The use of hypnotherapy with Deaf and Hard of Hearing people was rare until Dr. Mike developed a reliable method for use in clinical settings. Experts in the field of hypnotherapy have helped the faculty of Gallaudet University investigate the use of the relaxed state with students. None of those efforts succeeded to any significant extent. There are anecdotal reports that Deaf individuals themselves have used hypnosis with friends and acquaintances, but it is not known whether their efforts were conducted in professional settings. A few articles have appeared in the research literature, but they reported experimental studies and not methods for consistently using hypnotherapy with deaf clients. Historically, hypnotherapy was not thought to be possible with Deaf clients because the practice is tied so closely to the spoken word and has required the subject to listen to suggestions with the eyes closed.

That has all changed now that Dr. Mike has created his procedure by combining his knowledge of Deaf Culture and the age-old practice of hypnosis. Using proven Erickson hypnosis techniques, and supported by a system of visual and tactile cues, Dr. Mike has succeeded in bringing the healing power of the relaxed state to Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. For several years Dr. Mike has been demonstrating these techniques to graduate students in the Counseling Department at Gallaudet. Dr. Mike is available to provide demonstrations to others and welcomes Deaf and Hard of Hearing clients as a part of his work with Phoenix. Sessions are conducted in ASL or tailored to the language and communication style of the client.

Interested Deaf or Hard of Hearing individuals are encouraged to contact Dr. Mike via e-mail at DrMike@Deninger.com, by fax at (703) 212-8407, or by leaving a voice message at (703) 212-8406. He will return the call via TTY, fax or e-mail as soon as he is able.