Improve your golf game with hypnosis at Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS – Michael Smith doesn’t look like a swing doctor.

His handlebar mustache reminded me of Rollie Fingers’ famous look. But Smith just might hold the secret to help you play better golf.

Smith, a retired clinical psychologist, is a hypnotherapist who spearheads the program, “Hypnosis for Golfers,” at the Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace Las Vegas.

The emphasis on the mental game in golf has grown exponentially in recent years – mental gurus such as Dr. Bob Rotella are making big bucks these days – but I’ve never heard of a mega star using hypnosis. Smith says that hypnosis can help golfers focus and overcome the weaknesses of their games.

I didn’t get a chance to try one of Smith’s 50-minute sessions (it costs $210), but I was intrigued hearing him explain it. He said he usually talks with patients for about 20 minutes about their games before using visualization techniques and hypnotic suggestion during hypnosis. He’ll use a color (usually red) or physical clue to trigger feelings of control, confidence and focus once the golfer is back on the course.

He indicated most of his clients have been one-time visits from older golfers, but he said several aspiring professionals come regularly.

“Have I been able to help some of them improve? Absolutely,” he said.