What is Hypnosis?
Hypnosis, or trance, is in fact a perfectly natural state that the average person experiences at least a couple of times each day, and quite possibly more depending on their activities. It’s not sleep – instead think of how it feels when you’re absorbed in a good film, out for a walk or a run, or you’ve driven to a destination and realised when you get there that you can’t remember the drive itself!
Hypnosis is simply a deeply relaxed and pleasant state of the body, the mind and the emotions. It is an inner state of focused attention. Used in sessions, it is extremely beneficial as your brain is both at its optimum resting point, as well as at optimum productivity. It means that both the conscious and the subconscious parts of your brain are focused on the same thing at the same time, so suggestions that are positive and beneficial to you can be taken on board. This means that I can work with you to help you bring about positive changes in your life.
Is it safe?
Yes – no-one can be hypnotised against their will, nor can you be made to do something you don’t want. Contrary to what some people might believe, hypnosis is not something that is imposed on you – your brain would simply reject any suggestion that you didn’t agree with. You will be in control of everything you say and do at all times, and any changes can only be made by you.
What is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is often also referred to as ‘talking therapy’ and is used to help people who are experiencing emotional issues or stress. The type of Psychotherapy I practise is Solution Focused, which focuses on the future and positive solutions, rather than dwelling on problems and the past.
In sessions we would:
- Acknowledge where you are now.
- Identify where you want to be.
- Help you to make the required changes.
This means that, provided you are willing to engage in the sessions and to make changes to the way you think, the therapy can be extremely effective in relieving symptoms of anxiety and stress.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions needed varies, and this will be discussed during your Initial Consultation.
Phobias usually require 4 sessions, Quit Smoking is a single session of up to 2 hours. Other issues depend upon the client and the presenting issue. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is effective and many clients typically notice significant changes after 4-8 sessions.
What happens during the Initial Consultation?
This Initial Consultation is a 50 minute appointment where I will take some details from you and we will also discuss what you would like help with and what you’d like to achieve. I will be able to answer any questions you may have and we will discuss how hypnotherapy can help you make the changes you wish to make.
I also explain how the brain works, and how we can use that knowledge to help overcome issues that may currently be troubling you. While this session does not include hypnosis, you will be given a CD or MP3 download to listen to at home every night to begin the process of relaxation and recovery.
What happens in subsequent sessions?
These sessions typically last 50 minutes. We begin by reviewing positive thoughts and what has gone well, leading onto a number of solution focused questions to help facilitate small positive changes. I will be able to share a variety of techniques with you to encourage you to focus, explore solutions and set goals. The second half of the session will include a relaxing hypnosis session which allows your brain to absorb what we have spoken about, as well as helping you to focus on what you want.
How does hypnotherapy work online?
Research has shown that Hypnotherapy is just as effective online, and thanks to modern technology it is just like being seated next to each other in the same room. This enables me to work with clients all around the UK as well as elsewhere in the world. I use zoom, which is really easy to use, the only requirements are a stable internet connection, a device with a camera such as a laptop or a tablet and a place where you can shut the door and not be disturbed with a comfy chair or a bed. Some of the feedback I’ve received from clients about what they have liked about online sessions includes:
- It saves time – no need to travel to appointments.
- Being able to relax in the privacy of your own home.
- Beneficial for clients with health conditions such as limited mobility, or compromised immune system.
For those clients that prefer to come to me for face-to-face sessions, I also have a peaceful and spacious home clinic space.
If you’re ready to make a change, get in touch: