What is Hypnotherapy?
     Hypnotherapy is a state of deep relaxation and focused concentration on one thing. The hypnotherapy technique that I use is called  "Guided Relaxation." Once in this state your mind is open to receiving positive suggestions that can help you take control of your life and achieve your goals. Most of us function in this state 80% of the time, moving in and out of it throughout the day. It is typically compared to driving a car and not remembering the ride once you’ve arrived at your destination.

  During "Guided Relaxation" the client is always in complete control and may end the session at any time simply by opening their eyes. Hypnotherapy is like being in a trance; you are aware of everything that's going on around you but your subconscious attention is completely focused on the suggestions made by the hypnotherapist.  

   Both professional and Olympic class athletes use hypnosis techniques to attain better concentration and stamina to improve their performance.

   Working solely at the conscious level to get rid of a bad habit or make a change in your life is like trying to weed a lawn of dandelions by skimming off the tops.  You can spend years hacking at the dandelions in your life, or you can use the power of your subconscious mind to get to the root of the matter and make lasting changes in your life.

   It is no accident that you have happened upon this website.  Whether you are well and wishing to remain so or struggling with your health and looking for options, hypnotherapy is worth exploring.  Call 715-833-1096 to learn more about this exciting technique.

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What to Expect in a Session
  * The initial session lasts 1 1/2 - 2 hours long.  Sessions after that are 75-90 minutes in length.

First 15-20 minutes:
  * Fill out general information form.
  * Answer any questions you may have.
  * Discuss how hypnotherapy can help you.
  * Introduce Therapeutic Essential Oils - Young Living 
  In every session (if you so choose) essential oils are used that are specific to your topic.  For example, in weight-loss we use the essential oil "peppermint" because peppermint oil has been proven to help eliminate and control unhealthy cravings. 
  Since using Young Living Essential Oils in my practice the effectiveness of hypnotherapy has increased and many clients comment that they love the smell!  These oils are also available for purchase.  I offer one-time only sample bottles for $5.00 or you can purchase a 15 ml size for regular price at any time.  Check out the essential oils page for more information and the store link for prices.

Next 60 minutes:
  * Most clients lay down on the massage table; some prefer the recliner if they have pain issues.  Soft music is played as I begin using a guided relaxation script (15 min). A deepener is added to help you achieve a deeper level of relaxation and angels (optional) are invited in to facilitate healing (8 min).
  * I read a "script" or dialogue on your topic of choice adding in positive suggestions along with specific affirmations we have set up prior on any goals you may have. (20-30 min) At this point you are in a deep state of relaxation or trance. Most people are fully awake and alert, and can even talk and move about if they wish.  Some people move in and out of a light, sleep-like trance.  Regardless of your level of relaxation, at any point in time you may open your eyes and end the session if you choose to, because you are in complete control at all times.  
    In addition, regardless of your level of relaxation the suggestions are always beneficial.  You do not have to be in a HYPNOTIC state for the suggestions to have an effect on your being.  We accept suggestions all of the time when we are in a highly vulnerable or receptive state, usually it is something negative someone says that gets stuck in our subconscious mind and we have to work to get it out.  Sometimes wonderful things we hear get stuck in our head and help progress us forward.  
    I believe almost anyone can reach a relaxed state and gain benefits from hypnotherapy.  It's nothing magical that only some people can do...all of us have this ability the effectiveness depends on whether you are open to receiving and you believe.  People who are not good candidates for hypnotherapy include mentally retarded, cognitively disabled, elderly with dementia, children under 4 years old, mentally unstable or imbalanced people, people who do not BELIEVE it will work, and people who are doing it for someone else, not themselves (usually smokers).
   * Finally, there is a quiet period of 5-10 minutes where your subconscious mind processes the suggestions given.  I also stand and do Reiki if you so choose.  During Reiki I often times receive thoughts, images, or words that I share with you.  Many times clients find this information soothing or useful in helping them make decisions in their life. 

What is Reiki?
   * Reiki is derived from India and was used by Buddhists as well as people in Japan.  The word Reiki is Japanese.  Reiki is similiar to healing touch and referred to as "energy work."  It is used to comfort and relieve pain.  We all have this ability and do this subconsciously when we are in pain.  For example, if you have a headache you will place your hand on your forehead or if you have a pain in your body you will place your hand over it and rub or press on the spot.  What you are essentially doing is tapping into the Universal Life Force energetic field that surrounds us all and assists in our healing.
   * I am a Reiki II Practitioner and what that means is that I have had my body's energy channels opened and cleared of obstructions by the Reiki attunements received during training.  This increases my energy force to help facilitate my own healing but more importantly to serve as a channel to facilitate healing in other people.  I do not take responsibility for anyone's healing. All healing comes from the Universal Life Force which I refer to as God and the angels.  If you are an angel lover you won't want to miss out on this special treat I offer at the end of all my private sessions.

Final 15-20 minutes:
Follow-up by sharing any thoughts or insights you gained during the session.  Introduction of self-hypnosis and review of the tools taught during the session: 1) essential oil  2) forming O with fingers 3) self-hypnosis.

What to Bring to a Session
   * Light Blanket and Socks or Slippers- When you are in a relaxed state your body temperature will drop.  Be sure to dress comfortably.  Being chilled can affect your ability to relax.
   * Eye Covering (dry wash cloth or handkerchief works well)  Some people find it easier to become relaxed when their eyes are covered, just the weight of the cloth can help you relax and let go faster.
   * Notebook - Sometimes it's helpful to write down whatever pops into your head immediately upon coming out of hypnosis. Your intuition is strongest at this point and your ability to access your higher self which contains all of the answers to all of your questions is heightened.
   * CAUTION - Caffeinated beverages can impair your ability to relax and lessen the effectiveness of a hypnotherapy session.  It is best to take care to limit any coffee or pop consumption before your appointment.

Benefits of Hypnotherapy
Effective for adults and children over 8 yr.