Most people describe it as deeply relaxing, similar to daydreaming or being absorbed in a good book. You're not asleep or unconscious - instead, you're in a focused, calm state where your mind can work more freely. Many people compare it to guided meditation or that peaceful feeling right before falling asleep. It's a natural state you actually experience throughout your day.

No. This is one of the most common concerns, but you remain fully aware and in control throughout the entire process. You're conscious and can reject any suggestion that doesn't align with your values. Hypnosis is a collaborative process where you're actually more focused and aware than usual - not less. You can come out of the hypnotic state whenever you choose.

Absolutely not. This is a Hollywood myth from stage shows and entertainment. In therapeutic hypnosis, you won't do or say anything that goes against your personal values or beliefs. If a suggestion doesn't feel right to you, you'll simply reject it. Clinical hypnotherapy is focused on your healing goals, not entertainment.

Hypnotherapy works by accessing subconscious patterns that are stored in both the mind and body, which is why it's especially effective for trauma. During hypnosis, the "critical mind" and strong defense structures quiet down, allowing you to access and release energy that may be stuck or frozen in transformative ways. This creates an opportunity to work at a deeper level than traditional talk therapy, where you can process and shift patterns without the usual mental barriers or resistance getting in the way.

Yes, hypnosis is very safe when practiced by a qualified, licensed professional. Unlike medications, there are no side effects. You remain in control and aware throughout. Your subconscious mind's primary job is to protect you, and it remains active during hypnosis. The process is collaborative, and nothing happens without your consent and participation.

Hypnotherapy can be effective for anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, chronic pain, sleep issues, unwanted habits, stress management, phobias, relationship patterns, self-esteem, and performance enhancement. It's particularly effective for issues where mind-body connection plays a role. During our initial consultation, we'll discuss whether hypnotherapy is a good fit for your specific concerns.

Hypnotherapy may be a good fit for you if you find yourself in any of these situations: you've talked endlessly about your experiences but still feel stuck; you've tried many versions of therapy and want to go deeper; you're drawn to inner work and deeper exploration of yourself; you'd rather experience more and talk less; you're open to holistic approaches that honor the mind-body connection; you believe you can get better and change is possible; or you're ready to work at a subconscious level to create lasting transformation. If any of these resonate with you, hypnotherapy might be the next step in your healing journey.

If you're reading this, part of you is likely ready. All that's truly required is an open heart and mind. My process is gentle and grounded in supporting a calm, regulated state while integrating various parts of yourself. You don't need to relive the worst parts of your life to heal—in fact, my approach is designed to help you process difficult experiences without reliving them! We'll work at your pace, building resources and safety in your body. Many clients feel nervous and ready at the same time—that's completely normal.

Most people can experience hypnosis to some degree, as long as they're willing and open to the process. People have varying experiences and responses based on their unique way of processing information. The key factors are your motivation to change and your willingness to engage in the process. I tailor my approach to work with your individual responsiveness.

Yes, most people remember everything from their session. This is actually beneficial - you're gaining insights and tools that you'll use in your daily life. Hypnosis isn't a state of amnesia or unconsciousness. You're in a heightened state of awareness and focus, which helps you process experiences and integrate new perspectives.

No. One of the benefits of hypnotherapy for trauma work is that you don't need to re-live experiences in overwhelming detail or explain everything that happened. The work happens at the subconscious level, allowing you to process and transform difficult experiences safely without having to verbalize all the details.

This varies based on what you're addressing and your personal goals. Some people experience profound insights and relief in just one or two sessions, while others benefit from more extensive support over several weeks or months. Your progress depends on the complexity of the issues, your engagement in the process, and how you practice tools between sessions. We'll regularly assess your progress together.

Stage hypnosis is entertainment that carefully selects willing participants who want to perform. Clinical hypnotherapy is a professional therapeutic practice focused on your health and wellbeing. It's conducted in a private, safe setting by a licensed professional, and the work is completely tailored to your personal goals and healing. There's no performance or entertainment aspect whatsoever.

A therapist who uses hypnosis (like myself) is a licensed mental health professional (such as an LCSW, psychologist, or counselor) who has received additional specialized training in hypnotherapy. This means I can integrate hypnosis with other therapeutic approaches and can address a full range of mental health concerns. Some hypnotherapists may have certifications in hypnosis but may not be licensed mental health professionals.

Yes, hypnotherapy can be effective through secure video platforms. The most important factors are that you're in a comfortable, private space where you can relax without interruptions, and that you have a good internet connection. Many clients find virtual sessions just as effective as in-person work, with the added convenience of being in their own comfortable environment.

Insurance coverage for hypnotherapy varies. As a licensed LCSW, I can integrate hypnotic techniques into my practice alongside other therapeutic modalities, and these sessions can typically be billed to insurance. For more extensive hypnotherapy work, some sessions may be covered by insurance while others may be out of pocket. I'm happy to discuss your specific situation and insurance coverage during our initial consultation.

Come with an open mind and clear intentions about what you'd like to work on. Wear comfortable clothing, avoid caffeine right before the session if possible, and ensure you're in a quiet space without distractions (especially for virtual sessions). We'll spend time discussing your goals and any questions before beginning any hypnotic work.

Skepticism is completely normal and welcome! Many of my clients were initially skeptical. Being skeptical doesn't prevent you from benefiting from hypnosis - curiosity and willingness to try are what matters most. We can discuss your concerns during our initial consultation, and I can address any specific doubts you have about the process.