Hypnotherapy – Some frequently asked questions
What is hypnosis?
Hypnosis itself, also known as the trance state, is a very natural state of mind which people have known about for centuries. During the hypnotic trance a person is relaxed but their mind is very alert. Most people have been in a natural trance state at one time or another. Have you ever been so absorbed in a book or film you didn’t notice what was going on around you? Or do you remember, perhaps when you were a child, daydreaming and being somewhere far away while your body remained in the real world? If so then you have been in a state of hypnosis.
What is hypnotherapy?
When in the trance state you are very receptive to positive suggestions and can access the resources of the unconscious mind. Hypnotherapy is using this natural state to effect beneficial changes for you. It can be helpful for a broad range of both physical and psychological problems and is also used to help improve performance e.g. in sport.
Can anyone be hypnotised?
Most people can achieve a light state of hypnosis which is all that is required for hypnotherapy. There are many different techniques and I will tailor the approach to suit each individual person. Some people can be hypnotised by one technique or therapist and not by another. You can never, however, be hypnotised against your will.
Is it like you see on the stage or on the television?
No, definitely not. People chosen for stage hypnosis are particularly susceptible subjects who can achieve a very deep state of hypnosis and who are exhibitionists to start with. We do not need to achieve the deep states of hypnosis in therapy sessions – a much lighter state will be used than you see on stage or screen.
I’m worried about losing control
You remain conscious and in control at all times. You will never do anything against your will. If at any point you wish to terminate the session you can do so simply by opening your eyes. You are also completely in control of the content of the therapy. We will work together to decide the aims for the session and how best to achieve your goals. Many people actually find it increases their sense of control over their lives e.g. over their eating habits, their negative emotions or their phobias.
What will it feel like?
It is a very pleasant, relaxed feeling. You are conscious and will hear (and usually remember) everything that I say. You will be aware of everything else that is going on too but will find that you focus on the sound of my voice.
Who can benefit from hypnotherapy?
It can be of benefit in many different situations for many different people. The following list is by no means exhaustive but does give some of the more common applications:
Anxiety and phobias
Habit breaking e.g. smoking, nail biting
Irritable bowel syndrome
Skin conditions, especially if associated with itch
Painful conditions e.g. arthritis, headaches
Weight control and eating disorders
Negative self image (low confidence, low self esteem, etc) Performance improvement
Pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period
Infertility
Depression (although not suitable in severe depression)
Children also make very good hypnosis subjects and it can be beneficial for: Nocturnal enuresis (bed-wetting)
Exam nerves
How will therapy be structured?
Sessions usually last about an hour. The number of sessions varies but often treatment will take 2-4 sessions. The time between sessions also varies, from one week to a month or more. During this time you will be utilising self-hypnosis, an easy-to-learn technique which improves the effectiveness of treatment. It also allows you to experience the pleasant sensation of hypnosis whenever you want (or need) to.
As the sessions are tailored to you it is useful for me to have an idea of your reason for consulting and your goal(s) for treatment. I would be grateful if you could fill out the slip below and e-mail, post or drop it in to us prior to the session. This information will be kept in strict confidence. If you would prefer not to fill it in that is absolutely fine. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name Date of birth Tel. Brief outline problem
Main goal(s) for therapy