| ADVENTURE INWARD HYPNOSIS - INSIGHT THERAPIES - COUNSELLING Kelly Fetterly RSW CH |
| b |
| Truths & Myths about Hypnosis |
 |
 |
| HOME . Therapeutic Interventions . Hypnosis & Hypnotherapy . Truths & Myths About Us . Your Appointment . Workshops . Resource Links . FAQ . Contact Info |
|
FEARS AND MISCONCEPTIONS
What are some of the things you think about when you hear �hypnosis� and �hypnotherapy�? One of the main goals of our initial meeting is to deal with and remove all your fears and misconceptions about hypnosis and the process in which you are about to participate. Although people come to see me voluntarily, I must also expect that you are coming with questions, misconceptions and reservations. Hypnosis is a natural state but, when there are inhibitions, access to this natural state is blocked. To make the most of your experience you need to have an open, positive frame of mind as well as a desire to enrich your life and create positive change. QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS When someone is considering hypnosis there are usually many questions and concerns. Below is a list of the most common questions I have been asked: 1. Will I be aware of what is going on? Hypnosis is not sleep! People in hypnosis say they are actually more aware of what is going on in and around them when in this state. The senses are sharper, memory is keener and more of the brain is available. Studies have shown that in hypnosis we actually are using 25% more of our brain's capacity. (NGH) 2. When I�m in hypnosis will the therapist control my mind? Hypnosis is not mind control. No-one can make you do anything you do not want to do, or wouldn�t do when not in hypnosis. There is no surrender of control. Remember hypnosis is about deep relaxation and heightened awareness. 3. Will I get stuck and be unable to come out of hypnosis? Plain and simply NO! If there is a prolonged period of silence anyone in hypnosis will surface, or fall asleep. If you fall asleep you will awaken after a period of time feeling refreshed and rested. No-one can be suspended in hypnosis indefinitely. 4. Will I reveal my deepest secrets? Remember, you are in control at all times. If there is a secret you do not want to reveal, it will not come out. The subconscious has some sort of built-in control mechanism. It will not allow things to be recalled and remembered if you are not ready to deal with them. Only past experiences or insights that may help to better understand your present situation will be recalled. These include suppressed events or past held beliefs. 5. What are some of the things that could stand in the way of my ability to be hypnotized? Body temperature makes a difference. You should not be excessively warm or cold. Rectify this before beginning. A blanket or cover is provided for chills, etc. during the hypnosis session. Physical discomfort of any kind will hinder the hypnosis session. This can be dealt with by focusing on removing the pain, or putting it aside for the time being. Alcohol and drug use are definitely a hindrance to the hypnosis process. 6. Can everyone be hypnotized? Not everyone: - psychotics - severely mentally retarded - paranoid - Very analytical thinkers are tricky, but there is a way even they can be put into a trance. 7. Who makes the best subject? There are certain professions and personality types that seem to respond well to hypnosis. - Religious individuals. Those who are use to prayer, abstract thought and following instruction. - Military personal. People who are used to following orders. - People who work in monotonous environments. The same monotonous tasks - keeps the brain on �one channel�. - People who exercise regularly. Often people who have an exercise routine find they put themselves into a trance state while exercising. - Children and teens make the best subjects. Their minds are open to new ideas and will not have had as many societal �filters� placed on them yet. Children spend a great deal of the day in varying degrees of trance anyway! (Olness and Kohen) __________________________________________________________________________________ At the beginning of each session we will review any concerns you have regarding the experience. People accept hypnosis in direct relation to their fear. (back to top of page) |