You're About to be Hypnotized!

So, you’ve scheduled a session and you’re not sure what to expect. Here are a few things to keep in mind before your first (and subsequent sessions):

Don’t drink coffee or other caffeinated/energy drinks

Needless to say, you don’t need to feel energized during the session. While a cup of coffee in the morning to dispel the groggy fog may be in order, try to avoid coming into the session feeling wired. On the other hand, if you are too tired, that could be too distracting to allow a proper induction to take place. Also avoid alcohol (this is New Orleans after all).

Don’t eat a large meal

Although you should not have hunger pangs or a grumbly tummy, you should also avoid digesting a large meal prior to the session. It takes energy to digest a meal and sometimes the contents of the meal may present themselves uncomfortably during the session.

Wear comfortable, loose clothing

You may be stylish, but for the session, comfort is more important. Take off your shoes if that’s better. Also, keep in mind if there’s something in your back pocket that may become uncomfortably noticeable later in the session. Same goes for cushions that feel comfy now but may turn out to be too bulky later.

Put your cellphone or any alarms on silent

While some distractions can be dealt with easily, some other sounds and interruptions can be disruptive to the session. So we both will remember to shut off those nagging reminders from the outside world. This will be your time, your world.

Let me know how you’re feeling (Thirsty? Scratchy throat? Hot? Cold? Etc.)

A glass of water may do the trick. If you feel a cold coming on and that a troublesome cough is about to invade the session, please let me know. Depending on the severity of the discomfort, you may have to reschedule that session. By the same token, let me know if anything in the environment is proving distracting (a draft from a fan, light from a nearby window, for example).

Before we begin:

Get comfortable!

Sort yourself out physically before we start. Wiggle and adjust as much as you need.

Unfold your arms and legs

You may feel comfortable with your arms and legs crossed, but you’ll regret it after the session. Allow unimpeded blood flow to your limbs.

Take any gum, candy, coughdrops, etc. out of your mouth

Do not have anything in your mouth once the induction starts. It is a choking hazard.

Permission to hypnotize

Although you signed the Client Bill of Rights giving me permission to hypnotize you, I will still ask for permission before each session. This insures that we are on the same page and that you are content with continuing with the induction.

Permission to touch as needed

Occasionally, as part of the induction or in response to an abreaction, I may gently touch your arm, forehead or knee, for instance.

Be prepared, as they say. Remember that this is your session and we want to make the best use of it.