Hypnosis for Fears and Phobias
Fears can start shaping your life and plans: putting off a flight, avoiding a drive, or feeling tense long before an appointment. Maybe you understand the situation logically but still notice a strong automatic emotional or physical reaction.
Together, we'll explore the response you want to change and practice alternatives shaped around your goals. A free consultation is to give you room to ask questions before deciding whether hypnosis fits your situation.
Photo in Holland, MI : by Krystal McCartney
Work toward the change you want
Start with a situation or fear that you'd like to handle differently and what that change would make possible. Maybe your goal is going to a dentist, traveling with less worry beforehand, or feeling steadier when speaking to a group.
We can work with and often change the thoughts, sensations, and expectations around that situation. Hypnosis provides a way to rehearse a different response in a safe, controlled way.
What happens in a session?
A first session is often exploratory, we are figuring out how you specifically respond to hypnosis, and then using that to create the best possible outcome. Everyone is a little different. Sessions may include guided attention, imagery, emotion work, parts work, affect bridge work, or rehearsal of a more useful response. We review what you notice between appointments and adjust together.
Which fears can we discuss?
You can ask about anything! I have worked with flying, driving, heights, enclosed spaces, needles, dental visits, speaking to a group, spiders, insects, vomiting, leaving the home, germs, and other specific fears (including my own old fear of moths! :). The consultation helps us look at your particular goal and whether hypnosis is an appropriate form of support.
Will I stay in control?
Absolutely! You can speak, open your eyes, pause, or decline a suggestion. Please feel free to let me know if a topic or image feels uncomfortable, so we can discuss the pace and approach. You are in control. You can speak, get up, move around or do nearly anything else during a session. Hypnosis is more about being in a focused, hyper-imaginative state that helps to facilitate experiences that help you reach your goals safely.
How should I prepare?
Choose a situation you want to handle differently. Note what you currently avoid, what tends to happen beforehand. Bring questions about the process, your comfort, and your goals. If you feel unprepared, that's just fine, I'll be there to help.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of recommended sessions is different for everyone, but phobias can often be reconditioned in 1-3 sessions. The consultation helps me prepare a plan and quote based on your experience and goals. We'll review progress together before sessions and potentially during follow-up calls. We go at your pace and decide together what next steps are after each session. Results vary, and no particular outcome can be promised.
When is other professional care important?
If fear is intense, persistent, or limits daily life, please seek assessment from a qualified mental health professional. The National Institute of Mental Health explains established treatments for phobias, including cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure therapy. Hypnosis here is complementary support and doesn't replace that care.
Where are appointments held?
Hypnosis appointments are in person at 4000 Portage Street, Suite 106, Kalamazoo. Allow at least two hours. The free 30-minute consultation can be by phone or in person. If you're coming from Portage, Richland, or Battle Creek, a phone call lets you ask questions before planning your visit.
Book a free consultation · Office details · Your first session
Learn more about Brian's background and training, or explore support for stress and anxious feelings.
Results vary. No particular outcome is guaranteed.