What to Expect When Working with a Hypnotherapist (Like Me)
What to Expect When Working with a Hypnotherapist (Like Me)
By Brian Woods, Certified Hypnotherapist | Northern Nevada Hypnotherapy
If you're considering hypnotherapy, you probably have questions. That's normal. Here's what it's actually like to work with me, without the fluff or mysticism.
🗓 The First Step: Free Consultation
After you submit a contact form or leave a voicemail, I’ll personally reach out to schedule a free 15–20 minute consultation, usually held on Fridays. This call is a chance for both of us to determine if hypnosis is the right path and whether I’m the right hypnotherapist for your goals.
If we both feel it’s a good fit, we move forward from there.
👋 What I’m Like to Work With
While I remain professional, I’m very straightforward. I expect my clients to be just as committed to their goals as I am. Hypnosis isn’t a magic wand — it’s a tool to make change easier, not effortless. You’ll still need to take action and solidify those new patterns outside of session.
That said, people often tell me they can say anything to me without feeling judged. I don’t sugarcoat things, but I’m not here to shame anyone. If something’s holding you back, we’ll talk about it. And yes, I joke around when the time’s right — healing doesn’t always have to be heavy.
🖥 Session Logistics: Zoom (Reno, NV office coming soon!)
All sessions currently take place over Zoom. You’ll need a quiet, private space, comfortable headphones, and a place to recline or relax fully. A Reno office location is coming soon, for those who prefer in-person sessions.
🔄 What Happens in a Session?
We start by discussing your goals. I’ll learn how your mind prefers to take in information, and then I’ll guide you into a deeply relaxed, focused state. That’s where we begin rewriting old mental patterns and building new ones.
You’ll be aware, but deeply relaxed — a state where change can really begin.
💬 Common Issues I Help With
I work with people on:
Anxiety and stress
Confidence and self-worth
Performance enhancement (sports, stage, academics)
Breaking habits (smoking, nail-biting, etc.)
Sleep issues
Mental blocks
And for many: leveling up their existing strengths
You don’t have to be “broken” to benefit from hypnotherapy. Many of my clients are looking to reclaim their best selves or reach a new level of personal/professional performance.
⏳ How Many Sessions?
It depends. Many common concerns are resolved in 1–3 sessions, and some clients feel a shift from the very first session. A pack-a-day smoker might need 6–8 sessions, while someone working through trauma (in tandem with a mental health professional) may need more.
We’ll tailor the approach to you.
👨✈️ How I’m Different
I’m an Air Force Veteran, and I lean more toward the science-based side of hypnotherapy. You might find a decorative geode in my office, but you won’t find “quantum energy alignment” or anything “blessed by the moon goddess.” (Not that there’s anything wrong with that; it’s just not how I work)
This isn’t about magic — it’s about your mind.
💡 What I Wish Everyone Knew
Hypnosis isn’t mystical. It’s not just for “crystal girls” or people who believe in aura colors. You don’t have to believe in anything other than the power of your own mind and my positive intention to help you reach your goals.
📞 Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're curious but unsure, that’s okay. Reach out for a free consultation — no pressure, no commitment. Just a real conversation to explore what’s possible.
