TABLE 1.

Example Hypnotherapy Metaphors by Therapeutic Target/Symptom

Dysphagia/Globus Sensation

Therapeutic Target: Peristalsis, hypervigilance around swallowing

And as you watch the panel, and move the dial from one position to the next, you can begin to feel more and more  relaxed and confident in the gentle, efficient functioning of your esophagus initiated after a swallow, more and more  confident that your esophagus is functioning just as it is supposed to, moving food and liquid gently and  rhythmically down into your stomach, gentle, rhythmic, and totally efficient….

Hypersensitive Esophagus/Heartburn

Therapeutic Target: Hypersensitivity to acid/normal sensations inside esophagus

Sensations that used to be uncomfortable now increasingly feel just mild and soothing and do not bother you anymore.  And even if you feel some sensation of heartburn, you will most likely notice that it is surprisingly weak, much  milder than before, as your sensitivity to pain in your esophagus is gradually and steadily fading away more and  more, leaving you more comfortable and healthy every day. Your sensitivity to pain is decreasing steadily from one  day to the next, and one week to the next, allowing you to enjoy your everyday life more and more without being  disturbed or bothered. You pay less and less attention to unpleasant feelings inside you every day, as your sensitivity  to pain and discomfort in the esophagus steadily fades away and disappears. You will probably find yourself  forgetting about the sensations in your esophagus altogether for longer and longer periods of time, sometimes even a  whole day or multiple days at a time, focusing more instead on the pleasant and enjoyable aspects of your life  experience.