Frequently Asked Questions

 

General Questions About Hypnotherapy

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1. What is hypnotherapy, and how does it work?
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Hypnotherapy uses hypnosis — a natural state of focused attention — to help us explore thoughts, sensations, associations and patterns experientially, rather than only talking about them.

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You remain aware and in control throughout the process. Depending on what we're working with, hypnosis may help us explore what triggers a response, understand what a protective part of you is trying to accomplish, work with an old association or fear, rehearse a different response, or strengthen a greater sense of safety and choice.

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There isn't one particular experience you're supposed to have. The work is adapted to you.

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2. What can hypnotherapy help with?
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I work with people experiencing anxiety, fears and phobias, intrusive or repetitive thoughts, sleep difficulties, grief and loss, unwanted habits and patterns, and periods of change or transition.

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Often, the common thread is that someone consciously knows how they would like to feel or respond, but another response keeps happening automatically. Hypnotherapy gives us a way to become curious about that pattern and work with it experientially.

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3. Is hypnotherapy scientifically-backed?

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Hypnosis has been studied scientifically for many years, and research supports its use for a number of concerns, although the strength of evidence varies depending on what is being treated.

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I take an evidence-informed approach to my work and also recognize the limits of hypnotherapy. It isn't a replacement for medical or psychological care when those services are needed, and I may recommend that hypnotherapy be used alongside other forms of support.

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4. What does hypnosis feel like? Will I be unconscious?

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You won't be unconscious. Hypnosis is a state of focused attention in which you may become more absorbed in your internal experience — thoughts, sensations, imagery, memories or associations.

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Some people feel deeply relaxed; others simply feel focused or absorbed. You can hear me, speak to me, move, open your eyes and make decisions throughout the session. There isn't a particular depth or feeling you need to achieve for us to do useful work.

 

5. How is hypnotherapy different from meditation or mindfulness?

While meditation and mindfulness help train your focus and awareness, hypnotherapy is goal-oriented. It uses guided visualizations, suggestions and therapeutic techniques to create meaningful, lasting changes in your thoughts and behaviors.

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6. What if I have anxiety and can't relax or "go into trance"?

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People vary in how they experience and respond to hypnosis, and you don't need to be exceptionally hypnotizable or able to reach a particular state for us to work together. We are talking to your unconscious mind and it is listening whether your conscious mind is busy or quiet. 

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7. How is hypnotherapy different from traditional psychotherapy?

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Psychotherapy may involve ongoing exploration of thoughts, emotions, relationships, experiences and mental-health concerns. Hypnotherapy uses hypnosis and experiential approaches to work with particular responses, associations and patterns, often in 3-6 sessions.

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Some people choose hypnotherapy on its own; others use it alongside psychotherapy or other healthcare. If your needs would be better served by a regulated mental-health professional or another healthcare provider, I'll let you know.

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Practical & Booking Questions

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8. How many sessions will I need?

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There isn't a predetermined number of sessions that everyone needs. Some people come with a very specific concern and notice meaningful change within a few sessions. Other patterns have been present for many years or connect to several areas of someone's life, and the work may unfold over a longer period.

 

I offer both 3- and 6-session options for this reason. We'll talk about what you're hoping to change and what level of support makes sense for you — without assuming in advance exactly how long the process should take.

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9. How long is a session, and what happens during one?

A typical session lasts 75 minutes. Each session includes a combination of conversation, guided relaxation, and tailored hypnotherapy techniques.

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10. What should I expect in my first session?

We’ll start with a conversation about your goals and any concerns you may have. I’ll explain how hypnosis works, and then we’ll do a personalized hypnotherapy session. You’ll leave feeling relaxed, empowered, and with practical takeaways to support your progress.

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11. Can I book a discovery call before committing to sessions?

Yes! I offer a free 20-minute discovery call where we can discuss your needs, answer any questions, and determine if hypnotherapy is the right fit for you.

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12. How do I book a session?

You can easily book a session through my online booking system. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out!

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Questions you may have about hypnotherapy

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13. Will I lose control or be made to do something I don’t want to?

Absolutely not. Hypnotherapy is not stage hypnosis. You remain fully in control at all times. You will never do or say anything against your will.

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14. What if I can’t be hypnotized?

Everyone can be hypnotized if they are open to the process. Hypnosis is simply a state of deep focus and relaxation, and I tailor the approach to suit your unique way of processing information.

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15. What if I have trouble visualizing? Can hypnotherapy still work for me?

Yes! Hypnotherapy isn’t just about visualization. I use sensory-based techniques that work whether you process information through images, feelings, or words. Hypnosis is effective for all learning styles.

 

16. Is hypnotherapy safe? Are there any risks?
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Hypnosis is generally considered safe when used appropriately by a trained practitioner, but it isn't suitable for every person or every situation. We'll discuss your history and what you're hoping to work on before beginning, and I work within my scope of practice. When another form of medical or mental-health support would be more appropriate, I will say so.

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17. Can hypnotherapy work for deep-rooted issues like trauma or phobias?
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Hypnotherapy can be used as part of work involving fears, phobias or difficult past experiences. I don't assume that you need to relive a traumatic experience in order to change how you respond now.

The approach depends on the individual, the issue we're working with and whether hypnotherapy is appropriate. Where someone's needs fall outside my scope of practice, I will recommend appropriate psychological or medical support.

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Logistics & Payment

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18. Do I need to prepare for a session?

No special preparation is needed. Just wear comfortable clothing, find a quiet space (for virtual sessions), and come with an open mind.

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19. Is hypnotherapy covered by insurance?

Currently, hypnotherapy is not covered by health benefits or insurance. However, many clients find it to be a worthwhile investment in their well-being.

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20. What is your pricing, and do you offer package deals?

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Complimentary 20 Minute Discovery Call: free

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Individual Sessions: 

• 75-minute session: $200 plus HST

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Packages:

• I also offer a 3-session package ($499 plus HST) and 6 session package ($995 plus HST), which include a customized audio recording to listen to between sessions. 

 

*All prices in Canadian Dollars, taxes extra where applicable

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21. What happens if I need to reschedule or cancel?

24 hours' notice is required for rescheduling or cancellations to avoid a cancellation fee.

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22. Do you offer virtual sessions, and are they as effective as in-person sessions?

Yes, I offer virtual sessions, and they are just as effective as in-person sessions. Many clients enjoy the convenience and comfort of experiencing hypnosis from their own home.

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23. Do you offer in-person sessions?

Yes, I offer in-person sessions at my office in the Beaches area of Toronto. Please email for the address when booking your first in-person session.