Do I have to be in trance/hypnosis to re-program the subconscious?

No.

Subconscious programming happens automatically, all the time, every day. Behaviorial patterns, reactions, phobias, anxieties, etc. are reactions to situations that entered the subconscious during our lives. By experiencing new situations (either imagined or real) we can enter new programming into the subconscious. A scene or words combined with emotion leaves an imprint on the mind, and this can happen in “real” life or in the imagination.

In practical day-to-day life this happens automatically, and is uncontrolled. In a hypnosis session, we purposely target and concentrate on desired re-programming.

Does the Hypnotist have control over me? Can (s)he make me do something I would not do normally?

No.

Being in Hypnosis is not loosing consciousness. Hypnosis is a receptive state of consciousness where mental barriers and filters are loosened. It feels much like day-dreaming. Your basic beliefs and ethics are all there, as is your mental clarity (clarity is actually enhanced) yet you are more open to consider new perceptions and change ingrained ideas than you would be normally.

Can I go “crazy” when in trance or loose control of myself?

No.

One could see the subconscious as “crazy” in that our emotions stem from it, and since many of our emotions are difficult to control, for instance during panic attacks or deep anger, this is a fair question and an understandable fear. The thing is, our emotions become unmanageable because some event or thought/reaction has been repressed, and is now screaming to be heard. By facing these repressions, and/or reprogramming or reframing the initial sensitizing event, we can neutralize their effect upon us, and create a clearer mind and stiller emotions in the long run.

Is dealing with issues using hypnosis enough to permanently rid myself of them?

Yes and No.

Hypnosis releases unhealthy emotional patterns and, indeed, this may be enough. However, in some cases a life change may be necessary, for instance, releasing an unhealthy relationship or finding the courage to change jobs, or even smaller changes, such as taking better care of one’s physical fitness, or arranging more alone time. Once emotional knots have been loosened, realizing what changes need to be made, and finding the courage and motivation to do them comes easily and naturally.