FAQ's

Q: What is hypnosis?

A: Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness brought about by extreme relaxation. A hypnotic state is one that you have probably achieved to some level in your life. If you've ever become extremely focused on what you are doing to the point of becoming absorbed, chances are that you have been in a state similar to hypnosis.

Q: What does it feel like to be hypnotized?

A: Most people find hypnosis to be both enjoyable and relaxing. When you are in a hypnotic state, you will feel extremely relaxed, but you will be aware of everything that is going on around you. You will also be aware of conscious thought processes, as well as the thoughts that arise during the hypnosis, and you will be able to switch your attention back and forth between the two.

Q: Will I be asleep?

A: There is a difference between hypnotherapy and sleep. When you are under hypnosis, you will still be mentally aware and in control at all times. Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness; sleep is a suspension of consciousness.

Q: Will I remember what happened?

A: Typically you will remember everything that you are ready to remember.

Q: How can I tell if I'm hypnotized?

A: You will feel very relaxed, but awake. It may feel similar to daydreaming.Your conscious mind may wander and be distracted, but your subconscious mind will remain open.

Q: How will you put me in hypnosis?

A: Hypnosis is achieved through relaxation techniques such as words, a soothing tone and mental imagery.

Q: Is hypnosis mind control?

A: No. You are in control the entire time, and cannot be made to do anything that you would not do consciously. All hypnosis is self-hypnosis.

Q: I've seen hypnotists on television who make people do all sorts of strange things. Will this happen to me?

A: You will not do anything that makes you uncomfortable. You are in control the whole time. The people you see on television are typically selected by the hypnotist because of certain personality traits. Most who volunteer to be hypnotized in this manner do so because they have a willingness to perform up to expectations.

Q: I don't think I am a good candidate for hypnosis. Can you still help me?

A: The number one factor in going under hypnosis is the willingness to do so. Since all hypnosis is self-hypnosis, then if you want to be hypnotized, you will be. Everyone has the potential to be placed in a hypnotic state. Those who typically experience difficulties are people with a fear of loss of control, or those who don't really want to be hypnotized.

Q: What if I don't come out of hypnosis?

A: It is impossible to be trapped in a hypnotic state. You can choose to come out of hypnosis any time you want. It is impossible to go too deeply into hypnosis - if such a thing happens, you will merely fall asleep and awake normally.

Q: Are there people who can't be hypnotized?

A: While everyone has within them the potential to be placed in a hypnotic state, some may choose not to for some reason - whether because of a fear of loss of control or truly not wanting to be hypnotized for some reason.

Q: Is hypnotherapy safe?

A: Hypnotherapy is completely safe. You cannot be forced to do or remember anything you don't want to. Since the key ingredient in hypnotherapy is your willingness to submit to the process, you are in control at all times.

Q: Will everything I see during hypnosis be the truth?

A: The things that come up during a hypnotherapy session - whether factual or not - obviously have deep meaning for the person recalling them. Sometimes the information received is symbolic rather than strictly factual. But whether it is symbolic or factual, it is the meaning that it has for you and the growth you can obtain from it that are what really matters.

Q: What if I have deep dark secrets I am afraid of revealing under hypnosis?

A: You will only reveal what you choose to reveal - to yourself or to your therapist. Deep dark secrets can be the source of much emotional pain that can often result in physical symptoms. If you have them, and you are ready,hypnotherapy can help you to examine them and bring about change in your life.

Q: Can you implant thoughts in my mind?

A: Yes and no. Post-hypnotic suggestions can be made that will help you to be successful in life. It is up to you as to whether you have a willingness to accept such suggestions. You can't be forced to think thoughts that aren't organic to you.