Frequently Asked Questions

Terms of service

What is the current view of hypnotherapy within the professional psychiatric community?

Many psychiatrist and psycho therapists acknowledge the value of hypnosis. The British Medical Association has acknowledged it as a valid therepeutic tool since 1899. The issue lies in the fact that 'hypnotherapy' is a full time job and a very specialised one. A psychiatrist who hypnotises someone three times a week will never have the skills of a hypnotherapist who works on six people a day. As a result, hypnosis takes something of a backseat.

In the meantime there are hypnotherapists who practice a more metaphysical process - such as past lives work - which may have some therapeutic application, however it is very limited. This type of hypnotherapist does little to add credibility to a modality that is ubdoubtedly powerful and useful - but is perceived as flakey because of these metaphysical practitioners.

The result of this is that people wishing to use hypnotherapy need to search carefully for the right kind of therapist. At Vancouver Hypnotherapy we practice a form of Technical Hypnotherapy. In this form of Hypnotherapy there is no place for metaphysical hypnotherapy (or crystal balls, or angel cards). It focuses purely on Addictions, anxiety related issues (such as eating disorders) and depression.

I’ve seen hypnotized people act silly on stage. Will I do things I don’t want to do? Can my mind be controlled?

You won’t do or think anything under hypnosis that you wouldn’t normally do or think. You can’t be controlled. If people in a stage show act silly it’s because they want to.

Can anyone be hypnotized?

Yes, anyone who wants to can be hypnotized.

How does hypnosis work?

Hypnosis provides access to the unconscious mind where most of our behavior originates. With my guidance you literally change undesirable emotions, habits, and behaviors, into new desirable ones. You create a new you!

What IS A SESSION LIKE?

Typically you will be put into hypnosis about half way through a session. In some complex cases, the first session is spent getting detailed background. The hypnosis can be used to reinforce your will, or to uncover and remove troubling issues. A strong counselling element is also likely to play a part in the process. One such counselling session can be seen here. In this case the client was suffering from bulimia and was additionally receiving online help.

What does hypnosis feel like?

Hypnosis is refreshing, relaxing, and energizing; for some even more refreshing than sleep. Most important is the fact that it works— people get results.

How long does therapy last? How many sessions does it take?

The number of required sessions varies between individuals and the nature of the therapy. As a rule hypnotherapy is considered short-term therapy compared to conventional psychotherapy.

People use hypnosis for quitting smoking. Can it be used to work with other addictions?

Yes. Most addictions are caused by events deeply buried in the past. While treating addictions many methods fail to address these issues, and so really only deal with symptoms. Hypnotherapy addresses the causes. I specialise in working with clients with alchohol and narctoics addictions.

Is hypnotherapy useful for children?

Most children respond exceptionally well to hypnotherapy. Common applications include:

• Improving academic performance

• Eliminating test anxiety

• Enhancing athletic skills

• Increasing concentration

• Building self esteem and motivation

• Sibling rivalry and disciplinary issues

• Eliminating enuresis (bed wetting)

Terms Of Service

Payment is per three sessions, or by cash or cheque on the day. An administration fee of $50 per month is chargeable on outstanding accounts. All credit card payments should be made in advance, on the day, or in groups of three in advance in the case of ongoing treatment.