Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

At Teak Sepal, transparency, ethics, and client care are essential. This Privacy Policy explains how your information is collected, used, and safeguarded when you book and participate in hypnotherapy sessions. Please read carefully before booking.

Data Collection

We collect only the personal information necessary to:

• Schedule and manage appointments

• Communicate with you by text or email

• Maintain appropriate professional records related to hypnotherapy services

Data Security

Your information is stored securely and transmitted with safeguards. Access to personal data is limited to the hypnotherapist.

Client Rights (CCPA/CPRA/GDPR)

• You may request access, correction, or deletion of your personal information as permitted by law.

• You may request restrictions on how your data is used, to the extent allowed by law.

• California residents have rights under CCPA/CPRA, and international clients may have rights under GDPR.

Communication Limitations

Emails and text messages are not fully confidential; internet service providers may log data. While we make every effort to safeguard your privacy, by choosing electronic communication you acknowledge and accept these limitations.

Third-Party Use

Your information is never sold to third parties. Disclosure of your information may occur only if required by law, such as by subpoena, court order, or legal obligation.

Virtual Sessions Only

All sessions are conducted virtually by secure video or phone. No in-person data collection occurs.

Retention

Your personal records are retained only as long as necessary to provide services and comply with legal obligations. You may request deletion after services are concluded, subject to applicable laws.

Terms of Service & Client Disclosure

At Teak Sepal, client well-being, safety, and transparency are foundational. These terms ensure you are fully informed before beginning hypnotherapy sessions. Please read carefully.

Disclosure of Services (California Residents)

In recognition that millions of Californians receive a substantial volume of healthcare services from complementary and alternative health care practitioners, California Law allows access by California residents to complementary and alternative healthcare practitioners who are not providing services that require medical training and credentials. The following disclosure is provided in compliance with Section 2053.6 of the California Business and Professions Code.

The purpose of a program of hypnotherapy is for vocational and avocational self-improvement (Business and Professions Code 2908) and as alternative or complementary treatment to healing arts services licensed by the state. A hypnotherapist is not a licensed physician or psychologist, and hypnotherapy services are not licensed by the State of California. Services are non-diagnostic and do not include the practice of medicine, neither should they be considered as a substitute for licensed medical or psychological services or procedures.

Hypnotherapists who assist clients with weight loss and/or other health and fitness goals may provide general nutritional advice and/or recommend published books, food guides and health and fitness publications. This is not a substitute for medical advice, and you are advised to seek your Doctor’s approval before making any medical/health/lifestyle changes.

Hypnosis works with the power of the subconscious mind to change habits and behaviors. The subconscious mind is considered to be the source or root of many of our behaviors, emotions, attitudes and motivations. Hypnosis is believed to be a powerful tool for accessing the subconscious mind and creating improvements in our lives.

Services consist of a program of conditioning, including an undetermined number of private sessions, depending on the client’s individual needs. The hypnotist will to the best of his or her ability endeavor to accomplish the objectives of the client’s sessions. While hypnosis may be an effective technique for many purposes, the effectiveness may vary from individual to individual, and no specific results or progress can be promised or guaranteed.

The feelings and experiences one has in the hypnotic state can vary from individual to individual. Many people remain completely aware of everything that is going on while in hypnosis. Some individuals experience a hyper-awareness where sensations are perceived enriched and vivid. The ability to visualize or imagine is often enhanced. A feeling of deep relaxation is common, and some people describe the hypnotic state as an escape from physical tension and emotional stress, while remaining completely alert.

The use of hypnosis could elicit memories of past events which may or may not be literally true. It is possible that events under hypnosis will be distorted or misconstrued. Memories or images evoked under hypnosis are not necessarily accurate and may be a construction or a composite of memories. Without corroborating information, it is not possible to determine whether a specific memory is true or false, even if it seems true to the client.

While it is the practice of Hypnotherapists to keep information confidential, information revealed in hypnotherapy is not subject to the psychotherapist-patient privilege. A court may order disclosure of information learned in therapy.

You have received a copy of this disclosure and understand the information described above. You have also read the accompanying document which is a biography of the Hypnotherapists education, training, experience and other qualifications regarding the services to be provided.

Disclosure of Services (Outside California)

The purpose of a program of hypnotherapy is for vocational and avocational self-improvement and as alternative or complementary treatment to healing arts services licensed by the state. A hypnotherapist is not a licensed physician or psychologist, and hypnotherapy services are not licensed by the State. Services are non-diagnostic and do not include the practice of medicine, neither should they be considered as a substitute for licensed medical or psychological services or procedures.

Hypnotherapists who assist clients with weight loss and/or other health and fitness goals may provide general nutritional advice and/or recommend published books, food guides and health and fitness publications. This is not a substitute for medical advice, and you are advised to seek your Doctor’s approval before making any medical/health/lifestyle changes.

Hypnosis works with the power of the subconscious mind to change habits and behaviors. The subconscious mind is considered to be the source or root of many of our behaviors, emotions, attitudes and motivations. Hypnosis is believed to be a powerful tool for accessing the subconscious mind and creating improvements in our lives.

Services consist of a program of conditioning, including an undetermined number of private sessions, depending on the client’s individual needs. The hypnotist will to the best of his or her ability endeavor to accomplish the objectives of the client’s sessions. While hypnosis may be an effective technique for many purposes, the effectiveness may vary from individual to individual, and no specific results or progress can be promised or guaranteed.

The feelings and experiences one has in the hypnotic state can vary from individual to individual. Many people remain completely aware of everything that is going on while in hypnosis. Some individuals experience a hyper-awareness where sensations are perceived enriched and vivid. The ability to visualize or imagine is often enhanced. A feeling of deep relaxation is common, and some people describe the hypnotic state as an escape from physical tension and emotional stress, while remaining completely alert.

The use of hypnosis could elicit memories of past events which may or may not be literally true. It is possible that events under hypnosis will be distorted or misconstrued. Memories or images evoked under hypnosis are not necessarily accurate and may be a construction or a composite of memories. Without corroborating information, it is not possible to determine whether a specific memory is true or false, even if it seems true to the client.

While it is the practice of Hypnotherapists to keep information confidential, information revealed in hypnotherapy is not subject to the psychotherapist-patient privilege. A court may order disclosure of information learned in therapy.

You have received a copy of this disclosure and understand the information described above. You have also read the accompanying document which is a biography of the Hypnotherapists education, training, experience and other qualifications regarding the services to be provided.

Acknowledgement of Services and Fees — Self-Improvement Program

I, the undersigned, acknowledge that I understand and agree to the following:

• I agree to pay the hypnotherapist the fee per session at the time of booking.

• I understand that the program of conditioning offered will include an undetermined number of private sessions, depending on my individual needs.

• The major purpose of this program is for vocational or avocational self-improvement and problems of psychogenic or functional origin are treated by referral only (Business and Professions Code 2908).

• Either the client or the hypnotherapist may terminate therapy at any time without obligation to explain.

• I understand there are no guarantees as to the results or progress of hypnotherapy.

Health & Safety in Hypnotherapy – Personal Responsibility Disclosure

• Consultation: Clients are encouraged to consult licensed healthcare providers for medical or psychological conditions.

• Collaborative Care: If you are in treatment for medical or mental health conditions, collaborative care with your provider is recommended.

• Potential Risks: Certain conditions (e.g., severe anxiety, psychosis, pregnancy, post-trauma) require caution or referral.

• Medication: Some medications may affect responsiveness to hypnosis. Discuss with your healthcare provider.

• Personal Responsibility: Clients agree to actively engage, practice techniques (self-hypnosis, journaling, mindfulness), and set realistic goals.

• Empowerment: Hypnotherapy is a tool for positive change, but transformation requires your participation.

• No Guarantees: Every individual responds differently.

Session Duration & Structure

• Each session is designed to be completed within 90 minutes.

• Sessions begin by setting clear intentions aligned with your goals.

• Preparation includes:

• Quiet, private environment

• Turn off devices/notifications

• Have water available

• Notebook and pen for notes or assignments

• Contact lens comfort adjustments if needed

Online Virtual, Telephone, and Remote Sessions Disclosure

All sessions are conducted virtually only via secure video.

• Safe Space: Sessions prioritize your safety, comfort, and well-being.

• Open Expression: You are free to share thoughts without judgment.

• Collaboration: Hypnotherapy is a cooperative process; communication is essential.

• Recording Policy: Sessions may not be recorded without prior permission.

• Emergency Contact: Clients must provide a backup contact number and a third-party emergency contact.

• Termination Rights: The hypnotherapist reserves the right to end any session not conducted in good faith.

• Preparation: Choose a quiet, interruption-free location.

Confidentiality Disclosure

Confidentiality is fundamental, but with legal and ethical exceptions:

• If you threaten harm to yourself or others.

• If there is suspected child or elder abuse.

• If a court orders disclosure.

Additional notes:

• Emails and texts are not fully secure.

• Minors: Parents may have rights to records unless doing so risks harm; summaries may be provided instead.

• You may revoke consent for information-sharing at any time.

Emergency Protocols

Hypnotherapy is not a crisis service. If you are in crisis or considering suicide, call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S.) or your local emergency number immediately.

Refund & Payment Policy

At Teak Sepal Hypnotherapy, scheduling and payment policies are designed to ensure fairness and respect for both the client and the practitioner. Please read carefully before booking.

Payment Authorization

• Full payment is due at the time of booking your session.

• Payment confirms your commitment to the scheduled appointment and reserves the session time exclusively for you.

Non-Refundable Sessions

• Monetary refunds will not be issued for any hypnotherapy sessions or services rendered.

• Once a session is booked and completed, the payment is non-refundable.

Unpreventable Circumstances

We recognize that emergencies happen, including illness, accidents, or family matters. In such cases:

• A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required for cancellation or rescheduling.

• This advance notice allows the appointment to be offered to another client.

• Refunds will not be issued, but every effort will be made to reschedule the session.

24-Hour Cancellation Policy

To clarify how the 24-hour notice works:

• Example: If an appointment is scheduled for 3:00 pm on Tuesday, notice must be given by 3:00 pm on Monday at the latest.

• For Monday appointments, cancellations must be provided by the same time on the prior Friday.

• Federal holidays are not counted as business days.

Credits

• Cancellations with at least 24 hours’ notice: Eligible for a credit toward a future session.

• Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice: Not eligible for credit or refund.

No-Show Policy

• Clients who miss a scheduled appointment without providing cancellation notice are considered a no-show.

• No-shows are not eligible for credit or refund.

Grace Period

• Both hypnotherapist and client have a 10-minute grace period.

• If a client arrives more than 10 minutes late, the session must be rescheduled.

• Sessions cannot be extended to make up for lost time.

Rescheduling Contact

To reschedule or cancel your appointment:

• Call or Text: 1-866-775-9372

• Email: ts@teaksepal.com

Agreement

By booking a session, you acknowledge that you understand and agree to the above Payment, Cancellation, No Refund, and No-Show Policy.

Disclaimer

Mariamawit Girma Gobezie, CHt., CAHA (“She,” “Her,” or “Hypnotherapist”) is a Certified Hypnotherapist and Certified Specialist in Advanced Handwriting Analysis (Graphology) in private practice. She is not a licensed medical doctor, chiropractor, osteopathic physician, naturopathic doctor, nutritionist, pharmacist, psychologist, psychotherapist, or any other formally licensed healthcare professional.

Scope of Practice

Hypnotherapy is offered solely as a tool for self-improvement, wellness, vocational and avocational self-development, and personal growth. It is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, a substitute for licensed medical, psychological, or nutritional care.

Handwriting Analysis / Graphology Services

Advanced Handwriting Analysis (Graphology) is offered as a tool for self-awareness, personal development, and insight into behavioral patterns. Graphology is not a medical, psychological, or diagnostic service, nor should it be considered a substitute for licensed professional care. No claims are made regarding medical, psychological, or legal outcomes. The purpose of handwriting analysis is to provide personal insights and perspectives, which clients may use for their own self-reflection and growth.

No Medical or Psychological Advice

The hypnotherapist does not render medical, psychological, nutritional, or other licensed professional advice or treatment, nor does she provide or prescribe any medical diagnosis, treatment, medication, or remedy.

The information provided in sessions or programs will not treat or diagnose any disease, illness, or ailment. If you experience any such issues, you agree to seek care from your registered physician, psychologist, or other licensed provider.

No Guarantees

Information or guidance provided during hypnotherapy sessions should not be interpreted as a promise of benefits, a claim of cures, or a guarantee of results. Individual responses vary, and no guarantees are made regarding outcomes.

Client Responsibility

By participating, you understand and agree that you are fully responsible for your own mental and physical well-being, including your lifestyle and health decisions. Techniques provided in hypnotherapy are tools for change, but your results depend on your engagement and follow-through.

Liability Limitations

Neither Teak Sepal nor Mariamawit Girma Gobezie, CHt., are responsible for any loss, property damage, or bodily injury caused by participation in hypnotherapy sessions or programs. To the maximum extent permitted by law, neither the hypnotherapist nor her business shall be liable for direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use of hypnotherapy services.

Legal Compliance

While confidentiality is respected, information revealed in hypnotherapy is not subject to psychotherapist–patient privilege. If ordered by a court, the hypnotherapist will disclose information to the extent required by law.

Professional Associations

This practice adheres to the ethical standards of relevant professional hypnotherapy associations, such as the American Hypnosis Association (AHA).