What will my first hypnosis session be like?

 

A typical session lasts one hour. The first session includes an intake interview in which you will complete several informational forms, which we will review together. Then we will talk about how hypnosis works and address any questions or concerns you may have. Next, you will have a chance to experience how pleasant and relaxing hypnosis can be. You will sit in a comfortable chair, close your eyes, and listen to me talk. After the hypnosis,
I will assign you some mental exercises that take only a couple of minutes to do each day; it will be the beginning of your own path toward self empowerment. We will also talk about your next session and the need to reinforce the positive suggestions you received with repetition.

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Can anyone be hypnotized?

 

Twenty percent of the population can go into a state of hypnosis that is so deep they can undergo surgery without anesthesia. Another 60 percent can attain a medium state of hypnosis, in which they can experience analgesia (lack of pain, but with a sensation of touch). But even if you cannot reach those states, all you need for the work we will be doing is a light hypnotic state.

 

Does hypnosis really work?

 

Yes! And there is a growing body of scientific research that provides evidence for its effectiveness. Hypnosis can help reduce or eliminate how pain is experienced, lessen the stress response, improve immune system functioning, help to overcome compulsive or repetitive behaviors, and be used effectively in conjunction with treatments for many medical and psychological disorders and conditions. In fact, many hospitals and dental schools are beginning to embrace hypnosis to relieve anxiety and pain in patients—UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, NC among them!

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Is hypnosis mind control?

 

No. During hypnosis, you are aware of what is happening and can choose at any time to open your eyes and terminate the session. Many people hold misconceptions about hypnosis from watching stage hypnotists who appear to control their subjects and have them act foolishly. You need to understand that, although this phenomenon is real, members of the audience have volunteered to go up on stage, and the hypnotist has carefully chosen people who are very uninhibited and want to have fun. The stage hypnotist ignores everybody else so that the show is entertaining.

 

Hypnosis in an office setting is not like that at all. You are in control and will not do or say anything that you would not ordinarily do in an alert, wakeful state.

 

Will I tell secrets or talk spontaneously?

 

No. If you don’t want to tell me something during hypnosis, you won’t. You may be asked to speak, but you cannot be made to reveal anything secret.

 

Will I fall asleep or become unconscious during hypnosis?

 

While some clients find hypnosis so relaxing that they actually fall asleep, a state of hypnosis is a state of focused concentration and physical relaxation. In most cases, you will be aware of what is happening during hypnosis and will not be asleep. Your consciousness will be altered, but you will not be unconscious. In fact, your mind will be 200 to 300 percent more alert than usual. While hypnotists sometimes use the term “wake up” at the end, that is just semantics. What we mean is that you will “emerge” from hypnosis to a more wakeful, conscious state. Hypnosis is a little like daydreaming during a drive or a walk, or being in a deeply absorbed state such as during yoga or meditation. During these times, you may experience a light state of hypnosis and get sudden flashes of insight.

 

Is hypnosis dangerous?

 

Hypnosis is not dangerous. However, it could be misused in the hands of an untrained or unscrupulous practitioner. It is therefore important to check the credentials of a practitioner before you become their client. In the state of North Carolina, only medically trained personnel, social workers, and clinical psychologists may practice as "hypnotherapists". Certified hypnotists like myself may offer what are called "non-therapeutic" services.

 

Does insurance cover hypnosis?

 

Insurance does not cover the hypnosis I provide. I suggest that you think of hypnosis as a service that you will pay for yourself. One benefit of paying out of pocket is realizing that, when you sign up for a course of hypnosis, you are highly committed and truly value the services you receive.