This study examines the neurophysiological and psychological effects of Ericksonian hypnotherapy in individuals diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Using electroencephalography (EEG), the study aims to assess changes in brain activity and anxiety symptoms before and after treatment.
A total of 60 participants will be recruited from both governmental and private psychiatric clinics in Istanbul. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group (receiving 12 Ericksonian hypnotherapy sessions over 12 weeks) or the control group (receiving no intervention).
The primary outcome measures include changes in EEG patterns, specifically alpha, theta, and frontal asymmetry indices, and changes in anxiety severity, measured by the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Secondary measures include emotional regulation (DERS) and quality of life (WHOQOL-BREF).
This study aims to provide scientific evidence on the effectiveness of Ericksonian hypnotherapy as a complementary treatment for GAD and its impact on brain function and emotional well-being.
Diagnosis of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) based on DSM-5 criteria
Aged 18-65 years
Capable of providing written informed consent
Fluent in Turkish (for hypnosis and assessments)
Presence of comorbid psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression requiring immediate intervention)
History of neurological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, stroke)
Current use of medications affecting EEG activity (e.g., benzodiazepines, SSRIs, antipsychotics)
Previous experience with hypnotherapy (to avoid expectancy bias)
Uskudar University
Lead sponsor
Istanbul Nisantasi University
Collaborator
Beykoz University
Collaborator