Frequently Asked Questions
On this page you will find frequently asked questions about hypnosis and therapy.
Should you have any further questions, feel free to contact Carrie Easton at: info@focusedpsychology.com.au or 0422 733 946
1. What is Hypnosis
Hypnosis is a trance state of deep relaxation and heightened imagination. It is a normal state that most people experience on a regular basis, such as when daydreaming or when “losing yourself” in a book or movie. Just as in these instances, you are fully conscious, but you tune out most of the stimuli around you. This gives you the ability to focus on the problem at hand to the near exclusion of any other thought.
2. What is Integrative Therapy?
Integrative Therapy utilises, psychology and mindfulness to develop a deep and complex understanding of our resistances, while using hypnosis as a powerful tool to promote meaningful change.
Many times, we are not just suffering from one simple difficulty, but several ongoing problems that are intricate, interconnected, and complex. We may want to lose weight, but this is complicated by our negative self-image or problems in our relationships. We might want to quit smoking but find ourselves compelled to do so because of ongoing anxiety or low self-esteem. By combining methods in this way, we are able to work together flexibly and organically, striking a balance between deep analytic work to get to the root of the problems, while using hypnosis for specific changes along the way.
3. What type of hypnosis is practiced?
Our method utilizes Ericksonian hypnosis and is considered hypnosis for the “non-suggestible”. This means that we do not merely practice hypnosis in terms of suggestibility, but in a way that enhances what you want to accomplish. You are the person who wants to change. Hypnosis helps you get in touch with that part of you that wants to change and quiets any thoughts that impede your desire for change. Thus, you end your internal conflict, as opposed to being a passive recipient of the therapists will.
4. What does it feel like to be in a hypnotic state?
A hypnotic state is similar to a meditative state, where you have a strong internal focus and are very relaxed, yet you are in complete control. You may find yourself ‘lost in your thoughts’ in a serene way, such as when enjoying a peaceful daydream. Despite the conception of hypnosis, it is not like being asleep as you are aware of everything around you and could choose to open your eyes at any time. Most people, however, choose not to break the state as they find the experience enjoyable.
5. What is Carrie Easton’s educational background?
Carrie Easton is a Registered Psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA). She received her Masters Degree in Psychology from Adelaide University. In addition to her Masters Degree Carrie Easton has studied Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with Russ Harris, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) with Joseph Ciarocchi and Career Coaching with Jim Bright. Carrie has studied with and continues to study with The Institute of Clinical Hypnotherapy Psychotherapy (ICHP) and is also a certified Mindfulness Practitioner. She continues her training through Workshops, Research and other Professional Development activities. Read more here.
6. Does Focused Psychology accept Mental Health Care Plans?
As a Registered Psychologist, Carrie Easton gladly consults with clients on Mental Health Care Plans. Please see your treating General Practitioner to obtain a Mental Health Care Plan referral to Focused Psychology and have them email it to info@focusedpsychology.com.au. We will then be in touch to organise an appointment. Carrie Easton is a Registered Psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and as such you will be entitled to a $84.80 fee to be paid by Medicare leaving a Gap payment of $105.20 to be paid by yourself for the session.
7. What training is required to practice hypnosis?
As hypnotherapy is not a licensed profession, some hypnosis practitioners are practicing with very little training in hypnosis or mental health.
The problem with hypnosis practitioners treating people with no mental health training is that it enables them to falsely believe that hypnosis alone can treat many mental health problems and deter people from getting the help that they need from a licensed professional.
8. How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions and therapeutic work depends on the issue the person is aiming to address. Generally, short-term hypnosis is best for struggles such as smoking cessation, simple habits, and phobias and typically takes one to five sessions.
For issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, drug and alcohol addiction, and struggles that involve more than one issue, the client and therapist develop an ongoing therapeutic relationship utilizing hypnosis and integrative therapy where appointments can be set up weekly at the same time or flexibly according to the client’s schedule.
9. What will my first session entail?
60Your first session lasts approximately 60 minutes and focuses on gaining an in-depth understanding of one specific issue of the client’s choosing. The session starts with an overview of hypnosis and how it is used, followed by the opportunity to discuss any questions the client may have about the process.
After the introduction, the client and therapist will have an intensive conversation about the client’s specific issue, focusing on past failed attempts at change and reasons why the behavior persists. The therapist will then induce a light trance that allows the client to explore their unconscious for ways to change, while helping the client tap into their internal resources for making the change. From there, the client and therapist will discuss the best ways to work together going forward.
10. What is the rate per session?
Focused Psychology charges $190 for a 60 minute session. Sessions are paid in full at the time of service. By requesting an appointment online, you are agreeing to the price to be paid at the time of service. If you have a Mental Health Care Plan $84.80 will be paid by Medicare. You may also be entitled to reimbursement from your Private Health Insurer if you have Psychology cover (please enquire with your health fund).
11. What forms of payment are accepted?
Focused Psychology accepts all major credit cards, cash, or personal cheques or HICAPS Go.
12. Are services covered by health insurance?
Focused Psychology does not work directly with any insurance company, however, many people can be partially reimbursed by their insurance companies through Extras.
The amount of reimbursement is between the client and their health insurance company, and regardless of reimbursement, clients are solely responsible for payment at the time of the session. Please see Rates and Insurance for more information.
13. How do I find out if my health insurance reimburses for your services?
To find out your benefits, go to your insurance provider website to find a summary of your benefits or call your health insurance provider. Please see Rates and Insurance for more information.
14. How do I make an appointment?
The fastest and easiest way to make appointments is through the client portal or by calling 0422 733 946. Please see the appointments page to set up your first appointment either via email or the patient portal. Subsequent sessions can be set up with the therapist during the session or booked through the portal as best fits your schedule.