10 Questions with Cindy Locher
Location: Apple Valley, MN
Cyber Locations: www.cindylocher.com and www.mn-hypnosis.com
1. Are you a full time hypnotist, part-time or hobbyist?
I am a full time practicing clinical hypnotist.
2. Do you specialize in any type of hypnosis?
My practice focuses on anxiety and panic disorders, smoking cessation, weight loss and sports hypnosis. I also teach self hypnosis at two local colleges, do public speaking and have a local radio show to educate the area audience about hypnosis.
3. Is there any type of hypnosis you do not do? Why?
I do not do single-session hypnosis, either one-on-one or in group. I believe that it takes multiple sessions both to develop strong rapport with the client and to allow any underlying issues to come to light. I also feel that it takes multiple sessions to truly create change in the client’s subconscious beliefs and self image, and that is how you accomplish true change.
4. Do you use self-hypnosis regularly in your life? If so, how?
Yes, I do. I spend at least 12 minutes daily in self hypnosis (don’t ask me how I settled on 12 minutes!), whether I have sessions that day or not. If I am doing sessions, I want to be in trance prior to working with the clients as I find that it enhances my intuition.
5. Describe your hypnosis office or work setting.
My office is comfortable, but basic. It is a relaxing, calm environment, and neutral with respect to spiritual or religious representation. I have “the comfy chair” for my clients, a stereo for playing background music, a computer for recording sessions and burning discs for clients to use at home.
6. Describe a typical day in your life.
My day starts with my six-year old! Mornings are for her. We get ready and I take her to school every day, and this is important time for us. After that I see clients between the hours of 10 and 5, and spend time on recording projects, etc. as my schedule allows. Evenings and weekends are reserved for family, unless a client has an emergency need to be seen, which is very rare.
7. Where did you get your training in hypnosis and are you certified?
I am trained and certified through the Hypnosis Motivation Institute (HMI) in California, founded by Dr. John Kappas in 1948.
8. Most fabulous hypnosis technique you use?
Do I have to choose just one? I love releasing the negative emotional energy around people’s fears and anxieties using the “Circle Therapy” technique taught at HMI. It allows them to have such an immediate sense of relief. But I also find parts therapy and age regression vital to the work.
9. Worse moment ever in a hypnosis setting that ended up being a valuable learning experience.
Early on I had some embarrassing moments when my induction didn’t work for a particularly analytical sort, but since then I’ve learned how to switch up my induction and adjust based on what is happening. So I suppose that’s my valuable learning experience right there, be flexible and client-centered.
10. Any words of advice to potential clients or other hypnotists.
To potential clients: take the time to find a hypnotist you trust, with whom you feel a good rapport. Without that your results will be compromised.
To other hypnotists: be professional, invest in your own continuous learning, and “walk the walk.” We must use the skills we teach to others to improve our lives and manage our own emotions to be credible.
Tags: Cindy Locher
