Frequently Asked Questions

What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a pleasant, voluntary state of immersed concentration, during which the conscious mind is relaxed and passive, while the subconscious mind is alert and susceptible to suggestion. By creating a heightened state of awareness through deep relaxation methods, the subconscious mind is more open to suggestions that help promote positive change.

Hypnosis is a natural state for your mind. You experience hypnosis many times during a day. Every time you fall asleep or wake up, you pass through an hypnotic state. You have likely experienced a form of hypnosis while driving your car - you arrive at your destination but you don’t have a clear memory of how you got there. Your conscious mind was distracted but your subconscious mind was alert and active.

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There are a lot of misconceptions about hypnosis, the majority of which stems from media misinformation. You may have seen or heard about hypnotized subjects doing ridiculous things on stage at a hypnosis show, but rest assured that hypnotized subjects don't do anything against their will. While subjects are receptive to suggestion under hypnosis, they are always awake and in control.

What does it feel like to be hypnotized?

Every individual is unique and different. Some people say that their body feels very heavy, others say they feel as though they're floating away. Most people will agree that it's a lovely feeling because they are more relaxed than they have ever been before.

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You will be aware of everything that is happening and being said the whole time, however you will be so deeply relaxed that you may find yourself drifting into different levels of awareness. You may forget some of the things said to you consciously, but your subconscious mind remembers everything it needs to. Your subconscious mind is active throughout and it is this that your therapist is working with.

Can I be hypnotized against my will?

Hypnosis requires cooperation between two people. Your hypnotist will show you the way and you can choose if you want to go there or not. Anyone can resist hypnosis during a session and it won't work. If you are not prepared to accept that hypnosis could benefit you then you are not ready for it yet.

How many sessions are needed?

Hypnotherapy is different than psychotherapy. Hypnotists are not therapists, we don't diagnose clients, offer psychological treatments, or offer medical advice. Our role is to help a client tap into the power of their own inner mind (subconscious mind) and enable them to make dramatic and long lasting changes to their behavior. Unlike traditional therapy which can take years, with hypnosis we can often overcome unwanted behavior in as little two or three sessions. Each client is unique and the reason for their unwanted behavior is unique to them. A client has to want to change, it cannot be imposed on them; as such there are no guarantees with hypnosis. The first session lasts about two hours and follow up sessions are one hour in duration. Each session is individualized and confidential.

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