Frequently Asked Questions

 The National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH) defines hypnosis as "a state of mind, enhanced by (although not exclusively) mental and physical relaxation, in which our subconscious is able to communicate suggestions for desired changes in our thoughts, feelings, and behavior. It is a natural state of mind that everyone experiences several times a day, but often misunderstands due to lack of information." 

 The National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH) defines hypnotherapy as "the use of hypnosis to assist clients in solving problems, reaching goals, and enhancing performance. It is a cooperative effort between the therapist and the client, utilizing the client’s natural abilities to heal and make positive changes in their life." 

 The National Guild of Hypnotists (NGH) defines a hypnotist as "an individual who utilizes hypnosis to assist clients in reaching their goals, solving problems, and making positive changes in their lives. Hypnotists are trained professionals who guide clients into a state of focused attention and relaxation, allowing access to the subconscious mind where suggestions for change can be effectively communicated."

In hypnotherapy, a "session" refers to a scheduled appointment or meeting between the client and the hypnotherapist. During this session, the hypnotherapist guides the client into a state of focused attention and relaxation, using various techniques. Once the client is in this state, the hypnotherapist may utilize suggestion, imagery, and other therapeutic interventions to help address the client's goals or concerns, such as overcoming fears, changing habits, or improving well-being. Each session typically lasts for a predetermined amount of time, during which the client and hypnotherapist work collaboratively towards achieving the desired outcomes.

Hypnosis is not mind control in the sense of taking over someone's will or making them do things against their moral code or desires. Instead, it's a state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility, where the individual is more open to receiving suggestions that align with their goals or intentions. In this state, people still have control over their thoughts, actions, and behaviors. It's more about harnessing the power of suggestion to facilitate positive changes or address specific issues, often in collaboration with a trained hypnotist or hypnotherapist. However, it's important to note that hypnosis is not a form of control or manipulation; the individual undergoing hypnosis retains their autonomy and can choose to accept or reject suggestions.

During hypnosis, you typically remain conscious and aware of what is happening around you. It's not the same as sleep, although some people may experience a deep state of relaxation. While in this relaxed state, you're still able to hear and respond to the hypnotist's suggestions. However, your level of awareness and responsiveness may vary depending on the depth of hypnosis and your individual experience. It's common to feel deeply relaxed, but you're not unconscious or asleep.

Hypnosis relies on trust and rapport between the hypnotist and the person being hypnotized. Without consent or cooperation, it's difficult for the hypnotist to establish the necessary level of relaxation and focus needed for hypnosis to be effective. Additionally, ethical hypnotists adhere to professional guidelines and standards that prioritize the well-being and autonomy of their clients, including obtaining informed consent before proceeding with any hypnotic techniques. 

While most people can be hypnotized, the level of responsiveness to hypnosis can vary from person to person. Factors such as willingness, openness, trust in the hypnotist, and the ability to focus can influence how easily someone can enter a hypnotic state. Overall, it's important to approach hypnosis with an open mind and a willingness to engage in the process for it to be most effective.

The experience of being hypnotized can vary from person to person. Some people describe it as a deeply relaxed state, similar to daydreaming or being absorbed in a good book. Others may feel a sense of heightened focus and concentration. Overall, it's often described as a pleasant and calming experience. 

Yes, hypnosis is safe when practiced by a trained and qualified professional. It's a natural state of mind that many people enter into regularly on their own. However, it's essential to work with a reputable hypnotherapist who follows ethical guidelines and ensures the safety and well-being of their clients. 

The number of sessions needed can vary depending on the individual and the goals they want to achieve through hypnosis. Some people may see results after just one session, while others may require multiple sessions to experience significant changes. It ultimately depends on factors such as the complexity of the issue being addressed and the individual's responsiveness to hypnosis. 

 In most cases, yes, you will remember what happens during hypnosis. While hypnosis can involve a state of focused attention and relaxation, you're not asleep or unconscious. You're still aware of your surroundings and able to recall the experience afterward.

While both hypnosis and meditation involve focused attention and relaxation, they serve different purposes and employ different techniques. Hypnosis typically involves the use of guided imagery, suggestion, and relaxation induction to achieve specific goals or address particular issues. Meditation, on the other hand, focuses on cultivating mindfulness, awareness, and inner peace, often through practices such as mindfulness meditation or loving-kindness meditation.

The duration of the effects of hypnosis can vary depending on the individual and the nature of the issue being addressed. For some people, the effects of hypnosis may be immediate and long-lasting, while for others, they may require reinforcement through additional sessions or self-hypnosis techniques to maintain. Overall, the effectiveness of hypnosis tends to be cumulative over time with practice and repetition.