Hypnotherapy
Want to change your life? Start by changing your subconscious mind.
What is Hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic approach that involves inducing the client into a deep state of relaxation, where direct access to the subconscious mind can occur. The subconscious mind is responsible for up to 95% of all our beliefs, thoughts, behaviors, and reflexive actions. Hypnotherapy attempts to alter these neural programs creating more self-serving, favorable ones. This is accomplished by guiding the client into a deep state of relaxation also referred to as a 'hypnotic trance'. In this state the mind is able to slow down, decreasing focus on the external environment and analytical mind activity, while simultaneously increasing internal awareness, concentration, and the mind's suggestibility (openness to receive new information). Once in this state, the client receives 'suggestions', which are descriptive words and personalized phrases based on the client's goals and desired outcomes. These suggestions help install new neural pathways in the client's subconscious mind. Altering their beliefs, thoughts, behaviors, and ultimately their life experiences.
What is it used for?
Hypnotherapy can address a number of various conditions and behaviors. Here's a list of some examples:
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Anxiety and Stress
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
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Fears and Phobias
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Compulsive Behaviors
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Substance Use and Abuse including tobacco, alcohol, and food.
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Weight Loss
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Sports Performance
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Pain Management
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Improved Self-Esteem and Self- Confidence
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Improved Sleep
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Improved Work and School Productivity
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Improved Relationships
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Improved Communication Skills
What to expect from a session?
The session will always begin by connecting with the client, establishing a safe and effective environment where the client feels seen, safe and supported. After this is established, discussions about the client's presenting problem(s) and desired goals will direct the focus for the session. The client will be guided into a state of hypnosis. This is done through relaxation techniques such as breathing, and the use of imagery. Once in this relaxed state the client will receive 'suggestions' which are powerful descriptive phrases based on the client's goals. After the hypnosis is complete the client will be guided back to full awareness where time and space will be help for reflection and debriefing.
After the session, the client will receive a personalized short hypnosis meditation that they will be encouraged to listen to for the following 21 days to reinforce the desired new neural pathways.
A session can typically last anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. Depending on the presenting problem, and whether it's the client's initial or follow up session.
Common Misconceptions
TV shows, movies, and folk stories have been very effective at persuading many misconceptions about hypnosis. Here is my attempt to dismantle any myths or fears regarding the powerful therapeutic approach to hypnosis.
Hypnosis = Mind Control
Nope! There is no 'blind obedience' under hypnosis. A client has total control of their actions. Hypnosis is about achieving a deep state of relaxation, it cannot make anyone do or say anything out of their will. If a suggestion is given that doesn't resonate with the client, it can be rejected. A client can speak freely at any time during hypnosis and if they wanted to get up and leave at their will they totally can!
You can get stuck in hypnosis
False! It's like saying you can get stuck in a nap, not going to happen! Hypnosis is a natural state that many people experience daily. For example, when you've been completely absorbed into a movie, book, or music. When you're creating art and time flies by. When you're driving and arrive at your destination wondering how the drive went so quickly. It's a natural state that everyone drifts into on a regular basis, but in hypnotherapy you are induced into that state of relaxation purposefully.
Hypnosis will only work on certain people
Not true. There are some people (about 1 in 10) that are highly-hypnotizable who can be easily induced into hypnosis and are very responsive to suggestions. However, most of the time the degree of hypnotic susceptibility comes down to is the individual's motivation and willingness to participate. Just like in many other areas of your life, if you believe something will work and actively participate to make it happen then you'll achieve the outcome you want.
