FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS about hypnosis
What is hypnotherapy, and how does hypnosis work?
Hypnotherapy is a guided process that helps you access a deeply relaxed and focused state of mind, known as hypnosis. We all access this state of mind numerous times a day - but often don’t realize we are doing so. In this state, your subconscious mind - the part of your mind responsible for automatic habits, patterns and beliefs becomes more receptive to positive suggestions, allowing us to address challenges like anxiety, sleep issues, unwanted habits, or fears. It’s a natural and effective way to create profound, lasting change.
Why so much focus on the subconscious/unconscious mind?
Research shows that for adults over the age of 35, subconscious habits, patterns and beliefs control up to 95% of our daily lives. This means that over 22 hours of our 24 hour day is spent on “autopilot”! Our ability to go into “autopilot” is extremely helpful and beneficial in many aspects of life. Subconscious “autopilot” is how we can drive a car while talking to a passenger. Yet some patterns of “autopilot” that we use can be limiting or problematic, keeping us stuck even when we want something to change.
When a limitation is subconscious, we can expend lots of energy wishing something would change or using willpower and still not accomplishing the change.
Hypnotherapy recognizes the importance and power of what’s beneath the surface/conscious mind. The experience of hypnotherapy uses focused naturally occurring brain states to engage with the subconscious mind and change the “autopilot” patterns or beliefs that are getting in the way. My goal is for my clients to have the freedom and power to choose the patterns that are automatic in their life!
What happens during a hypnosis session?
Each session is tailored to your unique goals and includes a combination of talking, written activities, and hypnosis. In our first meeting, we’ll discuss the changes you want to make and answer any questions you have. Once you’re comfortable, I’ll guide you into hypnosis, where we’ll begin the work of shifting patterns and creating positive outcomes. I’ll also teach you self-hypnosis techniques and other tools to use between sessions to deepen and sustain the results.
Will I lose control during hypnosis?
No, you remain fully in control throughout the session, in fact, hypnosis is about you reasserting control of your own though processes. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused relaxation, similar to when you drive a car to a destination and don’t remember all of the drive, or you get very engrossed in a book or movie. You’re always in control of what’s happening and have the ability to choose how you respond.
How many hypnotherapy sessions will I need?
Overall, hypnosis is a short-term process intended for weeks or months, not years. Our aim is to achieve the most positive change in the shortest amount of time specific to your goals. However we don’t just want the change to happen and then revert, we also want it to stick. With that in mind, the average client has around 6 to 12 sessions.
Can hypnosis help with anxiety?
Yes! Hypnotherapy is highly effective for changing anxiety. It helps calm your mind, release the grip of worry, and build resilience in the face of life’s challenges. Many clients report feeling more grounded and in control even after the first session.
What can I expect after a hypnosis session?
Most people leave a session feeling relaxed and refreshed. Whether it’s right away, or through a few sessions, you’ll notice shifts in your thoughts, behaviors, or feelings related to the areas we’re working on. Because change is happening with mind and body alignment it can feel so natural that it’s as if you wake up the next day and things have shifted in a way you know but can’t quite explain . And when that happens, you will know it’s the result of our work together.
What if I don’t think I can be hypnotized?
Almost anyone can experience hypnosis, as long as they’re willing to follow simple instructions and have the intention of making positive change. It’s a natural brain state that we all enter every day, like when you get lost in thought, daydream, or deeply focus on a task. The difference is that in a hypnotherapy session we guide the direction of the thoughts towards what you want instead of the thoughts wandering as they would while say taking a shower. During our session, I’ll guide you in a way that feels comfortable and natural for you.
Are hypnotherapy sessions in-person or online?
Moment Hypnosis offers both in-person and online sessions.
In-person sessions are conducted in my spacious and comfortable office located at 1 Mount Vernon Street, Suite 207, Winchester, MA.
Online sessions are offered via Zoom for clients outside of the Boston metro area or those who prefer online.
Is hypnotherapy / hypnosis safe?
A: Yes, hypnotherapy is a safe, natural and non-invasive process. You remain in control at all times, and the techniques used are designed to support your well-being and align with your goals.
What is the Hypnosis Strategy Session?
The complimentary Hypnosis Strategy Session is a 20 minute call via phone or Zoom that allows us to talk through what you're ready to change and map out a plan for your success. It's a chance to get to know me and how I work. If we're a good fit, clients are offered a package of sessions, because change can happen quickly, but achieving sustainable, lasting results is a process.