Hypnosis, the Greek word for “sleep” was coined by scientist James Braid in 1840 to describe the natural process of relaxing and opening our subconscious minds for a brief period of time.

We can take advantage of these relaxed moments to accomplish two things: first. to remove old, unhealthy or unwanted beliefs and habits, and secondly, to replace them with new, healthier more desirable ones. Each and every one of us experiences a light form of hypnosis, going in and out of trance-like experiences many times during the day. The most common occurs while you are driving and thinking of something else. Before you know it, you find yourself at your destination. Yet you can not remember stopping for traffic lights or passing any of the familiar landmarks on your drive. What you've experienced is called "highway hypnosis."

The subconscious mind is where we store all of our beliefs and values, and it controls our automatic bodily functions. Our conscious mind governs our thinking, analyzing and judging mind. It's our short-term memory and serves as a filter for what gets imprinted into the subconscious mind. The conscious mind is in charge of choosing and capable of making improper choices and transfers unhelpful/unproductive values and beliefs to the subconscious. This information can then become part of our habitual behavior and helps to form part of who we are.

During hypnosis we relax, focus, and close down the conscious mind, allowing the subconscious to completely open up. Making the changes on the conscious level that are programmed and repeated year after year on the subconscious level is necessary to clear the old programming that exists in the subconscious mind. This can be likened to weeding a garden. With hypnosis you have the advantage not only of pulling out the weeds by their roots, but also to do some deep seeding for the rapid growth of new, healthy replacements. Hypnosis is an extremely effective way to change habits and create forward moving change.

Can anyone be hypnotized?

Yes, that is anyone who wants to be. If you possess reasonable intelligence, an imagination, are accepting of change, and enjoy feeling relaxed, hypnosis is for you. In reality, hypnosis is nothing more than self-hypnosis. The only 'power' a hypnotist has is the power to facilitate your journey.

Our programs offer opportunities for lifestyle transformation, both on a physical and emotional level. We usually work with people for more than one session, because we are dealing with habits, both good and bad, that are formed from years of repetition. With practice, this message is impressed upon your subconscious mind, and through repetition, becomes a reality. We recommend between five and 12 sessions to break the old habits/beliefs and develop new, healthy habits/beliefs. Unlike conventional talk therapy, our intervention is relatively short-term and action oriented. Our prices proceed in accordance with the program that you choose.

What does hypnosis feel like?

We all experience naturally occurring hypnotic trances several times daily. We refer to them as day dreams. Have you ever tuned someone out while they're relating a story, or are so engrossed in your work that you're unaware of what's happening around you? Both are examples of naturally occurring hypnosis.

Each person's experience during hypnosis is different. Some report a feeling of heaviness, lightness, floating, deep relaxation, or a sense of focused attention. Sounds are crisp and clear and you may have an increased need to swallow during your session. Your eyelids may flutter and your fingers could twitch a bit as your body settles into a state of deep relaxation. You may notice your breathing and heart rate slowing comfortably. Your facial muscles loosen and your mouth may open slightly. In other words, hypnosis feels really good. During the entire time that you are hypnotized you will be in complete control and can return to conscious thought any time you choose.

Do you accept insurance?

We do not accept insurance directly. We have had quite a few clients use their employee flexible spending account benefits.. Beginning January, 2002, weight loss and smoking cessation programs recommended by a doctor qualified as tax deductible medical expenses. Therefore, you can now pay for these services at Skyler Madison Center for Well-Being with before-tax dollars. We also accept credit cards and offer client financing for those who qualify.

Why is Skyler Madison Center for Well-Being unique?

We offer a unique mix of experimental techniques that facilitate personal growth, some of which are based on traditional hypnosis and coaching approaches that are put together in an exceptional way to help you get the best results.

Where are we?

New York City Office
515 Madison Avenue, at 53rd Street

How much is the initial consultation and how long does it take?

The initial consultation, which lasts approximately 45 minutes, is complimentary and is structured as an information session. It's important to feel comfortable with each other so that we can discuss what you want to accomplish. We will then describe the different programs that we offer and make the best recommendation. Phone sessions are also available for people who live outside the area.

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