Seattle Hypnotherapy FAQs

Here's a radio interview Craig did on Hypnosis, What it is, How it works, and about using Hypnosis for Fears and Phobias:

How are you different than other hypnotherapists?

Working with me is much more than just doing hypnosis. You get total personal development. Over the years in follow up and experience in this work, I have found that it is often not enough to just do a hypnosis session. Clients need to be informed and armed with mental and emotional tools to be able to keep the change that we create together in the office. The unconscious mind has reasons for creating fear, procrastination and cravings and those need to be addressed as the integrated person that you are.   

What happens in the session?

Sessions last from 1 to 1.5 hrs. The first part of any session is dedicated to interview, learning concepts of living in the flow, mastering emotions and thoughts, stress-reduction techniques, and/or self-hypnosis. The second half is hypnosis to clear negative emotions and programs then install desired outcomes in the inner mind.

How much do the sessions cost?

The cost per session is US $150.

How does hypnotherapy work?

It works by bypassing the critical mind that keeps messages of change out. When we want to make a change in our life, we think it and maybe even say it out loud (Such as: "I want to lose weight").  That thought is blocked and doesn't go to your inner mind (subconscious mind).  Hypnotherapy gets the messages past the critical factor to your inner mind to create the healing and behaviors you want.

Is there any "mind control" by the hypnotherapist?

Absolutely not. This is the biggest false notion about hypnosis that keeps folks from enjoying it's benefits. The client is ALWAYS under complete control of everything she does and hears. The client can reject anything the therapist says at any time. In fact, I recommend to my clients that they change or fine tune anything I say so that it works best for them. Their feedback is key to my giving them exactly what they need for their issue.

What does hypnosis feel like?

It is different for everyone. I have some clients who say it feels no different than normal except that their eyes are closed. (I also do some eyes-open hypnosis). Some say it is a deeply relaxing state for them. Some clients report it is like when you are awake in the morning in bed hearing everything around you but your body doesn't want to move.  It all depends on what we are working together on accomplishing and everyone responds differently. There is no "standard" way to feel.

I am very strong-willed. What if I can't be hypnotized?

This is very good news. You will probably want to use that strong will to get what you want faster than the average person. Everyone on the planet can be hypnotized. Everyone has already been hypnotized. Hypnosis is nothing more than all forms of learning at the subconscious level. This is how you became what you are today. Hypnosis is a skill that you get better and better at using for your own benefit. The only difference between what happens in your daily life and what happens in my office is that, in my office, we do it on purpose to get you what you want.

Do you put me to sleep? Do I "go under?"

Nobody "goes under." This phrase comes from stage hypnotism which is an entirely different context with the goal being - entertainment.  I do not want my clients falling asleep. During many sessions, my clients become deeply relaxed. Some sessions there is no relaxation at all and change is dramatic!  I do want them to hear everything I say. Occasionally, your mind may wander and that is normal.  The messages and learnings still sink in.

What happens if I do fall asleep during the session?

I really monitor for this and will ask for a response at times to check. You will be gently brought back to a proper awake, but relaxing depth.

Can hypnotherapy force me to do things against my will or reveal secrets?

No, again, the client is always in control of the process. I often refer to the therapy chair as the "King" or "Queen's" chair. This is for good reason as I practice client-centered therapy. This is the opposite of a cookie-cutter, or, one-size-fits-all approach that some therapists use. 

Can Hypnotherapy be dangerous? Are there any side effects?

Hypnosis with a skilled therapist is completely safe with a major benefit being no side-effects. The only danger of hypnosis is the fear that some people bring to it. Since the client always retains complete control, anything the hypnotist says or does can be rejected. Hypnosis is a normal, natural state that you have already experienced in your life at times. An example of this may be when you drive a car and don't remember parts of the trip.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on the person and the issue being addressed. A good-faith estimate will be given either during the initial call or first session. Some cases are handled very successfully in one or two sessions.

How long does hypnotherapy last?

Hypnosis always works to make change. Lasting change depends on your desire and following simple and easy instructions. I do not create dependents who need to see me for years. My clients learn self-hypnosis to keep the change that they create with my assistance...for as long as they woud like to.

Is Hypnosis Anti-Christian or Anti-Religious?

No, there are no major religions of the world that have a problem with Hypnosis. Even  the Catholic Church officially recognized Hypnosis as “licit of licit purposes” according to the New Catholic Encyclopedia