What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a very pleasant and deeply relaxing natural 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 or 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, feelings, and memories they may have hidden from their conscious minds. The relaxed hypnotic state allows a person to be more open to discussion and suggestion. Hypnosis can help people change unwanted behaviors. It can also help people change perceptions and sensations, and is particularly useful in pain management.

How many sessions will I need?

Most new clients are scheduled for a private program of 3 sessions. 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 acheive or the problem you want to resolve. You will be seated in a comfortable chair in a softly lit, quiet office. 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?

Yes. While there are plenty of examples in scientific literature attesting to the usefulness of hypnosis, a study published in the journal Gut is particularly noteworthy. The study involved 204 people suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Treatment consisted of 12 weekly sessions of hypnosis (lasting about one hour each). 58% of the men and 75% of the women reported significant symptom relief immediately after finishing treatment. More than 80% of those who reported initial relief were still improved up to 6 years later. Fewer than 10% of the participants tried other treatments after hypnotherapy. (Gut, November 2003). More studies are available via the National Institutes of Health website at www.nih.gov. Simply type hypnosis in the search box to access over 700 articles.

Are the results guaranteed?

Beware of Hypnotists who make guarantees or exaggerate success rates. Each client is unique, and your success depends upon levels of motivation and commitment to change.

How can hypnosis help me lose weight?

Hypnosis for weight loss is designed to enhance motivation, increase feelings of self-control, encourage physical exercise, improve self-esteem and body image, 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 helps you control appetite. For more information on hypnosis and weight loss, see Thinking Yourself Thin at www.DoctorOz.com.

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.

Are there any drawbacks to hypnosis?

Hypnosis is not appropriate for a person who has psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions, or for someone who is using drugs or alcohol. It should be used for pain control only after a doctor has evaluated the person for any physical disorder that might require medical or surgical treatment.

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

No. Hypnosis should be used in combination with traditional medicine or therapy. Check out any health problems first with your doctor - then you can combine the methods of the physician, therapist, and hypnotist.

What are your fees?

Fees for professional hypnotism are $100 for a standard one-hour session, and are competitive with other providers in the Kansas City Metropolitan area. You may pay by cash, personal check, or major credit-debit card. Payment is due at the end of each session or before beginning your program.

Does my insurance cover visits?

No. Health insurance plans do not usually cover the cost of hypnosis. Individuals are therefore responsible for paying the fees themselves.

How do I make an appointment?

The fastest and easiest way for you to schedule an appointment is by using the "Book Now" feature on this website. You can view my calendar in real-time, and choose the exact day and time that works for you.

How do I cancel an appointment?

If you can't keep your appointment or need to cancel - simply call, send an email, or text me (be sure to include your full name when sending a message by text). Alternatively, you have the option to cancel your appointment from the link in your appointment confirmation email. Please provide 12 hours when cancelling.

Can I speak to you before I make my first appointment?

Of course! I encourage you to contact me with any questions before booking your first appointment. You can reach me at (816) 714-8485 or email me at harley@hdsears.com.