
Gaia Natural Therapies is pleased to announce the addition of Client-Centered Spiritual Hypnotherapy to Deirdre’s therapeutic repertoire in Nanaimo and Nanoose Bay, Vancouver Island. She believes strongly in assisting her clients to find their own unique path to heal and Hypnosis has proven to be the perfect compliment to our offerings.
Hypnotherapy is best described as a positive and pleasing state of relaxation combined with the use of beneficial suggestions or statements purposely designed to bring forth positive changes to the thoughts, words and actions of the person undergoing therapy.
As a result, clients can experience a desired cognitive or behavioral change, allowing them to experience a positive feelings of relaxation and being more in control. Hypnotherapy (hypnosis) is simply a process whereas the client access’ the natural trance state of being where the mind is more receptive and open to positive suggestions. This state of being everyone experiences many times a day, for example when we are absorbed by a good book, a piece of music and lose all track of time or space. Spiritual Hypnosis is not about tricks or mind control! You, as the client will always be in control of your session. A hypnotist cannot make you do something that you do not want to do in a hypnotic state.
Our clients have described the experience as feeling deeply relaxed, like meditation – some have said “it was like a spa for my mind”. You may feel as if you are drifting in and out of a deep relaxed state of consciousness during the session, and will always return refreshed and awake. A few clients have responded that they prefer hypnosis over other complementary therapies because of it’s effectiveness, and that it can be achieved remotely over Zoom.
Some Benefits of Therapeutic Hypnotherapy are:
Weight Loss
Sleep Issues
Stress Management
Anxiety, Fears and Phobias
e.g.: needle phobia or claustrophobia
Pain Management
PTSD and Trauma
Coping Techniques for dealing with or preparing
for: surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy
or other medical procedures
Birthing & Labor
A Deeper Understanding of Self:
Boosting Confidence/Self Esteem
The number of sessions required vary depending on each individual’s situation. For many, 3 to 6 sessions are adequate to see the desired outcome. Clients may choose to use top-up sessions every now and then to help reinforce outcomes over the longer term, or to apply similar techniques for a different issue.
Contact Deirdre to arrange a 2 hour consultation to discuss your unique circumstance and find out more about how hypnotherapy may benefit you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hypnotherapy
What happens during a hypnotherapy session?
A hypnotherapy session begins with conversation and connection. We take time to discuss your goals, concerns, and what you hope to gain from the process. You are guided into a relaxed and focused state where your mind can become more receptive to positive change. The session may include visualization, guided imagery, relaxation techniques, and therapeutic suggestions tailored to your individual goals. You will leave with time for reflection and integration.

Will I lose control during hypnosis?
No. This is one of the most common misconceptions. During hypnosis, you remain aware and in control throughout the experience. Hypnosis is a collaborative process, not something that is done to you. You cannot be made to say or do anything against your values or wishes.
What does hypnosis feel like?
Many people describe hypnosis as feeling similar to deep relaxation, meditation, becoming absorbed in a book, or that peaceful feeling just before sleep. Experiences vary from person to person. Some people feel very relaxed, while others feel mentally alert yet calm and focused.
Can everyone be hypnotized?
Most people can experience hypnosis when they are willing and open to the process. It is a natural state that many people move in and out of during daily life, such as daydreaming, becoming deeply focused, or losing track of time while driving or reading.
How does hypnotherapy work with the brain?
Hypnotherapy works with focused attention and relaxation to support communication with the subconscious mind. Research suggests that relaxed states may help reduce stress responses and allow people to become more aware of patterns, beliefs, and habits that may no longer be serving them. This can support learning, emotional processing, and positive change.
Can hypnotherapy help reduce stress and anxiety?
Hypnotherapy may help individuals develop greater awareness of stress patterns and learn tools that support relaxation and emotional regulation. Many people report feeling calmer and more balanced after sessions. However, experiences vary from person to person and hypnotherapy is not a replacement for medical or mental health care.
Can hypnotherapy help me change habits?
Hypnotherapy may support change by helping you explore patterns, beliefs, and behaviours that operate below conscious awareness. It can be helpful for goals such as confidence, motivation, stress management, smoking cessation, and creating healthier habits.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on your goals, history, and the changes you wish to create. Some individuals notice meaningful shifts within a few sessions, while others benefit from a longer process of exploration and integration.
Will I remember the session afterwards?
Most people remember the majority or all of their session. Some individuals may feel so deeply relaxed that certain details become less clear, similar to recalling a dream, but you generally remain aware of the experience.
Is hypnotherapy safe?
Hypnotherapy is considered a generally safe and collaborative process when provided by a trained practitioner. My role is not to diagnose or prescribe treatment. Hypnotherapy is a complementary approach designed to support self-awareness, emotional well-being, and personal growth.
Can hypnotherapy help me uncover forgotten memories?
The purpose of hypnotherapy is not to “recover hidden memories.” Memory can be complex and influenced by many factors. My approach focuses on present goals, self-awareness, and helping you create meaningful change rather than attempting to retrieve uncertain memories.
What if I cannot relax?
That is perfectly okay. Many people arrive feeling nervous or uncertain, especially during their first session. There is no right or wrong way to experience hypnosis. We simply work at a pace that feels comfortable and supportive for you.
Gathering
2 hour consultation
- Intrigued by Hypnosis but do not know where to start?
- In the gathering package we create the foundation for you to gain perspective on what it is you want to change or address, leaving you with a deeper sense of well being.
- Useful to experience working together for the first time.
Continuing to Build
- A single session or 1 hour follow-up session.
To Book Click Below
Foundation
3 Hypnotherapy Sessions
- Just like when we form habits, repetition can help us move from limiting beliefs towards more beneficial ways of thinking, behaving and interacting.
- This package of sessions allows you to explore your situation over time, whilst being supported with the compound effects of hypnotherapy allowing for more easeful and empowering change.
- Ideal if you have a fairly recent or simple issue that you are ready to address, in preparation for public speaking, recent insomnia or gaining clarity around making a decision for example.
- This package offers a discount of $60.
To Book Click Below
Growth
6 Hypnotherapy Sessions
- These sessions allow the time and space to explore your situation in more depth, providing an additional level of support.
- You may benefit from the time allowed for both richer discussion and from the more detailed time for hypnosis.
- A package for those who want to feel less restricted by time and/or have more than one simple issue to address.
- Perfect for mild anxiety or some health concerns such as cancer treatment side effects of hot flushes, or pain management, for example.
- A Discount of $150
To Book Click Below
Proud member of: The Canadian Association of Counselling Hypnotherapists and Educators | Medical and Dental Hypnotherapy Association | Canadian Association for Integrative & Energy Therapies




