FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How does hypnosis actually work?
Hypnosis is at work when a person is processing information subconsciously instead of consciously. The conscious mind is very judgmental and the unconscious is more accepting and able to believe suggestions. When a person is processing subconsciously they will believe almost anything inside their moral code of ethics. We won’t do anything we wouldn’t want to do while in a state of hypnosis.

Can anyone be hypnotized?
Sure, you are hypnotized regularly and don’t realize it. When you drive a car you can “zone out” and be consciously unaware. This is because driving is a very routine exercise and can be taken over by the subconscious. This phenomenon is referred to as highway hypnosis. Researchers say we go into some state of hypnosis about every 7 minutes. Hypnosis is also at work when you read a book or watch a movie. You become very involved on a deep level and can become completely unaware of your surroundings. Daydreaming is also a great example of hypnosis at work.

How long do suggestions last on a person?
This depends on the style of hypnosis being used. If it’s therapeutic hypnosis, the suggestions last permanently. For example a person going through a hypnosis session to lose a phobia of spiders will lose that phobia permanently through this style of hypnosis. If it’s stage hypnosis, the effects are temporary because the suggestion are very bizarre and the subconscious mind won’t hold onto crazy ideas very long.

Can you get stuck in hypnosis?

People sometimes wonder whether they will get 'stuck' in hypnosis. I'm pleased to be able to tell you it's no more possible to get stuck in a hypnotic trance than it is possible to get stuck in a dream when you are sleeping.

Our brain needs us to be in different states of consciousness from the day dreamy state of hypnosis to the high-energy state of cheering on a sports team or dancing wildly at a party. We all need to change psychological and physical states often. So, people always awaken from trance although sometimes they may feel reluctant to when they are having such a wonderful inner time.

Central to each person is a strong survival mechanism. Even though you might be dreaming deeply at night, if someone yells "fire” a few times you will wake up and all the heaviness will vanish.  And that's from a state of deep sleep. Nature tends to be pretty sensible which is why you don't get stuck in hypnosis.

Our psyche needs to be able to attend to outside reality in an instant if necessary. SO, no, you can't get stuck in hypnosis because of the innate survival value of being able to come to full waking consciousness instantly should you need to.

How did you get into hypnosis?
As a teen I traveled a lot in summers with a carnival and worked many events with a hypnotist named Mark Crank. I saw his show many times, and he even performed at my high school lock in. He inspired me to take it up and directed me on where to learn.

Is it a special power?
Not at all. It’s an art form. Hypnosis can be learned by anyone. Just like a guitar player has to practice his instrument to become an expert. Hypnosis must be practiced to master. It’s not always simple but like anything once you get the hang of it it becomes second nature.

What did you study to learn what you do?
I am a certified hypnotherapist and a certified Stage Hypnotist. I'll tell you, hypnotizing many people at once can really put your skills to the test.