Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy?
Hypnosis is a natural state of mind with numerous beneficial characteristics. When used therapeutically, it is a powerful tool that creates a healing state of mind, one where the conscious mind (the logical, thinking mind) becomes deeply relaxed, and the subconscious mind (the feeling mind that stores all of our emotions, memories, beliefs, intuition and programs from the time we were born) becomes highly focused and receptive to positive, healing ideas.
Hypnotherapy is a goal driven therapy that works by utilizing this powerful tool of hypnosis in an intentional way that empowers people to change and update the subconscious beliefs that may be limiting them in reaching their goals. It also allows people to access and release emotions that have been long buried, in a safe and healthy way.
Is hypnotherapy Effective?
Results with hypnotherapy can be surprisingly quick and lasting. It is important to work with someone who has excellent training and a skillset. It also works best when the client is truly ready to make changes in their life.
Hypnotherapy is an evidence based therapy. A growing body of scientific research supports its benefits in treating a wide range of conditions, including pain, depression, anxiety and phobias. "Hypnosis works and the empirical support is unequivocal in that regard. It really does help people," says Michael Yapko, PhD, a psychologist and fellow of the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis.
(APA.org, 2011)
Below are the results of a published meta analysis comparing the effectiveness of hypnotherapy as compared to cognitive behavior therapy and psychoanalysis. The results speak for themselves!
Will I lose control of my mind or body?
No, absolutely not! You are always in complete control and can bring yourself out of hypnosis at any point in the session if you wished. You cannot be made to do anything outside of your moral code, or divulge your darkest secrets. It is a completely safe and natural state of mind.
How many sessions will I need to get results/reach my goal?
Because I treat a range of issues, the process is unique to the individual client based on their specific goals and the origins of the problem. I’m committed to assisting you in resolving your issues 100%, not just giving you a bandaid. In most cases, I find that programs spanning 6-12 sessions over a period of time serve my clients the best. The fertility and weight loss programs that I offer are a minimum of 12 sessions, and include many other additional resources. There may be some issues, like certain phobias, for instance, that can be resolved within 2-3 sessions. Your level of commitment, and how you participate in your own healing in between sessions, is going to really make the difference. You are the car and driver, I’m the GPS. You already have everything you need to heal inside of you - I simply guide you to reclaim your power!
Does hypnosis work via online, virtual sessions?
Yes! Hypnosis is just as effective when done remotely as it is in person. As long as you can hear me, and I can see you, then we are good to go. Plus, you can relax in the comfort of your own home during our session. Since the start of my practice, I have been working with clients who live in all time zones of the US/Canada, as well as in many other countries around the world.
How do you take payment for your services?
I use Square and Venmo to receive all credit/debit card or ACH payments. Payment is due in full before we commence our work together. For some of the programs, I accept payment via two installments. Laura Callahan Hypnotherapy & Healing accepts payment via most major credit/debit cards and ACH transfers. All prices are in USD.
Do you accept health insurance?
No, I do not accept insurance OR file insurance claims. Unfortunately, hypnotherapy is still considered ‘alternative,’ and so is not covered under most plans. I am happy to give you a receipt for our sessions that you can submit to your insurance provider if you think they may cover the sessions.
Do you accept referrals from other health care providers?
Yes, I do accept referrals from other health care providers. In fact, if you are currently under the care of a medical provider like a psychologist, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional, I may ask for a referral from your current provider. If this applies to you, we can discuss this in your consultation. I work as an adjunct to your current care, not as a replacement, and so it is important that your current provider be kept ‘in the loop.’
Do you work with teenagers?
Yes, I do. I remember vividly how challenging those years can be, and I love having the opportunity to make a positive difference in the life of a teen, especially with everything that has gone on with the pandemic in the last few years. Both teens and parents have to be on board with the program, so normally I do consults with each individually. If the teen is under 18, I do require a parent or guardian to sign off. All information is kept confidential, unless the teen shares information with me about self harm, or harm to others. As noted below, my work is not a replacement for medical or psychological treatment. Rather, I work as an adjunct partner.
**Please note that hypnotherapy is not a replacement for medical treatment, psychotherapy or psychiatric care, nor do I diagnose conditions. I work as an adjunct partner with your medical practitioner.