Hypnosis is a trance state of deep relaxation and heightened imagination. It is a normal state that most people experience on a regular basis, such as when daydreaming or when "losing yourself" in a book. Hypnotic induction techniques limit sensory stimulation to slow down neural activity, taking you from the waking state (beta) into the states of hypnosis (alpha and theta). In these states the brain’s centers of awareness and imagining shift from cortex (where conscious, analytical thinking takes place) to the sub-cortical structures involved in unconscious and emotional processes, the stress response, and long-term memory. In simple terms, by limiting sensory input the brain slows down, and the unconscious mind is made accessible.

As hypnotherapy is not a licensed profession, some hypnotists are practicing with very little training in hypnosis or mental health — leading to the false belief that hypnosis alone can treat many mental health problems. This can deter people from getting the help they need from a licensed professional.

It is the opinion of the American Psychological Association and the American Psychotherapy and Medical Hypnosis Association that those without thorough training in Psychology or Mental Health should not be practicing hypnosis. 

I hold a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fairfield University and am licensed by the State of Connecticut to practice Mental Health Counseling. I am certified by the National Guild of Hypnotists to practice hypnosis.

A hypnotic state is similar to a meditative state, where you have a strong internal focus and are very relaxed yet remain in complete control. You may find yourself “lost in your thoughts” in a serene way, as in a peaceful daydream. Despite the popular portrayal of hypnosis, it is not like being asleep because you are aware of everything around you and can choose to open your eyes at any time. Most people, however, choose not to interrupt the state as they find the experience enjoyable.

Absolutely. Online hypnotherapy is just as effective. You may feel even more relaxed and comfortable working from your own home or office, which can only add to the positive outcome as we work together. In fact, recent research backs this up. Similarly, a systematic review in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (Vol. 14, No. 4) states that results “indicate that e-therapy seems to be at least equivalent to face-to-face therapy”.

Using Zoom for virtual hypnotherapy sessions is easy. You will just need a reliable internet connection, earphones or earbuds, and a quiet, comfortable place to relax. At the time you schedule your appointment, you will receive a confirmation email containing a unique link for your session. At the scheduled time, just click your link and follow the instructions to join me. You can use your laptop, tablet or phone.

I’ll ask you to get into a comfortable position in which I can see your face. You will then relax and I’ll guide you into a hypnotic state. The session ends with a short chat in which we’ll process your experience, discuss your progress, and book a subsequent session if indicated.

Your first session lasts approximately 90 minutes and focuses on gaining an in-depth understanding of one specific issue of your choosing. We will review your Intake Questionnaire so that I can learn more about you and understand any impediments that keep you from living the life you wish to live or that might have hindered you from achieving your goals in the past.

After this conversation I will explain how hypnosis works and answer any questions you may have about the whole process. Once you have a comfortable understanding of the process, I will gently guide you into a relaxing trance in which you will be more able to accept into your mind those ideas and beliefs which will propel you to a new life, overcoming and resolving your challenges. While in this trance, you can come out of it anytime you wish to resume regular consciousness, but most people find that they enjoy it and want to stay in this stress-free, peaceful state.

When hypnosis is concluded, it is normal to feel so relaxed that you don’t want to move. You can emerge from hypnosis slowly and gently. From there, you and I will discuss the best way to work together going forward. You will leave your session feeling more centered and empowered, and be able to go about your day with more energy.

The number of sessions and extent of therapeutic work depends on the issue you want to address and your level of motivation. In general, short-term hypnosis is best for concerns such as grieving a beloved partner, relationship trauma, or simple habits - typically one to five sessions.

For issues such as anxiety, depression, self-confidence, and concerns that involve more than one issue, we will work together to develop an ongoing therapeutic relationship using both hypnotherapy and traditional psychotherapy. Weekly appointments can be scheduled at your convenience, with any necessary flexibility.

The rate for the first hypnotherapy session (90 minutes) is $200. Follow-ups are $175 for 45 minute sessions. Regardless of insurance reimbursement, hypnotherapy sessions are paid in full at the time of service.

I do not work in-network with any insurance company for hypnotherapy services; however, many insurance companies reimburse for individual sessions as long as they have “out of network” coverage. Claim submission and reimbursement is between you and your health insurance provider.

The fastest and easiest way to make appointments is through the scheduling portal. If you prefer, you can contact me here and I will be glad to answer your questions and help you schedule a session.