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What is the difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis for self-improvement and/or the release of problems.  All hypnotherapy employs hypnosis; but not all hypnosis is hypnotherapy.  Because one is a hypnotist it does not mean one is qualified as a hypnotherapist.  Hypnotherapy is a therapy that requires training that employs techniques to aid the client in releasing the initial cause of an incident.  In addition, a background in counseling is not a substitute for adequate training in hypnotherapy when hypnosis is used to help people. 

Is hypnosis safe?

Hypnosis is a normal state of mind, one which most people go in and out of every day and it can assist you in changing behavior, habits, and improving health.  When in hypnosis you will not divulge information you wouldn't normally divulge and you will not do anything against your nature, values, or beliefs.   If something occurred that went against your values or became unsafe for you, you would simply open your eyes and leave the room.

Just like with any professional therapist or doctor, it is important for you to find a hypnotherapist that you feel comfortable with and have good rapport.

Can anyone be hypnotized?

Everyone is capable being hypnotized.  We experience it every day in the form of daydreaming.  Hypnosis is a natural phenomenon and even animals are capable of experiencing hypnosis.  Hypnosis is a learned trait, and each time you experience it, just like with anything you practice, you teach your body and mind to experience it quicker and more deeply. 

Sometimes it may seem that some people are more hypnotizable than others, but there are several factors that may lead to resistance in allowing yourself to fully experience hypnosis.  Some examples of these factors may be fear of losing control or fear of change, but once these issues are resolved then hypnosis is achieved.  Discuss these issues with your hypnotherapist to dissolve any fears you may have.

There are some situations where it is not advisable for people to undergo hypnosis and that is for the mentally or emotionally challenged individuals.

Will I be aware of what's happening around me when I am under hypnosis?

Yes. The word 'hypnosis' derives from Hypnos, the Greek god of sleep, but most people experiencing hypnosis are far from actually sleeping.  When under hypnosis, people are usually aware of their surroundings and can hear everything going on around them.  What happens with most people is that they will fluctuate in and out of beta and alpha brain wave activity so that you will know everything that is going on but usually feel very relaxed.  This is why many people believe that they were not hypnotized but in fact it is a very normal experience.

Will I remember everything during the session?

Yes.  Hypnosis is a highly, focused state of concentration and during this state you are aware of what is going on around you and within you.  You will be able to remember everything about the session that you want to or need to whenever you want to recall it.

What does hypnosis feel like?

Hypnosis is unique to each individual. Some people may experience a very relaxing heavy feeling while others have indicated that they felt light and refreshed.  Every person is different so whatever you experience during hypnosis is very normal and right for you.

How will I know I was hypnotized?

Because of the myths, many people have the impression that you are in a coma or asleep and they are always surprised when they realize that they can hear me speaking and are aware of surroundings and noises.   Many people fluctuate between the alpha and beta brain wave state which explains of being aware of what's going on outside of you and also experiencing the rich imagination.  There are physical signs the hypnotherapist will look for that will indicate that you are in the state of hypnosis.  But in truth the real indication is that any time that you use your imagination you are in the state of hypnosis.    Please see What is Hypnosis.

What health issues is hypnotherapy suitable for treating?

The benefits of hypnotherapy are limitless.  Any time the mind is involved in a particular issue or problem, hypnotherapy can be a useful tool to overcome the issue and facilitate a desired change.  In many circumstances hypnotherapy has demonstrated positive benefits when used in conjunction with other therapies and conventional medical treatment. 

• It is particularly beneficial in overcoming phobias, and ceasing problematic habitual behavior, like stammering, snoring, smoking, teeth grinding, sleepwalking or nail biting.
• It can also help alleviate some of the symptoms of physical complaints like allergies, travel sickness, insomnia and irritable bowel syndrome, and pain management. 
• Additional areas where hypnotherapy as proven effectiveness is weight management, improving memory, athletic endurance and improvement, releasing emotional issues or blocks, creativity, procrastination, increase in energy.

The list seems to be endless for the application of hypnotherapy and achieving positive results.  

What is self-hypnosis?

All hypnosis is self-hypnosis, meaning that hypnosis will only work as much as the client is wanting it to work and is willing to apply their effort.  Hypnosis is a natural state by itself.  The term self-hypnosis means that suggestions are generated from us.  The term heterohypnosis is when the suggestion comes from a source that is not us, namely the hypnotherapist.  Remember that the power of hypnosis resides within the client and not in the hypnotherapist.  

How long is each session?

Each sessions runs approximately 90 minutes.  The first 20 to 30 minutes we will discuss your issue and goals.  The remainder of the time is spent in session after which we will discuss the experience and go over any additional concerns or questions.

What does a first session consist of?

During the first session we will discuss your specific issue that you would like to change or improve.  We'll discuss what hypnosis and hypnotherapy is and what you can expect from the session.  I'll answer any questions you have and clear up any misconceptions or myths or fears you may have concerning hypnotherapy.  We'll then continue with the session, when it is over we will discuss the experience and go over any additional questions or concerns you have. 

How many sessions will I need?

The purpose is to bring about your desired change as soon as possible. There are
several factors which determine how many sessions you will need such as:

     1.  What the issue is.
     2.  How long you have had this issue
     3.  Your motivation to change and how much effort you are willing to put into changing

There are no set rules.  It really is up to you.  When the mind is really ready to make a change,  results can happen very quickly but sometimes when the brain and body need to do some healing work it can happen over time. 

Can hypnosis cure me?

Hypnotherapy is not a miracle cure.  Although there are occasions when very powerful and amazing sessions occur.  Much of the success will depend on the client's desire and willingness to heal themselves.  The hypnotherapist is the facilitator but the client will have to do their part in putting forth the effort to achieve the desired goal.  Sometimes results occur very quickly but sometimes the issue is very deep rooted - it's like, "peeling the onion," uncovering one issue at a time until the desired outcome is reached.

Are the results guaranteed?

Hypnotherapy has been proven to be a fast, effective, drug free alternative for many people. Results depend on your motivation to change and improve.  No one can guarantee or predict human behavior.   Some interesting statistics in a study done by Alfred Barrios PhD on the effectiveness of therapies reports the following results:  Psychoanalysis - 35% recovery after 600 session; Behavior Therapy - 72% recovery after 22 sessions; and Hypnotherapy -  93% recovery after 6 sessions.

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Last modified: 04/28/08