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Del Morrill, M.S. C.C.H

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A Center for Counseling & Hypnosis
Tacoma, Washington, USA
(253) 752-1506

Fear of the Dark

Question
          I have a female client who has an unreasonable fear of the dark.  So far, I’ve been unable to release that fear.  Any suggestions?

Answer

          Even though this might sound rather child-like, if I were working with her, because she feels very "small and vulnerable" (like a child), I'd probably use methods similar to my work with children who have this fear. For instance, while hypnotized, have her imagine her self in the dark setting, then turning herself into the animal she considers the bravest of all, or into someone who is her hero or heroine who has bestowed courage upon her. 

         Another is to put on a magic cape, grow two feet taller than the sorcerer who controls the dark, and use her magic wand (or magic sword) to vanquish him.  This, or something similar, is helpful because someone afraid feels powerless; therefore, it helps to put them in a position of “power”.

            If such things aren’t working, then I'd make use of my problem-solution finding process/script which gets at the initial imprints causing the fear, or else use regression to the initiating cause.  Be prepared to discover the possibility of some severe abuse at some time in her existence (not just in this particular lifetime).   

           Practically, for her to feel extra safe, she ought to have front and back-porch lights on at night, if not already doing so.  This is one of the cheapest forms of security there is - I'm always amazed at how few people use it. 

 
 

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