What Does a Hypnotist Do?

Question
I asked a hypnotist one time what he did, and how he did it, and I didn't feel he gave me a very satisfactory answer. Maybe you can.

Answer
First of all, clarity on the difference between a hypnotist and hypnotherapist: A hypnotist knows how to put you into a state where you will be receptive to suggestions. A stage hypnotist is there to entertain you, so uses those suggestions to that purpose. A hypnotherapist uses suggestion for therapeutic purposes. Hypnosis is a method the hypnotherapist uses to search for what is causing a habit or other problem, and to give suggestions that enable clients to use more of their own resources to solve those problems. It is done while in a relaxed state because it's easier to receive suggestions, then, and to release more of the capabilities of one's mind. Such states also are called trances (being entranced - caught up in something). Using hypnotic methods makes it much easier to find out what's causing a problem, and to release its hold on you so you can get on with your life more quickly. With a skilled hypnotherapist, especially one who is a counselor, as well, solutions are found much more quickly than they are with regular talk-therapy, and are long-lasting.