Clinical hypnosis is an altered state of awareness, perception or consciousness that is used, by licensed and trained mental health professionals, and physicians, for treating a psychological or physical problem. It is a highly relaxed state. Hypnosis is a state of inner absorption, concentration and focused attention. Once our minds are concentrated and focused, we can use our minds more powerfully. Because hypnosis allows people to use more of their potential, learning self-hypnosis is the ultimate act of self-control.

Many major Medical Institutions use hypnosis to help patients with physical issues such as: chronic pain, migraine headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, cancer, Parkinson’s Disease, etc. Some hospitals even use it as a tool to reduce pain in individuals before, during and after surgery, as well as in patients with chronic conditions or diseases.

Hypnosis, particularly the deeper forms, can appear to be like sleep because the person's body is typically very still and quiet. Your body feels relaxed, your mind quiet and a dreamlike state occurs (often called a “trance”). There is usually a great deal of mental activity, and measurements of brain activity during hypnosis show a significant level of neurological activity.

Everyone can be hypnotized to some degree. Some people find it easier to relax than others. Some people are able to go into hypnosis more quickly and more deeply than others. Most people can go into at least a light trance and can benefit from hypnotherapy to some extent.

Nobody can be hypnotized against their will. The goal of hypnotherapy is to work together with the client toward empowerment to create change in his or her life. Nobody can be forced to do anything against their will. The ‘control’ misconception appears to originate from stage hypnosis.

You do hypnosis voluntarily for yourself. A hypnotherapist only serves as a knowledgeable guide or facilitator.

Everyone comes out of hypnosis. People go into hypnosis willingly, and come out of it easily. Since the hypnotist keeps the person under hypnosis, with the person’s realization that the hypnotist’s voice is no longer heard, the person will return to the present.

You will remember mostly everything except those things that the hypnotherapist  has valid reasons to delay until a later time when it will be helpful for you to remember. Usually, you will remember only what you are ready to remember. You may be asked to describe images or sensations, people, places, or sounds as they come to you. You will be encouraged to avoid explaining or making any sense out of these impressions- but it is not the time to make any sense out of them.