Does Hypnotherapy Really Work? How Effective Is It?
Yes. In 1958, Hypnotherapy was approved by The American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Medical Association (AMA); as well as the American Psychological Association (APA) in 1962 (as a viable tool in the realm of psychology). The Mayo Clinic, the Veterans’s Administration (VA), and the National Institute of Health (NIH) followed thereafter.
All of the organizations listed above endorse hypnosis as a viable and evidence-based therapeutic treatment for over 800 uses.
Can Anyone Be Hypnotized?
The short answer is YES. Hypnosis is a natural state of mind that everyone goes in and out of several times each day. When failure to induce trance happens it is commonly due to lack of proper training, using incomplete methods, or lack of rapport between client and hypnotist. When searching for a hypnotic program, ask about education and training.
Is Hypnosis "Mind Control"?
Hypnosis is not a “control” state where you cluck like a chicken or do something really embarrassing like we’ve seen in Las Vegas shows. Hypnosis is NOT something I do “to you”, nor do I do all the work. We work together, with emotions and imagination, to create the change you desire. A hypnotherapist cannot make you do anything that you don’t want to do. It’s a “learning” state of mental concentration and focus with a purpose that you and your hypnotist have agreed upon, much like a coach assists an athlete.
Will I Remember What Happens In Hypnosis?
Yes! While the word “Hypnosis” originates from the Greek meaning “sleep-like state”, you will NOT be asleep, nor unconscious, nor out of control while in hypnosis. We often use “sleep” as a trigger word to the mind and body in order to reach a calmer state of relaxation, but you will achieve the depth of relaxation that is “just right” for you.
How Does It Feel To Be Hypnotized?
Most people share they feel mentally and physically calm and deeply relaxed. Since hypnosis is a natural state of brain wave we are in several times each day, some people don’t feel anything “different”. While others say they feel warm, cool, tingly, heavy, or floaty; there are as many ways to feel the hypnotic state as there are people, and there is no wrong way to experience it.
How Many Sessions Will It Take To Reach My Goal?
There is no “magic” number. The length of sessions needed often range from a few sessions to several months depending on client willpower, history, desire to change your behavior, how you handle your subconscious mind’s need for resistance, and what issues you would like to address. Some clients find relief in as few as three sessions, while others feel the benefit of ongoing therapy for as long as they desire. Typically, a hypnosis client will be in program less time than with a psychologist or MFT.
Do I need a Referral?
Some issues may require a medical or psychological referral.
According to California Business and Professions Code 2908: Hypnotic techniques can be used for vocational/avocational self-improvement.
Hypnotherapists are “certified counselors” who specialize in general self-improvement with behavior modification. It is not within the scope of practice for hypnotherapists to offer services for any clinically diagnosed emotional, or mental disorder, or medical condition without the referral of a professional licensed to practice dentistry, psychology, or medicine.
Hypnotherapists do NOT ever diagnose, prescribe, or treat ANY emotional, mental, or medical, illness or condition.
Do You accept Insurance?
While I do NOT accept insurance for payment; I accept HSA (health savings account), HRA (health reimbursement account), and FSA (flexible spending account) cards, as well as all major credit & debit cards. (Hypnotherapy is eligible as long as the individual receives a Letter of Medical Necessity after consulting with their physician.)
What Are The Benefits Of Using Hypnosis?
If you are ready to make a change in your life and have tried other methods for achieving your goals without satisfaction, then Hypnotherapy may be right for you. While hypnosis does work quickly, it is NOT magic and results will not occur overnight in most cases.