What is Hypnotherapy? 

Hypnosis is a state of inward attention and focused concentration. It is often referred to as trance or as an altered state of consciousness. When the mind is concentrated and focused, people are better able to tap into and utilize their inner resources and emotions, to make personal changes, and learn how to better manage their own lives. Because hypnosis and self-hypnosis allow people to use more of their potential, they gain more self-control. In a hypnotic state, people are completely in control of their experience, but they are also more open to suggestion and change. 

Everyone has experienced hypnosis or trance, although it may not be referred to by that name. If you’ve ever been absorbed in thought, reading a book or watching TV, and failed to hear someone talking to you, you were in a trance-like state. Perhaps you have been so worried about the future that you lose track of what is happening presently. Or, you are so focused by what you want in the moment (i.e., a cigarette, a piece of cake, another pair of expensive shoes) that you don’t think about potential consequences. These very focused states of attention are, in fact, everyday experiences of what is called hypnosis. 

 Clinical hypnotherapy is different only to the extent that it will be through choice with the guidance of a certified licensed therapist, rather than through a spontaneous, unexpected or unknowing experience.