Cost: $100 and up for a hypnosis session; meditation: free to expensive
Covered by insurance: Rarely
Bottom Line: They often work; how often isn't clear
Hypnotherapy is a potent painkiller and an effective way to treat phobias and anxiety. And mental-health professionals are using it to treat addictions.Hypnosis creates a state of deep relaxation; therapists can induce it or people can learn how to do it themselves. Exactly how it works isn't well understood. Brain-imaging technology is beginning to unlock the mystery.
Meditation is often used in wellness programs and treatment plans for serious ailments. Some scientists speculate meditation boosts the immune system. Federal tests are continuing.
