Your Hypnotherapy FAQs

Whenever a prospective client contacts me, I suggest a telephone call. This 15 minute chat is an opportunity to tell me what it is they are struggling with and also what they are hoping to achieve. Often, they are feeling anxious about making that first step and have many questions about hypnotherapy. I am always happy to answer these, so that they finish the call feeling relaxed, positive and excited about their first session with me. The questions range from:

1. What does it feel like to be hypnotised?
2. Does it work as well over zoom?
3. What if I don’t wake up? Or get stuck in hypnosis?
4. Can I be controlled?
5. What if I say something embarrassing?
6. Is hypnosis safe?

Firstly, relax! Hypnotherapy uses hypnosis or trance, which is a totally natural state of mind. We are in trance many times during the day.  If you think about it – how often do you lose your train of thought? You could be listening to some music, looking out of a window, sunbathing or driving a car – at these times your brain is in a trance like state. It’s like daydreaming – and you can’t get stuck in a daydream!  It is completely safe.

When we are encouraged to relax by a clinical hypnotherapist, who will use calming visualisation techniques, it becomes much easier to effect the positive changes the client is looking for.

How does hypnotherapy work?

Hypnosis works with the subconscious part of our minds – which is where all our memories, habits and learned behaviours are, which is why it works so quickly and is so effective, because it doesn’t rely on the conscious thought process. We all know how we would like to be, but some of those learned behaviours in the subconscious can be putting up barriers, so during hypnosis we get the subconscious on board and make some positive shifts.

It feels incredibly relaxing – and often clients will describe it as being like a power nap, or a re-boot for the brain. The therapeutic benefits are so positive I have many clients who book in regularly because they enjoy it so much. It’s an opportunity to relax, recharge and reset.

Hypnotherapy is known for its effectiveness in addressing negative habits (self-harm, eating disorders, fears and phobias), and quitting smoking, but it can help to release trauma (PTSD) and is an extremely effective treatment for anxiety and confidence building. I see clients for help with weight-loss, alcohol control, relationship issues and bereavement support. It is also a powerful therapy for goal setting and personal development.

Anyone can be hypnotised. You just have to be open to it and want to affect positive change for yourself. You cannot be controlled.  You can open your eyes at any time if you so wish. Your subconscious mind will not accept a suggestion that does not fit with your beliefs, which is why it is so important that I understand what it is you wish to achieve and will use your phrases back to you during the session. You won’t say anything embarrassing because you are aware.  There is still a filter! If you do say something – it’s because you want to!

And as for zoom, why not try it for yourself. The feedback I have had from clients has been hugely positive. The therapeutic connection has not been diluted by a screen one bit and they prefer the freedom of privacy that being in the comfort of their own home gives.

If you have any further questions about hypnotherapy, or would like some support, do please get in touch.