Questions men ask before they reach out

Call, email or send the short form on the contact page. We set up an introductory call to talk about what you want to change and how I work. If it feels like a fit, we book a first session. If it doesn’t, I’ll try to point you somewhere better.

I’m based in Bellingham, and sessions are held online, by secure video (Zoom) or by phone. That means no drive, no waiting room and no parking. Online sessions are for clients who are located in Washington State at the time of each session.

Adult men, one-on-one. Most come in because of stress, relationship strain, a big life change, anger, grief, confidence or a habit they want to change. I don’t offer couples sessions or groups on this site, but I can talk with you about options for those.

We talk about what brought you in, what you want to be different and what has or hasn’t helped before. I explain how hypnotherapy works and answer your questions. Nothing happens that you haven’t agreed to. You leave with a plan and usually something practical to try. See what to expect.

Hypnotherapy uses hypnosis, a calm, focused state of attention, as a tool for change. I guide you into deep relaxation and then we work on the thoughts, habits or reactions you came in about. It is used alongside talking, not instead of it. More on the hypnotherapy page.

No. You stay aware of what is happening and you can stop at any time. Hypnosis cannot make you do or say anything against your will. Most men describe it as feeling very relaxed and focused, a bit like the moment just before sleep, while still hearing everything.

Many people find it works well online, because they are relaxing in their own space. You need a quiet, private room, a comfortable chair and a steady connection. Never take a session while driving. More on online hypnotherapy.

I am a Washington State Registered Hypnotherapist, registration HP61341961, with the Washington State Department of Health. You can look the registration up on the department’s provider search. I also hold a Master’s in Metaphysical Sciences from the University of Metaphysical Sciences (2021). More on the about page.

No. I am a registered hypnotherapist, not a licensed mental health counselor, psychologist or physician. I don’t diagnose conditions or prescribe medication. If what you are dealing with needs medical or licensed mental health care, I will tell you and help you find it. My work can sit alongside that care.

Privacy matters to me and to every man I work with. Ask me on the introductory call how I keep notes and information private and where the legal limits are. Please don’t send health details through the website form or email; we can talk about them in a session.

Individual sessions are $145. I’m not in network with insurance plans, but I can give you a superbill (an itemized receipt) to send to your plan, which may reimburse part of the cost. Check with your plan first. Details on the fees page.

Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm Pacific. Leave a message or send the form at any time and I’ll get back to you during those hours. Messages are not monitored for emergencies.

Don’t wait for an appointment. Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or call 911. Veterans can dial 988 and press 1. Ian Whitelaw Counseling for Men is not an emergency service. See crisis resources.