FAQ

Frequently asked questions about hypnotherapy

Firstly, it is essential to note that hypnosis is all about giving you the control. You can’t be made to do anything under hypnosis that you don't want to.

What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a natural state that we all experience every day. It’s like when you first wake up in the morning, when you are snuggled up in your duvet – you’re relaxed and awake, but not fully conscious. 
That “I’ll do it in a minute” feeling is also what you get from being in a hypnotic trance. When in a hypnotic state your body becomes very relaxed, but your mind remains alert. You will hear everything that is said to you, you will remember what you want. You can get up to leave, if you want to, but it's such a comfortable feeling that you won't.

What is clinical hypnotherapy?

Clinical hypnotherapy is when hypnosis is used therapeutically to help change your behaviour and habits, by helping you use your own resources to make that change. 

This is done by making suggestions to your unconscious mind, while you are in a very relaxed state. In this state, the mind is more receptive to suggestion. Your unconscious mind holds everything you have ever learned and, by dealing directly with this part of your mind, you enable yourself to use your own resources to deal with the problem. 

We will work together, as therapist and client, but all the changes will be made by you, so you are always in control.

Will I lose control under hypnosis?

No, you won't. Hypnosis is all about giving you the control. 

You can’t be made to do anything under hypnosis that you don't want to. This misconception has come from stage hypnotists, who target their subjects very carefully - usually people who want their 15 minutes of fame and are willing to do what is asked of them. 

You are in control at all times and will not say or do anything you are not comfortable with, and you can even reject any suggestion if you feel it is inappropriate. You may feel emotional during your session, but this is a part of the process.

Is hypnosis the same as sleep?

No, certainly not. Your body will become very relaxed, but your mind will remain very alert. Some people wonder if they actually are in a hypnotic trance because of how alert they feel.

Can I come out of a hypnotic trance when I want?

Yes you can. You are in control and you can come out of the trance by yourself at any time. When you have been taught self-hypnosis, as part of your homework, you can come out of trance at any time.

Can anyone be hypnotised?

Anyone who wants to can be hypnotised. As everyone is different, the depth of trance varies. Most people can achieve at least a light trance, which is all that is needed to benefit from hypnosis.

Is hypnotherapy better than willpower?

Yes. Willpower is a conscious behaviour. All our habits, core beliefs and negative behaviour reside in our unconscious mind, so it may not be enough to change that behaviour consciously. By talking directly to your unconscious through hypnosis, you allow yourself to make the changes you need.

How will I know if I have been hypnotised?

Most people feel comfortable and relaxed. Some people feel they haven't been in a trance due to the fact that they are so mentally alert but, when asked afterwards how long they felt relaxed, they were surprised at the length of their session. This is known as the time-distortion phenomenon. It commonly occurs in hypnotherapy.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on why you are coming and also on your finances. It is not possible to give an exact number of appointments, as everyone has different reasons for coming for hypnotherapy. However, at every session you can discuss your progress and decide how/if you wish to carry on. 

The exception to this is those looking to stop smoking, which is completed in a single session.

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