"You already have the precious mixture that will make you well." 

Rumi, Medieval Persian Poet
 
 

Many of Merle’s clients choose to use hypnosis because of its well-documented effectiveness at solving problems.

What is Hypnosis? 

Hypnosis, also known as "trance," is a state of very deep relaxation during which you are awake and aware, and have a heightened ability to understand problems and develop new habits. Although movies and stage demonstrations often make hypnosis look strange, scary or out-of-control, it is actually a natural state of mind. You spontaneously experience hypnosis when you’re relaxing at the beach, driving, or absorbed in a book or movie.

During "hypnosis" or "self-hypnosis" you are in control. You choose when to go into trance, what to work on during trance, and when to come out of trance. Even in the deepest of trances, people can come out when they choose and can typically remember what happens. 

When you enter a state of deep relaxation during hypnosis, you access your creative and problem-solving abilities to enable you to strategically make changes. The part of your mind that believes that change is possible in your life no matter how stuck you may feel is activated, offering suggestions to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals -- suggestions that would not occur in your usual conscious state.
 
 

What is the difference between hypnosis and self-hypnosis?

In hypnosis, a professional guides you in and out of trance, making suggestions and providing guidance. In self-hypnosis, you talk to yourself, acting as your own guide. People usually do self-hypnosis after they have experienced therapist-guided hypnosis a number of times. To enhance results, Merle will make you a personalized audiotape for self-hypnosis at home. On a daily basis, self-hypnosis will help you relax and achieve the results you want. 
 
 

What should I look for in a hypnotherapist? 

You want to work with someone who is down-to-earth, respectful and compassionate. It’s best to look for a hypnotherapist, not a hypnotist--that is, someone who is a licensed mental health professional (social worker, psychologist, psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse) and trained to use hypnosis to create positive change. Anyone can call themselves a "hypnotist" or "hypnotherapist" with little training, but a mental health professional has extensive training in both hypnosis and other methods of intervention. This is important because hypnosis may raise your awareness of feelings or problems that need special attention and you would be with a professional who could respond appropriately. Certification by the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis is your best assurance of a qualified professional. (create link or offer contact info) 
 
 

How many hypnosis sessions do I need to achieve the results I want?

This will vary depending on your unique circumstances. Typically after five to twelve sessions people experience a positive shift in their behavior. Some people choose to use hypnosis as their primary relaxation technique and come weekly on an on-going basis. Others return for occasional sessions to boost their effectiveness at self-hypnosis. 
 
 

How do we know it works?

Hospitals and universities have conducted many rigorous research studies. If you would like to learn more about these studies, please read the book, Hypnotherapy and Hypnoanalysis by Daniel P. Brown and Erika Fromm. Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, 1986.