Hypnotherapy differs from “talk therapy” in that we don’t try to “analyze” or figure out what’s “wrong” with you. Indeed, it’s usually the case that whatever someone thinks their problem is, the outward manifestation masks a more potent underlying issue, hidden from conscious thought. (Which makes sense when you think about it—after all, if you knew what the problem was, you’d address it and move on.) It’s only fair to point out that this underlying issue will also emerge in work with a competent psychotherapist—and almost invariably it will surface much, much faster with a competent hypnotherapist.
Also, insight alone is of little value if the problem still has you in its grasp.
A good hypnotherapy session will usually bring about a dramatic shift. People report feeling different in their bodies as they experience healing energy loosening the energetic hold their issue has had on/over them.
In the countless sessions I’ve conducted over the years, a couple of universal truths seem to have emerged:
The subconscious is, or has, a transcendent intelligence. That transcendent intelligence loves you and wants to heal you.
Hypnotherapy is a drugless short-term therapy that, properly done, effectively addresses:
- Compulsive behaviors (smoking, .overeating,.nailbiting, etc.)
- Phobias
- Post-traumatic stress
- Grief issues
- Insomnia
- Pain management
- Relationship issues
- Sports performance
- Creative blocks
- Weight management
- Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse
- Stage fright
- Test anxiety
- …and virtually anything else that may be troubling you
WHAT TO EXPECT
The first thing to know is that you can’t do it “wrong.” Please put to rest any concerns you have about being a “good subject.” It might help to keep in mind that it’s my job to make the session work for you, not vice-versa. Your “skill” at “processing” is not a factor.
The first time we meet, the first 15 minutes are free. We begin by getting acquainted with each other and discussing your issue. If we both feel good about continuing, we then begin the session.
Not only can you not do it wrong, but you’re in control of the session. You are in trance, not under it, and you can take yourself out at any time. We work together in a “light trance” state, which one might describe as a kind of waking dream. I act as the “dream guide,” making sure you’re feeling comfortable and safe throughout.
Each hypnotherapy session unfolds like a story unto itself; the point is to journey beyond your surface thoughts to engage the deep healing wisdom of the subconscious. People report a wide range of experiences, from feeling lighter in their bodies (often from a sensation of throwing off a great weight), to having a spiritual or transcendent experience. At the very least, they almost always report a feeling of profound peace and relaxation often beyond what they had thought themselves capable of. And unlike a drug-induced state, there are no side effects and no negative consequences.
Hypnotherapy is intended for people who want to change behaviors. Hypnotherapists are not licensed to diagnose or treat medical or psychological disorders. However, hypnotherapy has been shown to be a powerful adjunct to medical and/or psychological treatments for pain, disease and other medical and psychological problems.
Finally, any work we do together is completely confidential. If you have any questions or concerns, please call me and I’ll be happy to discuss them with you.