Does hypnotherapy work for everyone?

While it is not a panacea, nor a substitute for medical or psychiatric attention, hypnosis has proven effective for literally hundreds of issues, from overcoming test anxiety and bad habits to overcoming procrastination and boosting test scores. So chances are excellent it can help you as well, whether you want to use hypnosis as your sole method of treatment or in conjunction with other therapies recommended by your doctor or therapist.

How many sessions will I need?

There are no simple answers to this one. Each person and each situation is different. It depends on the number of issues to be addressed and the complexity of the issue(s).  It is best to schedule the first session and then determine your progress and goals at the end of the first session. One exception is smoking cessation, which is scheduled in three sessions package. Remember, you may have spent years thinking and behaving a certain way, so it may take some time to achieve the desired results. Prepare to make an investment in your self-care.  Hypnosis is proven to be more effective and efficient than traditional therapies.  Often people experience dramatic results after the first visit.

How do I know if I can be hypnotized?

Anyone who can daydream can be hypnotized, if they are willing. Nobody can be hypnotized against their will. If a person is not willing to cooperate, they cannot be hypnotized. However, the idea that some people are just not hypnotizable is incorrect. Some patients may initially have problems with feeling that they may lose control in some unacceptable way. This may lead them to intellectually second guess and over analyze what is going on. Thinking too much will interfere with relaxing enough to enter trance. 

Are evenings and weekends available?

Yes, they are.  Please see the website’s hours section.

Can appointments be arranged outside of normal hours? 

Should you have circumstances that require an appointment outside of the standard hours, please email or phone so that we can find a time that works for you.  

Do I need to bring anything with me?  

An open mind and desire to change are the most important things!  Outside of that, you may chose to bring your own throw or small blanket.  During hypnosis, the body temperature falls much like when you are asleep.  There are cotton throws available for use in the office, too.  Also, should you wear contact lenses and experience issue with eyes being closed for 30 minutes or so, you may prefer to wear eyeglasses.

Can I do something against my will when hypnotized?

People who are hypnotized will not do anything in hypnosis that they would not do in the waking state. This applies as well to moral / sexual / ethical acts. Hypnosis is not a master-slave relationship. When you are in hypnosis, you are aware of everything that is going on and you continue to retain your values and morals.

Can you prescribe medication?

No.  A certified hypnotherapist is not equivalent to a medical doctor or psychiatrist.

How can you judge a hypnotist to be credible?

Currently, there is no legislation requiring training in Illinois, so make sure you are dealing with a qualified professional.  Ask questions about certifications, training and hours of training.  National certification and being a current member in good standing should also be a requirement.  For example, a cornerstone of the profession is The National Guild of Hypnotists, which was rated the number #1 hypnosis association by Congress in 1993. The Guild requires about 100 hours of training.