10 Questions with John Weir
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
1. Are you a full time hypnotist, part-time or hobbyist?
Since 2001, I have been doing hypnosis full-time at my practice The
Hypnosis Center for Motivation and Habit Management located in Pittsburgh,
PA and I am also a professional stage hypnotist.
2. Do you specialize in any type of hypnosis?
My passion is in the therapeutic work that I do and my specialties
include smoke cessation, weight management, study habit improvement, and
golf improvement.
3. Is there any type of hypnosis you do not do? Why?
The only type of hypnosis I wouldn’t do is something that would be
unethical or something that would put the profession in a negative light.
4. Do you use self-hypnosis regularly in your life? If so, how?
I use self-hypnosis on a daily basis for relaxation, motivation, and
my golf game. In the past, self-hypnosis has helped me improve my grades
and study habits in college. It has helped my athletic performance in
golf and basketball. I quit smoking through hypnosis and stay on track
with my exercise goals with it. Finally, self-hypnosis enabled me to get
a root canal done, and three wisdom teeth removed without any anesthetic.
5. Describe your hypnosis office or work setting.
My office is 2000 sq. ft. and has two therapy rooms, sales room,
reception area, and training area. The training area is large enough to
seat approximately 75 people comfortably and this is where I conduct group
programs, give workshops/demonstrations, and train new hypnotists. The
private offices are both equipped with two comfortable recliners, CD
player, and the other standard office equipment.
6. Describe a typical day in your life.
Every day is different and that’s why I love this job. Each day has
new challenges and so far in this profession I have never had a “typical
day” and I really hope it stays that way.
7. Where did you get your training in hypnosis and are you certified?
I am a board certified hypnotist and a certified instructor through the
National Guild of Hypnotists as well as certified through the
International Medical and Dental Hypnotherapy Association. I am a
Certified Practitioner of Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, a Certified 5 PATH
practitioner, certified pediatric hypnotist, certified in emergency
hypnotism, and NLP practitioner. I have trained with a variety of people
from all over the world including Shaun Brookhouse, Cal Banyan, Don
Mottin, Dr. Richard Harte, and Laura Amoroso.
8. Most fabulous hypnosis technique you use?
In my opinion, any technique that will help a client to change or
improve is the most fabulous technique out there.
9. Worse moment ever in a hypnosis setting that ended up being a valuable learning experience.
Early on in my stage hypnosis career, I was performing for a high
school after prom and during my introduction I told the crowd several
jokes. All of my jokes bombed and there was not a single laugh in the
entire audience. This was a major fear I had however to my amazement
nothing happened to me. I didn’t die or spontaneously explode like my
overactive imagination told me might happen. What I did do was stay
strong, confident, and poised. My performance turned around and the show
was spectacular. The same school has booked me now 6 straight years! I
learned that I made a wise choice in becoming a hypnotist and not a
comedian! I also learned that if I stay confident and positive in every
situation, no matter how bleak things might seem there is a chance to turn
it around.
10. Any words of advice to potential clients or other hypnotist.
Actions speak louder than words! The only time we fail in life is
when we fail to take action towards our dreams. Relentlessly push towards
your dreams and know you can achieve anything you want! Always know that
you deserve and are worthy of the best things this world has to offer so
live your life with passion, happiness, and success!