FAQs
Your questions answered
What exactly is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a form of therapy that uses hypnosis to help people make positive changes in their lives. It’s a state of focused attention and relaxation where you’re open to suggestions that can help you overcome challenges and achieve your goals.
Think of it as a guided journey into your subconscious mind, where we can work together to create positive changes.
How many sessions of hypnotherapy will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on your unique circumstances and the issue being addressed. Most clients experience significant changes after just a few sessions, while others benefit from a longer treatment plan.
The best way to find out is to book a free initial consultation.
As a ballpark. For most concerns, you’ll require 6 – 12 sessions. For smoking cessation, you’ll typically need a single 2hr session. Some phobias can be treated in as few as 4 sessions.
Can anyone be hypnotised?
Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention and relaxation that we experience daily, like when you’re engrossed in a book or movie. While the depth of this state can vary from person to person, everyone can benefit from hypnotherapy. It’s not about achieving a deep trance but about working together to create positive change.
A skilled hypnotherapist can tailor the session to your individual needs, ensuring you feel comfortable and supported throughout the process.
Is hypnotherapy safe?
Yes, hypnotherapy is considered safe when practiced by a qualified and experienced therapist. It’s a non-invasive approach that relies on natural processes of the mind and does not involve any physical manipulation or invasive procedures.
While rare, some people might experience temporary dizziness. However, this is usually mild and short-lived.
It’s essential to choose a qualified hypnotherapist who is registered with a professional body. This ensures they adhere to ethical guidelines and maintain high standards of practice.
Will I lose control during hypnosis?
No, you’re always in control during a hypnosis session. It’s more like a focused state of relaxation where you’re open to positive suggestions. You remain aware of your surroundings, retain full control over your actions, and cannot be made to do anything against your will or values while in trance.
Hypnosis is a collaborative process, and your comfort and safety are my top priorities.
Will I remember everything that happens during hypnosis?
While some clients can vividly recall their hypnosis session, others experience a feeling of being in a dreamlike state. This variation in memory recall is normal and doesn’t impact the effectiveness of the therapy.
Remember, the goal is to create lasting change, and this often happens below the surface of conscious thought.
How does hypnotherapy differ from other forms of therapy?
Hypnotherapy differs from traditional talk therapy by focusing on the subconscious mind.
While both approaches aim to promote wellbeing, hypnotherapy uses a state of relaxed focus to access deeper layers of the mind, allowing for rapid and effective change. It’s like bypassing the conscious mind to address the root cause of issues.
Hypnotherapy can be used alongside other therapeutic approaches or as a standalone treatment.
In what way is Solution Focused Hypnotherapy science-based?
Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy (SFH) is grounded in the understanding of how the mind works and its capacity for change. It leverages the brain’s neuroplasticity – its ability to form new neural connections – to create positive transformations. By focusing on solutions rather than problems, SFH harnesses the power of the subconscious mind to facilitate lasting change.
Hypnosis, a natural state of focused attention, provides a pathway to access and reprogram limiting beliefs and behaviours. This approach is supported by extensive research demonstrating the effectiveness of hypnosis in various therapeutic contexts.
Read my blog post outlining the latest research
Can I undergo hypnotherapy if I have a history of mental health issues?
In almost all cases, hypnotherapy can be a valuable tool for individuals with a history of mental health challenges. It’s essential to work with a qualified therapist who understands your specific needs and can provide a safe and supportive environment.
In some cases, your therapist may ask to consult with your healthcare provider to determine if hypnotherapy is suitable for your specific circumstances. Some conditions may require additional support or alternative therapeutic approaches.
For this reason, it’s crucial to choose a qualified hypnotherapist who is registered with a professional body. This ensures they have the necessary training and experience to assess your individual needs and provide appropriate care.
How long do the effects of hypnotherapy last?
The duration of hypnotherapy’s effects vary depending on the individual and the specific issue being addressed. While many people experience immediate and lasting changes, for others, the process can be more gradual.
Think of hypnotherapy as planting a seed. It provides the optimal conditions for growth, but the timeframe for blossoming is unique to each individual. Regular sessions can help reinforce positive changes and enhance long-term outcomes.
Ultimately, the goal is to equip you with the tools and resources to manage challenges independently.
Can I undergo hypnotherapy if I have difficulty relaxing or visualising?
Absolutely! Many people believe they need to be naturally good at relaxation or visualization to benefit from hypnotherapy, but this isn’t the case. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention that we all experience daily. A skilled hypnotherapist can guide you into a relaxed state, even if you find it challenging to do so independently. The key is to approach the process with an open mind and a willingness to participate in your own healing journey.
The goal of hypnotherapy is to help you achieve your goals, and we’ll work together at your pace.
Can I drive after a hypnotherapy session?
Yes, you can drive immediately after a hypnotherapy session. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention, similar to daydreaming or being engrossed in a movie. You remain in control throughout the session and will return to normal consciousness afterward.
However, if you feel particularly relaxed or drowsy after the session, it’s always advisable to take a short break before engaging in activities that require full concentration, such as driving.