What happens in a hypnotherapy session?

In the first session I will carry out a thorough assessment so that I can learn how I can help you, you can find out more about my approach, and together we can set goals for you. I will also include some guided relaxation and hypnosis. The following sessions may include some CBT and/or mindfulness as well as hypnosis, depending on what strategies are appropriate for what you want to work on. I will make it clear to you when hypnosis is beginning and ending, and I will always check in with you to make sure you understand and are comfortable with my approach. It is very much a team effort and you can be assured I will be working closely with you to help you address your issues.

How many sessions will I need?

It varies depending on each person but it may be possible to achieve your goal in just 4 to 6 sessions. Weekly or fortnightly sessions are recommended and you will be given recordings to listen to or tasks to complete between sessions. You will find that if you can make time for practice between sessions, you will achieve faster progress.

Can anyone be hypnotised?

In principle, yes. It has been shown to help if you actively want to be hypnotised, and if you can imagine and believe in the ideas being suggested during hypnosis.

In hypnosis will I go to sleep or become unconscious?

Hypnosis is NOT a state of sleep or unconsciousness. It’s all about focusing your attention on the suggestions I give you (which will be discussed with you beforehand). Most people report it being a very pleasant feeling - a bit like being completely absorbed in a book or film and often very relaxed.

Is hypnosis safe?

Hypnosis is completely safe when used in a responsible and professional way. No-one has ever been ‘stuck’ in clinical hypnosis. If at any time you want to come out of hypnosis, you can do so easily by yourself.

Will I be in control?

You can’t be made to do anything against your will and normally you must want to accept suggested ideas and actively imagine responding to experience their effects. You’ll be aware of everything that happens and relaxation can help but is not essential.

What is CBT?

Put simply, CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is based on the idea that what you think determines how you feel which affects how you act. During therapy, we examine thoughts, feelings and actions triggered by specific situations and find out what is and isn’t working for you and what can be changed to help you move forward and achieve your goals.