Session FAQ

Can I be hypnotized?

Recent studies of ultradian rhythms (biorhythms that occur many times each day) conclude that people go into a state physiologically similar to hypnosis about every ninety minutes. These might be times when you find yourself daydreaming or your mind wandering. Furthermore, Hypnosis has very similar biological markers to the hypnagogic and hypnopompic states (the intermediate state between waking and sleeping and the intermediate state between sleeping and waking, respectively).

However, many studies of hypnotizability claim that only about 80% of people can be hypnotized. Most of these studies are conducted by using the same induction technique on each person. This is like preparing the same meal for a group of people and concluding that those who didn't like it were incapable of enjoying food! It's like playing a country song for a group of people and deciding that those who don't respond can't enjoy music. People are unique and varied. Different people go into trance different ways.

All factors combined lead us to conclude that everyone who is not brain damaged and is of reasonable intelligence can be hypnotized (I'm not ruling out brain damaged or developmentally disabled folks). Most people go into trance very easily, some require flexibility.

In fact, if you are in the Seattle area and a hypnotist has told you that you are unhypnotizable - come and see us.

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What will happen during a session?

During the first session, we will go over what will happen and make sure you are comfortable with the process. We let you know that you will be aware in a trance state (in a way, much more aware than in a waking state). We explain that Hypnosis can't make you do something against your will, rather it gets you in touch with your inner resources (or helps create new inner resources).

There is a small amount of paperwork to do, we are required by the state of Washington to give you a pamphlet detailing your and our rights and responsibilities. Should you have a medical condition, we explain to you that hypnosis is no substitute for medical care and that hypnosis should be used in conjunction with your medical care - not in place of it.

After carefully formulating your goals, we'll ask you to get comfortable and just listen to the words and relax any way you feel comfortable. You can sit up, lay down, keep your eyes open or close your eyes. It's up to you. During Hypnosis we are communicating with your unconscious mind. Your hypnotherapist may present your unconscious with a metaphor or make direct suggestions. Your mind is much more receptive in this state. Most of our clients describe it as a relaxing, enjoyable experience. Others find it inspiring or emotionally fulfilling.

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Will I lose control during Hypnosis?

No, you will gain control in Hypnosis. You are free to reject a suggestions we give should you not agree that it is beneficial. You will probably not feel like moving in trance. You will be capable of movement but it will seem like too much of a bother to move (you've probably experienced this state upon awakening). Should something occur that requires movement you will be able to. You will be able to more vividly imagine sounds, images and bring up positive feelings, both emotional and somatic (body). You may gain control over processes that are usually out of conscious control such as symptoms, pain/comfort, immune system responses or blood pressure.

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Will I lose consciousness?

No. The hypnotic state is one of increased awareness. Usually the awareness is directed inwardly as opposed to toward the outside world.

Occasionally people do fall asleep. If you do your hypnotherapist will probably give a suggestion and see if you follow it. If you do he or she will continue, if not you will be asked to wake up just a little bit. It is a common experience for people to think that they were asleep during the trance. If you wake up when your hypnotherapist suggests that you do, that means that some part of you was listening!

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Can I get stuck in a trance?

No. Everyone goes in and out of trance every day. It's naturally occurring and it naturally goes away. Should your hypnotherapist leave and go to the Fiji Islands in the middle of a session you would simply wake up or simply drift into a natural sleep and wake up when you feel like it.

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Will I remember everything from the trance?

Much like a dream state, many people easily forget consciously part of what happens in trance. This allows changes to take place more gracefully, powerfully and fully. In a trance state, you will hear words as your hypnotherapist speaks. You will be able to make judgments as to whether or not you accept the words. You may or may not remember those words later.

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How long are sessions?

Sessions last between 40 minutes and 1 1/2 hours. You can expect the first sessions to be well over an hour. A typical session is about an hour.

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How many sessions will it take to take care of my problem?

NLP and Hypnosis are very powerful, targeted modalities. Usually people want something very specific. Very often, one session is enough. We rarely go past six sessions. After we gather some information on your situation, we will discuss possible approaches and how quickly they might be complete. The decision on whether or not you want to come back is completely up to you and is based on whether you believe you would find it valuable.

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Can I bring a friend to the session?

Absolutely. Whatever will make you more comfortable.

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Will Hypnosis and NLP really help my problem?

Hypnosis and NLP are each powerful and in combination, even more so. We have yet to find a situation that could not be improved in some way with these powerful techniques. Take a look at my testimonials page for examples of people with whom we've had positive results. If you have further questions about your particular situation, please feel free to call (206) 721-8751 or email us.

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Does Hypnosis really work?

Yes, hypnosis really works. Hypnosis will not solve every problem completely but it will be of value in every situation. If you'd like more information about what you might stand to gain in your particular situation, please call (206) 721-8751 or email us.

There are many scientifically designed studies that show the effectiveness of hypnosis. A few of the items covered are; Hypnosis for control of pain, speedy recovery from surgery, hypertension (high blood pressure), skin diseases, warts, reducing blood loss during surgery, immune system responses, breast enlargement and many more. Hypnosis helps us gain control of responses that are normally controlled by unconscious mechanisms. These responses can help increase motivation or decrease the power of addiction. The powers of the conscious mind combined with the powers of the unconscious mind gives you a much greater capacity to accomplish your goals.

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What is NLP?

NLP stands for Neuro-Linguistic Programming. One way of describing it is as the study of the way the brain codes information. With the NLP toolkit we can gather precise information about how your problem and solution are structured. Once we understand the structure we understand how to use your own capabilities to solve your problem. There are many techniques that NLP has to offer which allow the solving of problems and allow excellence to rapidly take hold.

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Why should I come to Hypnosis Now!?

Hypnosis and NLP are separately two of the most powerful and effective mind technologies on the planet. Combined they are, in my belief, without equal in producing positive, quick, long-lasting results. Neuro-Linguistic Hypnotherapyis a methodology specifically designed to allow these dynamic disciplines work best together. It adds the important element of energy to further increase the potency of the combination. NLH is a very flexible, fluid system, designed to accommodate a variety of situations and personalities.

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Where is Hypnosis Now!?

We have various hypnotherapists who have locations all over the Seattle area. When we confirm an appointment time we'll send easy directions via email or give them to you over the phone.

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How do I book an appointment?

Call 206 721-8751 or email us.

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What are your hours?

We generally schedule appointments weekdays starting at 10am. Our last appointment is 3:30pm (currently).  If these times don't work for you special arrangements can be made.

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How much does a session cost?

Call for current rates. Payment by cash or check, Visa or MasterCard.

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If you have any further questions or would like to book an appointment please Call 206 721-8751 or email us.

Thank you for taking the time to read this FAQ!

Keith Livingston