What issues can hypnotherapy help with?
Hypnotherapy has been used as a complementary approach for a variety of issues, including:
- Anxiety
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Phobias
- Performance-related stress (such as dental anxiety or exam anxiety)
- Depression (especially when used in conjunction with cognitive-behavioural therapy, or CBT)
- Chronic pain management
- Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) through gut-directed hypnotherapy
- Hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause
- Behaviour change goals, such as smoking cessation, weight management, and reducing binge eating
- Skill development
It is important to note that the evidence supporting some of these applications can be limited or mixed.
How long does a session take?
Each hypnotherapy session takes about two to three hours. Clients must commit to listening to a personalized 15 to 25-minute transformational recording every day for 21 days after their first session.
Is hypnotherapy effective over video conferences, such as Zoom?
Hypnotherapy is just as effective over video conference as it is in person.
What is the difference between hypnosis, hypnotherapy and Rapid Transformational Therapy?
Hypnosis is a trance-like state. Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic approach done while a client is in hypnosis. Rapid Transformation Therapy is a particular therapeutic approach, developed by Marisa Peer, that is done while a client is in hypnosis.
What does hypnotherapy feel like?
The experience is different for everyone. Some people report feeling a floating sensation, others report feeling sleepy, and most report feeling relaxed. How you feel during hypnosis does not indicate how effective the session is.
Can I get "stuck" in hypnosis?
No, you cannot get "stuck" in hypnosis. You have complete control during the entire session. You can talk, move your body, get a tissue, or even get up and leave or go to the washroom. If the session call gets disconnected, you may drift to sleep if you're really relaxed, but eventually, you'll notice that you're not hearing a voice and will open your eyes.
How does hypnosis work?
Hypnosis is science. It works by creating a burst of brain waves that are the same as when you're in REM (during sleep). It is during this brainwave state that one can access the subconscious mind. It's very easy, and anyone can do it. You'll see for yourself when you do it, too!
What if I don't "do it right" or go "deep" enough?
You cannot do this hypnotherapy session wrong. However, your experience of hypnosis is how you experience hypnosis. For individuals who are anxious about the session, a pre-session recording will be sent, which can be played as often as desired. This recording is provided so clients know what to expect for their session. The depth of hypnotic trance does not indicate the hypnotherapy's effectiveness. Be assured that your hypnotherapy session will be effective.
Is the Marisa Peer Method the same as stage hypnosis?
Your Rapid Transformational Practitioner will not and cannot make you do anything you do not want to do or are not in agreement with. You are in complete control of your session. You can and should disagree with the hypnotherapist anytime during the session if you feel compelled to. Only about 8 to 10 percent of people are a good fit for the hypnosis that occurs during stage hypnosis (which is why stage hypnotists send most people, initially on stage, back to sit). Rapid Transformational Hypnotherapy is not the same as what you see with stage hypnosis.
How do I prepare for my hypnotherapy session?
Preparing for your hypnotherapy session is essential for a successful experience. Create a comfortable space, whether in-person or online. Wear loose clothing for in-person visits, or find a quiet, distraction-free room for remote sessions. Check your lighting, camera, and sound to ensure everything works well.
Physically and mentally prepare by getting a good night's sleep, staying hydrated (but avoid drinking too much just before the session), and having a light, protein-rich snack. Minimize or eliminate caffeine and sugar on the day of your session. Practicing simple relaxation techniques, like breathing exercises, can also help ease tension.
Approach the session with an open mindset, letting go of any preconceived notions about hypnosis. Trust your therapist and realize you are in control throughout the process.
For online sessions, ensure you have a stable internet connection and a comfortable seating arrangement. After your session, take at least 30 minutes to wind down and integrate the experience. Avoid notifications and consider grounding techniques like walking or journaling. To reinforce what you've learned, listen to your recording for at least 21 days during relaxation moments, such as in the morning or at bedtime.
What happens during a hypnotherapy session?
During a hypnotherapy session, which typically lasts between two to three hours, several key stages are followed:
1. Induction: The session begins with the induction phase, where relaxation and heightened awareness are achieved. This is often facilitated through techniques such as breathing exercises or visualization.
2. Deepening: Next, the therapist guides the individual into a deeper trance state. This is done gently, employing sensations or metaphors to enhance the experience.
3. Regression: In this phase, the individual explores three to four memories that are related to the issues that prompted them to seek hypnotherapy.
4. Reframing: Drawing from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), this stage involves reinterpreting these memories from the perspective of the present self, leading to new insights and understanding.
5. Therapy: Depending on the time available and the specific needs of the individual, this phase might include various approaches such as Inner Child Work, Forgiveness Work, or Parts Therapy.
6. Suggestion: Tailored suggestions are introduced at this point, aimed at supporting the individual's goals, whether related to behaviour change or anxiety reduction.
7. Emergence: Finally, the session concludes with the emergence phase, where the individual gradually returns to a fully alert state.
Throughout the entire process, individuals remain in control and fully aware, experiencing a calm and receptive state of mind.
What if I think I already know the reasons behind my presenting issue?
What makes Rapid Transformational Therapy amazing is that even if you know the reason for your presenting issue, the hypnotherapy session may highlight something you were unaware of. In fact, most clients report being surprised by the scenes brought forth during the regression. Moreover, Rapid Transformational Therapy is about changing the meaning and beliefs that were created during those moments in our lives and replacing them with new beliefs.
What if I go back to scenes that are painful or scary?
Should you be taken back to a painful or scary scene, you will be reminded that you are not reliving the experience, but simply reviewing it from a place of interest and that you are safe. Most clients feel freed by the end of the hypnotherapy session and are in good humour.
When will I start to see changes?
There are three ways that change occurs: Immediate: You immediately feel a massive shift in your physiology, thoughts and behaviours. Incremental: You see consistent change every day and/or over time. Retroactive: You don't notice anything different. Then, one day, you look back over a period of time and you see how different things are in your life.
What if I need or want another session?
Rapid Transformational Therapy is designed to provide a decisive breakthrough and create a significant change with as few as one hypnotherapy session. Some clients may need more than one session, particularly if the presenting issue is complex. The hypnotherapist can give you an idea of how many sessions a particular problem will likely require at the consultation. Some clients may want to have additional sessions to address other unrelated issues. You can absolutely request more sessions.
How much does it cost?
The cost of a Rapid Transformational Therapy session is $350. Subsequent sessions are priced at $215 each. A typical one-hour hypnosis session costs $125. Additionally, you can purchase audio recordings and collections, which range in price from $15 to $25 per recording.
Do insurance providers cover your services?
I am not a registered psychologist or counsellor, which may be required by your insurance provider for extended coverage. I am registered as a Certified Hypnotherapist with the International Association of Counsellors and Therapists (IACT). Some of my clients have successfully submitted invoices for my services to their insurance provider for reimbursement. However, I recommend that you check with your insurance provider before booking a session if you have concerns about coverage.
What time zone do you practice?
I am in Pacific Standard Time (PST), Vancouver, Canada.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, the location is not wheelchair accessible due to two steps.