What is Hypnosis?

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about hypnosis. Most people only know about hypnosis from what they see at stage shows and movies. Clinical hypnosis and hypnotherapy is nothing like that at all. Hypnosis is not a form of mind-control. Your morals, ethics, values, and beliefs cannot be altered in hypnosis, nor can someone take control of you in any way. You can not be made to do anything unwillingly. Hypnosis is 100% safe and is something that the mind already does. Our minds naturally operate on a conscious and a subconscious level simultaneously. 

It's important to note that our habits and behaviors are controlled by the subconscious mind, even when they are habits we wish we didn’t have. We predominantly use our subconscious mind  which can sometimes be in conflict with our conscious wants. For example, a person might suffer from stage fright (a subconscious reaction) when they actually want to feel comfortable on stage (the conscious want).  Hypnosis is simply a state of relaxation where the subconscious mind (the part of your brain responsible for your habits) can be worked with to make changes. A qualified hypnotherapist understands how to help you work with your subconscious mind in order to help you make the changes that you desire and will work with you to help you accomplish your goals. 

Hypnosis is a valid, scientific, useful, and therapeutic tool which has the ability to help people in profound ways. The benefits of hypnotherapy have been known for decades. The American Medical Association has classified hypnosis as a treatment tool since the 1950s. Hypnosis is commonly used for a variety of things, including pain control, treating fears, phobias and anxieties, smoking cessation, weight loss, memory enhancement, self-confidence, and improved performance in athletics, academics, or on the job. Studies prove the effectiveness from a neurobiological, and more hospitals are beginning to use qualified hypnotherapists as a result.


For weight loss, studies clearly indicate the benefits of hypnosis. On average, almost 2 1/2 times as much weight is lost by incorporating hypnosis compared to those people not using hypnosis, with long-term results. 


Hypnotherapy has a high success rate when compared to many other different types of treatment for the same issues, with many people reporting added benefits such as increased self-esteem, improved sleep, and decreased stress. 

Hypnosis is not:

  • Weakening of will
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Loss of control
  • Mind control
  • A process that requires a weak mind
  • Magic
  • Something that "controls" you
  • A vulnerable state of mind


Hypnosis is:

  • An effective, non-chemical method of changing habits, increasing skills, and improving quality of life
  • A natural process that occurs in everyone


About Clinical Hypnotherapy

Clinical hypnotherapy is a type of therapy that uses hypnosis as a method to produce change. Professional clinical hypnotherapists work with people who are trying to improve themselves or a situation. When working with a professional therapist, you are not made to "sleep". You remain aware of your surroundings and what is being said to you.  A qualified hypnotherapist is a facilitator that guides the process of creating the positive changes that are desired and will work with clients to help them to accomplish their goals. Hypnotherapy generally works through a series of sessions to re-teach the subconscious mind a new set of habits and patterns that support the desired outcomes and goals.   

Hypnotherapy works for almost everyone. Hypnotherapy can work for anyone who wants a change and is willing to participate in having changes take place. Hypnosis will not work for someone who doesn't really want to change. It can also be ineffective for very young children, people with very low mental function, or for someone on mind altering drugs (prescription or recreational).


 Q & A

What does it feel like? It's easy! Hypnotherapy is very relaxing and comfortable. There is no loss of personal control or awareness. Many people report feeling refreshed, steady, and confident after a session.  

Who is it useful for? Hypnotherapy works for almost everyone. Hypnotherapy can work for anyone who wants a change & is willing to participate in having changes take place. 

Can hypnosis work for anyone? No. Hypnosis will not work for someone who doesn't really want to change, those with very low mental function, very young children, or someone on mind altering drugs.

What if I’m too strong-minded? Perfect! Strong-minded people have great results. Hypnosis is not a battle of wills or mind control. The client remains in control the entire time. Hypnotherapy is very effective for strong-minded and creative people who are actively wanting changes.

Does hypnosis really work if I don't come into the office? Yes! You will need to create a relatively undisturbed environment though.  Turn off your cell phone or any other potential disruptions, just like you would in the office.  Learn more here.


Do you work with children? Yes, typically over the age of 5 but it depends on the child. 

How many sessions does it take? It depends on the issue. That's one of the reasons why we offer a free initial consultation. Once we understand your personal situation better, we can tell you whether it will only take one session or whether multiple sessions are more appropriate.

How much does it cost? It depends on many factors. We are confident that we offer a very high level of service at a reasonable price and are sensitive to people's budgets. We never try to talk you into spending more than you really need to and we offer discounts to those who need multiple sessions. Additionally, we have payment options available if needed.  

Do hypnotherapists need to have a license?
 No.Throughout most of the US, there are no educational or training requirements at all to claim the title of "hypnotherapist", although Dr. Kaylan McKinney has an extensive educational background.  No matter who you choose, we always recommend you speak your potential hypnotherapist before starting sessions so that you have the chance to ask about experience and education, as well as making sure that you feel comfortable with who you will be working with.


What kinds of hypnosis do you do at Mindset? Dr. Kaylan uses different methods for different people according to their goals and preference. One of the reasons Dr. Kaylan likes to speak with people prior to beginning treatment, is to ensure that the potential client's goals aligns with what can be effectively offered, because your results matter. We pride ourselves in being objective and honest, and will refer potential clients elsewhere if we don't believe we can help. 


 To learn more or to find out if hypnosis can work for you, call our office today at (208) 570-5277 or schedule on-line. Your initial consultation is free, so you can find out if it's right for you with no obligation. 

How well does hypnosis work?


Psychoanalysis:  38% recovery after 600 sessions

Behavior Therapy:  72% recovery after 22 sessions

Hypnotherapy:  93% recovery after 6 sessions


-American Health Magazine

  Hypnosis is useful for: 

  • Weight Loss  
  • Stress Management
  • Positive Outlook
  • Smoking Cessation
  • Self-Esteem 
  • Pain Control
  • Athletic Performance 
  • Anger Management
  • Relaxation 
  • ​Healing Acceleration
  • Anxiety Management
  • Learning Enhancement
  • Performance Anxiety
  • Unwanted Habits 
  • Fears and Phobias 
  • Insomnia 
  • Children's Issues
  • Sales Performance 
  • Personal Development
  • Sexual Dysfunction
  • Relationships 
  • and much more