Hypnotherapy Frequently Asked Questions

Hypnosis is a state of hyper-suggestibility for transformative change. It is experiencing a relaxed and focused state that allows effortless transformation from undesired behaviors to desired ones. This state is reached in the Alpha state (relaxed alertness and light hypnosis). In other words, hypnosis is a state of mind that helps us to surpass our conscious mind and allows us to access the subconscious mind, where we store all our memories, beliefs, and habits. Hypnosis is NOT - sleep, unconsciousness, being gullible, weak-minded, controlled by someone else, or losing self-control.

Let's clarify the difference between Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy. Hypnosis is a state of mind where an individual is in a trance-like state, and their focus and concentration are heightened. Hypnotherapy, however, is a therapeutic technique that uses Hypnosis to help individuals achieve their desired outcomes. In other words, Hypnosis is a tool, and Hypnotherapy is the use of that tool to help individuals overcome problems, improve their lives, and achieve their goals. Hypnotherapy is a safe and effective way to address a wide range of issues, including weight loss, smoking cessation, motivation, improved sports performance, eliminating negative beliefs, increasing confidence, overcoming procrastination, grief, and more.

You always maintain your complete sense of awareness. On the contrary, you are more fully awake and relaxed. You'll remain conscious of your surroundings and may experience sensations like tingling, lightness, fluttering eyelids of emotions or energy movement. All hypnosis is self-hypnosis.

Before you begin, I will explain the hypnosis process and review your desired goals. Then, I will start by talking in a gentle, soothing tone, describing images that create a sense of relaxation, security, and well-being. When you're relaxed and calm, I suggest ways to achieve your goals. That may include, for example, ways to increase motivation or reduce cravings to eat junk food or smoke. I will also help you visualize vivid, meaningful mental images of yourself accomplishing your goals. When the session ends, you can bring yourself out of hypnosis on your own. Or I may need to help you gradually and comfortably increase your alertness.

Because each person is unique, and each person's motivation and participation are different, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to hypnotherapy. Some people can get help for their presenting issues in one session, while others may need 4-6 sessions. However, even with one session, it is a step toward positive change.

After hypnosis, you will feel relaxed and peaceful. You will have an overall sense of calm and clarity about your life and a higher sense of awareness - being more connected with yourself. 

Hypnosis can be a powerful tool but is not a magic wand. It cannot make you do something against your will and will not automatically solve all your problems. Hypnosis is not a substitute for traditional medical or psychological treatment, such as depression, addiction, or other psychological disorders. Finally, hypnosis cannot make you forget something that happened in the past. It can help you to process and accept a traumatic event and move on from it, but it cannot erase the experience from your memory.

“A person under hypnosis is asleep or unconscious.”

This is probably the most common misconception about hypnosis. You never lose your complete sense of awareness or fall asleep in hypnosis. 

“A person doesn’t remember anything that happens while under hypnosis.”

You’ll be aware of everything while hypnotized. Afterward, you may have a “dreamy” feeling, like emerging from a deep daydream or a light nap.

“A person can be hypnotized against their will.”

Most stage hypnotists are skilled at creating the illusion that they possess a magical and mysterious power over others. There is, in fact, no such “power.” Hypnosis is a state of consent and cooperation. The only control I have over you is the control you allow me to have. Throughout the process, you can end it at any time.

“A person surrenders their will under hypnosis and can be made to do things he or she

You are capable of making regular decisions at all times under hypnosis. You can’t be ‘made’ to do anything you find objectionable under hypnosis under normal circumstances.

“Not everyone can be hypnotized.”

It’s not a matter of whether you can be hypnotized but whether you’ll allow yourself to be helped to enter hypnosis. If a person is comfortable with the process and knows what to expect, it’s surprisingly easy.

“A person under hypnosis might reveal his or her deepest secrets.”

You don’t lose control or reveal personal secrets under hypnosis unless you wish to do so.