A Wakening Within
What is hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a natural state of deep relaxation. You enter a hypnotic state several times a day. For example, if you’ve ever driven home, but don’t remember the drive, or if you’ve watched television for 20 minutes then realize you have no idea what you’ve been watching, you’ve experienced a level of hypnosis.
Is hypnosis safe?
Absolutely. You are always in control, so you can end the session any time you want. You are not asleep or “under” anyone else’s control. Hypnosis is a state of heightened awareness. You will remember everything that happens.
Will I say something I don’t want others to know?
No. You are always aware and in control. Your secrets remain your secrets.
Can you make me do something embarrassing?
Again, no. You are always in control. A hypnotist can’t make you do something you wouldn’t do otherwise. In a clinical setting, there is no place for “stage theatrics.” (**Note** When you see a person on stage cluck like a chicken, there is a pretty good chance he would do that anyway, given the right setting and maybe after a couple of drinks.)
How can hypnosis help you change your behavior?
In a hypnotic state of deep relaxation, you bypass your conscious, logical mind and work directly with your subconscious. The subconscious is where all your behavioral programming is, sort of like the programs in your computer are stored in the hard drive. Hypnosis re-programs the subconscious – rewrites the code, so to speak – so you have different responses to old situations. Things like smoking or nail-biting are habits, and you can re-program your subconscious to make different choices.
How many sessions will I need?
That depends entirely on the issue you’re working on and on you. Nail-biting or test-anxiety may require only one, or perhaps two, sessions. Smoking or binge-eating may give you relief from the behaviors in one or two sessions. But these behaviors may have a strong emotional component that may require more time or other types of support. For example, you may do one or two sessions to manage your weight, and then another session for stress management.
I’m still a bit nervous about hypnosis. Can I bring someone with me?
Certainly. Some clients feel more comfortable with a trusted friend in the room and that’s fine.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hypnosis