Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness that lies between "awake" and "asleep," achieved through mental and physical relaxation strategies.  Hypnosis uses guided imagery and relaxation, intense concentration, and focused attention to achieve a heightened state of awareness.  In this state, the conscious mind steps to the side, allowing access to the subconscious mind, where the most change and healing can take place.  

Hypnosis practices date back to the 15th century. The American Medical Association endorsed the use of hypnosis as a valid medical tool in 1958.  By the 21st century, the benefits of hypnosis had been scientifically evaluated so extensively that it is now considered an effective, mainstream approach for many psychological, physical, and spiritual concerns.  It can help change attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors. 

Learn more about hypnosis here: http://www.abouthypnosis.com/ 

In Transpersonal Hypnotherapy, we focus on the interaction between the mind, body, and spirit in order to best address the concerns the client presents with.  Transpersonal Hypnotherapy combines the client's own spiritual beliefs with hypnosis process, deepening the healing and growth that occurs.  Each client dictates the unique spiritual focus of their Transpersonal Hypnotherapy process.  This allows for a holistic experience during which the client can access the healing benefits of connecting to a higher spiritual realm, a higher power, their higher self, spirit guides and angels, the realm of life between lives,  passed loved ones, and past life experiences.  Clients are able to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, others, and the universe in which they live through Transpersonal Hypnotherapy.   

Question:  Do people do things under hypnosis that are against their morals or values?

Answer:  No. Hypnosis cannot detach the ego. As a general rule, if a client were given a suggestion he or she did not agree with, he or she would simply refuse, laugh at it, or awaken (regain normal awareness). In stage hypnosis, the volunteers are usually under the influence of alcohol and have come to the show for the purpose of relaxing, acting silly and having a good time, therefore, they are easily encouraged to do so. Because inhibitions are often reduced under hypnosis, the subject is more likely to experience their inner character traits and motivations.

Question: Can a person's memory be erased?

Answer:  No. If one undergoing hypnosis wants to remember, he or she will. In some cases, if the client wants to forget something, amnesia can be produced with a post-hypnotic suggestion, but it wears off as quickly as the subject wishes. Although, a certified hypnotherapist can help a person transform a memory, which may be causing problems. The mind contains unconscious memories, which generally are responsible for our decisions, attitudes, feelings, and behaviors.

Question:  Can everyone be hypnotized?

Answer:  Yes, provided one has normal physiological and psychological functioning and therefore the ability to concentrate and/or relax. As long as a normal human being is willing, he or she may undergo hypnosis.  Insusceptible people are simply not willing. There is a positive correlation between one's willingness to relax and concentrate and the ability to undergo hypnosis.

Question:  Do people under hypnosis go to sleep or become unconscious?

Answer:  No. One should not expect to go to sleep! Hypnosis is a hyper-state of awareness that feels very relaxing. One is completely aware of everything that is occurring in the surrounding environment as well as that which is happening in the inner mind. Hypnosis is a state of consciousness located somewhere between awake and asleep. Some fatigued people may go out of hypnosis by falling into natural sleep, simply because they were tired, but then they may need to be awakened; if a person is trying to recall a memory under hypnosis, he or she can't do so while sleeping. On the other hand, if a person is listening to a self-hypnosis tape and he or she falls out of hypnosis into sleep, the suggestions will likely still be effective.