Question 1

What is hypnosis and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Hypnotherapy is a goal-oriented therapeutic approach that supports change in thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physiological responses by working with focused attention and the subconscious mind. It is commonly used as a short-term, evidence-informed intervention.

Hypnotherapy may be helpful for:  
Anxiety, stress, and emotional regulation  
Trauma-related symptoms (within appropriate scope of practice)  
Habit change (e.g., smoking, emotional eating)  
Sleep difficulties  
Fears and Phobias  
Chronic pain and mind–body symptoms  
Confidence, performance, and motivation  
Life transitions and adjustment challenges  
Relationship Dynamics and Attachment Style 
Grief and Loss Support  
Goal Achievement  
And much more...

You can schedule a free consultation or discovery call with any therapist of interest on their bio page.

You can also email us at info@sandiegohypnosisclinic.com.

Question 2

What can Hypnotherapy help me with?

Accepted Answer

Hypnosis Therapy has been found to help with an incredible amount of physical, emotional, behaviors, and psychological issues. To get a better idea, refer to https://hypnosis.edu/help/. You can also find a list of specialties under each therapist's bio page.

Question 3

What does Hypnosis feel like?

Accepted Answer

Most people enjoy the experience of hypnosis very much because it is very relaxing, peaceful, and calming. We like to think of it as a massage for the mind and spirit, and a source of nourishment for the body. Usually after sessions, clients feel relaxed, rejuvenated, clearer, even purposeful. Your therapist will watch for any signs of discomfort during your sessions and respond accordingly.

Question 4

Can anyone be hypnotized?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In fact, everyone goes into a light, natural state of trance (hypnosis) at least twice each day: first, upon waking up in the morning, and again before drifting off to sleep at night. Another example of naturally occurring hypnosis is being so relaxed or distracted in thought that you drive past your street or miss your exit on the highway.

Question 5

What if I don’t “go in” and the Hypnosis doesn’t work?

Accepted Answer

Our therapists have mastered many techniques to help clients enter hypnosis easily and comfortably, so that they can accept the hypnotic suggestions that they themselves provided. Even the busiest of minds can easily and quickly go into hypnosis. And because the subconscious mind knows and recognizes hypnosis as a state of relaxation and comfort, our clients are able to easily enter a light state of trance for the purpose of hypnotherapy.

It IS possible to block hypnosis, meaning that if you do not genuinely want to be hypnotized, you will not be. Resistance will keep you in your conscious mind and out of a relaxed trance state. However, if you genuinely want to achieve your desired outcome and you are willing to trust and commit to the process, the likelihood of success with this therapeutic modality is very high. We often tell clients not to “try” to do anything at all- just sit back, relax, and have fun with the process.

Question 6

Will I be asleep when I’m in hypnosis?

Accepted Answer

No. We use the terms “sleep” and “deep sleep” to heighten relaxation in hypnosis, but you will always be conscious and in complete control of your actions. Contrary to popular belief, people are more aware of their surroundings and have heightened perceptions (e.g., sound, smell, sight) when they are in this state. You can bring yourself out of hypnosis by opening your eyes, stretching, or standing up.

Question 7

Will you be in control of my mind and actions while I am in Hypnosis?

Accepted Answer

No. Your therapist will not be able to make you say or do anything you don’t want to say or do. If you do not agree with or feel comfortable with a suggestion or technique, your subconscious mind will reject it and it will not take. Together, you and your therapist would work on any discomfort or blockages you may be experiencing during therapy and craft your therapy sessions based on your preferences and unique suggestibility and behavior style.

Question 8

Will I remember everything that I said or did during Hypnosis?

Accepted Answer

People typically remember some details about the session as soon as they come out of hypnosis, but the amount of recall varies between individuals and in terms of the depth of your hypnotic state. Rest assured that your subconscious mind will remember the hypnotic suggestions that it receives even if your conscious mind does not. Many of our therapists will audio record the hypnosis portion of the session for the client to listen to at home. Listening to the recordings enhances client results.

Question 9

If I only want to change a specific behavior (e.g., stop smoking), do I have to tell you details about my personal life or childhood to accomplish my goal?

Accepted Answer

In general, your therapist will not ask you to divulge personal details about information that is not relevant to your therapeutic goal or wellness. Having said that, the bulk of our subconscious wiring is formed during our childhood and may be beneficial in understanding your current beliefs, thoughts, behavior. However, you are in control of what you want to discuss with your hypnotherapist and what you prefer to keep private.

Question 10

What if I have a diagnosed physical or mental health condition (DSM-5) and am working with a licensed medical professional (i.e., Psychologist, Psychiatrist, MTF, Primary Care Physician)?

Accepted Answer

Hypnotherapy can complement the care you may already be receiving, particularly for reducing the symptoms and side effects of medical and mental health conditions. In some cases, your therapist may require a referral from your medical or mental health provider and will assist you in obtaining this easily and quickly.

Question 11

Does Hypnotherapy “work” over Zoom?

Accepted Answer

Yes! It works very well and is just as effective as in-person sessions. There are benefits to virtual sessions as clients can skip the commute, save time, and enjoy the comfort of their own environment. In fact, there are cases where virtual sessions could be more comfortable and therefore more effective (for example, if we are addressing agoraphobia, fear of driving, or social anxiety), and leaving the house would cause increased distress. However, some clients prefer in-person sessions, so our team offers both in-person and virtual options.

Question 12

What is the difference between hypnotherapy and what I see on T.V. and in movies?

Accepted Answer

Hypnotists performing on stage or on T.V. are using specific training and techniques not only to identify the most suggestible (easily influenced) people to hypnotize, but also to “shock” their volunteers into a very deep state of trance. Most depictions of hypnosis in movies are false, as you cannot use hypnosis to make anyone do anything they would not normally consent to doing.

Therapeutic Hypnosis gently guides a client into trance and the methods used are for personal growth and positive change based upon the client’s goals. In hypnotherapy, the intentions are benevolent and healing, and the client is in control the whole time.

Question 13

How many sessions will it take to resolve my presenting issue/s?

Accepted Answer

Each client’s treatment plan and therapy journey are unique to them. Some clients see tremendous improvement or complete resolution with just a few sessions. Other issues and desired results may require more comprehensive treatment plans. The best way to answer this question is to schedule a complimentary consultation with me to discuss your therapy goals further.

Frequently Asked Questions