Common Questions

Here is just a small sample of the typical questions that clients ask.
If your question is not covered here – please don’t bottle it up – call or Email me – my advice is honest and free.

So how would you describe hypnosis?
Hypnosis is not sleep – even though the word comes from the Greek ‘hypnos’ meaning sleep!  Hypnosis is a different state of awareness – a state we enter many times a day – in a daydream or meditation for example.  It’s most accurate description is ‘an alternate form of consciousness’.

How does hypnosis work?
Relaxation techniques relax the conscious mind, allowing the unconscious mind to come forward.  The unconscious mind is the store of our memories, the creator of our automatic behaviours, and the controller of most of our bodily functions – so having access to the unconscious can allow for exploration and change in these areas.  In hypnosis, the unconscious mind can be asked to accept suggestions for change.  The client is not asleep in hypnosis – they are alert and conscious – just deeply relaxed.

Can anyone be hypnotised?
Almost anyone who wants to be, can be.  The ideal hypnotherapy client is someone with good powers of intelligence, imagination and concentration.  You actually hypnotise yourself under my guidance. People with significant drug or drink problems, or certain mental conditions, should contact me first as these could be a barrier to relaxing deeply.  A relaxed mind is important in hypnosis, so if you have something significant going on in your life it could be a barrier to deep relaxation.

What does it feel like to be hypnotised?
You are alert and in control all the time and most clients report feeling deeply relaxed and peaceful throughout.  You can remember everything, both during and after hypnotherapy.

What is the process – what will you do?
Firstly I will explain all about hypnotherapy and make sure you are 100% informed and comfortable.  I may also ask you to complete a confidential potted life history, giving me details of your background and any problems you may have.  We will discuss your history and what it is you wish to work on and I’ll explain how I plan to work with you.
I will then guide you into a deeply relaxing hypnotic trance and work with you on what it is that you wish to focus on.
Each client has different needs and so no two sessions are alike.

Will I be under your control – like in the horror films?
Absolutely not – your unconscious mind has its own protection against immoral or dangerous suggestions.  You cannot be hypnotised without your consent and without you really wanting to be hypnotised, and we will always agree in advance on the course of a particular therapy.

Do you do stage hypnosis stuff?
No – absolutely not.

What can be addressed?
As the unconscious mind controls around 80% of all body functions, and because hypnotherapy accesses the unconscious mind, potentially any ailment not caused by a physical problem can be worked on.

How many sessions will be required?
This depends on the therapy required – but usually between one and three.

If it’s so good – why is it not being used more widely?
Good question – it should be.  Doctors and dentists are using it more and more now but peoples’ unfounded concerns are hindering its progress.  Most of my new clients have a few concerns, but none of those concerns remain after they have experienced hypnotherapy.

I’ve heard about people apparently left damaged after hypnosis..
Yes – after irresponsible stage hypnosis.  A Channel 4 programme highlighted people left traumatised after poorly conducted stage shows.  Ironically, the cure detailed in the programme, was hypnotherapy!  I do not do or support stage hypnosis.

What is regression?
Going back in time within hypnosis.  This is used in therapy to relive a previous event, to view it with current adult eyes and adult understanding.  This is completely safe, and a powerful tool in therapy.

Will I be made to do anything I don’t want to do, or reveal a dark secret perhaps?
No – everything we do together we agree together beforehand.  It is also possible to perform therapy on a condition without me even knowing what that condition is.  Please discuss any concerns with me – remember – I am here to help you.