What is Hypnosis?
 

Hypnosis is  a naturally occurring, enhanced conscious waking state that results in an intensely heightened awareness or focus of the subconscious mind.

For example, commuting to work and arriving at your destination with no specific recollection of the journey.  You have the route memorized.  Your subconscious mind gets you there while your conscious mind focuses on a daydream, phone call, or wondering what you will have for dinner.

Although it is a naturally occurring phenomenon, it must be induced. It can be induced naturally, as when you are about to enter sleep.  It can also be induced artificially, by a trained hypnotist. 

To be artificially induced into a state of hypnosis, you must be a willing participant.  While in the hypnotic state, you tend to be more responsive to suggestion and still have willpower and self-control.

What is Hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is the process of inducing the hypnotic state to allow guided self-therapy.  Once in that state, you can very effectively self-analyze and make desired changes in your habits  and reactions to your life.

Can I get stuck in the hypnotic state?

You can not get "stuck" in the hypnotic state.  If something uncomfortable were to occur while in hypnosis, you would simply "wake-up".  In the other extreme, were you to be so relaxed and tired that while hypnotized you went into full sleep, it would simply be like a nap.  You could be awaken, or if left alone, wake-up on your own.

Will I do something against my will?

A person can not be made to do anything they would not normally be comfortable doing.  The hypnotherapist has no power over the client.  The client is fully capable of bringing themselves out of the hypnotic state at any point.  While hypnotized, you are still fully aware and when the session is complete, you will remember everything that occurred.

This is contrary to what you have likely observed in movies, television, and books.  Keep in mind, the entertainment industry is not as concerned about reality as it is with entertainment. 

An additional example, that people observe as a hypnotist having control of a person, is the "stage hypnotist" you may have seen or experienced "stage hypnotists" in a night club, fair, or other gathering for entertainment.  In these situations, the person being hypnotized volunteered.  They went into the spotlight expecting to do something "odd", and are generally extroverts to begin with.  You may also have noticed the stage hypnotist sent some of the "volunteers" back to their seats.  These are the people the hypnotist felt were not as willing to follow his instructions.   Even in these cases, if the hypnotist suggested the person do something that would normally be unacceptable to that person, the person would not cooperate.  Of course the stage hypnotist avoids that situation. 

Who can be hypnotized?

Anyone with normal intelligence is hypnotizable.  The hypnotic state can be achieved by anyone with an I.Q. of 70 or better. They must be willing to follow the instructions of the hypnotist and have no unanswered fears about the process.  Some strong-willed  individuals feel they will not be good clients .  When in fact, it is usually found that strong-minded and strong-willed persons achieve the same excellent results from hypnosis.

What can hypnosis help me with?

Hypnosis has helped people with almost every imaginable problem.  Including: Weight management, stress management/relaxation skills, pain management, improve sleep habits, alleviate apprehensions (fears), tobacco cessation (smoking/chewing), gain self-control from alcohol and drugs, gain a positive mental attitude, goal setting, sports improvement, increase self-confidence,  learn self-hypnosis, improve study skills and memory, attractiveness, improve self-discipline, and others.

Hypnosis has been approved by the American Medical Association since 1958.

How many sessions will it take?

An average of 3 sessions generally one week apart are needed for most issues.

What should I know before coming in for a appointment?

Please avoid wearing perfume, cologne or other strong scents.  Wear comfortable clothing and shoes,  something easy to relax in.

 Note:

a.  The hypnotist does not treat, prescribe for, or diagnose  any condition.

b.  The Hypnotist is a facilitator of hypnosis and in this role does not practice any other profession that requires a license under the laws and regulations of the state of Oregon.

c.  Hypnosis is not a replacement for medical treatment, psychological services, or counseling.