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Christian doctor says knowing stop-and-go signs part of hypnosis caution

Physician and author Dr. David Stevens is warning Christians to be careful when it comes to hypnotherapy -- a practice that could encompass both spiritual and emotional control.

Dr. Stevens, CEO of the Christian Medical & Dental Associations, authored the book Alternative Medicine: The Christian Handbook. He says good scientific study exists that can prove hypnosis is helpful in various types of pain management, but scientific results are lacking when it comes to weight control and smoking cessation.

If Christians plan to use hypnotherapy, says Dr. Stevens, they should use extreme caution. "The Bible talks to us about [being] alert and self-controlled -- and in hypnosis you're really giving the control of your mind over to someone else," he warns.

Stevens acknowledges that hypnosis advocates claim a person cannot be forced to do anything against their will. But clinical evidence shows otherwise, he says. The Christian CEO points to incidents such as the false repressed memories controversy as a demonstration of the power of suggestion on the conscious and subconscious mind. So, as a result, he urges Christians to choose a therapist wisely.

The author says that he would only choose a professional and steer clear of hypnotherapy as part of any entertainment or religious experience. He also states that, if possible, he would only choose a Christian therapist.