In 1903 Helena Rutherfurd Ely wrote in her book, A Woman’s Hardy Garden, “The men tell me that a sharp-pointed mason’s trowel is more satisfactory than any other tool for removing weeds….” Well, the men were on to something. It’s logical to use the most exacting tool to remove things and make sure that they stay gone. Hypnoanalysis is such a tool. Like a sharp-pointed trowel, hypnoanalysis gets at the root of things—the cause of our unwanted behaviors and emotions—our weeds. And when we remove a weed at its root, we’re ready to plant something beautiful in its place.
Hypnoanalysis involves guiding you to a deeply relaxed state (hypnosis)—a state in which the usual anxious, negative, sabotaging messages you may send yourself in regards to making a change take a back seat while you focus on working through to the root of the issue. Then you’re ready to claim the changes that you want to make and explore how to bring about those changes. Even clients who seek help for seemingly “positive” reasons (for example, to improve sports performance) benefit from hypnoanalysis, as the process enables them to see what is holding them back from performing at an optimal level.
I’ve used hypnosis many times to examine and deal with my own weeds, and continue to do so. When you’re ready to do some self-gardening, we’ll grab the hypnoanalysis trowel and get started.
We also offer introductory group hypnotherapy sessions. Check out our event schedule, as well, for our new and ongoing programs.
Click here to see a short animation illustrating how hypnoanalysis works.
Click on each entry in this FAQ list to learn more about hypnoanalysis:
Hypnoanalysis involves guiding you to a deeply relaxed state (hypnosis)—a state in which the usual anxious, negative, sabotaging messages you may send yourself in regards to making a change take a back seat while you focus on working through to the root of the issue. Then you’re ready to claim the changes that you want to make and explore how to bring about those changes. Even clients who seek help for seemingly “positive” reasons (for example, to improve sports performance) benefit from hypnoanalysis, as the process enables them to see what is holding them back from performing at an optimal level.
I’ve used hypnosis many times to examine and deal with my own weeds, and continue to do so. When you’re ready to do some self-gardening, we’ll grab the hypnoanalysis trowel and get started.
We also offer introductory group hypnotherapy sessions. Check out our event schedule, as well, for our new and ongoing programs.
Click here to see a short animation illustrating how hypnoanalysis works.
Click on each entry in this FAQ list to learn more about hypnoanalysis:
How does it feel to be hypnotized?
People report that it feels great, which is how it feels for me. It’s nothing like being asleep, which is what some who haven’t experienced it believe. In fact, you feel very much aware, able to hear everything going on around you, as you normally would be able to do; able to speak, as you normally would be able to do. But you’re relaxed enough to be receptive to clearly see the issue that you’re addressing, and to examine solutions.
If you’ve ever glanced in your rear view mirror to watch a child in a car seat who is wide awake but quiet and calm and seemingly taking everything in, you’ve seen somebody in a state of hypnosis. In fact, you most likely have experienced this ultra-clear state of being many, many times already in the course of your life; it’s a very natural state. Have you ever been so engrossed in a book or movie that while you’re aware of what is going on around you, you’re not distracted by those goings-on?
If you’ve ever glanced in your rear view mirror to watch a child in a car seat who is wide awake but quiet and calm and seemingly taking everything in, you’ve seen somebody in a state of hypnosis. In fact, you most likely have experienced this ultra-clear state of being many, many times already in the course of your life; it’s a very natural state. Have you ever been so engrossed in a book or movie that while you’re aware of what is going on around you, you’re not distracted by those goings-on?
I’m afraid that I’ll say or do something stupid while hypnotized.
While hypnotized you will not say or do silly things, which you may have seen people do in the movies or during a stage show, and you will not divulge any information that you do not choose to share. You will not do anything against your values. The goal of every hypnosis session is to examine solutions to a problem. You will reveal only what is beneficial to accomplishing that. If for some reason you choose to end a session, you can simply open your eyes and do so.
What if I can’t be hypnotized?
Almost everyone of at least average intelligence who wants to be hypnotized can be. Many people are hypnotized during the first visit. Some need a little more practice. Even children can be hypnotized; in fact, they are often more open to it than are adults.
Some people believe the myth that weak-minded people are better candidates for hypnosis—far from it! If you have a quick mind and a willing heart, you can benefit greatly (and often, quickly) from hypnosis, as you will be able to use your ability to concentrate and your willingness to use imagination to achieve goals.
Anyone can resist being hypnotized, so it does require cooperation. You are the one who allows yourself to go into a hypnotic state. A hypnotherapist cannot make you go into a state or hypnosis, or keep you in one, against your will. Please feel free to talk to me about anything that concerns or worries you, or just ask questions. I love doing this, and will be patient, thorough, and kind.
Some people believe the myth that weak-minded people are better candidates for hypnosis—far from it! If you have a quick mind and a willing heart, you can benefit greatly (and often, quickly) from hypnosis, as you will be able to use your ability to concentrate and your willingness to use imagination to achieve goals.
Anyone can resist being hypnotized, so it does require cooperation. You are the one who allows yourself to go into a hypnotic state. A hypnotherapist cannot make you go into a state or hypnosis, or keep you in one, against your will. Please feel free to talk to me about anything that concerns or worries you, or just ask questions. I love doing this, and will be patient, thorough, and kind.
What, exactly, happens during a hypnosis session?
On your first session, we will sit together for about 30-45 minutes and talk informally about hypnosis, in particular about how hypnoanalysis works to get at the root of what is going on with you. We’ll talk about what you want to accomplish, about what you’re all about (I love to talk with people, so don’t be nervous about this—we’ll figure it all out). We’ll make sure that all of your questions are answered. You’ll fill out paperwork.
Based on that discussion, I’ll be able to tell you the method I’ll use to relax you. More than likely it will involve you sitting in a comfortable recliner and closing your eyes. Then we’ll get to work. I’ll begin the conversation, guiding you to relax. I’ll then guide the discussion that will get at the root of the issue, and we’ll proceed with that, me taking cues from what you’re saying (this is not very different from how most people problem solve with people at work, at home, etc.—examining the issue, figuring out what is underneath the issue, addressing the concern, and figuring out a solution).
In addition to working toward knowing the root of a problem, I may offer suggestions (again, based on our initial discussion) to help with symptoms of the problem. For example, if you’ve expressed a desire to lose weight and have shared that you have a major problem with eating late at night, I might suggest that instead of going into the kitchen at night that you go to your living room and listen to music. These suggestions are powerful while you’re in a state of hypnosis because the negative censoring that your mind usually does is quieted. If the suggestion is not one that you want to accept, you simply don’t accept it. Again, you are in control.
To end the session, I will calmly guide you to open your eyes, which feels similar to what we all have experienced when we’ve suddenly stopped daydreaming.
Based on that discussion, I’ll be able to tell you the method I’ll use to relax you. More than likely it will involve you sitting in a comfortable recliner and closing your eyes. Then we’ll get to work. I’ll begin the conversation, guiding you to relax. I’ll then guide the discussion that will get at the root of the issue, and we’ll proceed with that, me taking cues from what you’re saying (this is not very different from how most people problem solve with people at work, at home, etc.—examining the issue, figuring out what is underneath the issue, addressing the concern, and figuring out a solution).
In addition to working toward knowing the root of a problem, I may offer suggestions (again, based on our initial discussion) to help with symptoms of the problem. For example, if you’ve expressed a desire to lose weight and have shared that you have a major problem with eating late at night, I might suggest that instead of going into the kitchen at night that you go to your living room and listen to music. These suggestions are powerful while you’re in a state of hypnosis because the negative censoring that your mind usually does is quieted. If the suggestion is not one that you want to accept, you simply don’t accept it. Again, you are in control.
To end the session, I will calmly guide you to open your eyes, which feels similar to what we all have experienced when we’ve suddenly stopped daydreaming.
How do I prepare for a session?
There’s nothing special to do to prepare. Some people find that limiting caffeine intake prior to a session helps them relax, and that avoiding heavy meals for a few hours beforehand helps them stay awake.
Do not come to a session under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
Do not come to a session under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
What if I don’t come out of hypnosis?
Everyone emerges from being hypnotized. Even if I somehow magically disappeared while you were hypnotized, you’d simply open your eyes and emerge or take a nice nap for a minute or two and wake up. No worries about this!
How will I feel after a session?
Alert, maybe energized and excited, maybe calm. Many people report being able to see results after even one session. And something interesting often happens in the hours and days following a session—you may find that suggestions given during hypnosis pop up in your thinking mind after your hypnosis session. These are thoughts that can trigger changes in your behavior.
Something else that’s interesting is that it may be that other people will notice a change in you after one or more sessions—even before you recognize a change in yourself.
Something else that’s interesting is that it may be that other people will notice a change in you after one or more sessions—even before you recognize a change in yourself.
Will I remember the session after it’s over?
You will remember the session as you normally remember things. If you normally remember details, you will most likely remember your session in detail. If you normally remember things generally, then that’s how you’ll remember your session. Your memory will work as it normally does. I will supply you with an audio recording of every session.
How many sessions will I need?
Again, many people see some results after only one session, but most people prefer to have at least two sessions. Having two to three sessions is logical, while having six or more for one issue occurs but is rare.
What issues can hypnoanalysis address?
It can help with pretty much anything. Just to name a few: anger management, attitude, confidence, fears & phobias, test taking, interview stress, forgiveness, moodiness, motivation, nail biting, hair pulling, pain management, preparing for surgery/dental visits, road rage, procrastination, relationship issues, self-esteem, shyness, smoking cessation, sleep problems, parenting issues, sports improvement, stress management, test anxiety, trauma, weight control, bed wetting.
Hypnoanalysis is not meant to replace traditional medical and psychological treatments; it complements traditional therapies. Hypnosis involving medical or psychological conditions, such as managing pain or clinical depression, always requires an appropriate referral.
Hypnoanalysis is not meant to replace traditional medical and psychological treatments; it complements traditional therapies. Hypnosis involving medical or psychological conditions, such as managing pain or clinical depression, always requires an appropriate referral.
Is regression a requirement during hypnosis?
Every client must be willing to be regressed. This is because every issue has its root in the past, so that’s where we need to go to examine it. Hypnoanalysis can give you surprisingly immediate links with past and present circumstances.
What’s the difference between hypnosis, hypnotherapy, and hypnoanalysis?
Hypnosis is simply a term used to describe the relaxed state that you can achieve in order to address an issue. Hypnotherapy is a broad term used to describe the process of addressing an issue, in many ways, while in the state of hypnosis. Hypnoanalyis is a term used to describe the process of getting at the root of an issue and dealing with it while in a state of hypnosis.
How much do sessions cost? Are they covered by insurance?
Each session is $180 (a session is approximately 1.5 hours). I do not book many sessions per day because I devote a lot of time and energy to giving you exactly what you need. Like most alternative practices, hypnosis is usually not covered by insurance. Consider the fees as a self-investment; you’re worth it.
Most conditions require only a few consultations. On average I see clients for 3 to 4 sessions. While seeing somebody for more than 6 sessions for any issue is rare, it does occur. You can decide the number of sessions (I’ll help with this) based on your goals. Some people use hypnoanalysis regularly for self-exploration and growth, simply making appointments as they develop new goals for themselves.
Please feel welcome to call for a free phone consultation (5-10 minutes). While we will speak generally about hypnoanalysis and answer questions about hypnosis during this chat, it should ensure that you’re ready to make an appointment.
Most conditions require only a few consultations. On average I see clients for 3 to 4 sessions. While seeing somebody for more than 6 sessions for any issue is rare, it does occur. You can decide the number of sessions (I’ll help with this) based on your goals. Some people use hypnoanalysis regularly for self-exploration and growth, simply making appointments as they develop new goals for themselves.
Please feel welcome to call for a free phone consultation (5-10 minutes). While we will speak generally about hypnoanalysis and answer questions about hypnosis during this chat, it should ensure that you’re ready to make an appointment.
I’ve read all the information here, but I’m still nervous about hypnosis.
Being nervous is normal. We’re often nervous about new things, but afterwards wonder why we were nervous at all. Don’t be embarrassed or scared to call for a free, brief consultation, which might help with nerves.