HARLEY SEARS, CH

What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a very pleasant and deeply relaxing state of focused attention in which beneficial suggestions may be given directly to the subconscious part of the mind, enabling you to make desired positive changes. It is used to build new behaviors or help to attain personal and professional goals. Hypnotism is not psychotherapy.

What is the difference between hypnotism and psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy (which I do not provide) is the diagnosis and conversational treatment of mental and emotional disorders. Professional hypnotism (which I do provide) is the use of relaxation and suggestion to improve general self-control and maintain a positive mental attitude.

How does hypnosis work?

Hypnosis allows people to explore thoughts or feelings that may have hidden from their conscious minds. The relaxed hypnotic state allows a person to be more open to discussion and suggestion. Hypnosis is designed to enhance motivation, increase feelings of self-control, improve self-esteem, encourage self-compassion, and explore ambivalence about change. Hypnosis is also suspected to increase oxytocin (a hormone that makes you feel good and calm). Evidence shows that increased amounts of oxytocin may decrease blood pressure and lower the effects of stress. This raises levels of a substance called CCK, which, among other things, helps to control appetite.

How many sessions will I need?

I recommend new clients start with a program of 3 visits. Sessions are typically scheduled once-a-week, and last one hour. As a general rule, hypnosis is relatively brief and the ethical aim is to keep the number of visits to a necessary minimum.

What will I experience during my first visit?

During your first visit, there will be a discussion about the goal you want to achieve or the problem you want to resolve. I will explain what hypnosis is, how it works, and what you will experience.  I will then induce a hypnotic state using individualized methods based on the nature of your goal or issue. At the end of the session you will return to the normal waking state. Most new clients are surprised at how natural the process feels and find the experience deeply relaxing.

Is there scientific evidence that hypnosis works?

Many people are surprised at the substantial body of evidence for the effectiveness of hypnosis. Not only have there been several thousand individual studies, there have also been many meta-analysis studies. More importantly, there have been several formal, systematic studies of hypnosis by leading medical bodies over the years. Many of these studies are available via the National Institutes of Health.

Are the results guaranteed?

Results cannot be guaranteed. Each client is unique, and your success depends upon your level of motivation and commitment to change.

Will I lose consciousness or fall asleep?

No. One of the major misconceptions is that the hypnotized person will lose conscious awareness. In hypnosis, the client is alert and aware of everything at all times, and hears everything the hypnotist says. While consciousness is entirely suspended in sleep, it is definitely present in hypnosis - a great difference.

Can I be made to do something against my will?

No. Since the ability to be hypnotized is a subjective experience, nothing could be further from the truth. Although the hypnotist guides and develops the hypnotic state, the ability to be hypnotized rests within the client, and the client is always in control.

Should I use hypnosis in place of seeing a therapist or doctor?

No. Consult with your doctor or therapist first if you have any health problems or concerns. You can then combine my services with those of your physician/therapist.

What are your fees?

My fee is $100 for a standard one-hour session, and is competitive with other providers in the Kansas City Metropolitan area. You may pay for your sessions using cash or with any credit or debit card from Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express. I do not accept personal checks. Payment is due at the end of each session or before beginning your program.

Will my insurance cover visits?

Health insurance plans do not cover the cost of my services. However, sessions may be covered by your Health Savings Account.  I do not currently accept HSA cards, but can provide a billing statement for reimbursement.

Can I bring a friend or spouse to my appointment?

You are welcome to bring someone with you, but please keep in mind that observers are not allowed and there is no waiting area in my office. However, there are plenty of cafe's, shops, and sights to explore in my neighborhood while they wait.

How do I make an appointment?

Appointments are scheduled online only [Book Now]. You can view my calendar in real-time, and choose the exact day and time that works for you. There is no waiting when you arrive at my office, so it's important that you show up at your scheduled time.

How do I cancel an appointment?

If you can't keep your appointment or need to cancel or reschedule, please contact me. Full fee will be billed for appointments broken or canceled without 24 hour notice.