Hypnotherapy FAQ - Hypnosis Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the signs of someone's being hypnotized?
A: Characteristics of the hypnotic state include (a) intense concentration, (b) extreme relaxation, and (c) high suggestibility.

Q: While in hypnosis, will I be awake or asleep?
A: You will be awake but in a deeply relaxed state of consciousness.

Q: Are there other names for hypnotherapy?
A: Yes. Because the "H" word has many mystic, non-scientific connotations and misconceptions, some practitioners prefer to call it names that are more easily understood. Others simply spell out the specific techniques they use, including Guided Imagery, Clinical Visualization, Progressive Relaxation Techniques, Inner Advisor, Timeline Therapy (e.g., Age Regression, Past Like Regression, Future Progression). These techniques share the same characteristics: Concentration, relaxation and suggestibility.

Q: How do I know if I can be hypnotized?
A: Ask yourself: "Can I focus? Am I able to relax? Am I suggestible?" If you have a "No" in your answers, ask, "Can I improve on it?" Generally speaking, improvements will almost always be achieved through hypnotherapy sessions.

Q: Is hypnotherapy a medical treatment or psychotherapy?
A: No, hypnotherapy is not a medical treatment. It is an alternative healing art that can help you make mind-body connections, which in turn, helps enhance your health. While I myself am not a medical doctor, there are medical doctors who recommend and apply Guided Imagery and Clinical Visualization. For more details, I recommend books and tapes by Andrew Weil, M.D. , and books by Martin Rossman, M.D.

Clinical Hypnotherapy is a clinical process. But it is not psychotherapy. As an alternative healing art, it utilizes your own inner resources--wisdom and energy--to heal emotional wounds and to resolve life issues.

Dr. Shelley Wu, PhD
Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist
Call 858-231-0963

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