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Writer's pictureJanis Kay Carson Jarvis

Hypnotherapy: What is it? Here's What You Need to Know.

Updated: Jun 30



Hypnotherapy is a practice that has intrigued many, yet often remains shrouded in misconceptions. Whether you are considering hypnotherapy for personal growth, pain management, or curiosity, it's important to separate fact from fiction. To demystify this fascinating field, let's dive into some common questions about hypnotherapy that you may have pondered:



  • Will I Lose Control Under Hypnosis? Many believe that hypnotherapy puts you under the complete control of the hypnotist, making you do things against your will. In reality, research has shown that during hypnosis, you remain fully conscious and in control of your actions. It's more about tapping into your subconscious to bring about positive changes.

  • Can Really Smart People Like Me be Hypnotized? Contrary to popular belief, the ability to be hypnotized has nothing to do with intelligence or gullibility. Various studies have found that hypnotizability is a trait present in a wide range of individuals, from sceptics to believers. It's all about being open to the process.

  • Does Hypnotherapy Really Work? Some remain skeptical about the effectiveness of hypnotherapy. However, studies have shown that hypnotherapy can be an incredibly powerful tool in treating various conditions like anxiety, phobias, and even chronic pain. It's all about finding the right approach that works for you.

  • Will I have to tell the Truth or Reveal My Secrets? One common misconception is that hypnotherapy involves revealing all your deepest, darkest secrets. In reality, hypnotherapy is a collaborative process where you decide how much or how little you want to share. Think of it as a guided journey where you're in the driver's seat.

  • What does the Hypnotic Trance-like State Feel Like? Despite the term "hypnosis," being in a hypnotic state is not the same as being asleep. Research has shown that brain activity during hypnosis is more akin to being in a state of focused attention, where your mind is highly responsive to suggestions for positive change.

  • What About Lasting Positive Changes? Studies have indicated that the changes brought about by hypnotherapy can be long-lasting, especially when combined with a commitment to personal growth and well-being.

  • What Exactly is Hypnotherapy? Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique used to create subconscious changes in an individual's thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. By inducing a trance-like state, a trained hypnotherapist can help the person reach a heightened state of focus, making it easier to access the subconscious mind.

  • Is Hypnotherapy the Same as Hypnosis? While hypnotherapy and hypnosis are related, they serve different purposes. Hypnotherapy is the therapeutic application of hypnosis to address various issues, such as anxiety, phobias, or smoking cessation. Hypnosis, on the other hand, can be used for entertainment or relaxation purposes without a specific therapeutic goal.

  • Can Anyone Be Hypnotized? Contrary to popular belief, not everyone is easily hypnotizable. The effectiveness of hypnotherapy depends on an individual's willingness to participate and their ability to focus. A skilled hypnotherapist can help guide individuals into a hypnotic state through relaxation techniques and suggestion.

  • Is Hypnotherapy Safe? Hypnotherapy is considered a safe and non-invasive therapeutic method when conducted by a trained professional. It is essential to seek out a qualified hypnotherapist who understands the ethical standards and practices of hypnotherapy to ensure a positive and safe experience.

  • What Conditions Can Hypnotherapy Treat? Hypnotherapy has been used to address a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, stress, chronic pain, phobias, weight management, smoking cessation, and more. It can also be integrated into traditional medical treatments to enhance the overall therapeutic outcome.

  • How Many Hypnotherapy Sessions are Needed? The number of hypnotherapy sessions required varies depending on the individual's needs and the complexity of the issues being addressed. Some individuals may experience significant improvements after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing treatment to achieve their desired outcomes.

  • Can Hypnotherapy Help with Memory Recall? Hypnotherapy techniques, such as regression therapy, have been used to help individuals access repressed memories or enhance memory recall.

  • Is Hypnotherapy Effective for Everyone? The effectiveness of hypnotherapy varies from person to person. Many individuals experience positive results and significant improvements in their well-being. It is essential to have realistic expectations and open communication with your hypnotherapist throughout the process. At Hypnotherapy by the Bay, communication and co-creation are built into the process. This means that you will be an active participant in framing the hypnotic suggestions so that your subconscious mind will readily accept them. Your hypnotherapist will also help you keep your expectations realistic while also encouraging you to reach beyond your existing reality into the realm of greater possibilities.

  • Can Hypnotherapy Be Combined with Other Therapies? Hypnotherapy can complement traditional therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, or medical treatments. By integrating hypnotherapy with other therapeutic approaches, individuals can benefit from a holistic and comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.


As you can see, Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that leverages the power of hypnosis. Through a state of focused relaxation, hypnotherapy aims to address various issues such as anxiety, phobias, smoking cessation, and more.


Contrary to popular belief, hypnotherapy does not involve mind control. You remain conscious and aware throughout the session, maintaining full control over your thoughts and actions. The hypnotic state is akin to a deep state of relaxation, allowing for heightened receptivity to positive suggestions.


Most individuals can be hypnotized given their willingness and openness to the process. While some may enter a hypnotic state more readily than others, a skilled hypnotherapist can tailor the session to suit your needs and comfort level. The key lies in establishing trust and rapport with your practitioner.


Hypnotherapy Session

Research suggests that hypnotherapy can be a valuable adjunct to traditional therapies for conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. By delving into the subconscious mind, hypnotherapy can uncover underlying issues and promote healing from within.


The number of sessions required can vary depending on your goals and individual needs. While some individuals may experience significant improvement after just a few sessions, others may benefit from ongoing therapy to achieve lasting results. Your hypnotherapist will work with you to develop a personalized plan.


Hypnotherapy is known for its effectiveness in aiding individuals to break free from unwanted habits such as smoking, overeating, or nail-biting. By targeting the subconscious root of these behaviors, hypnotherapy can empower you to make positive changes and adopt healthier habits.


Break Bad Habits

The effects of hypnotherapy can be long-lasting, especially when coupled with a strong desire for change and commitment to the process. However, it's essential to practice any self-care techniques or recommendations provided by your hypnotherapist to maintain and reinforce the positive changes achieved during therapy.


Hypnotherapy offers a unique and powerful approach to promoting personal growth, healing, and well-being. To sum it up, hypnotherapy is a versatile and effective tool for addressing various mental, emotional, and physical challenges. By understanding the fundamentals of hypnotherapy and working with Janis at Hypnotherapy by the Bay, you can start using the transformative power of your subconscious mind.


So, if you've been curious about hypnotherapy or contemplating embarking on this journey, don't let uncertainties hold you back. Reach out to Janis now, ask questions, and open yourself up to the endless possibilities that hypnotherapy can offer.


Let the journey to self-discovery and empowerment begin!


Curious About Hypnotherapy

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