Frequently Asked Questions & Common Myths
Before we dive into what hypnotherapy can help with, let’s clear up a few common questions and misunderstandings — starting with what hypnosis actually is (and what it isn’t).
What is Hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a natural state of mind where the critical factor (the “monkey mind”) relaxes, and selective thinking is heightened. This allows clear, direct communication between your conscious and subconscious mind.
It’s not magic or mind control. It’s a gentle, collaborative process — and a powerful skill you can strengthen with practice. In hypnosis, you're always in control. You can open your eyes at any time.
All hypnosis is self-hypnosis. I simply guide the process. You create the change.
COMMON MYTHS ABOUT HYPNOSIS
Hypnosis is a truth serum.
False
Reality: You will not divulge secrets unless you choose to; you can lie during hypnosis if you want to, and your brain will not let me - or anyone else - control you.
Hypnosis can make me cluck like a chicken or do something else embarrassing.
False
Reality: You will not do anything during hypnosis that is outside your moral code; you do not surrender your “will” to the hypnotist because the conscious mind is never completely dissociated.
The strong-minded are not easily hypnotized.
False
Reality: In fact, just the opposite. The more intelligent and creative are usually easier to hypnotize.
You can lose consciousness or get stuck in hypnosis.
False
Reality: Physically, you do not lose consciousness or go to sleep, cannot get stuck in hypnosis, and may or may not feel relaxed. Hypnosis is a ‘sleep’ of the nervous system, moving out of stress and into relaxation, which most people find relaxing and enjoyable.
Hypnosis is brainwashing.
False.
Brainwashing requires entrenchment with deprivation. If a client could be manipulated in trance, hypnotherapy would be 100% effective. For example, hypnotherapy, properly applied, is still only 70-80% effective for stopping smoking.
Hypnosis is working with the devil.
False.
Look, I will never tell you what to believe, and if you carry this belief, hypnosis is not for you. However, hypnosis is a natural state that has been used by shamans, healers, and many psychiatrists and psychologists throughout time.
I will ask you about your belief system so that I can demonstrate respect throughout your session.
Many of the processes we do, especially in the spiritual realm, enable you to experience some of the highest frequencies of Light.
All I have to do is show up for my session, and you’ll wave a magic wand, called hypnosis, and I’ll be ‘fixed.’
False
Reality: Hypnosis is a partnership and a practice. Occasionally, people experience incredible transformations in a single session, and we celebrate that! However, it is more common to require at least 8-12 sessions to address a single issue of concern. Think of hypnosis as a process through which we break trail on a brand new path that you have never before walked. Since the brain prefers familiarity, your default will be to go back to the pattern you’re striving to break. People who listen to their recordings twice a day experience more success than those who do not. You have to walk that new trail over and over until it becomes familiar. It’s worth it.
If you have other questions or concerns, bring them to your Inquiry Call or session.
❓FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Will hypnosis work for me?
Most likely — yes. If you’re capable of falling asleep, you’re capable of entering a hypnotic state.
The depth of trance varies from person to person. Some people drop into a deep theta state (almost like dreaming), while others remain in a light alpha state (similar to daydreaming). The good news? Depth doesn’t determine success.
Once the critical factor (inner chatter or “monkey mind”) relaxes, we can access the subconscious, where real change begins.
What can I do to make sure I get the results I want?
Show up highly motivated, listen to your recording twice a day, and trust yourself.
I have several goals. Can I work with them all to save time and money?
I wish it worked that way, but real change is most effective when we focus on one goal at a time.
Trying to address everything at once can dilute the process. When we stay focused, the subconscious responds more clearly, and the results tend to last. If we reach your first goal before your package is complete, we’ll absolutely move on to the next.
Some patterns — especially those rooted in decades of experience — have layers that take time. Additional sessions may be needed, and that’s okay.
How will I feel during a session?
Most people feel deeply relaxed, calm, and focused. Some feel light and floaty. Others feel a surge of joy or emotion. And some wonder if they even relaxed enough — or if they were just making it all up.
The truth is: every session is unique. Your subconscious knows what you're ready to explore. It will never bring forward anything you're not prepared to handle. Its job is to protect you — and that protection continues, even in hypnosis.
Will I remember what happens?
Almost always, yes. Most people remember their session clearly — much like a vivid dream. Occasionally, some details may fade afterward, so I recommend bringing a journal to jot down your experience while it's fresh.
How is hypnotherapy different from traditional therapy?
Traditional therapy is provided by licensed mental health professionals who diagnose and treat mental health conditions. In contrast, hypnotherapy is a complementary approach that works directly with the subconscious mind to support emotional healing, habit change, and personal growth.
Hypnotherapists are not licensed to diagnose or treat mental illness (unless also licensed in another field). While Montana does not require licensure for hypnotherapy, I encourage you to choose a practitioner with reputable, in-depth training.
Only 5–10% of our daily thoughts and actions come from the conscious mind. The rest lives in the subconscious, and that’s where hypnotherapy does its work.
Is there any scientific evidence that hypnotherapy works?
Yes. A growing body of research supports the use of hypnotherapy as part of a holistic wellness journey.
One study I often reference — and which was supported by the American Hypnotherapy Academy, where I trained — found that hypnosis was as effective as medication, and sometimes more so, in treating overactive bladder. This NIH-funded study is one of many affirming the potential of this work.
Other studies have demonstrated positive outcomes for pain management, cancer care, IBS, and smoking cessation. Most research focuses on physical outcomes, as emotional and spiritual benefits are more difficult to measure — but countless clients and practitioners continue to experience them firsthand.
Additional research links: