Frequently Asked Questions
What is hypnosis? Hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation, concentration, and focused attention, in which your subconscious becomes more responsive to positive suggestions and direction. Hypnosis is used to assist us in reaching our desired goals. We commonly go into a light state of hypnosis before falling asleep, driving, or watching a movie.
How does hypnosis work? In hypnosis we work with your subconscious mind. This is the part of you that runs all of your “automatic, patterned responses” to life. When you enter hypnosis, your subconscious mind becomes the more dominant awareness and together, we are more easily able to make shifts and changes to patterns that are no longer working for your highest interest.
How can hypnosis benefit me? Hypnosis is a powerful tool to achieve your goals, reduce stress and get un-stuck from unwanted habits. Most therapies work with the conscious cognitive part of the mind, and while this is a very important part of change, it doesn't have as much of a direct impact on unwanted patterns as hypnosis. When you work directly with your subconscious mind to change habits, you get faster and longer lasting results.
Is being hypnotized similar to being asleep? No, you are not sleeping. You will be in a very pleasant, relaxed, peaceful state, where all the senses are more acute. You will be awake and aware of everything that’s going on around you during your hypnotherapy session.
How does it feel to be hypnotized? You will be very tranquil and peaceful, yet still aware of your surroundings. Your breathing will slow down, and your body will be still and relaxed. Most people don't want to come out of the hypnotic state, as they enjoy it so much.
Can everyone be hypnotized? Yes, everyone can be hypnotized if they choose. Hypnosis is a choice. In the hypnotherapy industry we have a saying “all hypnosis is self-hypnosis.” This means that your therapist will be guiding you though the process of hypnosis, but it is always up to you to decide if you want to participate.
While hypnotized, am I completely under your control? No, Hypnosis is not mind control. During hypnosis you are aware of what is going on and can still decide to accept or reject the suggestion being offered. Hypnosis cannot make you do anything you do not wish to do, this is a myth developed by movies, stage hypnotists and the entertainment industry. You are always in control and will only accept hypnotic suggestions that are right for you.
Can I be forced to do something I wouldn't normally do while I'm hypnotized? Not at all. You will only accept positive suggestions that align with your values, being at all times in control.
How long does it take to see the results of hypnotherapy? Because we are all different, and in different places in the process of change, the amount of sessions it will take to reach your goals is different for everyone. Some hypnotists and national chains offer cookie cutter programs that treat every person the same. At River Valley Hypnotherapy, we tailor your program specifically for you. After your first session you will have a good sense if hypnotherapy is going to work for you and then we will lay out a program that works best for your goals and your budget.
Will I be able to remember what takes place while hypnotized? "Remembering what happens" depends on the depth of the hypnotic state. How deep you go into hypnosis is your choice, but may be effected by how conditioned you are to hypnosis. Different issues require different depths. Once you experience hypnosis a few times, and know what to expect, then your subconscious will take you to the depth that is most beneficial for the issue you are working on, but this will always be your choice.
Will I recover memories in hypnosis that I don’t want to remember? No, in hypnosis, you will only remember what you want to remember. Memory regression therapy can be a very powerful tool to help you make changes to your life, but this is a method that is only used when it is discussed ahead of time, you feel very comfortable with the process, and you decide it is what you want. You will not go into spontaneous memory regression unless this is what you want.
Will I reveal my secrets to you in hypnosis? No, during most hypnotherapy sessions you will remain relaxed, still and silent. Some therapeutic techniques require you to speak, but these will only be performed after you have had a lot of experience with hypnosis, you feel very comfortable with this therapeutic method, and you decide it is what you want. During hypnosis sessions that require you to speak, you will be in complete control. You will not be asked to divulge any secrets, nor would you accidentally. This is a myth about hypnosis.
Is hypnotherapy compatible with my religious beliefs? All major religions view hypnosis as a tool for therapeutic purposes. Some of the religious concerns associated with hypnotherapy come from the myths about hypnosis being mind control. Rest assured these are myths. Hypnosis cannot change your values or spiritual beliefs. In fact, most people feel a deeper connection to their spiritual beliefs in hypnosis.
What kinds of problems respond best to hypnotherapy? Hypnosis can provide you with excellent results for general self-improvement, stress reduction, increasing self-esteem, confidence, overcoming fears and phobias, (such as fear of flying, panic attacks and public speaking), controlling eating habits and weight loss, pain management, and increased motivation for success. Thousands have found success in permanently quitting smoking, improving focus and success when taking exams. In addition, River Valley Hypnotherapy has helped many athletes enhance their performance.
What will happen during my first hypnotherapy session? The first session is about getting to know each other better and getting you accustomed to the hypnotic state. We begin by looking closely at the areas you wish to focus on and the changes or improvements you wish to make. Then you sit in a relaxing chair and simply listen to your hypnotherapist’s voice as you enter a relaxed state where you are given specific suggestions to help achieve your goals. When your session is over you will open your eyes and feel refreshed and relaxed.
Are my hypnotherapy sessions confidential? Yes. Confidentiality, your general well-being and safety are my number one priorities.