A: Yes. It is a very effective means, provided that the person has a real, heart-
felt desire to achieve permanent relief. Examples of successes with
hypnotherapy include overeating, smoking, nail biting, worry, fears and
phobias, digestive disturbances, and burnout.
Q: Can anyone be hypnotized?
A: Everyone naturally passes through the hypnotic state several times a day,
including the twilight state just before falling asleep and just after waking up.
Have you ever found yourself daydreaming while driving, almost missing your
exit, and not knowing where the time went? That’s called road hypnosis, and it’
s just one example of hypnotic experiences you have probably already
experienced without being aware of it. Hypnosis is experienced by degrees.
Anyone willing to be open to the process can experience at least a light state of
hypnosis. The important thing to remember is that everyone has a unique and
different experience with hypnotherapy. Even light hypnosis can produce
wonderful results.
Q: What does hypnosis feel like?
A: Hypnosis feels a lot like daydreaming. You will feel very relaxed, yet aware.
You will hear what I am saying, but your mind may wander as it relaxes. You
may find that your mind drifts at times, and you may wonder what I just
communicated to your subconscious mind. You will probably feel a very focused
awareness. Hypnosis feels similar to lounging on the couch at home, with your
eyes closed. If someone were to walk into the room, you would hear it, but
you wouldn’t really care to get up. Many people report feelings of deep peace
and balance. In fact, most are disappointed when the experience has to end.
Q: Can the hypnotherapist take over my mind?
A: No. I will guide you in your healing trance, but you are in charge of the
actual experience. You cannot be forced to do anything you would not normally
do, and no ethical hypnotherapist would try to force you or control you.
Indeed, at any time during a trance, you would be able to bring yourself out of
it and walk away if you wanted to. Hypnosis is voluntary.
Q: Can you take control of my mind if I ask you to? Can you just force me
to stop smoking or stop overeating?
A: Sorry, but there is no such thing as a magic bullet! This is a team effort.
Hypnosis can make it much easier for you to naturally reach your goals, but you
will still need to do your part in getting yourself there. For most hypnotherapy
programs, I will suggest some specialized behavioral instructions for you to do
away from the office. These will help you to stay in balance while you are away
from the office, and will enhance the positive effects of the hypnosis.
Q: Is this proven?
A: Hypnotherapy was approved by the American Medical Association in 1958.
It has been used successfully for many years, and is useful in every area of self-
improvement. More and more people are enjoying the benefits of
hypnotherapy as they hear about its successes.
Q: How long does it take? How many sessions will I need?
A: Each appointment lasts approximately 45 minutes, including the actual
hypnosis and discussion with me. The number of sessions needed vary from
client to client. I encourage you to come in for a free consultation. During this
time, we can discuss your needs and your goals, answer your questions, and
design a program for your success. Based on the information you give, I will be
able to provide an estimate of the number of sessions needed.
I believe that there are two types of approaches for hypnotherapy programs.
One is short-term, with anywhere from one to seven sessions. Short-term
hypnotherapy is very good for “getting you over the hump” and helping you
complete a specific goal, such as smoking cessation or becoming motivated for
weight loss. The other approach is longer term, and this is very beneficial for
continued self-exploration and self-development. Additionally, the state of
hypnosis activates your body’s healing wisdom, and many clients stop in
periodically for additional sessions for the beneficial effects to the body and
mind. If you start with a short-term program, you would always be welcome to
return for further sessions.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: This will depend on your needs. I encourage you to take advantage of the
free consultation, so we can design an individualized, affordable program for
you
Q: When can I get started?
A: Just call (916) 284-5988 today and arrange your free consultation! You can
even start your first session after the consultation if you wish.
