What is Hypnosis? 

Hypnosis is a naturally occurring state of focused relaxation that allows us to communicate positive suggestions to our subconscious mind. Hypnosis is a well-established way to empower yourself to achieve the goals you desire. Among many things, self-hypnosis has been used to help people stop smoking, lose weight, overcome fears, and successfully manage pain.

Hypnosis is a gentle experience. Your body goes into a state of deep relaxation while your mind remains attentive and focused on the desired goal.

At what point in my pregnancy should I start classes? 

I suggest taking classes around the middle of the second trimester (20ish weeks). However, Hypnobirthing can be beneficial at any stage of pregnancy, so if you are too close to your birthing time to take a full class, please inquire about the Accelerated Format classes. It's never too late!

How long is the HypnoBirthing series? 

It is a 4 week series, with each class lasting about 2.5 hours.

how is HypnoBirthing DIFFERENT from other childbirth education methods or hospital classes?

I am an unbiased educator who has no affiliation with a particular hospital or medical provider. So instead of teaching you about being a patient in a particular setting, I teach you how to calmly and confidently advocate for your family’s wishes in any setting.

Whereas other childbirth education methods teach you how to cope with and manage pain, Hypnobirthing is based on the premise that childbirth does not necessarily need to be painful if the mom is prepared and relaxed. When women understand that pain is caused by constrictor hormones, which are created by fear, they learn instead to release fear, which creates endorphins - the feel good hormones. Mothers can then change their expectations of long, painful labor and replace them with expectations of a more comfortable birthing. 

What if my birth companion cannot attend all or some of the classes? 

No problem! I understand life is hectic and partners can’t always make it. Sometimes moms do come alone to class, or they choose to bring an alternative support person such as a mother, friend, sister, etc. The primary birth companion should at least be supportive and willing to listen to you fill them in on what was missed in class.

Can HypnoBirthing be beneficial to someone who has special circumstances or who must have a C-section? 

Hypnobirthing is beneficial to all birthing people, including those who have special circumstances or need a cesarean birth. The relaxation skills we practice are beneficial no matter how you intend to give birth! I’ve had nurses tell me they’ve never seen moms come in so relaxed for a cesarean birth. In addition, I have special hypnosis scripts to prepare for circumstances such as planned cesareans or inductions.

Could I just buy the book and learn this program on my own? 

I suppose you could, but having a personalized instruction means years of experience and support from someone who has been there and done it. In an in-person class, you will learn and practice breathing and relaxation techniques, participate in valuable discussions, and see inspiring birthing videos. Think of it like driver’s training…you could read about driving, but it’s much more effective to practice it with a trained instructor to give you tips along the way.  

I am interested in enrolling for HypnoBirthing classes, what are my next steps? 

Head to the registration page and sign up for the class that best fits your schedule. Once I receive payment, you'll receive a welcome email with all the class information and some relaxation mp3s to get you started. If you don’t see a class that works well with your birthing time please contact me as new classes are always forming, and I also offer private, in-home instruction.  Do not hesitate to be in touch if you have any questions at all!