Smoking Cessation Classes Offered at Noble Hospital

WESTFIELD — Noble Hospital has announced its latest smoking-cessation class dates. This two-part program uses hypnosis to eliminate the desire for smoking and allows the participant to forget cigarettes forever.

The sessions are scheduled Monday and Thursday evenings, in conference room A or B (see below) on the ground floor of Noble Hospital, 115 West Silver St., Westfield. Classes are held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. both evenings. The dates and places are:

• Sept. 26 and 29 in Conference Room B;
• Oct. 24 and 27 in Conference Room A;
• Nov. 14 and 17 in Conference Room A; and
• Dec. 12 and 15 in Conference Room B.

Classes are conducted by Joseph Barako, an educator, registered nurse, and certified hypnotherapy instructor. He is a member of the International Assoc. of Counselors and Therapists, and has been assisting clients with smoking cessation since 1981.

Hypnosis is a highly relaxed state in which the patient’s consciousness or unconscious mind, when focused, can be receptive to therapeutic suggestion. “Most people have experienced some form of hypnosis. Driving in the car and not being completely aware of the surroundings or watching the flames in the fireplace are types of hypnosis,” says Barako. “Actually, all hypnosis is self-hypnosis. The hypnotist is really a coach. Hypnosis in the hands of a trained professional is a safe and relaxing experience.”

Barako reports that, typically, between 40{06cf2b9696b159f874511d23dbc893eb1ac83014175ed30550cfff22781411e5} and 60{06cf2b9696b159f874511d23dbc893eb1ac83014175ed30550cfff22781411e5} of the group will succeed.

The cost for this program is $50 and is payable at the first class. Pre-registration is required. To register, or for more information, contact the Community Development Office at info@noblehealth.org or (413) 568-2811, ext. 5520.