can help you find the best therapeutic modality for your psyche. Online therapy may be a practical choice if you're looking for modern therapy.
Studies show that most individuals feel most comfortable in their own homes. Additionally, 71% of individuals who participated in another research study on online treatment modalities believed online therapy was more effective than traditional in-person counseling.
Working through past events to resolve current conflicts and feelings may benefit those who decide to try it. Although regression therapy is not for everyone, you may be able to find treatment for a wide variety of concerns through an online platform such as BetterHelp.
Takeaway
How do you prepare for regression therapy?
Preparing for regression therapy requires knowledge about what you can expect, mental and emotional readiness, and issues of practicality, such as caring for yourself after and in between sessions. Here are some suggestions for how to prepare:
Learn about the process
Research what regression therapy involves, its goals, and what to expect during sessions. Also, don’t be afraid to ask your therapist for any recommendations for things to do to prepare for your session. Knowing ahead of time can reduce any nervousness you might feel. Learning about regression therapy presents an excellent opportunity to establish trust with your therapist through prior meetings or discussions. They can answer further questions, address concerns, and discuss their experiences and expectations.
Set intentions for therapy but keep an open mind
Reflect on what you hope to achieve during therapy. Whether it’s resolving past trauma, understanding your current thoughts and behaviors, or gaining insight into your subconscious memories, having clear intentions can guide the process more effectively. Be open to whatever memories or emotions may surface. Regression therapy can bring up unexpected issues, so approach the session with an open mind.
Prepare emotionally and mentally
Prepare for any emotional or mental challenges during therapy with relaxation methods like meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing exercises. Getting used to such exercises before sessions can help you remember the techniques and stay calm during the session. Regression therapy can bring intensely emotional issues to the surface; be sure you feel mentally strong and ready to cope with whatever arises.
Prepare physically
Ensure you're well-rested before the session. A clear and alert mind can facilitate a more effective therapy session. Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to relax and focus without physical discomfort. Eat nutritiously but avoid heavy meals before your sessions. Avoid or minimize caffeine or other stimulants that might make relaxing harder.
Plan for post-session care
Plan for some downtime after the session. Regression therapy can be emotionally draining, so give yourself time to process the experience. Consider keeping a journal to write down your thoughts and feelings after the session. This can help with processing and integrating the insights gained. Your therapist may recommend specific post-session activities to help you reflect on questions you may have and what you’ve learned.
Who invented regression therapy?
Sigmund Freud was one of the first psychiatrists to develop regression therapy theories and principles, stating that all people have an underlying subconsciousness that houses our deepest emotions. He posited that through a type of regression hypnosis, one could access the subconscious mind and reveal hidden or repressed memories and feelings, which could be addressed in psychotherapy.
What are the risks of regression therapy?
Regression therapy is a debated topic among researchers and clinicians, with some asserting that not only is it ineffective but also because some believe it’s unethical. On the other hand, several case studies indicate it can be an effective form of psychotherapy for some people. Regardless of its effectiveness, there are potential risks of regression therapy:
- Some “practitioners” claim to be trained in delivering regressive therapy but are neither certified nor qualified to treat or provide a diagnosis for mental health conditions
- There are some qualified individuals who might not adhere to regression therapy ethical guidelines and exploit the patient’s emotionally vulnerable state
- Therapists sometimes draw conclusions or form preconceived notions about their clients that can affect how they guide the patient under hypnosis, leading to false recollections
- In some cases, individuals may be unprepared for intensely uncomfortable experiences or new traumas uncovered during sessions
- Sometimes recollections in regression therapy aren’t real or are only partially accurate
- In some cases, false memories can be damaging to others, for example, in cases of abuse leading to confrontation or legal action
- People might also experience mild physical side effects such as headache, dizziness, or drowsiness
How much does regression therapy cost?
Regression therapy costs can vary between practitioners depending on factors such as their level of certification and experience. Fees can vary according to the type of hypnotic regression therapy you’ll have, as some might require longer sessions. Some practitioners also charge per session, while others charge for several sessions grouped under one price. As of 2024, the average cost for hypnosis therapy ranges between $50 to $275 per session.
People seeking past life regression therapy can expect to pay between between $100 and $650 per session, the average being $350. These prices often depend on session length (typically between two and three hours) or if you must terminate the session early because you don’t respond to hypnosis. Costs might also depend on the therapeutic medium, for example, whether you choose online or in-person therapy or a combination of both.
If you’re considering hypnotic regression therapy, find a therapist with certification and accreditation from an organization such as the International Board for Regression Therapy or the Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy. Verify their level of education and experience and that their methods are research-based.
Is regression therapy hypnosis?
Regression treatment does include hypnosis, but a licensed psychotherapist or psychiatrist will likely hold sessions dedicated to other types of therapy that complement hypnotherapy.
Is regression a bad coping mechanism?
Regression doesn’t have to be “bad” necessarily, but it does signify a return to prior developmental milestones. Regression is common in children but is temporary under typical circumstances. However, in some cases, regression can be a problematic form of coping because of its impact on the individual’s daily life. For example, adults and children with past trauma can experience regression as a form of coping, particularly in cases where the person is exposed to trauma triggers. While the regression itself might not be harmful, issues of personal safety, stigma, and potential exploitation associated with regressive behavior can be.
How do you help someone who “age regresses”?
Supporting someone who experiences age regression requires sensitivity, understanding, and psychoeducation about the disorder and its symptoms. How you can best help will depend on the individual's needs and the context of the regression, but here are some general guidelines:
Understand what it is and why it happens
Research and ask questions about regression. Some people might regress voluntarily as a form of self-soothing, while others might experience involuntary regression during overwhelming situations. Resources and clinical guides are available to help individuals better understand regression. Knowing these details can help you support someone with age regression.
Create a safe space
Ensure the person feels secure and supported by providing a calm and comforting space. Offer them items that might be comforting, such as a blanket, plushy, or other objects that remind them of their repressed age.
Communicate effectively and don’t judge
Use simple, reassuring language appropriate for the age the individual is regressing to. Be patient and avoid overwhelming them. Avoid judging or questioning the regression. Accept them as they are in that moment.
Meet their needs
If they regress to a younger age, they might need more hands-on help with daily tasks like eating, dressing, or maintaining personal hygiene. Participate in age-appropriate activities with them, like drawing, playing games, or watching cartoons.
Respect their experience
Once they’ve recovered to their typical state, respect their experience and avoid making them feel embarrassed or ashamed. Gently ask if they want to talk about what happened and if they need anything; however, don't pressure them to discuss it if they’re not ready.
Do therapists recommend age regression?
Therapists might recommend or support age regression in some contexts, but it depends on the individual’s needs, specific circumstances, and therapeutic goals. For example, some therapists use age regression as a therapeutic technique in which they guide the individual to revisit earlier stages of their life. This can help some people process unresolved trauma, understand the origins of certain behaviors or feelings, and facilitate healing. In some forms of regression hypnotherapy, age regression is used to access and reframe memories from earlier in life. This can be particularly useful in trauma therapy.
Some therapists might recognize voluntary age regression as a self-soothing technique that helps patients manage stress, anxiety, or overwhelming emotions. In these cases, they may not discourage it if it's not harmful and comforts the person. Therapists who work with concepts like inner child therapy might encourage a form of age regression to connect with and nurture the “inner child” part of the individual, addressing unmet needs from childhood.
In cases where age regression is involuntary and linked to trauma or dissociation, therapists might help the individual understand and manage these regressions. They might focus on grounding techniques, processing trauma, and developing healthier coping mechanisms.
The therapist’s approach will depend on how the regression affects the individual's daily life and well-being. They may aim to reduce the frequency or intensity of the regressions or help the individual feel more in control when they occur. However, there are circumstances in which therapists might not support regression therapy. For example, if age regression is used to avoid facing current issues, a therapist might work with the individual to address the underlying problems rather than relying on regression as a coping strategy. If age regression significantly interferes with the person's ability to function in daily life, a therapist might recommend alternative coping mechanisms or therapeutic interventions. If you’re considering regression therapy, seek medical advice from a mental health professional who can help you explore your options.
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