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What is hypnosis?
How does hypnosis work?
What does it feel like to be hypnotized?
What if I can't be hypnotized?
What if I don't go very deep?
What if I get "stuck" and can't wake up?
Will I remember what happened during the session?
What if I'm afraid to let someone "control my mind"?
Will I be made to do something foolish?
Will I blurt out all my secrets?
Does hypnosis always work?
How many sessions are necessary?
How can hypnosis help me lose weight?
Can hypnosis help me after bariatric surgery?
Can hypnosis help me quit smoking or dipping?
Does hypnosis help with chronic conditions such as pain, nausea, itching, and headaches?
Should I stop smoking before or after weight loss?
Does hypnosis work for drug or alcohol addictions?
What is regression hypnosis?
What can I expect at my first session?
How much does it cost?
Q: What is hypnosis?
A: Hypnosis is an altered state of mind in which the critical or rational mind is suspended to allow access to the subconscious mind, which is very suggestible. The subconscious mind controls 95-99% of all mental abilities, and also controls the physical function of every part of the body. All your habits and long term memories are in your subconscious mind. Did you know you actually enter into some form of hypnosis several times every day? Just as you are falling asleep or waking up, when engrossed in a book or TV show, while meditating or even while driving.
Q:
How does hypnosis work?
A: Hypnosis is a tool to help you help yourself to cope with the normal
problems of everyday living. The critical, thinking mind, which acts as
a filter for everything we see, hear, feel or experience is bypassed to
allow the hypnotist access to the highly suggestible subconscious mind.
The Certified Hypnotist is trained and experienced in giving properly
worded suggestions to replace old, negative programming with strong, positive
suggestions to adjust habits of thought, feeling and behavior to achieve
the changes you desire. Hypnosis works easily, safely and effectively.
By moving from your wide-awake state (beta brain wave level) into a more
relaxed state of consciousness (either the alpha, theta or delta brain
wave level), suggestions are easily accepted by your subconscious mind.
These suggestions then carry over into your daily life, especially when
reinforced over a period of time.
Q:
What does it feel like to be hypnotized?
A: You will not feel strange, dizzy or like you're in a "trance."
Most hypnosis is accomplished through a relaxation process and it is a
very pleasant feeling. Most people report that they feel very relaxed
and awaken refreshed-like they had a "power nap." Absolutely every client
I've had says they feel great afterwards. They are always amazed at how
relaxed they feel.
Q:
What if I can't be hypnotized?
A: It is true that some people are more suggestible than others, but
with very few exceptions, if you WANT to be hypnotized, you CAN be
hypnotized. The best subjects have average to high intelligence. Yes, even strong-willed and analytical people make excellent subjects. People who think it didn't work for me were very likely in a light state of hypnosis (alpha) where they were physically relaxed but still aware of everything. The alpha state is an effective level of hypnosis for all but regression or anesthesia purposes. Remember, hypnosis is a natural state of mind. All hypnosis is considered to be self-hypnosis because you ALLOW yourself to be hypnotized. The exceptions are those who really don't want to be hypnotized or who have an unwillingness to cooperate with the hypnotist's instructions (close your eyes and take a few deep breaths). Hypnosis does require a level of trust. That's why I allow enough time for us to get acquainted and discuss your goals.
Q:
What if I don't go very deep?
A: It is not necessary to go really deep for most hypnosis sessions. Except for anesthesia purposes, a light to mid-range level of relaxation is perfect. Also remember, you may not be able to tell how deep you are, but I will be able to observe the signs that indicate how deep you really are. People who think it didn't work for me were very likely in at least a light state of hypnosis (alpha) where they were physically relaxed yet still aware of everything. The alpha state is a very effective level of hypnosis for most purposes. You'll do just fine.
Q:
What if I get "stuck" and can't wake up?
A: You positively cannot get stuck in hypnosis. Any time you want to emerge from hypnosis, for any reason, you will be able to simply open your eyes and become fully alert. Even if you drift off into sleep (delta brain wave level) you would still awaken normally on your own, even if no one were around to awaken you. Remember, you naturally go through all the various brain wave levels each night as you sleep and you awaken just fine.
Q:
Will I remember what happened during the session?
A: Most people DO remember all or most of their session. Some deep level subjects feel like they were asleep and are therefore unaware of what was said. Even if you went into delta, which is sleep, your subconscious mind was still hearing the suggestions because it takes longer than the 45 minutes of your session to go into deep delta.
Q:
What if I'm afraid to let someone "control my mind"?
A: This is a common first-time hypnosis fear. You will not be unconscious or under the control of the hypnotist. It is nothing like the hypnosis or "mind control" portrayed in movies and fiction, and "brainwashing" requires the use of drugs, sleep deprivation, etc. You have great control over what you will or will not do. Hypnosis is always a 100% consent state. The truth is when you are in hypnosis, you are deeply relaxed physically, but mentally, you are 100 to 300 times more alert. You can hear and respond to everything and can be an active participant in the session if necessary.
A hypnotist CANNOT make you do anything you do not want to do. Your subconscious mind will not accept suggestions that go against your desires, morals or beliefs.
Q:
Will I be made to do something foolish?
A: This is another common fear. During stage hypnosis, audience volunteers are made to do silly stunts as part of the entertainment. The stage hypnotist is careful to select the most hypnotizable people. Those volunteering enjoy being part of the entertainment or having an excuse to do outrageous things. And of course, those not cooperating with the stage hypnotist are asked to sit down. Clinical hypnosis is nothing like stage hypnosis. No one can hypnotize you against your will. Hypnosis is always a 100% consent state. You will never be embarrassed or humiliated in any way during your individual hypnosis session.
Q: Will I blurt out all my secrets or be forced to "tell the truth"?
A: No. Hypnosis is not a truth serum and does not create any compulsion to "tell all your secrets." A person will usually refuse to answer or simply come out hypnosis rather than answer something they do not wish to reveal. You cannot be made to say or do anything you do not want to. Your subconscious mind is always watching out for your own welfare. You are always in control.
Q:
Does hypnosis always work?
A: Hypnosis CAN work for everyone because we all have a subconscious mind. Hypnosis is a tool you can use to tap into the power within you to adjust habits of thought, feeling and behavior. For some it seems to work instantly, like flipping a switch. For others, it is more of a process, requiring persistence and patience to coax the subconscious mind into making the desired changes. Hypnosis should not be thought of as a
"magic wand." It still requires cooperation and commitment on your part. Remember, hypnosis cannot make you do anything you do not want to do. Research indicates it takes at least 21 days to change any habit or behavior.
Q:
How many sessions are necessary?
A: This depends upon the individual and the purpose of their hypnosis. Some habits or behaviors may require only one session. Certain problems may require several sessions, such as smoking, pain management, overcoming an apprehension or losing weight. People usually come for a session, use their reinforcement CD for a week or two, then come back for reinforcement sessions as needed until the problem is improved or resolved. The success of the sessions depends a lot upon the individual's priorities and how consistently they listen to their reinforcement CD or schedule reinforcement sessions if needed. Follow-up sessions usually do not take as long and are at a discounted rate.
Q:
How can hypnosis help me lose weight?
A: Hypnosis can boost your motivation to exercise, drink more water, and eliminate cravings. Controlling stress, improving self-esteem and increasing confidence are the keys to successful weight loss. It can be used to identify and clarify the physical, habitual and emotional factors for your weight problem and can help change those patterns. Positive suggestions are used to reprogram your subconscious mind to help you meet your goals in healthy, pleasant ways. My hypnosis sessions generally focus on eating smaller portions, making healthy choices, recognizing normal hunger/satiety cues, eliminating emotional eating, and increasing physical activity. However, they are very compatible with healthy weight loss programs such as Weight Watchers, South Beach Diet, or diabetic and other doctor prescribed diets. Weekly sessions are best in the beginning to keep you motivated and to reinforce your goals. A reinforcement CD is used between sessions. See [WEIGHT LOSS] for my 4-session Weight Loss Series to jump start your program.
Q:
Can hypnosis help me after bariatric surgery?
A: Yes. With hypnosis I can help you reprogram your self-talk and change your self-image. The emphasis is on increasing your self-esteem and self-worth, releasing past limitations, and visualizing yourself the way you want to be. Additional suggestions can be given as needed to help with your physician's eating instructions.
Q: Can hypnosis help me quit smoking or dipping?
Yes. Hypnosis is a tool that will reinforce your motivation to quit
smoking or using other tobacco products and reduce cravings and
withdrawal symptoms. It still requires you to make an effort by
eliminating your cigarettes or tobacco and making the commitment to
follow the program. Remember, hypnosis cannot make you do anything you
do not want to do. Many have said it worked instantly for them, like
flipping a switch. For others, it was more of a process requiring a
little more effort the first week, but that it was far easier than “cold
turkey” and more effective than any other method they had tried. My
Smoking Cessation Program utilizes a multiple session approach to ensure
your success. I am very committed to helping people quit smoking if they
truly want to quit. Please refer to [SMOKING CESSATION]. for more details about my program.
Q: Should I quit smoking
before or after weight loss?
A: Before. Many smokers are more afraid of gaining weight after they
stop smoking than they are of contracting a deadly disease if they
continue to smoke. Consider this:
FACT: Additional weight gain is usually due to eating
as a substitute for smoking. In the early days after quitting,
ex-smokers may mistake that “restless” feeling for hunger. The average
weight gain of five pounds is due to the return of the sense of taste
and smell and the normalizing of the metabolism. You will be given
suggestions not to substitute food for smoking.
FACT: Smokers who are overweight and keep smoking,
tend to remain overweight. The best time to quit smoking is NOW-before
you start a weight loss program. You'll be even less willing to risk
weight gain after you have lost the excess weight.
FACT: Stopping smoking is the single healthiest thing
you can do for your body. It adds ten years to your life! Your blood
vessels are no longer constricted, your heart doesn't have to work as
hard, your circulation improves, cholesterol is lowered and high blood
pressure is lowered. Diabetics are better able to control their blood
sugars. The lining of your lungs begins to cleanse and heal, allowing
you to breathe easier. Your doctor will be ecstatic!
FACT: You will be able to exercise easier as a
nonsmoker because you'll be able to breathe easier and have more energy
and stamina.
Q: Does hypnosis help with chronic conditions, such as pain, nausea, itching, and headaches?
A: Yes. Deep relaxation and visualization techniques are taught. A noticeable reduction in discomfort can be expected on the first visit, and even more as you practice your self-hypnosis techniques. Hypnosis is effective for relieving psoriasis, poison ivy (an allergic response), migraine headaches, nausea due to pregnancy or chemotherapy, chronic pain due to arthritis, fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, etc. I am Certified in Pain Management Hypnosis by the National Guild of Hypnotists and the International Medical & Dental Hypnotherapy Association. A doctor's release is required prior to hypnosis for any health-related problem to avoid masking any symptoms requiring medical diagnosis and treatment. I provide a convenient referral form for your doctor to sign. I will gladly work with your medical professional. Please refer to [MEDICAL CONDITIONS] for more details.
Q:
Does hypnosis work for drug or alcohol addictions?
A: Yes and no. The most effective use of hypnosis is as an adjunct or addition to your recovery program. I am not a substance abuse counselor and hypnosis should not be considered a "quick-fix" for your addiction or a substitute for a recovery program. I do not consider myself qualified to work with severe addictions to alcohol or drugs. When you are sober or drug-free, hypnosis can reinforce your desire to stay sober once you have quit. It can also help you forgive yourself and others, release the past, reprogram negative thought patterns, focus on the present, set goals, and powerfully build up positive feelings of self-esteem and self-worth.
Q:
What is regression hypnosis?
A: Everything you've ever seen, heard or experienced is recorded in your subconscious mind. When necessary, with hypnosis, you can go back to an earlier time in your memory to recall and release perceived traumatic events, which may be contributing to current fears, stress, or behavior. However, it is not always necessary to recall past events in order to overcome them. Another use for regression hypnosis is to recall the details of specific events for forensic purposes. A more frequent use of regression hypnosis is to recover misplaced items. I've helped many clients recover misplaced jewelry, money and documents.
Q:
What can I expect at my first session?
A: Your sessions will be pleasant experiences. You will complete an in depth CLIENT INTAKE FORM which you can download and fill out in advance. At your first session, you may watch a brief video or power point presentation, which explains how hypnosis works and answers most of your questions about hypnosis. We'll then discuss your goals or problems in detail, as well as your expectations, and I'll answer any additional questions. A plan will then be recommended that will most rapidly achieve the desired results. You will then be guided into a deep state of physical and mental relaxation. You may be aware of everything going on around you, but most likely you will drift in and out while positive suggestions for the changes you desire are given to your subconscious mind, replacing the old programming which is causing the problem. These new suggestions will become a part of you, allowing you to accomplish your goals and/or eliminate problems. You will then emerge from hypnosis with strong positive suggestions, feeling very refreshed and alert. You will receive a reinforcement CD to be listened to as you sleep to reinforce your session.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: My rates are based upon the amount of time needed. The first visit
usually requires about two hours. Follow-up visits usually require about
one and one-half hours. There are prepaid discounts for the Smoking and
Weight Loss Programs. Please see
APPOINTMENTS & FEES for more information. |
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