[ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ]
Q: What is hypnotherapy, and how does it work?
A: Hypnotherapy is a guided process that helps you access a deeply relaxed and focused state of mind, known as hypnosis. We all access this state of mind numerous times a day - but often don’t realize we are doing so. In this state, your subconscious mind - the part of your mind responsible for automatic habits, patterns and beliefs becomes more receptive to positive suggestions, allowing us to address challenges like anxiety, sleep issues, unwanted habits, or fears. It’s a natural and effective way to create profound, lasting change.
Q: Why so much focus on the subconscious/unconscious mind?
A: Research shows that for adults over the age of 35, subconscious habits, patterns and beliefs control up to 95% of our daily lives. This means that over 22 hours of our 24 hour day is spent on “autopilot”! Our ability to go into “autopilot” is extremely helpful and beneficial in many aspects of life. Subconscious “autopilot” is how we can drive a car while talking to a passenger. Yet some patterns of “autopilot” that we use can be limiting or problematic, keeping us stuck even when we want something to change.
When a limitation is subconscious, we can expend lots of energy wishing something would change or using willpower and still not accomplishing the change. Many people have the experience of deciding they are are going to make a positive change in their life, such as deciding to start exercising, yet after a few days or weeks, especially when something stressful arises they fall back into the old pattern. Subconscious limitation is also how someone can know “why” something is a problem but still be unable to fix it. For example: Someone with a fear of spiders after a bad experience in the past knows exactly why they are afraid. Yet knowing the cause of the fear isn’t enough that they can feel calm upon seeing a spider. In this case, subconscious patterns and beliefs are overriding the conscious desire to not be afraid. And this is where hypnotherapy helps.
Hypnotherapy recognizes the importance and power of what’s beneath the surface/conscious mind. The experience of hypnotherapy uses relaxed naturally occurring brain states to engage with the subconscious mind and change the “autopilot” patterns or beliefs that are getting in the way. My goal is for my clients to have the freedom and power to choose the patterns that are automatic in their life!
Q: What happens during a session?
A: Each session is tailored to your unique goals and includes a combination of talking, written activities, and hypnotic meditation. In our first meeting, we’ll discuss the changes you want to make and answer any questions you have. Once you’re comfortable, I’ll guide you into hypnosis, where we’ll begin the work of shifting patterns and creating positive outcomes. I’ll also teach you self-hypnosis techniques and other tools to use between sessions to deepen and sustain the results.
Q: Will I lose control during hypnosis?
A: No, you remain fully in control throughout the session. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused relaxation, that many relate to what it’s like when your thoughts wander during the shower. In session we prompt that “shower thinking” with a goal in mind and you can come out of it at any time. You’re always in control of what’s happening and have the ability to choose how you respond.
Q: How many sessions will I need?
A: The number of sessions depends on your goals. Some concerns require just one to three sessions. Other challenges, such as chronic pain, weight loss, and fertility are typically best addressed through a longer series of sessions.
Q: Can hypnotherapy help with anxiety?
A: Yes! Hypnotherapy is highly effective for managing anxiety. It helps calm your mind, release the grip of worry, and build resilience in the face of life’s challenges. Many clients report feeling more grounded and in control even after the first session.
Q: What can I expect after a session?
A: Most people leave a session feeling relaxed and refreshed. Whether it’s right away, or through a few sessions, you’ll notice shifts in your thoughts, behaviors, or feelings related to the areas we’re working on. Because change is happening with mind and body alignment it can feel so natural that it’s as if you wake up the next day and things have shifted in a way you know but can’t quite explain . And when that happens, you will know it’s the result of our work together.
Q: What if I don’t think I can be hypnotized?
A: Almost everyone can experience hypnosis, as long as they’re willing to follow simple instructions and have the intention of making positive change. It’s a natural brain state that we all enter every day, like when you get lost in thought, daydream, or deeply focus on a task. The difference is that in a hypnotherapy session we guide the direction of the thoughts towards what you want instead of the thoughts wandering as they would while say taking a shower. During our session, I’ll guide you in a way that feels comfortable and natural for you.
Q: Are sessions in-person or online?
A: Currently, all sessions are conducted online via Zoom for your convenience, but also because it is effective! Many clients find online sessions more effective than in-person ones, with the added benefit of being able to relax in their own space.
Q: Is hypnotherapy safe?
A: Yes, hypnotherapy is a safe and non-invasive process. You remain in control at all times, and the techniques used are designed to support your well-being and align with your goals.
Q: How can I get started?
A: It’s easy to begin! Schedule a free consultation where we’ll discuss your goals and determine how hypnotherapy can help your unique challenges and goals. I’m here to answer your questions and guide you toward the changes you’re ready for.