Frequently Asked Questions About Hypnotherapy
What is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a form of therapy that uses a combination of hypnosis and conversation-based therapy to explore and resolve challenges and issues.
How does hypnotherapy work?
During a hypnotherapy session, hypnosis is used to create a period of focused attention and relaxation. While in this relaxed state, an individual has the potential to become more self-aware of their thoughts and emotions. Through this increased awareness, the root causes of challenges can be identified and addressed appropriately with the help and support of a qualified therapist.
This leads to lasting change through the reduction of related behaviours that appear in day-to-day life. Unhelpful patterns are consciously and unconsciously replaced by more positive and worthwhile ways of being and living.
How can hypnotherapy help me?
Challenges hypnotherapy can help with include:
Managing stress and overcoming anxiety
Treating forms of depression, including major depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Exploring and resolving relationship issues and difficulties
Improving emotional regulation and resolving issues including anger and jealousy
Overcoming low self-confidence and low self-esteem
Resolving attachment issues, including anxious, avoidant, and disorganised patterns of relating to others — these are sometimes called ‘commitment issues’ or ‘abandonment issues’
Overcoming feelings of isolation or loneliness
Processing and integrating psychedelic experiences and non-ordinary states of consciousness
Resolving sleep problems, including insomnia and sleep anxiety
Healing after complex life experiences and treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Ending self-destructive behaviours including substance misuse and substance abuse
What is hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a natural and safe state of focused attention and relaxation. It is an educational and self-improvement process that facilitates access to a person’s internal resources to assist them in solving problems, increasing motivation, or altering behaviour patterns to create positive change.
While in the hypnotic state, clients remain in control of their feelings and behaviours.
What will hypnosis feel like?
If you have ever listened deeply to a guided meditation or rested with your eyes closed after a yoga class, you have entered a state of relaxation that is similar to a hypnotic state. You will likely feel deeply relaxed and calm during and after the session. Some states of hypnosis are gentle, and others will feel like a deeper state of relaxation.
Is hypnosis mind control?
No. While in the hypnotic state, clients remain in control of their feelings and behaviours. At any point in the session, you will be able to open your eyes.
Is hypnosis safe?
Yes. Hypnosis is a natural and safe state. During a hypnotherapy session, hypnosis is used to create a period of focused attention and relaxation.
What is analytical hypnotherapy/hypnoanalysis?
Analytical hypnotherapy, or hypnoanalysis, aims to discover and resolve the root cause of an issue or discomfort. Since analytical hypnotherapy looks deeper at a problem, it can be used to address long-standing issues and provide long-term resolution.
What is suggestion hypnotherapy?
Suggestion hypnotherapy, sometimes referred to as traditional hypnotherapy, uses a process of hypnosis and suggestions to encourage a change in behaviour. This can provide immediate and long-term benefits.
Does online hypnotherapy work?
Yes. Online hypnotherapy sessions are effective. It’s important for you to be in a comfortable location where you can recline. You may wish to wear headphones during the session for the best experience.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. Short-term therapy may be the right approach if you are looking for support in a period of distress or difficulty. Medium or long-term therapy is more explorative and can help you understand your life, your relationships, and the patterns you’ve experienced.
Please contact me for more information concerning typical results for your specific goal or issue.
What if I can’t be hypnotised?
If you are open to the process, it will be possible for you to be hypnotised. It is common to be sceptical and this can be discussed in our session.
Where do you see clients?
I work with clients online. Sessions are held over Zoom or by phone.
What are your qualifications?
I am a qualified and registered hypnotherapist with a Diploma in Analytical Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy. My hypnotherapy training is accredited by the General Hypnotherapy Standards Council (GHSC) and Accredited Counsellors, Coaches, Psychotherapists and Hypnotherapists (ACCPH).
I am also a qualified coach with a Diploma in Mindfulness Life Coaching from the Centre for Mindfulness in the UK. I’m a qualified meditation practitioner and teacher, with a focus on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Insight Meditation practices.
I am a registered hypnotherapist and acknowledged supervisor with the General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR).
You can read more about me here.
How much will it cost?
My fees can be viewed here.