FAQs

Hypnotherapy Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is hypnosis?
   

   Hypnosis is a safe, powerful technique which creates a deeply relaxed state of the mind and body. This is similar to a natural state that we enter in to many times a day; it happens when we are deeply absorbed in something, such as reading a book, watching TV or doing repetitive tasks. It is a relaxed state somewhere between being awake and asleep and is a little like daydreaming. Whilst in this state, the subconscious mind can be very receptive to beneficial suggestions, accepting directions which promote positive change.

2. What is hypnosis like?
   

   Actually, we all experience the hypnotic state in our everyday lives. Have you ever driven home and not remembered anything about the journey, or been engrossed in a book and not been conscious of time passing? If so, you’ve been in a state of focused attention, not unlike the feeling of being hypnotised. During hypnosis you will be guided into a similar state so that beneficial suggestion can be directed towards your subconscious mind.  What you actually feel whilst being hypnotised differs from person to person as everyone experiences it differently.  Most people feel very relaxed whilst being hypnotised and often feel calm and energised afterwards too.

3. Is hypnosis dangerous?
   

   Hypnosis is a safe and natural state of mind and nobody can be hypnotised against their will.  You will always remain in control.  Hypnotherapy can be a positive and beneficial process when used by a trained and qualified therapist and you are fully able to reject any suggestions given if you feel they are not appropriate.

4. Can anyone be hypnotised?
   

   Most people can be hypnotised providing that they want to be.  Some people experience a light level of hypnotic trance though even in this state a lot of change can take place.  This is why some people think that they haven’t been hypnotised, because they were only in a light level and not what they expected it to be.

5. Is hypnotherapy suitable for children?
   

   Yes.  Children can and do benefit enormously from hypnotherapy.  Because hypnosis requires a state of focused attention, for a relatively lengthy period of time it tends to be better suited for children over the age of seven years old.  I will require parental consent to treat children under the age of 18 years.  A parent/guardian must accompany the child to each session.  Depending on the wishes of the child, the parent can sit in on the initial consultation, however subsequent sessions the parent would sit outside the room (providing the child is comfortable with this arrangement).  I hold an enhanced DBS certificate for working with children.

6. Will I get ‘stuck’ in hypnosis?
   

   No, it’s not possible to get stuck in hypnosis.  You will always return to full awareness either of your own accord or when asked to do so by the therapist.

7. How many sessions will I need?
   

   During the initial consultation I will be able to give you an indication of roughly how many sessions you may require. The actual number required will depend on you and the problem or issue.  The model that I use enables change to happen quickly and the aim is to help you in the shortest time frame possible.

8. What happens during the initial consultation?
   

   The initial consultation is an opportunity for you and I to meet before treatment commences, for you to receive advice and information, and for us both to decide we feel comfortable working together. During the consultation we can agree goals and put together a treatment plan.  I will offer you an explanation of how the brain works in relation to the problem you are seeking help for and an understanding of the conscious and subconscious regions of the brain, and how our thoughts, habits and behaviours are created.   Usually no hypnosis will take place during the initial consultation; this normally begins in the next session.  You will be given a complimentary MP3 to take away with you which will form an integral part of therapy.  Hypnotherapy can bring about amazing results, however success is not guaranteed and full client commitment is required throughout treatment, which will include using this MP3 and following other recommendations I may give you.

9. What is SFBT Solution Focused Brief Therapy
   

   (SFBT) is, like the name suggests, about being brief and about focusing on solutions rather than problems. There are always exceptions to the rule with problems, or times when the problem is not happening or it is less severe. By looking for these exceptions and analysing why clients are successful at these times, we are able to bring them in to the forefront, getting the client to repeat these successes and use them to create the basis for ongoing change.

10. What about confidentiality & data protection?
    

    My professional organisations require me to adhere to a strict code of ethics which includes treating information about clients in the strictest confidentiality, other than where required by law or with the clients express consent. All client information will be held securely in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1988.  I am also registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

11. What is your cancellation policy?
    I run a very busy therapy practice and appointments are often in high demand.  I require a minimum of 48 hours to cancel or change an appointment.  Late cancellations and missed appointments will be invoiced at the full session rate.

I am always happy to take a call or respond to an email if you have any further questions – send me a message on the Contact Form.

DISCLAIMER: Hypnotherapy is effective however results may vary and success in not guaranteed. Full client commitment is important.