How do hypnotists work?

Your habits and emotions are stored at a subconscious level. Hypnotists help you make changes to habits and let go of emotional baggage by communicating with the subconscious mind.

All hypnosis is self-hypnosis. You are the one who does it. Your hypnotist’s role is to guide you through the experience effectively.

For example, if you are snacking at night, hypnosis can help you change this habit. Willpower doesn’t help because the more you try to not have ice cream, the more you want ice cream. This is called a double bind, which is a hypnotic trap. Hypnosis can help free you from this debate and develop new habits that fit with your goals.

Can hypnosis be dangerous?

Hypnosis itself is a completely natural ability we possess as humans.
When you see a hypnotist, you are learning self-hypnosis for self help. In other words, you are learning to use your natural ability to reach your goals. As long as your goals are healthy and safe for you, hypnosis can help you safely.

There are times when it is important to get a medical referral before seeking the help of a hypnotist. If you have a serious medical condition that is related to your goal, you will want to get a medical referral. For example, if you are looking for help with pain management, your medical doctor should fully investigate the situation. Once your doctor determines the cause of your pain, and addresses your pain from a medical perspective, your doctor can make a recommendation about learning hypnosis for pain management. If you are clinically obese, check with your doctor to investigate any medical reasons for your weight before seeking help with hypnosis.

For people with serious mental health challenges, it is best to see a mental health professional who specializes in your situation and is also trained in hypnosis. This way your hypnotist understands the full scope of your situation, and can choose the best approach for you.

Hypnotic regression should be used with caution. The danger of regression is the installation of false memories, and/or creating an interpretation of memories that can cause harm.

There are many hypnotists who do not use hypnotic regression. There are many safer ways to help you make the changes you are seeking with hypnosis.

What is the success rate of hypnosis?

What does hypnosis feel like?

Success with hypnosis depends on many variables. These include the attitude and motivation of the client, and the client’s willingness to follow instructions and attend regular sessions. There are some scientific studies that have been published about the success of hypnosis. You can read about some of them here:

When you watch a movie or read a book, and you get really into the plot, that is a great example of what hypnosis feels like. You may laugh when it’s funny or cry when it’s sad. If someone calls your name, you may not even hear them because you are so engaged in the hypnotic experience.