How does hypnosis work?
Hypnosis is a natural process through which our minds become relaxed and focused at the same time. We do it ourselves all the time in conversation, listening to music, driving, and during familiar tasks and activities. It turns out that when we are in this state, the mind is particularly open to learning and change. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy combines positive therapeutic conversation with hypnosis.
Is hypnosis safe?
In any state of hypnosis, people are actually more in control than when they are awake. They are always able to return to full awareness at any point, and usually do so feeling refreshed, lighter and more optimistic. I am a member of the National Council for Hypnotherapy and the Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapy. I also have an enhanced DBS-check and full insurance.
What are the benefits of hypnotherapy?
The benefits are significant, namely the freedom to enjoy life and achieve your goals, free from anxiety, depressed feelings or anger. One of the first and most common positive side-effects is better sleep. Success requires a commitment and a desire to change – it’s not magic and no one can do it for you – but the process is straightforward and enjoyable and we aim to make it as easy, fast and cost effective as possible.
What can hypnotherapy help with?
Hypnotherapy is really good for anxiety and stress, as well anger, depression, fears, some specific conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), phobias (needles, dogs, flying, driving and water are the most common) as well as habits and unconscious patterns and beliefs which affect performance and quality of life. Many physical conditions can be exacerbated or caused by stress (e.g. IBS; Insomnia) and so hypnotherapy can often help to alleviate these. It can also be very helpful for social and relationship issues, and in managing obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours (OCD).
Does hypnotherapy work for children?
Children from 8 years old can make extremely good hypnotic subjects and can use their imaginations and creativity to very good effect, often with dramatic and surprising results even where other treatments have failed. The first meeting is with just a parent, free of charge. A parent is then required to attend all sessions, although they don’t need to participate.
I am on medication – can hypnotherapy work with that?
The process sits happily alongside the use of most medication, and we will explore how this works. We can work in consultation with your doctor where relevant.
What is the “solution focused” approach?
“Solution focus” is a set of techniques which involves focusing on what you want, more than on problems or their causes. It takes the pressure off conscious effort or analytical thought and instead stimulates the imagination towards better things, for example by creating rich pictures of the outcomes you want, and letting the subconscious mind figure out how to get there.
Are there any dangers?
None. You will be in a safe environment with a qualified therapist and you will simply be relaxed.
Will I lose consciousness during hypnosis?
Most people can and will go into at least a light trance but are always in control of everything that happens. This is not stage hypnosis which is very different and this is explained through the initial consultation. Trance is like daydreaming and yet we are still alert of what is around us and are more than capable of moving, swallowing etc. while relaxed.
Can I get stuck in trance?
No. Just like all trance states or sleep, when you are left alone you would naturally wake up.
Can you make me do something I don’t want to?
No. You are aware throughout hypnosis what your actions are and the therapist cannot make you do things you do not want to do.
How many sessions will I need?
This is very much dependant on the issue and also your own level of participation and willingness to co operate with the therapy process itself. I will review your progress throughout and always help you to make your changes in the minimum amount of sessions required. It’s worth remembering though that you are ‘the boss’ of you and only you know when you feel better. Some people will find 3-4 sessions worked well for them but others may want more and for long standing conditions such as depression or anxiety may take 10-12 sessions. Help with phobias and fears usually need 3 sessions if anxiety is not involved and help to stop smoking or vaping usually needs a 2 hour session.
How often will I need to see the hypnotherapist?
The answer depends on the type of problem and the progress made. For general therapy I would suggest once a week to start with but some clients will chose to have a session once every two weeks or a month. We are all different and there are not set rules.
Will I be “put under” or go to sleep?
No is the simple answer. Throughout your hypnosis session you will be aware of your surroundings and sounds. You can move, talk, swallow even keep your eyes open.
Will I be aware of what is happening?
Yes, at all times