FND Hypnosis Special Interest Group

Special Interest Group on the use of hypnosis in the understanding and treatment of FND

Hypnosis has re-emerged as an important tool for FND research and management. It offers valuable insights into the neurobiological processes of FND and serves as an effective therapeutic intervention, capable of reducing symptom severity, improving functional outcomes, and enhancing patient well-being. A recent systematic review by Connors et al. highlights its potential, reporting that 87% of patients in reviewed studies experienced significant symptom improvement. Moreover, it is easy to learn and use. However, the widespread adoption of hypnosis in FND care is hindered by existing stigma and methodological heterogeneity.

The purpose of FND Hypnosis SIG is to support clinicians and researchers interested in using hypnosis for understanding and treatment of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND):

1. Unite interested FND Society members to exchange best practices in the use of hypnosis for FND, create opportunities for interdisciplinary networking, promote development of clinical tools and guidelines, promote widespread adoption of clinical hypnosis in FND care.
2. Support and encourage collaborative research initiatives in the intersection of hypnosis and FND.
3. Offer educational resources to professionals interested in using hypnosis for understanding and treatment of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND).
4. Champion the inclusion of hypnosis within clinical and medical training programs.
5. Increase awareness about the therapeutic applications of hypnosis within both the medical community and the general public to dispel misconceptions and stigma surrounding the use of hypnosis in clinical practice.

Subcommittees

We aim to achieve the above via coordinated educational and research activities combined with networking events within the FNDS, and broader Neuroscience community, with the goal of building a community of FND researchers who will work on:

• Research: Advancing and coordinating scientific studies on hypnosis in FND.
• Clinical: Developing and sharing clinical protocols and best practices. Arranging regular webinars promoting case discussions and clinical learning.
• Education: Supporting the involvement and development of early-career professionals and students in the field.
• Outreach: Curating and distributing educational materials for clinicians and trainees, as well as general population to engage the broader medical community and public about the role of hypnosis in FND.

Founding Members and Leadership

• Rochelle Frank, MD (Co-Chair)
• Barbara McCann, PhD (Co-Chair)
• Abhijit Das, MD, DM, MRCP, FRCP
• Julio Quezada, MD

To Participate

If you are a FNDS member and would like to join the FND Hypnosis SIG please complete the short online form.