What is it like to be in hypnosis?
The experience of hypnosis is characterized by relaxation and heightened imagination. You have actually experienced hypnosis many times in your life already – probably even today. Daydreaming is a light hypnotic state. Driving, watching a movie, and even reading this page are all examples of hypnotic phenomenon. Although we hypnotists love to use the word “sleep,” you are not asleep. You are completely aware of your surroundings, and in fact, actually have an enhanced focus. You are in complete control during the entire process. In reality, all hypnosis is self-hypnosis and your hypnotist is your guide. People usually describe their hypnotic experiences as everything from pleasant and relaxing to euphoric and freeing. To learn more read “How Hypnosis Works.”
Can anyone be hypnotized?
Most can, but not everybody. Hypnosis is a cooperation between you and your hypnotist. If a person will not follow directions, hypnosis will not be successful.
Does it really work?
Hypnosis, in it’s modern form, has been researched, tested and improved upon for centuries. It has actually been practiced, although not called hypnosis, for thousands of years in many cultures. In the early nineteenth century, it gained respectability in the medical field through the work of Dr. James Braid. It was later used by Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung. The American Psychological Association and the American Medical Association officially recognized hypnosis as a legitimate procedure in 1958. Today it is taught in some of the leading medical schools in the country including Harvard and Stanford.
Although hypnosis is used in medicine, there is no intention to mislead anyone into believing that medical or psychological therapies are being performed. The focus is exclusively on individual results through professional hypnosis. No diagnoses or prescriptions are provided. The objective is simply to work together to achieve personal goals.
One of the major benefits of hypnosis is the relatively short period of time it takes for our clients to get good results. (According to a report by Dr. Alfred A. Barrios in “The Psychotherapy Journal of the American Psychiatric Association”)
Many of the most successful people in history and most powerful people today have used hypnosis to reach their goals.
How long does it take?
Results vary for each individual. A clear picture of the timeframe can be provided during a free screening. Hypnosis works much faster than most alternatives, but achieving real results requires several sessions. Many people notice positive changes after the first or second session, but in most cases—especially with weight loss—multiple sessions over a period of time are necessary for substantial outcomes. If anyone suggests that only one or two sessions are needed, be cautious. Hypnosis is fast and effective, but lasting results depend on multiple sessions over time.
Can hypnosis change my personality?
You are a multifaceted individual and you can use hypnosis to enhance aspects of your personality in a positive manner. Hypnosis allows you to use a greater part of your mind so that you become more resourceful. People who practice hypnosis become better at relaxing under stressful conditions, have more confidence and achieve goals faster. Hypnosis can also be used to correct habits and responses that may be limiting. Your core principles and values remain, and the suggestions made while you are in hypnosis are only accepted if they are agreeable to you.
Can a person in hypnosis be made to do something against their will?
No. This is the stuff of movies and stage shows. It’s all made up, though. The truth is, no one can make you “cluck like a chicken” unless you want to. People who volunteer in stage shows are willing performers who want to play along, but no one can make even a willing participant do something they oppose. A hypnotist cannot force you to do anything either during or after your hypnosis session that you do not want. During hypnosis, your value system remains in tact. If a suggestion is not in keeping with your morals or value system, your subconscious will reject it.
Will I be asleep or unconscious during hypnosis?
You will be relaxed yet fully awake. You will have as much awareness as you have right now. Hypnosis actually offers you a greater awareness as you will be in a state of enhanced focus and heightened imagination. You will have full control of your level of involvement with the hypnotist’s words and go as deeply into hypnosis as you choose.
Will I remember what happened during a hypnosis session?
Most people will remember as much as they would during any normal conversation. You may find yourself very intensely focused on the hypnotists words, and later the words may seem to fade. You may experience some time distortion and not know how long you were in hypnosis. Occasionally people may forget parts what happened during the session, but most of the time people remember.
Will I reveal secrets during hypnosis?
No. You are in complete control of what you say and do during hypnosis. Anything that you wish to keep secret will remain a secret. In fact, you are completely capable of telling a lie if you so choose. During hypnosis, you may be able to discover repressed memories, but if you do not wish to reveal them, you will not. You can still release the negative influence of these memories without discussing them. Hypnosis is a gentle and safe way to clear unconscious and limiting blockages.
Is it everything we do confidential?
Absolutely! Everything you say or do during your session completely confidential unless you give your written permission. Of course, you will have people asking you what you have been doing lately as they notice the change in you, and, quite frankly, most clients love to tell their friends about all the fun and great success they have been having with their hypnosis programs. Referrals are strongly encouraged, as our best clients typically enjoy introducing friends, family, and co-workers.
How much does a session cost?
Single sessions are not offered, as this would be a disservice and an ineffective use of funds. Long-term success requires a structured series of sessions. Determining the right program requires an in-person evaluation during a free screening, where timeframes and costs can be clearly outlined. All programs are custom-designed for individual needs and budgets.
My friend told me that a person can get stuck in hypnosis and not come out. Is this true?
False. This is a myth. It probably comes from stories about those rare instances of people who enjoyed being in hypnosis so much that they refused to emerge on the hypnotist’s cue. Eventually they all return to their normal state, though.
Can I learn self-hypnosis?
Yes. Teaching self-hypnosis to interested clients is a top priority. Self-hypnosis can be mastered with just a few lessons and regular practice, and the benefits are unlimited. People who learn self-hypnosis and use it regularly learn to relax deeply, set and reach new goals, and continue to get great results. Some of the greatest achievements in history are the results of self-hypnosis (a few examples are listed on the page “Famous People Who Used Hypnosis”).
Do you use NLP, and what exactly is NLP?
Yes! NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) is a method of effective communication through understanding how people think, behave and change. Using language patterns to promote a sensory experience of thoughts, actions and feelings, NLP uses outcome based methodologies that empower the individual to quickly bring about positive change, define goals, and increase flexibility as they adapt to evolving circumstances. NLP techniques are light hearted, experiential, interactive and facilitate an easy, yet profound emotional release. By engaging a shift in awareness, NLP eliminates behaviors that do not serve the individual’s highest interest. Keeping respect of your unique perspectives, internal learning modes and responses, the strategies of NLP utilize your own personal reference system allowing for increased exploration of your greater resources – akin to accessing the hidden genius within.