Media Release

Wednesday, 24 January 2007

Victims of crime are invited to volunteer for a University of Adelaide study which examines the benefits of hypnosis in treating post traumatic stress.

Registered psychologist and PhD student Birgit Pfitzer is seeking people between 18 and 70 years of age who have been a victim of crime, are closely related to a crime victim or have witnessed a crime at least three months ago.

Ms Pfitzer, from the School of Psychology, says research has shown that hypnosis may help victims of crime to better manage their psychological and physical symptoms. These can include intense anxiety, depression, nightmares and sleep difficulties.

"Trauma survivors can be more susceptible to hypnosis, which in turn can be an effective form of treating their symptoms," she says.

Volunteers will take part in nine weekly treatment sessions. The study is expected to be completed by the end of May.

To volunteer for the study contact Birgit Pfitzer on (08) 8303 6802, 0405 693 737 or email birgit.pfitzer@adelaide.edu.au.