Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current view of hypnotherapy within the professional psychiatric community?

Many psychiatrists and psychotherapists acknowledge the value of hypnosis. The British Medical Association has acknowledged it as a valid therapeutic tool since 1899. The issue lies in the fact that 'hypnotherapy' is a full time job and a very specialised one. A psychiatrist who hypnotises someone three times a week will never have the skills of a hypnotherapist who works on three people a day. As a result, hypnosis takes something of a backseat.

 In the meantime there are hypnotherapists who practice a more metaphysical process - such as past lives work - which may have some therapeutic application, however it is very limited. This type of hypnotherapist does little to add credibility to a modality that is undoubtedly powerful and useful - but is perceived as flakey because of these metaphysical practitioners.

 As a result, people wishing to use hypnotherapy need to search carefully for the right kind of therapist. At Vancouver Hypnotherapy we practice a form of Technical Hypnotherapy. In this form of hypnotherapy there is no place for metaphysical hypnotherapy (or crystal balls, or angel cards). It focuses purely on addictions, weight loss, anxiety/stress related issues and depression. We do have therapists capable of the more metaphysical styles, however it is not our focus.

I’ve seen hypnotised people act silly on stage. Will I do things I don’t want to do? Can my mind be controlled?

You won’t do or think anything under hypnosis that you wouldn’t normally do or think. You can’t be controlled. If people in a stage show act silly it’s because they want to. 

Can anyone/everyone be hypnotised?

As a general rule, yes - anyone with at least average intelligence and the ability to follow instructions AND wants to enter hypnosis, can be hypnotised. 

With that being said, there are certain conditions where hypnosis is not recommended: ie: major clinical depression, suicidal ideations, and psychotic disorders.

How does hypnosis work?

Hypnosis provides access to the unconscious mind where most of our behaviour originates. With our guidance, you literally change undesirable emotions, habits, and behaviours into new desirable ones. You create a new you!

What is a session like?

Typically, you will be guided into hypnosis about half way through a session. In some complex cases, the first session is spent getting detailed background. Then hypnosis can be used to reinforce your goals, or to uncover and remove troubling issues. A strong counselling element is also likely to play a part in the process.

What does hypnosis feel like?

Hypnosis is refreshing, relaxing, and energising; for some even more refreshing than sleep. Most important is the fact that it works— people get results.

How long does therapy last? How many sessions does it take?

The number of required sessions varies between individuals and the nature of the therapy. As a rule, hypnotherapy is considered short-term therapy compared to conventional psychotherapy, meaning you will spend, on average, 3-5 sessions instead of several months of sessions. Quit smoking is different in that it typically only requires one specialised 2-hour session.

People use hypnosis for quitting smoking. Can it be used to work with other addictions?

Yes. Most addictions are caused by events deeply buried in the past. While treating addictions many methods fail to address these issues, and so really only deal with symptoms. Hypnotherapy addresses the causes. We specialise in working with clients who wish to manage their alcohol use.

Who shouldn't use Hypnosis?

Hypnosis has been found to be very effective with a broad range of issues. That being said, there are certain conditions that hypnosis is not recommended for: ie: major clinical depression, suicidality, and psychotic disorders.

This would include suicidal ideation, delusions, schizophrenia and severe depression. 

Is Success Guaranteed?

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

We cannot guarantee your success as we are not capable of  "making" people do anything. Hypnosis can help make changes easier, but ultimately your success is up to you. 

With that being said, I suppose if you can guarantee that you will follow every single suggestion we provide, then that would guarantee your success.

Do you offer refunds?

As mentioned in the question above, we cannot and do not offer guarantees. The fees we charge are not a guarantee of success, they are the rate we charge for our services, time and business costs. We do not offer refunds for our services.

 Packages are offered at a discount rate as they represent a level of commitment to change. As a general rule, we do not offer refunds on packages. *In the event that a refund may be offered, all completed sessions will be charged at their single session rates and the balance would be refunded (less a 10% office fee).