FAQs
Hypnotherapy - Frequently Asked Questions
What does hypnosis feel like?
My own experience with hypnosis seems to mirror what is reported by my clients. It feels relaxing, comfortable, daydreamy and calm.The mind tends to become clear and the body deeply relaxed. It also feels physically, mentally, and spiritually restorative. It’s a very pleasant state of being. Though it can be different for each person, I’ve never received feedback that going into or being in hypnosis felt negative or uncomfortable.
Can everyone be hypnotized?
Yes, everyone CAN be hypnotized. Does everyone choose to be hypnotized? No. To enter the hypnotic state, people allow themselves to go into hypnosis. Those people that say they can’t be hypnotized are simply not allowing it to happen. They’ve decided at some level that they do not want to.
Part of my process is to have an open discussion with clients first, work through any fears or uncertainties, and develop custom affirmations. We do all of this before hypnosis, so that there are no surprises when they do go in. I’ve never had a client that would not or could not go into hypnosis.
Will I lose control during hypnosis?
That isn’t possible. You always have full control. This is the most misunderstood concept in hypnotherapy. Hollywood has create entertaining content that shows people being under the command of the hypnotist. That is because it makes for a good movie or show. In hypnosis you won’t do anything that goes against your morals and values. And even if something is within your morals and values, but you don’t want to do it, you simply won’t.
What is stage hypnosis?
Stage hypnosis is similar to Hollywood because entertainment is the desired result. The hypnotist generally does a test and selects people that seem more willing to participate. Those willing people get on stage, then the hypnotist asks them to do silly things. Most of the people on the stage want to be funny and are ok with what’s being asked. They like being part of the show! For participants that aren’t performing, you’ll see the hypnotist tap them on the shoulder and ask them to go back to their seats. Those people did not want to perform and so did not do what the hypnotist said. By selecting the “performers” of the crowd the hypnotist ends up with participants that want to perform, are ok with being silly, and have already proved that they agree to what’s being asked of them.
What if I can't visualize?
Visualization is not necessary to be successful in hypnotherapy. The language of the subconscious mind is that of the five physical senses, plus emotion. Some people are more tuned into visuals, some to sounds, some to how things feel. In hypnotherapy, I help my clients tap into many of the senses and then get the emotions involved to create a clear blueprint for the subconscious mind to follow. My process will help determine what works best for you, then lean in to your strengths to create that clear blueprint.
Can I get stuck in hypnosis?
Getting stuck in hypnosis is not possible. You are always in control and can come out of hypnosis anytime you wish. Hypnotherapy is effective because clients choose to stay in hypnosis in order to reprogram their minds to step into the life they desire and deserve.
Is online/remote hypnosis as effective as in-person hypnosis?
Yes, they are equally effective. In hypnosis, clients eyes are closed and they’re tuning into what I’m saying. My tone, inflection, pacing, and delivery is what matters. It really comes down to preference. I offer both options so that clients can choose what they are most comfortable with.
How many sessions will I need?
Everyone in this world is different. That’s part of what makes this such an interesting place. If you set up a free consultation, I will do my utmost to suggest an amount of sessions that corresponds with what you’d like to work on. Someone coming in to work on test preparation may only need a few sessions. Someone coming in to release traumas or work through multiple emotional layers may need eight or more. I ask clients to check in with themselves and let me know when they feel finished.
Is hypnosis safe?
Yes, hypnosis is safe. Clients are instructed to receive hypnosis either laying on a bed or sitting in a chair that does not swivel, roll, or otherwise move. Hypnosis should be received in a quiet, private space.
Not only is it safe, my clients report getting better sleep, feeling more energetic, and feeling more positively about life.
Working with Steve - Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a hypnotherapy session?
Sessions start with an interview so that I can gain better insight into clients’ situations, relationships, or challenges. It’s a chance for clients to openly discuss what’s going on and gain more understanding about what beliefs could be perpetuating the undesired behavior. I often offer alternative perspectives to allow clients the opportunity to see things from a different lens. Many times deeper understandings in the interview help clients open further to the new beliefs we deliver in hypnosis.
What issues can hypnotherapy help with?
I haven’t come across an issue that hypnotherapy cannot help with. All of our behaviors come from our tens of millions of beliefs. Changing the underlying beliefs results in changed behavior. Since this is the root cause level, anything can be accomplished by changing belief. Here is a short list of the most common things my clients seek me out for:
Stress and anxiety
Acceptance, self-love, and purpose
Relationship challenges
Habits - smoking/vaping, weight loss, nail biting, etc
Physical healing and pain reduction
Do you record sessions?
The hypnosis portion of sessions is usually recorded. The purpose is to provide clients with an audio file they can listen to each day between sessions. Doing so helps clients practice going into hypnosis, further anchors the new beliefs delivered through customized affirmations, and helps get them accustomed to my voice guidance.
How should I prepare for my session?
It’s easy. Show up with an open heart and mind. Trying to figure out what to expect can limit the possibility of experience and healing you receive. Also, wear comfortable clothing, and if possible, try to avoid eating in the two hours prior to a session.
Going into hypnosis is about allowing yourself to have the experience. “Trying” to go into hypnosis will likely block actually going in and may need a little more guidance from me. The secret is to simply allow and receive without expectation.
Do I need to believe hypnosis will work?
Yes, some aspect of you must believe that hypnotherapy can heal from whatever is challenging you. You do not have to fully believe it or have 100 percent confidence. The experience you have in session will help you have tangible evidence that things are changing and the belief will get stronger.
If you do not believe hypnosis will work, then that is exactly what will happen—it won’t work. Belief is powerful, which is why hypnotherapy works so quickly and effectively for those that are open to trying it.
What if I've tried other methods and nothing has worked?
Many clients report that they’ve tried everything else. Many of those same clients have good success with hypnotherapy and wish they had tried it earlier. Trying hypnotherapy earlier in the process of seeking help can save you quite a bit of time, money, and frustration.
What makes your approach different?
I love hypnotherapy and I love my clients! I use a heart-centered approach and have overcome many of my own challenges in my life, both of which help me deeply relate. I’ve had a high level of success with my clients and they seem to love the experience.