Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hypnotherapy?

There is a lot of misinformation and misunderstanding about hypnosis. People may think that they will be under the "power" of the hypnotist and not in full control of themselves. Be reassured that no one can hypnotised against their will. People only go into a trance and as deep as they feel comfortable with.

There are many modern techniques that do not require a deep state of trance, so my clients are always aware of everything that is going on, are in control all the time. No one can be forced to do anything while under hypnosis.

Hypnotherapy has been used for many more years than we really know about and is completely natural and safe with no harmful side effects. When administered by a professionally trained and skilled hypnotherapist, the benefits can be long lasting and often permanent.

There are many books on the use of hypnosis if your interest in this subject wants to take you further.

How does Hypnosis work?

Quite simply, hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness, just like daydreaming. By allowing your unconscious mind to hear everything the therapist is saying, changes can occur quite soon.

Your conscious mind takes in about 7 bits of information per second whereas your unconscious mind takes in over 2 million bits of information per second, so your unconscious mind knows every single thought and action you have ever had, which can be amazing. It is far more powerful than your conscious mind.

We all go in and out of trance states all day. Remember when you were driving and suddenly couldn't remember passing a certain place? That is a trance state and perfectly normal. Maybe you have been sitting quietly stroking your dog or cat, or have been absorbed in a TV programme. That too is a trance state and it can feel very relaxing.

Hypnosis can give you a feeling of deep relaxation, so you are always aware of what is happening, and can come out of the trance any time you wish.

The hypnotist talks to your unconscious mind, giving many suggestions for change and helping you to find resources that you can use now and in the future. Most people report that they can recall everything that was said, or often remember later within the session. Everyone responds in a different and unique way for them.

Some people feel as though they are either sinking or floating down into this stress-free state, and most people report a feeling of complete relaxing and a feeling of being refreshed.

With a few exceptions, hypnotherapy can help everyone who wants to be hypnotised, and has a desire to change certain aspects of their lives. There are many problems or habits that can be resolved. There are no harmful side effects with hypnosis.

Will you always tell me what techniques you may want to try?

Yes, you are always in control of the session, and the therapist will only suggest techniques and explain how they work with your agreement.

Is this confidential?

Yes, the therapist is an impartial and non-judgemental person. Everything discussed in each session remains totally confidential.

How many sessions will I need?

It all depends how quickly you respond to hypnosis and the suggestions that are made. Modern techniques aim to get you in control as quickly as possible. As everyone is different, only you will know how many sessions you will need after the first one or two. Hypnosis empowers you quickly and effectively, unlike some other forms of therapy that can take years, and often fail to help you to be resourceful and independent. The success for the therapist is to give the control to you as quickly as possible, as she or he knows that the therapy is working when clients report that they are in control now of whatever problems or emotions they first had.

Can you guarantee this works?

No, and don't be tempted into believing anyone who says they guarantee success. Hypnotherapy doesn't always work for everyone, you have to have the belief in yourself and the therapist first. As everyone is unique, no therapist can ever guarantee their success rate. The therapist acts as a guide and shows you where to go in your mind, and you find the solutions within yourself.

What happens if I go to sleep and don't remember what has been said?

Some people drift off for a while then come back to hearing everything. The unconscious mind hears everything that is being said. Once the hypnotherapist stops talking or counts up from 1 to 5 giving suggestions about becoming aware, you soon open your eyes.