Hypnosis and Phobias

Of course, this is "old news" -- not only because the article itself is somewhat dated (Novemeber, 2012), but simply because therapists have used hypnosis for many decades to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and a variety of phobias.  In the case below, it is instead the unique nature of the project that makes the application particularly noteworthy. 

The BBC article alludes to a documentary about Felix Baumgartner, the Austrian skidiver, who became the first to break the sound barrier in free fall using a specially designed pressure suit.  Both the feel of the suit and the smell of the rubber caused him anxiety, but he was able to overcome his discomfort.  The training process lasted four years, during which he used hypnosis "to help him prepare mentally for the challenge."  The BBC text may be accessed through this hyperlink:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-20167361.  Enjoy!