What is the difference between hypnosis and meditation?
Hypnosis refers to the inducing of a passive state of mind, or trance, that promotes better communication between the conscious and the subconscious mind.
It is also an altered state of awareness in which you are relaxed but have focused attention.
What is the difference between a hypnotist and a hypnotherapist?
Hypnotist: Hypnosis can be administered by anyone having knowledge/training of how to do it, and in nature, it is closer to stage hypnotism for entertainment purposes, instead of offering treatment.
Hypnotherapist: When experiencing hypnosis, subjects may show better responsiveness to suggestions, and hypnotherapy attempts to change current feelings or behaviors that the subject desires to alter.
What does a clinical hypnotherapist do?
Clinical hypnosis is usually administered by a mental health clinician certified in hypnotherapy to treat emotional or physical problems.
It is very different from hypnosis shows that are done for entertainment.
The training and testing criteria is more rigorous and consists of more extensive training. Clinical hypnotherapists are also trained in and have access to the Diagnosis of Mental Disorders (DSM).
They must be registered with and are answerable to a regulatory body. They are required to participate in ongoing continuing education and are accountable both personally and professionally for their quality of care, conduct and actions.
What is the difference between a hypnotherapist, a psychotherapist, a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
These fields often overlap and it is not uncommon to find these professionals demonstrating related techniques and protocols.
Hypnotherapist is trained to deal directly with the subconscious mind to enable change in both perception and memory, a major increase in response to suggestion, and the potential for controlling many physiologic functions that are usually involuntary. Hypnotherapy is the psychological healing process that employs hypnosis to achieve a desired result. Beneficial change and results are usually produced fairly quickly.
Psychotherapist is trained to address symptom reduction in a person’s life and addresses the causes of longstanding patterns, supporting improved functioning on the mental, emotional, relational or spiritual health of a human being.
Psychotherapy is an umbrella term for the many different ways of helping people with their thoughts and emotions. A psychotherapist interacts with patients to initiate change in the patient’s thoughts, feelings, and behavior through adaptation
Psychologist is trained in the field of psychology which is the study of human behavior. A psychologist studies normal and abnormal mental states from cognitive, emotional, and social processes and behavior by observing, interpreting, and recording how individuals relate to one another and to their environments. They are trained to use psychological tests to help with assessment and diagnosis. A psychologist helps people to overcome or manage their problems using a variety of treatments or psychotherapies.
Psychiatrist is a trained medical doctor who go on to specialize in mental health and mental disorders. A psychiatrist will often use medication to help their clients manage a mental disorder (such as schizophrenia and some depressions). Some psychiatrists also employ psychotherapy much like psychologists do.
How will I know how to pick the right provider for me?
Choosing the right provider is like trying on a pair of shoes – make sure they are comfortable and can go the distance.
The relationship, or “fit” between you and your therapist is one of the most important factors to carry out the process of change. When you choose a therapist to work with, it is best to go with what feels right to you.
Call potential providers and get a sense of who they are and what they can do for you. Ask questions!
We invite you to contact us for a complimentary 30 minute consultation so that we may help to answer any questions that you may have, and provide you with a sense of comfort and ease that taking this step will be of benefit to you.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No you do not need a referral. You can call to set up the appointment yourself.
At your request following an initial appointment, we would be pleased to establish and maintain communication with your medical doctor by providing a brief report to your doctor to help them document the course of treatment.
Are your services covered by my extended health benefits plan?
Therapeutic services are not generally covered by OHIP however the services that we provide, for the most part, will be covered by your extended health benefits if they include coverage for services offered by therapists.
Most people have insurance coverage ranging from $500 to $2000 per year. This same coverage usually extends to family members (spouses/partners and children).
If you have only minimal coverage, keep in mind that even short-term therapy can be of great benefit in helping you to find new ways of managing and improving your quality of life.
How much does it cost?
Our rates start at $175 per hour. We have found it to be more economical for our clients if our services are presented as packages providing a clear idea of both the total fee and number of sessions to be expected.
How do I pay?
We accept cheque or cash. You may also purchase services via Paypal and credit card through the purchase feature on this website. All fees are due and payable at the time of the session and a formal receipt for insurance and tax purposes will be provided.
For privacy purposes, we recommend that you pay for your services and then seek reimbursement through your Extended Health Plan.
Is it Confidential?
Everything discussed within the context of the therapeutic alliance is confidential and no information is released without your consent.
There are a few exceptions to confidentiality when:
- You are at serious and imminent risk of harming yourself or others.
- You, or someone you know, is placing a minor at risk for physical or sexual abuse.
- Another regulated health professional has sexually abused you.
- A court of law subpoenas your records.
How long does therapy last? What can I expect?
The answer to both of these questions depends on the issues you wish to address in therapy. More specific issues respond very well to a shorter course of targeted treatment (2-3 sessions), while others may require longer to address since there are many things that make you and your experiences unique (6-10 sessions).
What you can expect is that if you are motivated and willing to consider a different perspective, then you can make positive change, no matter how big or small.
What can I expect from my first session?
In our first meeting, we will begin by reviewing some standard paperwork which you will have completed beforehand. Topics such as confidentiality and the therapist/client contract will be reviewed. Then we will discuss the issues that have brought you to therapy. We will listen to and ask questions to gain a preliminary understanding of your concerns. If possible, by the end of the first session we will have generated a list of goals that you have for yourself – things that you would like to achieve through therapy that we can work towards together as well as beginning our first hypnosis session together. Please plan for this session to be slightly longer than the rest of your sessions (approximately 1.5 hours).
How often do I have to meet with you?
When clients are beginning therapy, it is recommended that sessions occur on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Frequency of sessions is something that will be discussed with you on an individual basis after consideration of your particular circumstances.
What are your hours of operation? Can I get an evening or weekend appointment?
We will work with you to customize sessions so that they provide you with the most benefit and value. Please call to inquire about your particular needs.
