There are many myths and misconceptions about hypnosis and hypnotherapy. Keep in mind that you may have only been exposed to hypnosis from seeing it on t.v. or watching a live stage hypnotist. You may have left the show feeling like the volunteers were tricked into acting like a monkey or forced to do things that they didn't want to do. Remember that both of these platforms are there to entertain us. And most performers will admit that they exaggerate the truth in order to make us laugh or to shock us. The truth is that the volunteers like to be in front of crowds, they like the attention and they were open to doing what the hypnotist suggested.
You may be surprised to know that all hypnosis is self-hypnosis. While in hypnosis, you are in total control and will never do anything that goes against your morals or values; you are conscious and your senses are actually heightened; you become more inwardly focused as you relax mentally and physically. Jennifer uses the natural state of hypnosis to help re-wire your subconscious mind so that you can get to the root cause of your issues and change your thinking so that you feel more empowered in more in control of your life.
What is hypnosis?
Believe it or not, you've experienced hypnosis if you've ever been absorbed in a book or movie, day dreamed, or driven your car without remembering how you got somewhere. This is because hypnosis is a natural, yet altered state of mind where your conscious mind is relaxed, so that your subconscious mind can receive positive suggestions. Read more.
Can I be hypnotized through video sessions?
YES! Because hypnosis is a natural state of mind and because you go into the hypnotic state every night and morning, it's very easy for you to go into hypnosis with Jennifer guiding you. As long as you can hear each other and you want to go into hypnosis, you can easily go into that relaxed state. Jennifer has been conducting video sessions for years with great success. And it's wonderful to already be home when your session is over so you can stay in a relaxed state as long as you like. And no more wasted time in traffic!
Is there a difference between a stage hypnotist and a hypnotherapist?
YES! There is a very great difference between these two professions that share a similar title and use the same tool, but for very different reasons. Stage hypnotists use hypnosis for entertainment purposes only. As a hypnotherapist, Jennifer uses hypnosis and other techniques to help you understand and change sabotaging beliefs stored within your subconscious mind. Another way of looking at it is to compare a rock musician to a music therapist. Both use music as their tool, yet use them in very different ways. If you went to a music therapist to help you with stress, you would not end up becoming a rock star just because the therapist used the same tool as a musician. Similarly, Jennifer's intention is to have you reach your goals, not to cluck like a chicken or entertain anyone.
I have such a hard time turning off my mind. Can I really be hypnotized?
Contrary to what you may believe, the more intelligent you are, the more easily you go into the hypnotic state. And you might be surprised to know that all hypnosis is self-hypnosis. Anyone who is open and willing, who can hear me and who has no cognitive disabilities can go into hypnosis. It's as simple as following my suggestion to take in a deep breath and on your exhale to think to yourself, relax. The more motivated you are to change unwanted behavior, the more easily you can be hypnotized. Read more.
Can I get stuck in hypnosis?
No. There have been no reported cases where someone was unable to come out of the hypnotic state. You can come out of this state anytime you wish by simply opening your eyes. You cannot get stuck in hypnosis.
Will I be under your control or power?
You cannot be hypnotized against your will. You must want to be hypnotized in order to go into this relaxed state. You will never do anything while in hypnosis that goes against your moral code. Jennifer's intention is to understand how you want your life to be different and to facilitate this process so you will reach your goals.
Is hypnosis like sleep?
Although hypnosis may look like sleep, in fact you're even more aware of your surroundings because while in hypnosis, your senses are heightened. You will hear and understand everything that Jennifer says while in hypnosis. Again, Jennifer's intention is to help you feel more physically and mentally relaxed to help you reach your individual goals.
Will I have to reveal secrets or say embarrassing things?
You do not have to reveal secrets. You can withhold information from Jennifer while in hypnosis. Remember, while in hypnosis, you are fully aware and in control and never have to say or do anything you do not want to do.
Will I remember repressed and traumatic memories?
You will never see an event that you are not ready to remember. If you do have a traumatic past, these memories will only come up if you and Jennifer intend to bring them up to help you with your healing process. Jennifer does not go searching for repressed memories. Jennifer trusts the innate intelligence of your mind and knows that your mind will reveal only information that is relevant to your healing.
Will you just trick my mind into doing a new behavior?
No, hypnosis does not trick your mind into thinking differently. You are completely in control and will never do anything that goes against your beliefs. You can reject a suggestion at any time. Your subconscious mind is like a computer; it runs off of the current programs (or beliefs) that are on its hard drive. Jennifer will spend a long time with you to understand how you want your life to be different. She will then use your unique goals to "update" your "computer" so that you now living a more peaceful, happy life.
I've heard that some people only need one session to change. Is this true?
In some cases, a few sessions may be all a person needs to change a bad habit. Yet, if you want to get to the deep-seated reasons for your bad habits, critical thinking or unhappiness, and experience permanent change, you will most likely need 3-6 sessions for any particular issue. Because everyone is different, talk with Jennifer about your specific needs so that she can give you a clear plan of action.