DO I NEED TO DO ANYTHING TO PREPARE FOR MY HYPNOSIS SESSION?

         The only thing you really need to do is to relax.  Be willing to discuss what you want to achieve and don't be afraid to ask any questions.  If you are sick, or seriously upset or having pain that is not related to what you are coming to be hypnotized for, then you may want to reschedule.  It is possible to hypnotize someone who is coughing or sneezing, but it is more difficult and more importantly; may lessen the enjoyment or effectiveness of your session.  If you do need to reschedule please call as soon as possible.  Of course a session may also help with the upset or discomfort, but may not be able to do that and also achieve your original goal in the same session. 

          IF I CAN'T BE MADE TO DO THINGS AGAINST MY WILL, WHAT ABOUT THE CRAZY THINGS PEOPLE DO IN STAGE SHOWS?

      Stage shows are entirely different from private sessions.  Even in a show, you will notice that the most active person on stage will occasionally simply stop responding, because a suggestion has been made that is outside his comfort zone.

     People do odd things on stage because they tend to be extroverts to get up there in the first place.  The atmosphere, the excitement, and the excuse to act out of character "because I was hypnotized" all add to the power of the hypnotist's suggestions.  While they may not know exactly what will be asked, they are WILLING and ready to put on a show.

      In a private session, anything that is not in your comfort zone, and is not acceptable as a means of accomplishing whatever you have come for help with will simply be ignored or bring you out of hypnosis.  It is a pleasant and safe experience.

WHAT ABOUT PAIN CONTROL, TINNITUS OR OTHER MEDICAL ISSUES.

       Hypnosis can be extremely helpful in pain control and other chronic physical complaints BUT  anyone who wishes help in these areas must check with medical doctors.  Because hypnotism can be so successful at alleviating discomfort I often require a Dr.s prescription or have a consent letter signed by your physician if there is a risk of conflict with other treatment or there may be danger of masking symptoms or hindering diagnosis.  The same is true of people under the care of mental health professionals. 

I'D LIKE TO CHANGE SOME THINGS BUT THEY ARE PRETTY PERSONAL...

     Some people want help dealing with things of a very personal nature.  Assuming that these are things that are not better addressed by a medical or  mental health professional (or law enforcement,...just kidding, I hope) I will discuss them respectfully and privately and we will agree on an approach.  Many emotions and feelings can be helped with hypnotism.  In keeping with the safety of myself and the client I may ask for some additional paperwork in the form of permission to address personal issues and establishing boundaries and wording that you are comfortable with.   My office is a place where you should be able to feel safe and never embarrassed.