Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is using hypnosis in a therapeutic context to help others find alleviation from their symptoms or problem.

How does it feel to be hypnotised?
To truth is, there is no “standard” feeling. We all go in and out of hypnosis every day without even being aware of it! For example, when we are driving along a familiar route, or engrossed in a good film or book.

Some people feel very relaxed, others feel tingly or in a state of bliss - we are all different and react to hypnosis in different ways.

Can anyone be hypnotised?
In short, yes, although not everyone can reach the same level of trance.

Will I wake up afterwards?
Despite its misleading name, hypnosis isn’t sleep, although we naturally pass through it just before and after sleeping.

As you are never asleep in the first place, you can come out of hypnosis any time you want to! If you were relaxed enough that you did actually fall asleep, you would wake up as normal.

What if I do or say something that I don’t want to?
Absolutely not! Our minds are programmed to do exactly what we want to on a subconscious level. If, during hypnosis, anyone said something to you which you did not agree with, you would automatically reject that suggestion and come straight out of hypnosis. Furthermore, you will only say what you are comfortable with saying.

What about what I’ve seen on TV?
Stage hypnosis is very different to what we use in the clinical setting, and often includes illusion or magic. It makes use of very extroverted individuals who actually want to do the things they are asked! They are completely in control of their situation the entire time, just as anyone in hypnosis is.

I am a Christian/Muslim/Jew/Hindu, etc. – can I still have hypnotherapy?
Absolutely. I am not aware of any teachings that specifically prohibit relaxation and hypnosis, and if there were, they would be pretty difficult to adhere to since we all drift in and out of hypnosis every day.

Whilst some religions prohibit their followers to lose control of their senses, you are still perfectly safe to use hypnotherapy as you are in control the whole time.

How many sessions will I need?
For smoking cessation, you will only need one session lasting 2 hours, although a top up session is available free of charge. For anxiety, driving test worries, exam nerves, nail biting, etc. the number of sessions will depend on the individual’s own situation, but 2 -6 is a general guideline. Please call or email for a free consultation.

Are you able to carry out sessions from my home?
Under certain circumstances, session can be carried out from your home. However, each situation is assessed on its individual merits. Please contact me for more details.