Hypnotherapy (a.k.a. “Guided Imagery” or “Creative Visualization”) is a process of deep relaxation that connects you with your innermost, wisest self to create lasting change in your life. In this state of consciousness between waking and sleep, you will feel profoundly relaxed while you listen to positive suggestions tailored to your concerns and goals.
Hypnotherapy increases your self-awareness and helps you overcome habits or behaviors from your past that no longer serve you. It moves you forward by reprogramming your thoughts and beliefs toward health, success and happiness. Hypnotherapy helps you to connect your heart and inner knowing (subconscious) with your head (conscious mind). It clears the barriers that have kept you from changing in the past, so that you can “get out of your own way” and create the lasting change you desire.
The hypnotic state is normal and natural. We go in and out of it all day long—while driving, daydreaming, or completing other automatic tasks. Yet it is this deep state of relaxation where true change and healing can occur.
Frequently Asked Questions—Hypnotherapy
How is hypnotherapy done?
Hypnotherapy is usually done one-on-one or in a group setting with a Hypnotherapist guiding you. You will likely be reclined in a comfortable chair, in a dimly lit room to enhance relaxation. It is important to feel as comfortable as possible. Your Hypnotherapist may also teach you self-hypnosis, so that you can support yourself in making the changes you desire.
Is hypnosis dangerous?
No not at all! It is perfectly safe and therapeutic. In fact, there has never been a documented case of harm coming to anyone from the therapeutic use of hypnotism. The common effects of hypnosis include relaxation, stress reduction, attitude adjustment, increased awareness and intuition.
Will I lose control? Does hypnosis weaken the will? Will I reveal secrets?
No, no and no. First, no one can be hypnotized against his or her will. When hypnotized, you are in complete control. You may be aware of everything that is said. Even if you’re not, you can stop the session at any time. And you will not reveal any secrets or information you do not wish to share. You will not say or do anything against your beliefs or values. Again, you are the one in control. Hypnosis strengthens your will to achieve your goals.
What if I can’t come out of the hypnotic state?
You will awaken from the hypnotic state. There has never been a documented case of someone unable to come out of a hypnotic state.
How does it feel to be hypnotized?
It feels very relaxing—a pleasant feeling of complete physical and mental relaxation. The Hypnotherapist will spend time encouraging your body and mind to rest. Then the Hypnotherapist will give positive suggestions to your subconscious to allow for healing, growth and movement in the direction of your goals. You may be aware of everything that is said. Or, you may go into such a deep state of relaxation that your conscious mind loses sense of what the Hypnotherapist is saying. Or, you may alternate between these 2 states. Whatever you experience is perfect for you at that time. And do not worry if your conscious mind is not capturing everything being said—your subconscious is hearing, responding and remembering everything. Your Hypnotherapist will review with you important points afterward.
What if I fall asleep?
You will not fall asleep during hypnosis. You will be relaxed yet mentally alert. In fact, your level of awareness of your surroundings and inner world will increase during hypnosis.
What is the subconscious mind?
The conscious mind, the mind you are aware of, constitutes only 15-20% of who you are. The subconscious mind is the part that directs your behavior through the habits and emotional desires acquired from the influences of your environment, before you were old enough to reject harmful ideas and concepts. Every memory and experience you have had is stored within your subconscious. Hypnotherapy allows you to access important information and answers within yourself, yet you will only experience memories when they are beneficial for your own growth or healing. Through proper use of suggestion during the hypnotic state, you reprogram the subconscious mind to make decisions beneficial to your well-being.
Who can be hypnotized?
Anyone with an open mind and ability to concentrate. With belief and desire, you achieve results.
What is hypnotherapy used for?
Just about anything! Common examples: Stress Management, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Attitude (overcoming anger, resentment, negativity), Fears, Phobias, Health issues (including Pain Management), Smoking Cessation, Sleep (insomnia), Improving performance (golf, tennis, public speaking), and much, much more.
What is self-hypnosis?
Truly, all hypnosis is a form of self-hypnosis. The Hypnotherapist states suggestions, yet you are the one who internalizes and imagines the suggestions. You can also guide yourself through hypnosis sessions, either by thinking yourself through them or by recording and listening to your own voice. This can be extremely helpful for:
- Supporting yourself in between sessions with your Hypnotherapist
- Stress management
- Pain management
- Putting yourself to sleep
- Improving meditation or ability to concentrate
- Improving performance (ex. sports, public speaking, etc.)
How many sessions will I need to achieve my goal?
This depends on the nature of your goal, your individual characteristics and circumstances. Your goal may be achieved with only one session, or you may require a few or several sessions.
Courtney will be happy to answer any other questions you may have about Hypnotherapy!
It is important for you to know what to expect and feel comfortable with the process before beginning.
Are you ready to feel energized, healthy, happy & fulfilled?