06/05/2025
The Origins of the Hypnosis and Psychosomatic Medicine Section at the Royal Society of Medicine: Insights from David Kraft’s Scholarly Contributions
Appointments: 07946 579645 or call my secretary on 0207 467 8564
The Section of Hypnosis and Psychosomatic Medicine at the Royal Society of Medicine (RSM) stands as a pivotal entity in the UK, dedicated to advancing the understanding and application of hypnosis within medical and psychological contexts. Dr. David Kraft, a distinguished psychotherapist and hypnotherapist, has been instrumental in chronicling the history and development of this section through his scholarly works. 
David Kraft’s Scholarly Contributions
In his two-part series published in Contemporary Hypnosis & Integrative Therapy, Dr. Kraft delves into the origins and evolution of the RSM’s Hypnosis and Psychosomatic Medicine Section. The first paper, “Origins of the Section of Hypnosis and Psychosomatic Medicine—Part 1,” published in 2021, outlines the foundational steps leading to the establishment of the section. The follow-up, “Origins of the Section of Hypnosis and Psychosomatic Medicine—Part 2,” published in 2022, continues this narrative, providing further insights into the section’s development and its impact on the integration of hypnosis into clinical practice. 
These articles not only document the historical trajectory of the section but also reflect Dr. Kraft’s deep engagement with the field and his commitment to preserving its legacy.
David Kraft’s Clinical Practice
Dr. David Kraft operates a private practice in Harley Street, London, where he specializes in treating a wide array of psychological disorders. His areas of expertise include phobic anxiety, psychosomatic pain, and various stress-related conditions. Dr. Kraft employs a blend of psychotherapeutic techniques, with a particular emphasis on clinical hypnosis, to address these issues. He is accredited by the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) and is a fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine.  
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Kraft is actively involved in education and training. He contributes to the British Society of Clinical & Academic Hypnosis (BSCAH), where he has been involved in teaching and training healthcare professionals, including doctors, dentists, and psychologists, since 2013. 
References
Kraft, D. (2021). Origins of the Section of Hypnosis and Psychosomatic Medicine—Part 1. Contemporary Hypnosis & Integrative Therapy, 35(1), 37–53.
Kraft, D. (2022). Origins of the Section of Hypnosis and Psychosomatic Medicine—Part 2. Contemporary Hypnosis & Integrative Therapy, 36(1), 23–32.

Through his scholarly work and clinical practice, Dr. David Kraft has made significant contributions to the field of hypnosis and psychosomatic medicine, both in the UK and internationally. His efforts have been crucial in shaping the landscape of clinical hypnosis and ensuring its integration into mainstream medical practice.
