Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

  • Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic approach that harnesses the power of hypnosis to facilitate positive change and personal growth by accessing a person's internal resources. It aims to help solve problems, increase motivation, or alter behavior patterns to create positive change. During hypnotherapy, self-discovery techniques and self-improvement methods are applied while the client is in a hypnotic state. This process helps free individuals from fear-based programming and assumed limitations.

    Hypnotherapy is a collaborative process that respects your personal boundaries and ethical framework, enhancing your ability to access internal resources without overriding your fundamental beliefs or moral compass.

  • Integral Hypnotherapy is a unique style based on a collaborative, client-centered approach, combining classical hypnotherapy with modern methods and protocols. It also integrates perennial wisdom traditions, philosophical counseling, and human potential training, including life skills coaching and applied mind sciences. You can learn more about Integral Hypnotherapy here.

  • Medical support hypnotherapy can be a valuable complementary approach for treating various medical issues, but it is not a replacement for traditional medical treatments:

    COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY

    Supportive Role: Hypnotherapy can effectively complement traditional medical treatments by helping to manage symptoms and improve overall well-being. It is particularly useful for conditions where stress and emotional factors play a significant role.

    Stress Reduction: Many medical issues are exacerbated by stress. A 2017 review article in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience states that “stress is the common risk factor of 75%–90% diseases, including the diseases which cause the foremost morbidity and mortality.” Hypnotherapy can help reduce stress levels, which in turn can alleviate symptoms and improve the body's ability to heal. Here's how hypnosis impacts the nervous system:

    • Sympathetic Nervous System Relaxation: During hypnosis, the sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the "fight or flight" response, becomes relaxed. This relaxation reduces the production of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

    • Parasympathetic Nervous System Dominance: As the sympathetic system relaxes, the parasympathetic nervous system, known for "rest and digest" functions, engages. This shift promotes a state of calm and relaxation throughout the body.

    • Balancing Body Functions: With the parasympathetic system in control, the body can focus on balancing its various functions. This includes improved digestion, enhanced immune function, and better hormonal balance.

    • Promoting Healing: The relaxed state achieved through hypnosis allows the body to allocate more resources to healing and repair processes. This can accelerate recovery from injuries, reduce inflammation, and improve overall physical well-being.

    • Long-term Benefits: Regular hypnosis practice can help retrain the nervous system to maintain a better balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic functions. This can lead to improved stress management skills and better overall health in the long term.

    Pain Management: Hypnotherapy is often used to manage chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis, migraines, and fibromyalgia. It can help reduce the perception of pain and improve quality of life.

    Changing Negative Patterns: Hypnotherapy can help address emotional and behavioral patterns that contribute to medical issues. For example, it can assist in quitting smoking, managing weight, and reducing anxiety, which can have positive effects on overall health.

    Improving Sleep: Many medical conditions are linked to poor sleep. Hypnotherapy can help improve sleep quality, which is crucial for healing and overall health.

    NOT A REPLACEMENT FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT

    Medical Supervision: While hypnotherapy can provide significant benefits, it should not replace conventional medical treatments.

    Scope of Practice: Certain medical conditions may be outside the scope of hypnotherapy. It is essential to discuss your specific medical issues with a hypnotherapist certified in medical support hypnotherapy to determine the appropriateness of hypnotherapy for your situation.

    CONSULTATION & ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS

    Free Consultation: It is advisable to set up a free consultation with a hypnotherapist to discuss your specific medical issues and determine if medical support hypnotherapy is appropriate for you. This consultation can help address any concerns and ensure that hypnotherapy aligns with your medical needs.

    Ethical Practice: Ethical hypnotherapists adhere to strict guidelines in the context of medical support hypnotherapy to ensure that hypnotherapy is used appropriately and safely. When helping clients with their medical issues, they work collaboratively with medical professionals to provide the best possible care for their clients.

    You can learn more about medical support therapy here.

  • While both hypnotherapy and psychotherapy aim to improve mental health and well-being, they use different techniques to achieve these goals. Hypnotherapy focuses on direct communication with the subconscious mind, offering quick access to underlying issues and rapid results through suggestions.

    In contrast, psychotherapy involves a more gradual, structured exploration of thoughts and feelings, relying heavily on conscious insights. The choice between the two depends on individual needs, preferences, and the nature of the issues being addressed. For many, an integrated approach that combines both therapies can offer the most comprehensive and effective treatment.

    Hypnotherapy Techniques

    • Direct Communication with the Subconscious Mind: Hypnotherapy involves guiding the client into a state of deep relaxation, where the subconscious mind becomes more accessible. In this state, the hypnotherapist can directly communicate with the subconscious, bypassing the critical conscious mind. This allows for quicker access to underlying issues and the implantation of positive suggestions.

    • Speedy Access to Underlying Causes: Hypnotherapy often provides rapid insights into the root causes of problems. By accessing the subconscious mind, it can quickly identify and address issues that might take longer to uncover through traditional talk therapy.

    • Use of Suggestions: During hypnosis, the therapist uses carefully and collaboratively crafted suggestions to influence the client's thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. These suggestions can help modify habits, reduce stress, manage pain, and address phobias.

    • Focused and Brief Therapy: Hypnotherapy is typically a brief therapy, often requiring fewer sessions than psychotherapy. Clients may experience significant improvements in as few as 3-6 sessions (with 6-10 sessions being more common).

    Psychotherapy Techniques

    • Talk Therapy and Conscious Exploration: Psychotherapy, often referred to as talk therapy, involves discussing thoughts, feelings, and experiences with a therapist. This process helps clients gain insight into their difficulties and develop coping strategies. The therapist works with the client's conscious mind, exploring feelings, beliefs, and behaviors to understand motivations and find ways to change.

    • Structured and Gradual Approach: Psychotherapy is generally more structured and gradual, often requiring a longer-term commitment. It may involve weekly sessions over several months or even years.

    The choice between hypnotherapy and psychotherapy depends on individual needs, preferences, and the nature of the issues being addressed. For many, an integrated approach that combines both therapies can offer the most comprehensive and effective treatment. 

    It is important to note that hypnotherapy may not be suitable for those with certain psychological conditions. For all new clients, booking a free 15-minute consultation will allow us to discuss your specific needs and determine if hypnotherapy is appropriate for you.

  • Hypnosis is a natural, yet altered state similar to other everyday experiences like daydreaming or being absorbed in a book or movie. During hypnosis you remain aware of your surroundings, maintain control over your thoughts and actions. Hypnosis is marked by:

    • Extraordinary mental, physical, and emotional relaxation

    • Focused attention

    • Enhanced capacity to respond to suggestions

    • Increased access to subconscious thoughts and memories

    During hypnosis, the sympathetic nervous system (responsible for the "fight or flight" response) relaxes, while the parasympathetic nervous system (associated with "rest and digest" functions) engages. This shift allows the body's systems to balance and optimize their functions.

    Contrary to popular misconceptions, you maintain full control over your actions and decisions during hypnosis. You are not under the hypnotist's control, nor can you be compelled to do anything against your will. In fact, the effectiveness of hypnosis is entirely dependent on your voluntary participation and willingness to accept suggestions that align with your goals and values.

  • A suggestion in hypnotherapy is a carefully crafted statement or idea introduced to the subconscious mind during a hypnotic state. It is essentially an idea that reaches the mind and stimulates action designed to facilitate positive change, alter thought patterns, or influence behavior. 

    In adherence with best practice for ethical hypnotherapy, your suggestions will be developed collaboratively between you and the hypnotherapist, custom tailored to your specific goals, needs, values, and spiritual or religious beliefs. This collaborative approach ensures that the suggestions align with your values and objectives.

  • While both hypnotherapy and stage hypnosis use hypnotic principles, their goals, settings, and methods are fundamentally different.

    Hypnotherapy is focused on therapeutic outcomes and personal improvement, conducted in a private and ethical manner. The client remains fully aware and in control during the session. The therapist and client work together to address specific issues and achieve therapeutic goals. The aim is for long-term positive changes and personal growth. In addition, the client learns self-hypnosis techniques to continue their progress between sessions.

    In contrast, stage hypnosis is designed to entertain an audience, often using rapid and dramatic techniques to create a captivating show. The participants are carefully selected by the stage hypnotist based on their perceived willingness to follow suggestions and be a part of the entertainment.

  • When seeking a qualified hypnotherapist, consider the following key factors:

    Professional Training and Qualifications: Look for a hypnotherapist with comprehensive training from recognized institutions. Check for certifications in hypnotherapy and related fields.

    Professional Memberships: Membership in reputable hypnotherapy boards or associations indicates a commitment to professional standards. These memberships often require ongoing education and adherence to ethical guidelines.

    Ethical Standards: A qualified hypnotherapist should adhere to a strict code of ethics. This includes maintaining client confidentiality and practicing within their scope of competence.

    Respect for Individual Beliefs: Choose a hypnotherapist who demonstrates unwavering support and respect for diverse religious and spiritual beliefs. They should be willing to tailor their approach to align with your personal values and beliefs.

    Client-Centered Approach: Look for a practitioner who uses a collaborative, client-centered approach. They should be willing to explain their techniques and obtain informed consent before proceeding with hypnosis.

    Specializations and Techniques: Consider hypnotherapists who have experience or specialize in addressing your specific concerns. Those practicing Integral Hypnotherapy, which combines classical techniques with modern methods, may offer a more comprehensive approach. Medical support hypnotherapy can complement traditional medical treatments by enhancing healing processes, managing pain, and improving overall patient outcomes.

    Personal Comfort and Rapport: It's essential to feel comfortable with your hypnotherapist. A free initial consultation can help you assess your compatibility and discuss your goals.

    By considering these factors, you can find a qualified hypnotherapist who not only has the necessary skills and credentials but also aligns with your personal needs and values, ensuring a more effective and comfortable therapeutic experience.

    You can read more about my approach, training, certification, and ethics here.

    See what the International Board of Hypnotherapy has to say about the adequate training and credentials for hypnotherapists here.

Hypnosis & Its Effects

  • Research has shown that hypnotherapy can be effective for various conditions, including anxiety, pain management, and behavioral changes. Studies indicate that the therapeutic use of hypnosis can lead to significant improvements in these areas. You can learn more about some of this research here. 

    It is important to note that the client’s desire for change and their commitment to the process are crucial. The more motivated and committed you are, the more likely you are to benefit from hypnotherapy.

  • Meeting your goal in just one hypnotherapy session depends on the nature of the issue you're addressing. While some clients may see significant progress after a single session, most typically require at least three sessions to achieve meaningful results, and a range of six to ten sessions is more common for lasting change.

    Hypnosis is a skill that improves with practice. Each session builds on the previous one, allowing you to make more progress over time. Just like learning any new skill, consistent practice and engagement are key to becoming more proficient and achieving better results. In your first session, I'll teach you self-hypnosis techniques that you can practice between sessions to accelerate your progress.

    In addition, my practice is dedicated to working with integrity, using thorough and ethical methods to promote sustainable transformation. This approach ensures that we address the root causes of your issues rather than just the symptoms. It's important to be cautious of hypnotists who claim they can resolve problems in one session. They often use fear-based programming, which can be harmful and often fails to address the underlying issues, leading to the problem potentially resurfacing in another form.

    While one session can bring some initial benefits, a more comprehensive approach involving multiple sessions is usually necessary for effective and lasting change.

  • While hypnosis, meditation, and sleep all involve altered states of consciousness, hypnosis is distinct in its specific focus on relaxation and selective thinking. Unlike sleep, where consciousness is fully suspended, and meditation, which often aims for a state of mindfulness or transcendence, hypnosis maintains a communication channel between the conscious and subconscious mind to achieve specific therapeutic or personal development goals, distinguishing it from the general mindfulness of meditation and the unconscious state of sleep.

  • No, you do not lose consciousness during hypnosis. Hypnosis is a natural, altered state of consciousness, during which you remain fully aware and in control. The critical factor of the conscious mind is relaxed and selective thinking is maintained, allowing for focused attention.

    Unlike sleep, where consciousness is fully suspended, a person in hypnosis maintains awareness. During hypnosis you can hear and respond to the hypnotherapist's voice, and many people report heightened sensory awareness. You remain alert and in control, with the ability to communicate and end the session at any time. This makes hypnosis a safe and effective tool for personal growth and therapeutic change.

  • Hypnosis is a natural state and a learnable skill. With practice, virtually anyone can become proficient in entering a hypnotic state. Contrary to popular belief, more intelligent and creative individuals often respond more quickly to hypnosis. These traits are associated with a greater ability to focus and engage in imaginative processes. 

    Similarly, people with strong control over their minds typically find it easier to enter hypnosis. It's a myth that only weak-minded people can be hypnotized. In fact, strong-willed individuals can often use their mental strength to enhance the hypnotic experience. 

    However, the most crucial factors in hypnotic success are the individual's motivation for change and commitment to the process. A strong desire to achieve specific goals through hypnosis is what will most dramatically enhance responsiveness.

  • It's a misconception that strong-minded individuals are not easily hypnotized. In fact, the opposite tends to be true. Here's a clearer explanation of how mental strength relates to hypnosis:

    • Intelligence & Creativity. Contrary to popular belief, more intelligent and creative individuals often respond more quickly to hypnosis. These traits are associated with a greater ability to focus and engage in the imaginative processes involved in hypnosis.

    • Mental Control. People with strong control over their minds typically find it easier to enter hypnosis. This mental strength allows them to focus more effectively on hypnotic suggestions and engage more deeply with the hypnotic experience.

    • Motivation & Commitment. The effectiveness of hypnosis largely depends on the individual's motivation for change. When strong-willed individuals apply their determination and commitment to their hypnotherapy process, it can make hypnosis more effective for them.

    It’s important to remember that hypnosis is a learnable skill that improves with practice. Anyone, regardless of personality type, can become proficient in entering hypnotic states with proper guidance and practice.

  • If you've had an ineffective experience with hypnosis in the past, it doesn't necessarily mean that hypnosis isn't right for you. Several factors could have influenced the outcome, and understanding these can help you have a more successful experience in the future.

    Factors Influencing Hypnotic Success

    • Rapport with the Hypnotherapist: One of the most critical factors in the success of hypnotherapy is the rapport between the client and the hypnotherapist. If you didn't feel comfortable or connected with your previous hypnotherapist, this could have hindered the process.

    • Skill and Competence of the Hypnotherapist: The effectiveness of hypnosis also depends on the skill and competence of the hypnotherapist. An experienced and well-trained hypnotherapist can tailor the approach to better suit your unique needs and values, increasing the likelihood of success.

    • Hypnosis as a Learnable Skill: Hypnosis is a skill that improves with practice. Just like learning any new skill, it may take time and repeated sessions to become proficient. With consistent practice and guidance, anyone can become good at entering hypnosis.

    Improving Future Hypnotic Experiences

    • Personal Motivation: Your motivation for change plays a crucial role in the success of hypnotherapy. Being committed and open to the process can enhance the effectiveness of the sessions.

    • Self-Hypnosis Practice: Learning and practicing self-hypnosis can help you become more comfortable with the process and improve your ability to enter hypnosis. This practice can accelerate your progress and make future sessions more effective.

    • Choosing the Right Hypnotherapist: Finding a hypnotherapist with whom you feel comfortable and who has the necessary qualifications can make a significant difference. Look for someone who adheres to a strict code of ethics and respects your individual needs and beliefs.

    By addressing these factors and giving hypnosis another try, you may find it to be a highly effective tool for achieving your goals.

Hypnotherapy Sessions

  • During your first hypnotherapy session, the process begins with a discussion about your goals and what you hope to achieve through hypnotherapy. This helps to build trust and clarity. The hypnotherapist will also demonstrate how hypnotherapy works and teach you how to practice self-hypnosis. This skill allows you to continue making progress toward your goals between sessions, enhancing overall effectiveness.

    Before guiding you into hypnosis, the hypnotherapist will work with you to develop and agree upon the suggestions that will be used. These suggestions are tailored to your specific needs and are created collaboratively to ensure they align with your goals and values. This consent-driven approach ensures that you are comfortable with the process and the intended outcomes. 

    The hypnotherapist will then explain the technique and obtain your informed consent, ensuring you understand what will happen during the session. You will then be guided into hypnosis where you will enter a state of deep relaxation and focused attention, but remain fully aware and in control. The hypnotherapist will lead you through the process, using the agreed-upon suggestions to help you access your subconscious mind and facilitate positive changes.

  • Hypnotherapy sessions can be conducted either in person or remotely. If you prefer in-person, your session will be at my conveniently located office in downtown Las Cruces, NM. Please note that office hours are by appointment only, and walk-ins are not permitted, so it's important to contact me in advance to arrange a session or to inquire about whether hypnotherapy is suitable for you.

    For those who prefer or require remote sessions, hypnotherapy can also be effectively conducted via Zoom. To participate in a remote session, you will need a reliable internet connection and a Zoom video conferencing account, which is free to sign up for here. You can use a desktop computer, laptop, or tablet, ensuring your device is connected to power and positioned so both you and the hypnotherapist can see and hear each other clearly. While headphones are an option, most people find the built-in microphone and audio on their computer sufficient.

    It is important to minimize distractions by turning off or removing other devices from the room and choosing a quiet, comfortable space where you will not be disturbed. Choose a nice comfortable chair (ideally one that can recline) that is situated so that you are able to see the hypnotherapist and the hypnotherapist is able to see you. Optional items like a pillow, light blanket, glass of water, and box of tissues can enhance your comfort during the session.

    Both in-person and remote hypnotherapy sessions are designed to be effective, with each format offering unique benefits. In-person sessions provide a prepared, structured environment, while remote sessions offer the convenience and comfort of participating from your own home.

  • Preparing for a hypnotherapy session involves a few key steps to ensure you have a comfortable and effective experience. Here’s what you need to do:

    For In-Person Sessions:

    1. Schedule in Advance: Contact your hypnotherapist to schedule an appointment, as walk-ins are not permitted.

    2. Arrive on Time: Ensure you arrive at the scheduled time to make the most of your session.

    For Online/Remote Sessions:

    1. Reliable Internet: Ensure you have a reliable internet connection.

    2. Device Setup: 

    • You can use a desktop computer, laptop, or tablet.

    • Ensure your device is connected to power.

    • Position your device so both you and your hypnotherapist can see and hear each other clearly.

    • While headphones are an option, most people find the built-in microphone and audio on their computer sufficient.

    1. Zoom Account: If you do not already have one, make sure you register for a Zoom video conferencing account, which is free to sign up for here.

    2. Minimize Distractions: Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you will not be disturbed, and turn off or remove other devices from the room to avoid distractions.

    3. Comfortable Seating: Select a comfortable chair (ideally one that can recline). Ensure your face is visible during the session.

    4. Optional Items: A pillow, blanket, glass of water, and box of tissues can enhance your comfort during the session.

    5. Arrive on Time: Ensure you join the Zoom meeting at the scheduled time to make the most of your session, using the link provided to you after you book your session.

    This preparation helps ensure that you are relaxed and focused, allowing you to get the most out of your hypnotherapy experience.

  • Multiple studies have shown that online hypnotherapy can be equally effective as face-to-face sessions for various conditions. For example, a 2019 study comparing online and in-person hypnotherapy for IBS found that both delivery methods delivered positive outcomes.

    Many clients report feeling more relaxed and receptive during online sessions, as they are in the comfort of their own homes. This familiarity can enhance the hypnotic state and potentially lead to deeper trance experiences.

    Advantages of online sessions include:

    1. Convenience. Eliminates travel time and costs.

    2. Accessibility. Beneficial for those with mobility issues or busy schedules.

    3. Comfort. Clients can relax in their own environment.

    4. Wider reach. Allows access to specialists regardless of location.

    Considerations for Optimal Results

    • Ensure a stable internet connection and proper audio/video setup.

    • Create a quiet, distraction-free environment for sessions.

    • Choose a comfortable seating arrangement visible to the therapist.

    While some clients may initially prefer in-person sessions, many find that the benefits and effectiveness of online hypnotherapy make it a viable and sometimes preferable option. The key to success lies in the skill of the hypnotherapist and the client's openness to the process, rather than the delivery method itself.

  • Research suggests that both online and in-person hypnotherapy can be equally effective. A 2019 study published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis found that both online video-based and face-to-face hypnotherapy were effective therapies for IBS. The choice between online and in-person sessions often comes down to personal preference and individual circumstances.

    Advantages of Online/Remote Sessions:

    1. Convenience: Clients can participate from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating travel time and costs.

    2. Accessibility: Online sessions make hypnotherapy available to those with mobility issues, busy schedules, or who live far from therapists.

    3. Comfort: Many clients report feeling more relaxed in their familiar home environment, potentially enhancing the hypnotic experience.

    4. Wider selection of therapists: Clients can choose from a broader range of hypnotherapists, not limited by geographical location.

    5. Flexibility: Online sessions often offer more flexible scheduling options, including evenings and weekends.

    6. Privacy: Some clients feel more comfortable opening up from the privacy of their own space.

    Disadvantages of Online/Remote Sessions:

    1. Technical issues: Unreliable internet connections or equipment problems can sometimes disrupt sessions.

    2. Lack of physical presence: Some clients may miss the in-person connection with their hypnotherapist.

    3. Potential distractions: Home environments may have more interruptions or distractions than a dedicated therapy space.

    Advantages of In-Person Sessions:

    1. Prepared environment: The therapist's office is specifically designed for comfort and relaxation, including a high-quality reclining chair.

    2. Face-to-face interaction: Some clients prefer the personal touch of being in the same room as their therapist.

    3. Fewer technical concerns: No need to worry about internet connectivity or video conferencing issues.

    Disadvantages of In-Person Sessions:

    1. Travel required: Clients must commute to the therapist's office, which for some may be time-consuming and potentially stressful.

    2. Less flexibility: In-person sessions may have more limited scheduling options.

    3. Potential discomfort: Some clients may feel more anxious in unfamiliar environments.

  • To ensure a smooth and effective online hypnotherapy session, follow these preparation steps:

    Technology Setup

    1. Reliable Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection to avoid interruptions.

    2. Zoom Account: Sign up here for a free Zoom video conferencing account if you don't already have one.

    3. Device: Use a desktop computer, laptop, or tablet. Make sure your device is plugged into a power source to prevent it from running out of battery during the session.

    4. Positioning: Position your device so that both you and your hypnotherapist can see and hear each other clearly. 

    5. Audio: While headphones are an option, most people find the built-in microphone and audio on their computer sufficient.

    Environment Setup

    1. Minimize Distractions: Turn off or remove other devices from the room to avoid distractions. Ensure that notifications on your devices (including your computer) are silenced.

    2. Quiet Space: Choose a quiet, comfortable room where you will not be disturbed. It is recommended to keep pets outside the room during the session.

    3. Comfortable Seating: Use a comfortable chair (ideally one that can recline). Ensure your face is visible during the session.

    4. Optional Comfort Items: Consider having a pillow, blanket, glass of water, and a box of tissues nearby to enhance your comfort during the session.

    By following these steps, you can create an optimal environment for your online hypnotherapy session, ensuring that you are relaxed and focused, which will help you get the most out of your experience.

Safety & Ethics

  • As a hypnotherapist, I hold a deep respect for the spiritual and religious beliefs of my clients. I believe that a person's faith is sacrosanct and should be treated with utmost integrity. During hypnotherapy sessions, I conscientiously tailor the experience to align with your values and your personal spiritual or religious framework, ensuring that the process complements rather than conflicts with your beliefs.

    In fact, integrating your spiritual beliefs into hypnotherapy sessions can make the experience significantly more meaningful and powerful. By weaving in familiar spiritual concepts or practices, we can create a therapeutic experience that is both powerfully effective and spiritually harmonious.

    Of note, many religious leaders and scholars have recognized the potential benefits of hypnotherapy when used ethically and with proper intentions:

    • Christianity: Many Christian leaders view hypnotherapy as a valuable tool for healing and personal growth when used responsibly. For example, Focus on the Family has taken the stance that hypnotherapy is not inherently dangerous and acknowledges that hypnosis can be beneficial, stating: “For our part, we see no reason to regard [hypnotherapy] as 'evil' or 'dangerous' in and of itself. In actuality, there is little or no basis for most of the popular fears associated with this technique. It is not true, for instance, that a hypnotist can gain control or mastery of another person’s will.”

    • Islam: Several Islamic scholars permit the use of hypnotherapy for therapeutic purposes. For example, the respected Islamic scholar Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat states that hypnotherapy is permissible as long as it is applied in a way that does not conflict with the teachings of Islam, stating: “There are no elements that are forbidden in [hypnotherapy], intrinsically. It cannot be used to control others.”

    • Judaism: Judaism generally sees hypnotherapy as compatible with its teachings when used ethically. Rabbi Jacob Ettlinger, a 19th-century authority, approved hypnotism as a valid treatment after consulting with physicians who assured him of its mental health benefits.

    Personal Consultation

    Given the diversity of religious and spiritual beliefs in the world, I always conduct a personal consultation before beginning hypnotherapy. This allows us to discuss any specific concerns you may have and ensure that our approach fully respects and integrates your spiritual or religious values.

  • No. The idea of getting "stuck" in hypnosis is a myth. Hypnosis is a safe, controlled state that you can enter and exit naturally. The mind's inherent ability to regulate consciousness ensures that you will always return to your normal state of awareness when you choose.

    Hypnosis is a natural, yet altered state similar to other everyday experiences like daydreaming or being absorbed in a book or movie. During hypnosis you remain aware of your surroundings, maintain control over your thoughts and actions, and you do not lose consciousness or fall asleep. Throughout the session, you can hear and respond to the hypnotherapist's voice, and you can choose to end the hypnotic state at any time. 

    Professional hypnotherapists are trained to guide clients safely in and out of hypnosis. They use specific techniques to ensure a smooth transition back to normal awareness. But even without guidance, your mind would naturally return to its normal state of awareness. This is similar to how you naturally snap out of a daydream. Just as you naturally enter hypnosis, you naturally come out of it. The brain doesn't "lock" into the hypnotic state.

  • No, hypnosis and brainwashing are fundamentally different processes. While hypnosis involves the client's active participation and ethical guidelines to ensure safety, brainwashing strips individuals of their autonomy and subjects them to severe ethical violations. While the effectiveness of hypnosis depends on the client's willingness and motivation to engage in the process, brainwashing relies on force and manipulation. 

    Hypnosis is a voluntary and collaborative process between the hypnotherapist and the client, aimed at empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals, focusing on enhancing well-being and personal growth. During hypnosis, the client remains fully aware and in control, able to accept or reject suggestions. 

    In contrast, brainwashing is a coercive and manipulative process that seeks to control someone's thoughts and behaviors through forceful techniques. It aims to break down an individual's free will and implant new beliefs or behaviors, using coercive techniques like isolation, deprivation, and psychological manipulation.

  • No. During hypnosis, you remain fully aware and in control of your thoughts and actions. The ego, which acts as a protective mechanism, remains present throughout the process, ensuring that you won't act outside your moral code or reveal anything you don't want to share. Even in a hypnotic state, you retain the ability to edit your responses or even lie if you choose, just as you would in a fully conscious state. This is because hypnosis is not a form of mind control; rather, it relies on your willingness to participate and accept suggestions. In hypnosis your awareness is not diminished in any way. In fact, many people experience heightened awareness during hypnosis. 

    Ethical hypnotherapists adhere to strict guidelines to ensure your safety and comfort, respecting your boundaries and never pushing you to disclose anything unwillingly. Hypnotherapy is a collaborative process that respects your autonomy and ethical boundaries, allowing you to maintain control over what you choose to share or keep private.

  • No. Your ethical standards and moral principles are deeply ingrained aspects of your personality that remain fully intact during hypnosis. The ego, which acts as a protective mechanism, stays present throughout the hypnotic experience, ensuring that you don't engage in any behavior that conflicts with your values. 

    Contrary to popular misconceptions, you maintain full control over your actions and decisions during hypnosis. You are not under the hypnotist's control, nor can you be compelled to do anything against your will. In fact, the effectiveness of hypnosis is entirely dependent on your voluntary participation and willingness to accept suggestions that align with your goals and values.

    Hypnotherapy is a collaborative process that respects your personal boundaries and ethical framework, enhancing your ability to access internal resources without overriding your fundamental beliefs or moral compass.

  • No, hypnosis will not make you lose control or make you do something against your will. During hypnosis, you enter a state of focused awareness that allows you to access both your conscious and subconscious mind simultaneously. Despite being deeply relaxed, you remain fully aware and in control of your actions. You do not surrender your will to the hypnotist; your ego remains present as a protective mechanism, ensuring that you do not act outside your moral code or ethical boundaries.

    Hypnotherapy is not about being overpowered or controlled; rather, it is a collaborative process where you retain the full ability to accept or reject suggestions based on your own values and desires.

I live and work on the ancestral and present-day homelands of the Manso people, the Piro-Manso-Tiwa tribe, and the shared traditional territories of the Suma, Jumano, Jocome, Mescalero Apache, Warm Springs Apache, Chiricahua Apache, Jano, Conchos, Manso, Piro, Tapaxkolmeh, Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, Tortugas, and other Indigenous Peoples throughout time. I pay my respects to their elders, past and present, and honor their history, culture, and ongoing stewardship of this land.

Land Acknowledgment

Disclaimer

Hypnotherapy is an educational and self-improvement process that facilitates access to a person’s internal resources to assist him/her/them in solving problems, increasing motivation, or altering behavior patterns to create positive change. Hypnotherapy is not a substitute for medical treatment or psychotherapy. Carolyn does not practice medicine or psychotherapy and her services are not a replacement for counseling, psychotherapy, psychiatric, or medical treatment. No service or product provided is intended to diagnose or treat any disease or illness, or psychological or mental condition.

Medical Support Hypnotherapy:

Medical support hypnotherapy is used only as an adjunct to conventional medical treatment. Consultation with a licensed physician is required before medical support hypnotherapy services are provided. Learn more about medical support hypnotherapy here.

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