Frequently Asked Questions

Is hypnosis mind control?

No. Hypnosis isn't like what you see in movies or on TV. Hypnosis cannot make a person do something that is against their moral code, so it can't be used as mind control. What hypnosis does do is help someone create the change of their choosing through positive suggestions and removing limiting beliefs. Hypnosis can also be used to address the source of issues or unwanted behaviors by healing negative experiences or emotions buried in the subconscious mind. You are always in control when you are in hypnosis and if you want to come out of the trance state all you need to do is open your eyes.

What does hypnosis feel like?

If you have done meditation then you are already familiar with trance states and the feeling of relaxation that accompanies hypnosis. Hypnosis is almost always very comfortable and relaxing and many people report their first time being hypnotized as an extremely pleasant experience. Hypnosis isn't sleep however so you can expect to remember almost everything during the session although in deeper trance you may experience "time distortion"and believe that the amount of time that you were hypnotized was shorter than it really was.

Will I be magically healed through hypnotherapy?

No. Hypnotherapy is therapy and requires active participation, and sometimes work, on the behalf of the client, or "co-therapist." There's no magic wand that will instantly prevent a smoker from lighting a cigarette. The most important ingredient for results is a desire for change.

Are there any side effects from hypnosis?

There are virtually no side effects from hypnosis. Hypnosis is a naturally healing state that helps the body and mind achieve a healthy homeostasis. Clients will usually experience relaxation and a sense of well-being after a hypnosis session and, on occasion, a slight feeling of thirst. The client should make sure that they are completely alert before driving a car or riding a bicycle however, and can even ask the hypnosis practitioner for additional help to regain 100% alertness on the rare occasion that it feels necessary.

How many hypnosis sessions will I need to reach my goal?

Results vary from person to person, but most issues can be resolved in 4-6 sessions, and often even less. Please contact Brooklyn Hypnosis directly for more information concerning typical results for your specific goal or issue.

Can everyone be hypnotized?

Nearly everyone can be hypnotized as long as they want to be hypnotized. The exceptions are people with a very low IQ (since they do not understand the instructions being given) and if someone is intoxicated. Some elderly people are less responsive to hypnosis as well. Anyone who is unwilling to be hypnotized will not go into the hypnotic trance since you always have complete control when you are in hypnosis.

What can I expect in the first session?

The first session will usually last about 90 minutes. You will fill out an intake form to get some background on you and the goals or presenting issues that you want to work on. This is followed by some education on how hypnosis will be used to address your goals. The purpose here is to debunk any stereotypes or misconceptions about hypnosis and how it works. The remainder of the session is dedicated to slowly introducing you to the hypnotic state, giving you time to get used to some short hypnotic "inductions" before finally using hypnosis to deliver therapeutic suggestions or goal-oriented techniques.

I'm not sure I believe in hypnosis. Will that affect my results?

It's perfectly normal to be skeptical if you are new to hypnosis. Most of our clients have never experienced a hypnosis session before coming to us. The only thing that is required is an open mind and a desire for change.

Will my health insurance cover the hypnosis sessions?

Many employers offer a flexible spending account, or an HSA (health spending account), which allows you to set aside pretax dollars each pay period to help cover prescription medication and other health-related expenses that are often not covered by traditional health insurance. Therefore, you may be able to pay out-of-pocket for your hypnosis sessions and then submit your receipts for reimbursement from your flexible spending account. Some healthcare plans may require you to also submit a letter from your physician before you are reimbursed. We suggest that you check with your health care provider or employer if you plan to seek reimbursement from your flexible spending account.

Hypnotherapy is an educational and self-improvement process that facilitates access to a person’s internal resources to assist him/her in solving problems, increasing motivation, or altering behavior patterns to create positive change. Hypnotherapy is not a substitute for medical treatment or psychotherapy. Brooklyn Hypnosis does not practice medicine or psychotherapy and our services are not a replacement for counseling, psychotherapy, psychiatric, or medical treatment. No service or product provided is intended to diagnose or treat any disease or illness, psychological or mental health condition.