FAQ’S

Frequently Asked Questions About Hypnosis

What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a completely safe and natural, yet altered, state of mind. In hypnosis your mind is singularly focused and alert. There is nothing strange or weird about hypnosis. You enter hypnotic states daily through daydreaming, driving (have you ever missed your exit because you were lost in thought?), playing a sport (often called being in the zone), and watching television. In the hypnotic state there is a feeling of the world fading away and retreating to a different, deeper part of you.

What is hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis for therapeutic reasons. It is the soothing process of directing subconscious thought toward patterns of healthy living. Basically hypnotherapy is the method of opening up the subconscious mind. Once the subconscious mind is opened two things can occur: the removal of old, unhealthy thoughts and the replacement of them with new powerful, healthy thoughts. It is in fact far more powerful than most people imagine.

Clients come searching for help in specific areas of their life, but they notice their whole life begins to change. They notice a renewed interest in life, a desire to take care of their body, their relationships improve, their homes become spotless, they throw away things they have been holding onto for years, they finish or start new projects, and sometimes they even change careers. Hypnotherapy changes your life because it changes your mind.

Why does hypnosis work?

Most people spend their entire lives not knowing why they are a particular way or why they can’t lose weight or quit smoking with lasting effect. The problem is that they are attempting to change what is on the computer screen without reprogramming the hard drive. In other words, they are not getting to the source of the problem–their subconscious thought.

What is the role of the hypnotherapist?

I help people undo their “bad programming” so to speak. I navigate or guide my clients within in order to release the thoughts and feelings—the blocks, fears, guilt, anger, and anxieties, etc.—that are standing in the way of their super conscious mind.

What does hypnosis feel like?

Hypnosis is a peaceful state of stillness. The hypnotic state is pleasant; you feel mentally very calm and content, relaxed, focused and alert. It is a form of deep mental and physical relaxation. Of course, depending on the type of session, in a therapeutic setting traumatic memories or feelings may come up to be processed.

How do you put people into hypnosis?

There are many ways of inducing someone into a trance (in other words, getting someone to relax). There are very quick rapid inductions and slow soothing inductions. No swinging watches are involved. Mostly I will instruct you through the sound of my voice.

Will I go to sleep?

No. Hypnosis is not sleep. When you sleep, your conscious mind sleeps. In hypnosis your conscious mind is still functioning quietly in the background which is why 50%- 100% of those hypnotized hear and remember everything said to them during a session. The level of trance is dependent on the type of session.

Will I be under someone else’s control?

No. This is the most widespread myth about hypnosis. It may appear as if subjects in stage hypnosis are being controlled, but in reality they are just very relaxed and uninhibited, often selected for their exhibitionist tendencies and suggestibility. Nobody can be hypnotized against his or her will.

How much do sessions cost?

Please call for pricing

What forms of payment do you take?

Checks and cash are accepted, and credit card payments can be made through Paypal.

Will my insurance cover hypnotherapy?

Some insurance companies reimburse up to 80% of hypnotherapy costs. A doctor’s note might be needed. If you think you qualify for possible reimbursement, I will be happy to give you a receipt.

How long are sessions?

The first session is approximately 1hr and 30 minutes including consultation. Each subsequent session is 45-60 minutes.

What does a session include?

In the first session, you will fill out an intake form and I will educate you on hypnosis, how the mind works, and what to expect in sessions. I will also share self-hypnosis instructions and any other self-healing technique I think may benefit you. You will share your background and ask any questions you may have. I make sure we’re both clear on your goals before we begin any work together. And then we’ll do a session. All sessions are confidential.

Does hypnosis really work?

Yes!

Can I get stuck?

No. Like coming out of a nap, you would eventually awaken on your own, only more refreshed.

Has anyone ever been injured by hypnosis?

There are no documented cases of anyone injured or hurt using hypnosis in a clinical setting.

Why don’t more people use hypnosis?

They are. I believe hypnosis is the healing modality of the future. With all the publicity and support that hypnosis is getting, it’s just a matter of time before society realizes that the old ideas about hypnosis–as portrayed by Hollywood as a mind control, with walking zombies–are just that: old. Hypnosis is rapidly coming out of the closet. As more people learn that healing is in the mind, they are seeking hypnotherapists. Most of my clients start off their conversations with me with by saying they’ve already tried everything to resolve their issue. Desperation serves hypnotherapists well. Those who are disillusioned with some of the more traditional routes, because they are not getting effective results, are finding help with hypnotherapists.