Frequently Asked Questions 

What is Hypnosis?: Hypnosis is defined as a state of consciousness in which your thinking mind (conscious mind), sometimes also referred to as the “chatterbox” in our head is reduced to allow the deeper levels of your unconscious mind to be used for the benefit of your wellbeing. It is a relaxed state similar to daydreaming or being fully absorbed in an activity like reading an engrossing book or watching a film intently. Another way of describing it is focused attention.  

There is a more information on this and how I practice my own sessions on the Hypnosis page.

So is it really a natural state?: Absolutely! Natural and relaxing and even though you sit there with your eyes closed, you can open them at any time and even walk out the room when you choose. However most clients report that they were aware that they could doso if they wished, but they did not want to, as it was such an enjoyably relaxing experience! 

Will I be able to enter hypnosis?: Well nearly everyone can and what's more the depth of the trance is irrelevant to a successful outcome. If you are highly motivated to heal or change then you can expect some amazing results.  

Does hypnotherapy work for everyone?: No, it is fair to say there are some individuals who for various reasons will not respond to hypnosis. Maybe they have other issues that get in the way (usually to do with belief or trust.) Very often it is do with timing and the client is just not ready to change. The good news is that I use other treatments alongside hypnotherapy, one of them being EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique). EFT can be highly effective in relieving symptoms and resolving issues; I have dedicated a page to explaining about Emotional Freedom Technique where most of your questions about this powerful technique can be answered there. EFT

What about stage hypnosis and what I have seen in the media?: Ah yes that old myth. Lots of misconceptions surround this, particularly stage hypnotism. Stage hypnotists hone their skills to pick out those who are highly suggestible to entertain. Being highly suggestible does NOT mean weak either.  It just means they are very willing to accept the hypnotists suggestions. Having a false situation of an audience and all the expectation that goes with theatrical atmosphere; initially selecting perhaps thirty from an audience of three hundred gives a distorted view. From that thirty, the hypnotist who has chosen to hone his skill in this area, selects the most suggestive, perhaps ten or even six to go on stage. As an entertainment it can be just that. The hypnosis induced in hypnotherapy on the other hand is for one reason only, and that is for the wellbeing of the client. The hypnotherapist has chosen to hone their skills in working with as many people who can benefit from hypnosis. 

Is it safe?:Perfectly safe, one of the most risk free complementary therapies around. Just check with the insurance companies. If anybody knows about risks then they do. Take away all the hype and misconceptions connected with hypnosis and there is nothing to fear, unless you fear being a success.

Do I have to commit myself straight away?: Not at all, just give me a call to book an appointment and if you are not happy or convinved you can then look for a therapy that is more suitable for you. Why not do some research beforehand? Search the net, or contact my professional associations. However, I cannot emphasise enough that nothing replaces talking either face to face or by telephone to the therapist of your choice, to find out whether they are right for you.