Hello:

For the most part, I agree with the advice of all of the above.

As a certified hypnotherapist, I would like to offer the following advice.

At times, for whatever reason, and probably for no one in particular's fault, rapport between the hypnotist and the person being hypnotized fails to produce hypnosis (or a deeper state of it, conducive to doing the work desired). This does not mean that the hypnotist was no good or that the client was un-hypnotizable to a good depth - just that the circumstances, technique(s) used or setting just weren't conducive of producing the relaxed trusting state that normally produces a good quality session.

Since you have stated that you feel that hypnosis IS your treatment of choice, I would suggest you contact a different hypnotist, ask them if they have had experience handling someone who seems to have some difficulty in getting a good state established, and if you are satisfied with their answers, make your appointment with them. Be as open as possible with your circumstances (we are bound by certain confidentiality guidelines, therefore, please don't hold back anything that could materially help you, even if you don't see it in that light presently).

If you are making a tape for yourself (which I highly recommend), make sure to include suggestions in it that each time you enter into the hypnotic state, you will "be able to go deeper into a more profound state of hypnosis and relaxation" - the more you use this, the more the suggestion moves to the subconscious mind, and over time you will find the state deepening on its own, due to the suggestion.

Don't try to hypnotise yourself immediately after doing a strenuous activity, or immediately after being emotionally or mentally strained - try to put a little distance between these - especially on the mental/emotional level. You might just sit quietly for a while allowing your mind to relax - perhaps doing a bit of meditation - leading up to doing your self-hypnosis session.

You are to be applauded for wanting to move forward with this, and I encourage you to continue to look at this in a positive manner. Every day in every way you ARE becoming better and better. Remember that!

Cheers!
Unis