Hypnotherapy FAQ
Safety, Sessions, Insurance & Policies

Hypnosis helps you access the unconscious (subconscious) mind, where many habits, emotional responses, and automatic behaviours are formed. With our guidance, this relaxed and focused state allows you to release patterns that no longer serve you and replace them with healthier, more supportive responses. Rather than changing who you are, hypnosis helps you reconnect with the version of yourself that feels more balanced, calm, and in control.

Hypnosis is generally experienced as deeply relaxing and refreshing, while still feeling mentally aware and in control. Many people describe it as similar to the calm focus you might feel just before falling asleep, or when you are fully absorbed in a task. Most clients find the experience pleasant and leave sessions feeling calmer, lighter, and more clear-headed. You can also watch the video at the top of this page for a more detailed overview.

No. Hypnosis is not mind control, and you remain aware and in control throughout the entire session. You cannot be made to say or do anything that goes against your values or wishes. Hypnotherapy is a collaborative process focused on meaningful, therapeutic change, not stage-style behaviour.

Sessions typically begin with a discussion about your history, goals, and any changes you would like to make. This allows us to understand what is most important for you and tailor the session accordingly. You are then guided into hypnosis, where the work is focused on reinforcing goals or addressing underlying patterns that may be contributing to the issue.

In more complex cases, the first session may be used primarily to gather a detailed background and clearly define outcomes. When this is needed, there may not be time for hypnosis in that initial session, as laying the right foundation is an important part of the process.

In a therapeutic setting, yes. Most people who are able to follow instructions and are willing to participate can experience hypnosis. A very deep trance is not usually required for therapeutic work, which means the vast majority of people can benefit from hypnosis.

Stage hypnosis is different. It relies on a small number of highly responsive volunteers entering a very deep trance quickly, which is not representative of clinical hypnosis.

There are some situations where hypnosis may not be appropriate, such as active suicidal ideation, certain psychotic disorders, or severe untreated depression. These situations are assessed on a case-by-case basis and may require the approval of a client’s mental health team.

Hypnosis is safe and appropriate for many people and is commonly used to support a wide range of concerns. However, there are certain situations where hypnosis is not recommended, such as active suicidal ideation, certain psychotic disorders (including schizophrenia or delusional disorders), and severe or untreated clinical depression.

Suitability is assessed on a case-by-case basis, and in some situations, approval from a client’s mental health care team may be required before proceeding.

The number of sessions needed varies depending on the individual and the issue being addressed. Hypnotherapy is generally considered a short-term approach, with most clients attending an average of three to five sessions rather than committing to long-term treatment.

Quit smoking is an exception, as it typically requires a single specialised two-hour session.

No. It would be unethical for any hypnotist, therapist, counsellor, doctor, coach, or health practitioner to guarantee results.

Hypnosis is not something that is done to you. We cannot make anyone change or do anything against their will. Hypnotherapy can help make change easier and more accessible, but meaningful results depend on your willingness to engage in the process and apply what is learned.

While outcomes cannot be guaranteed, clients who are motivated and committed to the process tend to see the strongest results.

For adult clients, hypnotherapy works best when the person receiving it chooses the process for themselves. While it’s natural to want to help a partner or adult child, hypnosis can’t force change or create motivation that isn’t already there. If an adult has asked you to help them book, we’re usually happy to assist. Otherwise, the most supportive step is often letting them know help is available and allowing them to reach out when they’re ready. We have a blog post on this topic here.

For minor children, parents or legal guardians do book on their behalf. You can learn more about how hypnotherapy works with older kids and teens here.

Hypnotherapy is not typically covered by insurance or medical plans unless it is provided by a registered counsellor, psychologist, or social worker. At Vancouver Hypnotherapy, our Consulting Hypnotists do not hold those designations. If you do choose to go that route, we recommend asking whether the practitioner uses hypnosis regularly. If not, they may not have the same level of experience as a dedicated Consulting Hypnotist.

We require at least 48 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Late cancellations or missed sessions are subject to our cancellation policy as outlined in our Terms & Conditions.

In cases of illness or emergency where a fee is waived, the session must be rebooked within one week and completed within one month. If this does not occur, the original session fee will apply.

We do not offer refunds for hypnotherapy services. Fees are charged for professional time, expertise, and business costs, and do not constitute a guarantee of outcomes.

Packages are offered at a discounted rate and reflect a commitment to the process. As a general rule, packages are non-refundable. In the event that a refund is considered, all completed sessions will be charged at their single-session rates, and any remaining balance will be refunded minus a 10% office fee.

Full details are outlined in our Terms & Conditions.