It is important to understand, that at this time, and in most areas of the United States, Hypnosis itself is not a well regulated profession. With minimal training anyone can hang out their shingle as a "hypnotist" and some of these hypnosis practitioners do incredible work and offer a tremendous service to their clients. In Florida, there are no state mandated requirements for the minimal training, background screening or supervision of vocational (unlicensed) hypnotists. They are required to work under the supervision of a licensed health care practitioner when engaged in any work associated with a medical or mental health diagnosis.

Licensed practitioners of the healing arts, such as Tam, are authorized to utilize a wide variety of advanced strategies and techniques to address the subconscious roots of behavior, thoughts and feelings and are accountable to State Licensing Boards for operating in an ethical manner within the scope of their competence.^* Medical concerns require the supervision of a medical practitioner.

The credentials and associations so often found listed on websites of hypnotists and counselors are there with one purpose; to demonstrate to you, a level of professional responsibility and accountability - something you SHOULD be seeking when you select any health care practitioner - especially one that is addressing your mental health and well being.

Make sure the person you work with has legitimate credentials and training. Check that the degrees, training, licensing, certifications and professional memberships which people claim to have are from professionally recognized and accredited entities. Explore the requirements for joining these groups. You can also check for previous complaints with the Better Business Bureau or Licensing Boards. Be an informed consumer.

Most importantly, you should have an opportunity to talk with any potential counselor before beginning work with them. Please contact Tam for a FREE, NO OBLIGATION, 1/2 hour Phone Consultation to discuss whether hypnosis or other counseling might be helpful in your particular situation and to determine if she is a good match for your needs.

^* Tamera Fontenot is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida and is legally allowed to conduct counseling and psychotherapy within the scope of her training and experience. She is not a licensed psychiatrist, psychologist or medical physician and any previously diagnosed medical or psychiatric conditions must be accompanied by a referral from the appropriate physician. Please contact Tam for a FREE, NO OBLIGATION, 1/2 hour Phone Consultation to determine if a referral is needed and how to go about obtaining one.

Tamera L. Fontenot LMHC, NCC, CCHt St Petersburg, FL 727-543-7556 Contact Tam

Servicing the Tampa Bay Florida area including St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo, Pinellas Park, Gulfport, Seminole, Tampa, Pasco County, communities of the Tampa Bay Gulf Beaches including St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, The Redington's, Madeira Beach, Indian Shores, Indian Rocks Beach, Belleair Beach, Belleair, Belleair Bluffs, Sand Key, Clearwater Beach, Dunedin, and surrounding areas.