How did I become interested in Hypnotherapy?
This is a popular question that people have been asking me since I began my journey in Hypnotherapy in March of 2015.
I was first introduced to hypnosis/hypnotherapy in my early 20’s. I began reading a book that was based on Past Life Regressions and the benefits that hypnosis can offer in resolving phobias and fears. This book sparked an interest in the healing art of Hypnotherapy. I read countless books on the subject and I knew that this was an area that I wanted to be formally trained in. Unfortunately, at that time in my life, I knew that it was not the right time for me to learn hypnosis.
I decided to begin a career in the field of Criminal Justice and started a Diploma in Correctional Services/Criminal Justice at Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton, Alberta. I had always dreamed of becoming a Police Officer. It wasn’t until halfway through the first semester of classes that I realized that becoming a Police Officer was not the right path for me. After my first year was completed, I decided to complete my diploma via Distance Education and I returned to Yellowknife, Northwest Territories to obtain work in the field of Criminal Justice.
I have been employed in many different positions in the field for the past 14 years. I began my career, part-time, at a men’s transitional facility. From there I moved on to the position of Deputy Sheriff at the Yellowknife Courthouse and the position of Correctional Officer at the local correctional facility. Finally, landing a position at the Public Prosecution Service of Canada as a Crown Witness Coordinator.
In February of 2015, a friend invited me to attend a Hypnotist show. It immediately reminded me of my interest in the field of Hypnotherapy. I excitedly agreed to attend the show with her. Immediately, I began researching the educational opportunities available so that I could become a Certified Hypnotherapist. This proved to be more difficult than I had expected it to be.
I reached out to a Certified Hypnotherapist in Saskatchewan, who is an amazing woman and now one of my biggest inspirations. She guided me to the Hypnosis Motivation Institute and I began my training in March 2015. I completed the classes required to obtain an Honors Diploma and I also completed all 200 clinical hours that were required by the Local Hypnotherapist Union 472 to become certified. I traveled to Los Angeles in September 2015 to graduate and had many amazing experiences attending additional classes.
I began my private practice in October 2015 and I have been blessed with the ability to work alongside many other incredible healers that specialize in different healing modalities. My practice continues to grow and I feel incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to serve the people of my community through the incredible healing modality of Hypnotherapy. I look forward to sharing with you all that I can about Hypnotherapy and harnessing the power of your mind!
Hypnotherapist or Hypnotist? What is the difference?
People often ask what the difference is between a Hypnotherapist and a Hypnotist.
The definition of a Hypnotherapist was written by Dr. John Kappas, founder of the Hypnosis Motivation Institute, in 1973. The definition can be found in the Federal Dictionary of Occupational Titles;
A Hypnotherapist:
“Induces hypnotic state in a client to increase motivation or alter behavior patterns: Consults with client to determine nature of problem. Prepares client to enter hypnotic state by explaining how hypnosis works and what client will experience. Tests subject to determine degree of physical and emotional suggestibility. Induces hypnotic state in client, using individualized methods and techniques of hypnosis based on interpretation of test results and analysis of client’s problem. May train client in self-hypnosis conditioning.”
A Hypnotist:
Is often defined as, an individual that induces a state of hypnosis for entertainment purposes.
However, some memberships and organizations provide the status of Hypnotist to a member that may have just started their training in Hypnotherapy and are acquiring hours to become a fully Certified Hypnotherapist.
It is important to find a qualified Certified Hypnotherapist when seeking out help in this area. This is a profession that is not regulated by the government and virtually anyone can label themselves as a Hypnotherapist. For your own peace of mind, it is up to you to look into the individual’s education and certifications prior to receiving Hypnotherapy services. Do not assume that every Hypnotherapist has received the same quality of education.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Your Certified Hypnotherapist should be eager to share their education and certifications with you. Many will present you with a biography prior to or at the very beginning of your first session.
Remember that Hypnotherapy is an incredible healing modality and that it is your responsibility to make sure that you receive services from qualified individuals!
Written by Lecia Plamondon, Certified Hypnotherapist