Hypnosis FAQ

What you Need to Know about Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy

The following are the most frequently asked questions I receive about hypnosis and hypnotherapy:

What is hypnosis and how does it work?

Hypnosis is an effective, natural, drug-free method of therapy that allows you to gain access to your subconscious mind and change thoughts, limiting beliefs, and behaviors that stand in your way of achieving your health, wellness, and general life goals. A hypnotic state is that place between full conscious and sleep. It is in this state where our subconscious minds are most open to new ideas, visions, suggestions. Hypnosis has been used as a therapeutic tool across the globe for centuries.

What can hypnotherapy help me with?

Hypnosis Therapy has been found to help with an incredible amount of physical, emotional, behavioral, and psychological issues. To get a better idea, refer to  https://hypnosis.edu/help/. If I am not skilled in your area of focus, I will connect you with another Hypnotherapist who is.

What does hypnosis feel like?

Most people greatly enjoy the experience of hypnosis because it is very relaxing, peaceful, and calming. I like to think of it as a massage for the mind and spirit and a source of nourishment for the body. Usually after sessions, clients feel relaxed, rejuvenated, clearer, even purposeful. As your therapist, I watch for any signs of discomfort during your sessions and respond accordingly.

Can anyone be hypnotized?

Yes. In fact, everyone naturally experiences a light state of trance (hypnosis) at least twice a day- in the first few minutes after awakening in the morning and again before drifting off to sleep at night. Another example of naturally occurring hypnosis is being so relaxed or distracted in thought that you drive past your street or miss your exit on the highway.

What if I don’t “go in” and the hypnosis doesn’t work?

The subconscious mind knows and recognizes hypnosis as a state of relaxation and comfort. During my training at the Hypnosis Motivation Institute, I mastered various techniques to help my clients enter hypnosis easily and comfortably, so they can accept the hypnotic suggestions that they themselves provided. If you truly want to achieve your desired outcome and you are willing trust and commit to the process, likelihood of success with this therapeutic modality is very high.

Will I be asleep when I’m in hypnosis?

​No. I use the terms “sleep” and “deep sleep” to heighten relaxation in hypnosis, but you will always be conscious and in complete control of your actions. Contrary to popular belief, people are more aware of their surroundings and have heightened perceptions (e.g., sound, smell, sight) when they are in this state. You can always bring yourself out of hypnosis by opening your eyes, stretching, or standing up.

Will you be in control of my mind and actions while I am in hypnosis?

No. I will not be able to make you say or do anything you don’t want to say or do. If you do not agree with or feel comfortable with a suggestion or technique, your subconscious mind will reject it and it will not take. Together, we would work on any discomfort or blockages you may be experiencing during therapy and craft your therapy sessions based on your preferences and unique suggestibility and behavior style.

Will I remember everything that I said or did during hypnosis?

People typically remember some details about the session as soon as they come out of hypnosis, but the amount of recall varies between individuals and in terms of the depth of your hypnotic state. Rest assured that your subconscious mind will remember the hypnotic suggestions that it receives even if your conscious mind does not.

If I only want to change a specific behavior (e.g., stop smoking), do I have to tell you details about my personal life or childhood to accomplish my goal?

In general, I will not ask you to divulge personal details about information that is not relevant to your therapeutic goal or wellness. Having said that, the bulk of our subconscious wiring is formed during our childhood and may be beneficial in understanding your current beliefs, thoughts, behavior. However, you are in control of what you want to discuss with me as your hypnotherapist and what you prefer to keep private.

What if I have a diagnosed physical or mental health condition (DSM-5) and am working with a licensed medical professional (i.e., Psychologist, Psychiatrist, MTF, Primary Care Physician).

Hypnotherapy can complement the care you may already be receiving, particularly for reducing the symptoms and side effects of medical and mental health conditions. If you are seeking hypnotherapy to assist with symptoms or side effects of a diagnosed condition (i.e., pain, symptoms of anxiety or depression, etc.), I will require a referral from your provider and will assist you in obtaining this easily and quickly.

How many sessions will it take to resolve my presenting issue/s?

Each client’s treatment plan and therapy journey are unique to them. Some clients see tremendous improvement or complete resolution with just a few sessions. Other issues may require longer treatment plans. The best way to answer this question is to schedule a free consult with me to discuss your therapy goals further.

Still have questions? Reach out to me! You are welcome to schedule a free 20-minute consult to discuss further. Meredith@MOhypnosis.com